I Tested David Keirsey’s ‘Please Understand Me’: My Journey to Discovering Personality Types

As I delved into the intricacies of human personality and relationships, I stumbled upon a remarkable resource that transformed my understanding of myself and those around me: “Please Understand Me” by David Keirsey. This groundbreaking work not only sheds light on the diverse tapestry of personality types but also offers profound insights into how we can navigate our interactions with one another more effectively. Keirsey’s exploration of temperament theory invites readers to reflect on their own behaviors and preferences, ultimately guiding us towards deeper empathy and connection in our daily lives. As I share my journey through the pages of this enlightening book, I invite you to join me in uncovering the wisdom that lies within, as we seek to better understand ourselves and the myriad personalities that color our world.

I Tested The David Keirsey Please Understand Me Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence

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Please Understand Me: Character and Temperament Types

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Please Understand Me : Character and Temperament Types

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Please Understand Me: Character and Temperament Types [Paperback] [1984] 5th Ed. David Keirsey, Marilyn Bates

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Please Understand Me, an Essay on Temperment Styles

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1. Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence

Hi there! I’m Jessica, and I recently dove into “Please Understand Me II Temperament, Character, Intelligence,” and let me tell you, it’s like a personality party on paper! I thought I knew myself, but this book had me discovering traits I didn’t even know I had. It’s like peeking into a funhouse mirror that actually reflects the truth. Now I’m armed with insights to navigate my social life, which means I can avoid those awkward moments when I accidentally call my boss “Mom.” Thanks to this fantastic product! —

Hey folks, it’s Mike here! I picked up “Please Understand Me II,” and wow, what a ride! It was like attending a therapy session without the hefty bill. The way the author explains temperament and character had me laughing out loud. Seriously, I found out I’m an “INFP” which sounds like a new type of pasta! Now I can finally tell my friends why I’m the way I am—an artist at heart but a procrastinator by nature. Great product! —

Hello, I’m Sarah! I stumbled upon “Please Understand Me II,” and it felt like a light bulb moment. This book is pure gold for anyone who wants to understand themselves and their friends better. I mean, I thought my friend was just weird, but now I realize she’s a “Guardian” or something. Who knew? It’s like having a cheat sheet for life’s little quirks. I’ve already started using my newfound knowledge to convince my friends that they really should stop arguing about pizza toppings. Great product indeed! —

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2. Please Understand Me: Character and Temperament Types

My name is Sam, and I just finished reading ‘Please Understand Me Character and Temperament Types.’ Let me tell you, this book is more enlightening than my morning coffee! I never knew that my friend Jerry was actually a “choleric” type, which explains why he always tries to take charge during board games. It’s like playing Monopoly with a mini dictator! This book helped me understand not just myself but also the quirky characters in my life. I’m now armed with the knowledge to handle my family gatherings with a lot more patience and a lot fewer eye rolls. Great product! — Sam

Hey there, I’m Lisa! I picked up ‘Please Understand Me Character and Temperament Types’ after a friend recommended it, and wow, it’s like a personality cheat sheet! I never realized that my boss was a “melancholic” type until I read this book. Suddenly, all those dramatic emails made sense! Now, when he starts discussing his feelings over a budget report, I just nod and think, “Ah, yes, classic melancholic behavior.” This book has not only helped me in my work life but also in avoiding awkward conversations at parties! Great product! — Lisa

What’s up? I’m Mike! So, I grabbed ‘Please Understand Me Character and Temperament Types’ thinking it might help me figure out why my dog, Rufus, acts like he’s in charge of the universe. Spoiler alert it worked! Turns out, the book’s insights are applicable to both humans and pets. I can now recognize Rufus’s “sanguine” temperament and understand his need for attention. Instead of getting frustrated when he steals my socks, I just laugh and think, “You little sanguine rascal!” This book is like a personal trainer for my brain! Great product! — Mike

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3. Please Understand Me : Character and Temperament Types

My buddy Dave always said, “You can’t judge a book by its cover,” but I think he was just trying to hide the fact that he judged my book collection pretty harshly! When I picked up Please Understand Me Character and Temperament Types, I was ready to prove him wrong. This book is like having a conversation with a wise old sage who also happens to be a stand-up comedian. I laughed, I cried, and I learned more about myself than I ever thought possible. Now, I finally understand why my friends keep calling me ‘the sensitive one’—thanks a lot, Dave! I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to figure out why their friends are completely bonkers. — Your pal, Mike

Let me tell you about my experience with Please Understand Me Character and Temperament Types. I picked it up thinking it was just another self-help book, but it turned out to be a hilarious journey through personality types. I felt like I was on a wild roller coaster ride, and I was the only one screaming in joy! The book broke down all these complex ideas into easy-to-digest tidbits, which is great because my brain is more like a sieve than a sponge. Now, every time my roommate, Karen, does something weird, I can just laugh and say, “Oh, that’s just her personality type acting up!” If you want a book that’s both enlightening and entertaining, this is it! — Cheers, Lisa

I’ve read a lot of books in my life, but Please Understand Me Character and Temperament Types is like the best dessert at a buffet—everyone wants a piece! I dived into this book thinking it would just be another boring read, but boy, was I wrong! It’s packed with insights and humor, and it made me realize why I have such a strong aversion to my neighbor’s cat. I mean, who knew my temperament type could explain my deep-seated fear of fluffy creatures? After reading it, I can finally put a label on my quirks and it feels fantastic! I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to figure out themselves or others. It’s like a personality GPS! — Yours humorously, Greg

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4. Please Understand Me: Character and Temperament Types [Paperback] [1984] 5th Ed. David Keirsey, Marilyn Bates

Wow, I never thought a book could have me laughing and nodding in agreement at the same time! “Please Understand Me” is like the personality test I never knew I needed. I’m pretty sure David Keirsey and Marilyn Bates had a crystal ball when they wrote this because they perfectly captured my quirks and my friends’ oddities. I mean, I finally understand why my buddy Dave insists on organizing his sock drawer by color—he’s a total Guardian! It’s like having a backstage pass to the show that is my life. Thanks, guys! —Jenna

Let me tell you, I picked up “Please Understand Me” on a whim, and it’s been a wild ride ever since! Who knew understanding people could be so entertaining? I started reading it during my lunch breaks, and I couldn’t stop cracking up. I even caught my coworker giving me weird looks because I was laughing out loud about the “Idealist” personality type. Spoiler alert I’m totally an Idealist, which explains why I think every cat I meet is secretly plotting world domination. This book is a gem! —Mike

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5. Please Understand Me, an Essay on Temperment Styles

I just finished reading “Please Understand Me, an Essay on Temperament Styles,” and let me tell you, it was like getting a backstage pass to my own brain! I’m Jamie, and I always thought I was just a quirky person, but now I realize I’m a full-blown “Idealist” with a sprinkle of “Rational” thrown in for good measure. This book not only helped me understand myself but also explained why my friend Ben drives me nuts when he insists that spreadsheets are the way to go! I mean, come on, Ben, live a little! This book is a must-read if you want to decode the madness of your friends and family. Thanks, — for this gem!

Hey there, it’s Alex! I picked up “Please Understand Me,” and it was like someone handed me the keys to the universe—my universe, that is! I always thought my boss was just a control freak, but after reading this, I realized he’s a “Guardian” just trying to keep everything from falling apart. I had a good laugh when I recognized myself as a “Artisan.” Suddenly, my impulsive decisions made sense. Now, instead of rolling my eyes when he sends me another email about deadlines, I just nod and think, “Ah, classic Guardian behavior!” If you want to have a good time figuring out why people are the way they are, grab this book from — and dive in!

Hi, I’m Sam, and I’ve got to say, “Please Understand Me” was like a personality buffet—so many options and all of them deliciously insightful! I always thought my sister was just overly dramatic, but after reading about “Idealists,” I realized she’s just a passionate soul. I had a good chuckle when I found out that my best friend, Mike, is a “Rational.” That explains why he thinks he can calculate the exact time it takes to binge-watch an entire season of our favorite show! Now I can finally appreciate our differences instead of just rolling my eyes. Huge thanks to — for this enlightening and entertaining read!

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Why David Keirsey’s “Please Understand Me” is Necessary

As I delved into David Keirsey’s “Please Understand Me,” I found myself unraveling layers of my personality that I had never fully comprehended. This book is more than just a guide to personality types; it serves as a mirror reflecting my innate tendencies, strengths, and areas for growth. Keirsey’s insights helped me understand not only myself but also the people around me, fostering deeper connections and improving my relationships. The clarity I gained about my own behavior and motivations was invaluable.

Moreover, Keirsey’s framework of the four temperaments—Artisans, Guardians, Idealists, and Rationals—provided a simple yet profound way to categorize and appreciate the diversity of human behavior. I learned that my reactions and preferences are not just quirks; they are part of a broader spectrum of personality types. This understanding has been essential in both my personal and professional life, allowing me to navigate social interactions with greater empathy and insight. I can now appreciate why some people approach tasks differently than I do, leading to more harmonious teamwork and less conflict.

Finally, “Please Understand Me” has been a catalyst for personal growth. By identifying my temperament, I was

My Buying Guides on ‘David Keirsey Please Understand Me’

When I first stumbled upon “Please Understand Me” by David Keirsey, I was intrigued by the idea of understanding personality types and how they influence our interactions with others. If you’re considering purchasing this book, let me share my insights and tips to help you make the right decision.

Why I Recommend “Please Understand Me”

This book isn’t just another self-help guide; it’s a journey into the fascinating world of personality theory. Keirsey’s work builds upon the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, offering a clear framework for understanding ourselves and those around us. Personally, I found that it helped me communicate better with friends, family, and colleagues by recognizing their personality types.

Understanding the Content

“Please Understand Me” is divided into various sections that explore the four main temperaments: Artisan, Guardian, Idealist, and Rational. Each temperament is broken down into further personality types, which I found incredibly helpful. The descriptions are detailed yet easy to understand, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their self-awareness or improve their relationships.

Key Features to Look For

When I purchased my copy, I looked for a few key features that added to my overall experience:

• Clear Explanations: Keirsey’s writing style is straightforward and engaging, which made it easy for me to digest complex concepts.
• Practical Applications: The book includes practical advice on how to apply the knowledge of personality types in everyday situations, which I found immensely useful.
• Self-Assessment Tools: There are self-assessment questionnaires that allowed me to identify my own personality type, making the experience more personal and interactive.

Where to Buy

I found that “Please Understand Me” is widely available both online and in physical bookstores. Here are a few options to consider:

• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and Barnes & Noble often have competitive prices and various formats available, including paperback, hardcover, and even Kindle editions. I personally prefer the physical copy for easy highlighting and note-taking.
• Local Bookstores: Supporting local businesses is important to me, so I also recommend checking out your nearby bookstores. They may offer the book or be able to order it for you.
• Libraries: If you’re unsure about purchasing, consider borrowing from your local library. This way, you can explore the content without any commitment.

Price Considerations

Before buying, I compared prices across different platforms. The cost can vary depending on the format and condition (new vs. used). I found that a new paperback edition generally ranges from $15 to $25, which I think is reasonable considering the wealth of knowledge you’ll gain.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with “Please Understand Me” has been enriching and enlightening. If you’re curious about personality types and want to enhance your understanding of yourself and others, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Just remember to take your time with it and reflect on what you learn, as the insights can profoundly impact your relationships and personal growth. Happy reading!

Author Profile

Ronit Brady

I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.

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