Understanding Human Behaviour with the Power of Color Psychology
Ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “Why don’t they get it?” Or found yourself endlessly frustrated with a colleague, partner, or friend who just doesn’t seem to communicate the right way?
According to Thomas Erikson in Surrounded by Idiots, the problem isn’t intelligence. It’s that we’re wired differently—and we speak different “behavioral languages.”
The good news? Once you understand those languages, you can radically improve your communication, reduce conflict, and lead more effectively.
🎨 The Four Color Personalities
At the heart of the book is a simple but powerful model inspired by the DISC personality system. Erikson uses four colors to represent core behavior types:
🔴 Red – The Dominant Type
- Driven, results-focused, decisive, competitive
- Loves challenges and quick decisions
- Can come across as aggressive or insensitive
Speak to them in clear, action-oriented language. Get to the point fast.
🟡 Yellow – The Influencer Type
- Optimistic, social, enthusiastic, creative
- Loves ideas, storytelling, people
- Can be disorganized or overly talkative
With Yellows, engage emotionally, be positive, and listen to their ideas.
🔵 Blue – The Analytical Type
- Precise, logical, detail-oriented, cautious
- Values rules, data, and accuracy
- Can seem critical, rigid, or slow to act
Give Blues facts, timelines, and clarity. Avoid vague or emotional arguments.
🟢 Green – The Stable Type
- Calm, patient, loyal, empathetic
- Dislikes change and confrontation
- Can appear passive or resistant
Build trust with Greens. Give them time to adapt and speak with kindness.
💡 Key Insights from Surrounded by Idiots
- Most conflicts are communication mismatches
We assume people think and respond like we do—but they don’t. Learning to adapt your style to theirs creates instant improvements in connection and collaboration. - You are a blend, but one color usually dominates
Nobody is just one color—but most people lead with one or two. The better you understand your mix, the better you can manage your strengths and blind spots. - Flexibility beats force
Being “right” in your own communication style is useless if others can’t receive your message. Adapting isn’t about being fake—it’s about being effective. - This model works everywhere
From managing teams to parenting, dating, selling, or teaching—understanding the four colors gives you a universal framework for human behavior.
🧭 How to Use This in Real Life
- Identify your dominant color: Are you a fast-moving Red? A loyal Green? A creative Yellow? A precise Blue?
- Observe others: What’s their energy like? Do they prioritize relationships, facts, speed, or stability?
- Adapt your approach:
- With Reds: Be direct
- With Yellows: Be engaging
- With Greens: Be gentle
- With Blues: Be structured
- In conflict: Pause and ask: Am I speaking their language—or just shouting in mine?
🧘 Final Thoughts
Surrounded by Idiots is not about judging others—it’s about understanding them. When we realize that most frustration comes not from incompetence but from difference, we can start to bridge gaps and build better relationships everywhere we go.
This book is funny, practical, and surprisingly deep. Whether you’re a manager, teacher, parent, or just someone tired of feeling misunderstood, Erikson gives you the tools to turn confusion into connection.
So—what’s your color?
Have you spotted the Reds, Greens, Yellows, and Blues in your life? Drop a comment below and share how this framework might help you improve your communication.