Article: Personality, in psychological terms, describes individual characteristics that are unique to one person. These include ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. These combine to determine how the person responds to certain situations. Some examples of personality traits include: honest, moody, outgoing, friendly, or impulsive. There are many different theories to explain how personalities develop and why some people have certain characteristics and not others. Many of these theories are based on beliefs that personality is biologically or environmentally based (the "nature versus nurture" theory). Once a personality develops, the traits are usually stable across time.  Allport's trait theory argues that personality traits are biologically determined, but formed by environmental experience.  Eysenck's personality theory believes that personality can be understood by looking at a few dimensions of a person's entire behavior. Realize that all parts of your personality have value. Sometimes it can be difficult to recognize subtle personality traits, since strong characteristics are dominant. These subtle traits, such as predictability, generosity, and sympathy, are just as important as the prominent ones. Don't forget that more subdued personality traits are very strong in certain situations or roles. For example, empathy and conscientiousness are vital during major life events, like weddings or funerals. Realize that not everyone has a unique assortment of personality traits. Appreciating the differences in personality traits between people can benefit you when you are working on a team or are a manager. Valuing more subtle, but strong traits like empathy and generosity can help strengthen relationships and make working as a team easier.  The most effective leaders and managers are able to appreciate, enhance, and effectively use different personality types.  For example, if you notice that someone on your team is soft spoken, but very informed on a subject, have that person create detailed project materials or programs. This will put the person's skills to use without causing the person anxiety.

What is a summary?
Understand what personality describes. Recognize basic personality theory. Appreciate your unique personality traits. Value other people's personality traits.