The Melancholic Temperament

Yours is a thoughtful, sensitive, artistic temperament, with noble aspirations.

"To be, or not to be: that is the question.” In this famous soliloquy, Hamlet reveals his melancholic nature: thoughtful, introspective, slow to act, deeply sensitive with noble ideals. To the ancient Greeks, melancholics were the earth: heavy, deep, difficult to penetrate. If you are a melancholic, you are very likely artistic, romantic, and attentive to detail. Quiet and introverted (except with very close friends and family) you will need to recharge your batteries by spending time alone. In fact, you probably enjoy time alone more than most--whether it is a solitary stroll in the woods, reading a book, writing or other artistic endeavor, prayer. You ponder the deep questions and focus your aspirations on lofty ideals. 

You may worry about the past, have anxiety about the future, and struggle with perfectionism and self-criticism. Your high ideals and fear of making mistakes might cause you to hesitate before taking on projects. You might say “no” when someone asks you to do something new, but once you have begun a project, you will persevere to the end, and you will do it well! You prefer having a few, very good friends, rather than knowing a lot of people superficially. You may long for a deep soul-mate, but you are cautious when it comes to opening up to people. Some may consider you aloof, but you simply need time to warm up.

Time alone is vital. In relationships, you may be slow to initiate, cautious and pessimistic--yet, once committed, they are unwaveringly loyal and self-sacrificing. On the job, you are careful, abide by the rules, and attentive to detail; many artists, musicians, designers, therapists, priests, accountants, and actors are melancholic. You are frugal, a wise shopper, and you are classic in dress.