The sanguine loves all things interpersonal – except conflict. They want to be with you, and be happy with you. A sanguine is sometimes accused of wearing rose-colored glasses because they tend to see the positive in everything, and they dislike the negative.

On a spiritual level, the sanguine likely finds affirmation in Jesus’ admonition against worry: “Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?” (Matthew 6:27); or in these words of Paul: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! ... Have no anxiety at all ... Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious ... think about these things.” (Philippians 4:4, 6, and 8)

A creative and energetic breadwinner, many sanguines excel in entrepreneurship, sales, marketing, event planning or communications. As a parent, they are often beloved by kids (because at heart, they are a big kid themselves!). A sanguine parent is often coaching, volunteering at the kids’ school, organizing play dates and taking people out for ice cream.

But as with most temperamental qualities, this can be a mixed blessing. When a serious child-rearing problem arises, the sanguine parent may be tempted to gloss over it, hoping that an optimistic outlook will do the trick. Or when a spouse has a deeply troubling problem they need to discuss, the spouse may not be satisfied with the sanguine “everything will be fine” platitude.

The old cliché “opposites attract” is true in many cases. Yet, over time, these differences can become a source of conflict. The extroverted sanguine might find the introverted partner somewhat of a stick-in-the-mud. And the quiet, thoughtful introvert may start to wonder when his talkative and impulsive spouse will stop interrupting and truly listen.

The pure sanguine temperament is remarkably forgiving, relationship-oriented and supportive – a recipe, you might think, for self-giving in marriage. But problems may arise when the going gets tough. Sometimes, sanguines attempt to avoid conflict by escaping emotionally and pursuing another activity.

If you are the sanguine in the relationship, take the time to invest in the deep, loving conversations that may be more difficult, but will draw the two of you closer together and to God.

Lasting joy and true peace will be yours, when you take to heart Christ’s admonition: “If anyone wishes to come after me he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)