Let’s face it—“Type A” folks tend to steal the spotlight with their ambition, tight schedules, and endless hustle. But if you’re someone who moves through life a little more slowly and likes to stop and admire the clouds, you might just be a proud “Type B”—and psychologists say that’s something to celebrate.
So, what exactly does it mean to be a Type B?
According to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a neuropsychologist, it means you’re the kind of person who doesn’t feel the need to be in constant competition. You’re not ruled by stress or tight deadlines. Instead, you’re driven by fulfillment, creativity, and genuine connection. Basically, you’ve learned to let go of pressure and embrace the process.
If this sounds like you, chances are you’ve got a few of the following habits—13 of them, to be exact.
1. You Lose Track of Time (and You’re Okay With It)
While some people treat the clock like a boss breathing down their neck, Type Bs are more likely to wander through time like it’s a lazy river. You go with the flow, and you’re less concerned about squeezing every second for productivity. No alarm bells ringing in your brain—just a casual, steady pace that feels right.
2. You Actually Stop to Smell the Roses
Literally and figuratively. Type Bs are wired to appreciate the little things—like a sudden breeze, the scent of jasmine, or the shape of a cloud. Life isn’t a race, so why not enjoy the scenery?
3. You Take Your Time Making Decisions
You’re not one to dive headfirst into decisions. Instead, you pause, reflect, and weigh your options. You’re not indecisive—you just prefer to make meaningful choices instead of rushed ones. Even if it takes a bit longer, you trust that things will unfold as they should.
4. You Create Space for Creativity
Whether it’s painting, gardening, journaling, or daydreaming, Type Bs thrive in creative spaces. Even if your job isn’t in the arts, you likely make room for passion projects that light up your inner world. You’re happiest when imagination gets a seat at the table.
Read more: Things Highly Intelligent People Unknowingly Do When Bored: Psychology
5. You Don’t Answer Messages Right Away
Text from a friend? Email from work? You might not reply instantly, not because you’re ignoring anyone, but because you want to respond thoughtfully—and on your own time. You prefer to give people your full attention instead of multitasking under pressure.
6. You Know How to Switch Off Work Mode
Type Bs are champions of work-life balance. You don’t measure success by how many hours you work. You value your well-being just as much as your to-do list, and you’re not afraid to call it a day when it’s time.
7. You’re Not Afraid to Say “No”
Rather than filling your calendar to the brim, you leave space for spontaneity—and rest. If an invite threatens your peace or cuts into your creative time, you’ve got no problem politely declining. You guard your time like a gentle bouncer with a velvet rope.
8. You’re the Travel Buddy Everyone Wants
When it comes to unexpected flight delays or missed reservations, you keep your cool. People love to travel with Type Bs because you stay calm in chaos, roll with the punches, and see detours as part of the adventure.
9. You Connect With People Just Because
You’re not networking with a motive—you’re talking to the barista because you enjoy human connection. You’re more about heart-to-hearts than hustle. You value conversations for their depth, not what you might gain from them.]\
Read more: Giving Up Your Phone For Just Three Days Can Significantly Improve Brain Function
10. You’re an Excellent Listener
Since you’re not rushing through conversations or plotting your next move, you really hear people. You’re present. Attentive. Supportive. This makes you a go-to confidant for those needing a patient ear without judgment or interruption.
11. You Avoid the Competition Game
You’re not obsessed with being “better” than others. You’re focused on your own growth and personal achievements, not someone else’s scoreboard. And honestly? That makes you refreshing to be around.
12. You Cheer People On (Without Jealousy)
Type Bs aren’t threatened by someone else’s success. In fact, you’re likely the one sending encouraging texts or clapping the loudest at someone’s big moment. You know their win isn’t your loss—it’s just a good thing happening in the world.
13. You Forgive (and Move On)
You don’t like holding grudges. Not because you’re passive, but because you’d rather have peace than emotional clutter. You’re more into healing than harboring resentment, and that keeps your inner world calm.
How to Thrive as a Type B in a Type A World
Being Type B isn’t about being laid-back to a fault—it’s about being intentional, calm, and in tune with yourself. Here’s how to make the most of that vibe:
1. Own Who You Are
Don’t let the world convince you that your slower pace is a flaw. It’s a strength. Find ways to build your day around what energizes you—whether that’s quiet time, nature walks, or a longer morning routine. It’s not about fitting into the Type A mold; it’s about honoring your rhythm.
2. Use Loose Deadlines (With Purpose)
Yes, structure can help—even the most creative minds benefit from a soft timeline. Think of deadlines as gentle nudges, not hard stops. Having a goal in sight keeps you from wandering forever without stifling your flow.
3. Protect Your Downtime
Rest is not a reward; it’s a requirement. And you probably know that better than most. Make sure you create enough space in your week to unplug, recharge, and just be. When you have the mental space you need, your productivity and creativity soar.
Read more:The One Change That Can Help You Break Bad Habits and Build Better Ones, According to Science
4. Speak Up for Yourself
Being easygoing doesn’t mean being invisible. You have preferences, even if you sometimes default to “whatever works.” Start tuning in and expressing what you truly want—whether it’s choosing the restaurant or setting a boundary with a friend. Your voice matters.
5. Say “Yes” to New Challenges (Sometimes)
It’s great to be in your comfort zone, but don’t forget—growth lives just outside it. Taking on a new responsibility or trying something unfamiliar can reveal strengths you didn’t know you had. You don’t have to hustle like a Type A, but stepping up now and then can be empowering.
Final Thoughts
Being Type B in a world that often idolizes Type A can feel like swimming against the current—but in the gentlest, most self-assured way possible. Your calm, creative, and compassionate nature is a gift. You’re not here to race; you’re here to live fully—and that might just be the smartest strategy of all.
