Uffe Elbæk’s Web of Traits
A framework for defining personal dichotomies by plotting oneself on multiple spectrums, creating a web of traits that can be used for self-reflection and comparison with others.
THE IDEA
Uffe Elbæk’s Web of Traits: How do I Define My Dichotomies?
The web of traits is a diagram for comparing how you describe yourself along several chosen dimensions.
For example, where would you place yourself on an introvert-extrovert spectrum? Are you more of a team player or individualist? Is your mind or your body more dominant? Do you value form or content more? Is your mindset more local or more global?
Choose five dimensions relevant to the question you want to explore, then draw them as axes. The paired labels are choices within this exercise; they do not establish that the traits are opposites in life.
For each axis, distribute 10 points between its two ends. The combined score must be 10. For example, Body might receive 4 and Brain 6. Under this scoring rule, you cannot give both ends 10.
Repeat this process for all the other axes. In the end, you have a web of your different characteristics. You can compare your web with your loved ones or with people you deal with. Or perhaps you can ask a loved one or colleague to fill it up for you, then compare how you view yourself versus how they view you. You can even do this periodically to check how you change over time.
When to use it
Use the web to map team members' traits and improve collaboration by understanding different perspectives.
Apply periodically to track personal growth and changes in priorities over time.
Use in coaching to help clients identify areas of internal conflict or harmony.
Compare your web with a partner or colleague to uncover differences in decision-making styles.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Introvert vs Extrovert
Determine where you fall on the spectrum between introversion and extroversion, rating each side on a 10-point scale so they sum to 10.
Mind vs Body
For this exercise, distribute a total of 10 points between intellectual and physical tendencies. Treat the result as a description to discuss, rather than a measure of either ability.
Local vs Global Mindset
Assess whether your perspective is more focused on immediate surroundings or broader global issues.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What five dichotomies are most relevant to your personality or work style?
How do your self-ratings on each spectrum compare with how others perceive you?
In which areas do you see the greatest imbalance, and how might that affect your decisions?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Thinking in Systems and Mental Models Think Like a Super Thinker (Dawson, Marcus P)