Are You A Fighter Or A Thinker? Ask Your Genes!

Challenges in life (and work) are inevitable, but whether we fight on, overthink, or give up — can be related to our genes.

Living With Genes Newsletter | Issue #16 — Are You A Fighter Or A Thinker? Ask Your Genes!

Imagine yourself stranded on a deserted island.

It is an uncharted land with no people, no food, and dangerous furry animals.

If you are stranded on a deserted island, what would you do to survive? Image©Cedric Lee (DNA Storyteller)

Alone, your stomach gnaws with hunger, the sun scorches your skin, and the vast blue sea mocks your attempts to escape. Do you:

(a) Try hard to think up an escape plan until your brain melts?

(b) Throw your hands up, and give in to hunger and nature?

(c) Grab that coconut, fashion a makeshift spear, and declare…

“Bring it on, island!!”

Whatever you decide — turns out your response might be less to do with your will-to-live and more to do with your DNA.

Fight or Think? Do You Act First or Later

“There is a time to let things happen, and a time to make things happen” — Hugh Prather

Our determination in the face of adversity isn’t just about grit and willpower.

Studies suggest genes like MAOA, COMT, 5-HTTLPR, and DRD4 [1] actually play a role in shaping our resilience.

Think of them as your genetic cheerleaders or pessimists — influencing whether you roar “Bring it on!” or whisper “Maybe another day”.

People with the “Fighter” gene variants (e.g., high MAOA) tend to be action-oriented, and is more likely to push through challenges with unwavering resolve [2].

But “Thinkers”, who might possess variations of DRD4 and 5-HTTLPR (associated to risk-taking [3]), enjoy strategizing; leading them to carefully consider all angles before leaping.

However, having the “Fighter” gene doesn’t guarantee success, and being a “Thinker” doesn’t doom you to indecisiveness — it is all about context.

A “Fighter” might excel in physically demanding jobs, but overthink in delicate social situations. Conversely, a “Thinker” might thrive in strategic roles but struggle with deadlines.

But wait, here is a twist.

The Power of Both. The Entrepreneur’s Edge?

“Genetic factors affect the tendency to recognize entrepreneurial opportunities and the tendency to start businesses” — Forbes

The real magic truly happens when both tendencies find harmony.

If you can act fast, and think deep, you are more likely to shoot for the stars! Photo credits to Pexels.

Studies suggest that individuals with high expressions of both “Fighter” and “Thinker” genes often make exceptional leaders and entrepreneurs [4].

They possess the drive to achieve their goals (ie. Fighters), and the analytical prowess to navigate complex challenges (ie. Thinkers).

These genes are also heritable; meaning children of leaders and entrepreneurs tend to be leaders and entrepreneurs themselves [5].

So, what does this knowledge mean for you?

Living Your Life By Design

“In China, some parents are participating in a program that uses DNA testing to identify genetic gifts for their children” — CNN

Creating a better life, and career for yourself is more likely if you know your personality tendencies. Here are some ways you can do it.

1. Empower Your Child: If you are a parent, recognizing your child’s natural tendencies can help you tailor your parenting style. Encourage your little “Thinkers” to explore and experiment, while providing structure for your young “Fighters” to channel their energy more productively.

2. Advance Your Career: Understanding your own genetic leanings can help you choose a career path that aligns with your strengths. If you are a decisive “Fighter”, sales or project management might be for you. If you are a meticulous “Thinker”, then consider research or analytical roles.

3. Improve Your Love Life: Recognizing your partner’s (and your own) genetic tendencies can foster empathy and understanding. If your partner is a “Thinker” who loves to plan, be patient with their deliberation. If you’re a spontaneous “Fighter” who loves excitement, communicate your needs for things you find fun.

4. Enhance Family Bonding: Knowing your family’s genetic predispositions can help navigate conflict and build stronger relationships. Appreciate the unique strengths each family member brings, and don’t try to force “Thinkers” to be impulsive, nor expect “Fighters” to always analyze every move.

Remember, everyone is wired differently. Appreciate the diverse perspectives and approach each relationship uniquely.

Conclusion

“Know Thyself Is the First Step to Life Change” — Psychology Today

While genes are powerful, they are not your destiny — you can control them.

Personal Development (ie. life coaching) can help you identify your natural tendencies and develop strategies to overcome their limitations. Think of it as rewiring your brain’s response to challenges, leveraging both your “Fighter” and “Thinker” sides for optimal results.

We all have massive potential that can unlocked with the right help. Photo credits to Pexels.

So next time you face a challenge - remember, it’s not just your will at play, but a fascinating dance between your genes and your environment. Embrace the complexity, understand your wiring, and use it to your advantage.

Whether you’re a born Fighter, a pondering Thinker, or a magnificent blend of both, you have the power to overcome any obstacle, one determined step (or well-thought-out plan) at a time.

You got this!

🧠 About Me :

I am the DNA Storyteller. I help people unlock their potential through storytelling and genetic insights, and I love chatting over coffee. ☕💬.

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Disclaimer: The content in this article is intended solely for informational purposes and may contain outdated information after the date of publishing that doesn’t reflect the latest scientific advancements. The content is presented “as is” and is not guaranteed to be complete or up-to-date.

Sources :

[1] 2009, Psychobiology and Molecular Genetics of Resilience (link)

[2] 2009, Monoamine Oxidase A gene (MAOA) Predicts Behavioral Aggression Following Provocation (link)

[3] 2008, Genetic Determinants of Financial Risk Taking (link)

[4] 2018, 7 Reasons Why Successful Entrepreneurship Requires Deep Thinking (link)

[5] 2019, The Contribution of Behavior Genetics to Entrepreneurship: An Evolutionary Perspective (link)