Turkey? Check.
Mashed potatoes? Check.
A room full of personalities? Double check.
Every Thanksgiving table has its standout characters:
- The sibling running the show = Power
- The aunt who connects through stories and hugs = Passion
- The cousin keeping track of every timer = Alert
At How to Fascinate, we call these “Advantages”—the individual ways people communicate, interact, and leave their mark.
As you settle in for turkey and pie, keep an eye out for these fascinating personalities—and maybe even learn a little about yourself in the process.
Here’s your guide to understanding (and celebrating) the unique dynamics of your Thanksgiving table.
1. The Innovation Personality:
Rewriting the rules of tradition.
This is the relative who suggests deep-fried turkey instead of roasted or a vegan pumpkin cheesecake instead of pie. They bring fresh ideas, keeping the family on its toes.
How to connect: Show curiosity! Ask about their ideas and share your excitement for their creative twists (even if Grandma isn’t on board yet).
2. The Passion Personality:
Bringing the heart, hugs, and heaping plates of emotional connection.
You’ll spot them immediately—the relative who lights up the room with stories, laughter, and a knack for making everyone feel like the star of the show. They’re the ones snapping photos, initiating heartfelt toasts, or asking about your dreams (even if it’s over cranberry sauce).
How to connect: Match their energy! Compliment their enthusiasm, share your own stories, and let them know how much you appreciate their warmth.
3. The Power Personality:
Leading the charge—whether it’s carving the turkey or heading up post-dinner charades.
Bold and decisive, this person loves taking charge. They bring focus and direction to the festivities, making sure everyone has a plan (and sticks to it).
How to connect: Let them lead! Acknowledge their leadership and support their decisions—it’s their way of showing they care.
4. The Prestige Personality:
Elevating the meal, one gourmet pumpkin pie at a time.
Thanksgiving is their stage to shine. From expertly folded napkins to perfectly plated sides, this person doesn’t just meet expectations—they exceed them. They thrive on recognition for their high standards.
How to connect: Acknowledge their effort! Compliments like “This stuffing is incredible!” will make their holiday.
5. The Trust Personality:
The steady anchor in the holiday storm.
Dependable and predictable, this person brings the mashed potatoes just like they have every year. They thrive on tradition and create a sense of comfort and stability.
How to connect: Embrace their traditions! Acknowledge how their consistency makes Thanksgiving feel like home.
6. The Mystique Personality:
Quietly observing, offering insights when it matters most.
This person is likely the calm eye in the Thanksgiving storm. They’re not jumping into every conversation, but when they do speak, it’s worth listening. Their subtle presence adds balance to the table.
How to connect: Don’t push for conversation. Instead, create space for them to chime in naturally—they’ll appreciate your respect for their quiet confidence.
7. The Alert Personality:
Keeping everything on track—because someone has to.
From double-checking the turkey timer to coordinating dishwashing duty, this person thrives on details and structure. Without them, chaos might just take over.
How to connect: A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Let them know you notice their effort in keeping things running smoothly.
As you sit around the table this Thanksgiving, take a moment to celebrate the personalities that make your family, well, yours. Whether it’s the Passionate aunt or the Mystique cousin, each Advantage brings something special to the mix.
Want to make your Thanksgiving even more fascinating?
Share the Fascinate Test with your friends and family—or take it yourself if you haven’t yet! Use code THANKFUL at checkout for an exclusive discount.
Here’s to a holiday full of connection, understanding, and a little more fascination.