X-shaped people are X-shaped due to their tendency to be ruled by a strong compulsion for needs and desire fulfillment. The “X” stands for “me” at the center of things. X-shaped people are often loners and may appear unpredictable. 

So how do we see X-shaped people? 

• It is estimated that roughly 3% of people in business are X-shaped*
• Are often looking for immediate needs gratification.
• X-shaped people thrive when fire-fighting or reacting to threats and incentives. 
• As leaders they are plunderers and unpredictable. 
• Focus is usually on the immediate with a “what’s in it for me” attitude.
• Are team players for only as long as it suits them.
• X-shaped people tend to define the world as black and white (good/bad, with me/against me).
• May take a no-holds-barred approach to achievement of goals and fulfillment of needs.
• Very aware of who has power and who doesn’t. May seek to maximize own power by usurping power of others.
• Above all, is motivated by self-gratification and immediate desire fulfillment.
• Can be a lot of fun or very dangerous.

X-shaped people are generally not a good fit for the Western society these days. However, in more turbulent, less secure cultures the X-shaped perspective is still a useful worldview for insuring personal, familial or clan survival and security. In Western culture, X-shaped people are often branded sociopathic or live on the fringe of society taking what they need. In Eastern societies like China and Japan, the X-shaped worldview seems to be more tolerated and persistent. In general, globalization is making the world a less hospitable place for this perspective. However, if change in global climate, water, food and oil supply upset current orders, it is very possible that the X-shaped perspective may, again, become more common. At Interkannections we strongly believe the world needs more than this perspective generally offers. Helping people, communities, organizations and institutions evolve their capacity beyond this worldview, we believe is essential.