If you must play, decide on three things at the start: The rules of the game, the stakes, and the quitting time.
Ancient Chinese Proverb
There is a lot to like about The Empire Builder, like The Mover, there is an air of accomplishment and this group is always on a mission directed toward a project, an invention, or an investment. We like them because they are the visionaries of any group. It’s just that they have a blindside when it comes to knowing when to stop as the high of the next mission can become all consuming.
Their visionary focus is a plus as they venture off the beaten path to break new ground or work to make the system they developed finally prove itself. Their striving is all part of proving themselves which can mean risking it all to prove a point. As one client put it
“I like the thought that each day I start from zero and have to make it happen.”
They can be in any profession such as sales, the law, computers, or just your garden variety pool player or fanatic fan willing to risk their next paycheck on their favorite team. That part of their personality is something one must be willing to embrace as they are truly exceptional people and this is part of who they are. However, an in balance Empire builder knows there are limits and looks for ways to minimize risk. You know you are dealing with the Evil Twin when you find yourself “chasing the dream” on a quest that seems to know no end.
The Chinese Proverb completely illustrates the tactics to use if you find yourself in relationship with an Empire Builder. Setting clear limits from the outset and fire walls to make certain they are adhered to, aims to allow their sense of adventure while still adding an element of control. This is a point that needs to be emphasized because we are talking about people with tremendous powers of persuasion and loads of charisma. If you do not set limits and follow them, they will help you change your mind !