Team DailyPedia
Are you aiming for that job you’ve been eyeing for years now? Or maybe you’re hungry to become famous in your field? You may want to slow down and mind your heart.
A recent study revealed that ambitious people with hostile tendencies to climb the ladder to success have a higher risk of suffering from heart problems and other cardiovascular complications.
On the other hand, those who make it to the top by being kind to their colleagues are less likely to develop such health disorders.
The researchers from University of Utah surveyed 500 students and grouped them according to their personality types. They monitored and compared those with hostile-dominant traits versus those with warm-dominant behaviors.
180 students were also observed how they responded to two types of people: one having dominant traits and the other respectful.
The hostile-dominant types showed a significant increase in blood pressure when they talked with another dominant, but not with the humbler partner.
“It’s bad news for relentless power seekers the likes of Frank Underwood on House of Cards, climbing the ladder of social status through aggressive, competitive striving might shorten your life as a result of increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease,” says Timothy Smith, author and professor of psychology.
For those achievers who are gentler, friendlier and kinder with their co-workers, Smith said that their success may have protective effects as a result of their positive reputation.
Moreover, the professor stressed that it’s not too late for the hostile-dominant types to change their style. It takes time but it will definitely bring good results for your health, reducing the risk of coronary-related diseases.
Featured image via livescience.com
