Do you know how to handle the rigid character trait during menopause? This article explores how the rigid character trait forms, highlighting its origins during childhood and its impacts in adulthood, especially during menopause. It also discusses how to recognise this trait and the challenges associated with it, as well as its positive and negative aspects.

Firstly, it’s important to note that character traits such as rigidity, perfectionism, and competitiveness are natural elements of human diversity and do not necessarily indicate the presence of a psychological disorder.

Individuals possess characteristics that influence their behaviours and interactions with the world around them. However, knowing when these traits cause significant daily difficulties is essential.

If perceived as obstacles to overall well-being, seeking professional guidance to develop management strategies and promote personal growth is valid.

Formation of the Rigid Character Trait

The rigid trait begins to form around the ages of 4 or 5, during a developmental period called childhood sexuality, which occurs around three and a half to about five years of age.

At this stage, the child begins to perceive more about their own sexuality as their body develops and becomes more sensitive in the genital area. They also start paying more attention to relationships around them, especially with their parents.

The first pairs usually form with the parents (boys with the mother and girls with the father). Children often hear phrases like “My little princess” or “My prince,” which make them feel unique and loved.

However, the reality of adults involves many commitments, such as work or outings with friends, which can confuse the child, who still doesn’t understand that they cannot be their parents’ romantic pair.

The child learns that openly expressing their feelings of love can be risky and hurtful. They then begin to control themselves to avoid painful situations, seeking to please their parents in other ways by trying to be perfect in everything.

They compete with other close people, such as caregivers, and even as children, they believe they need to be the best to be chosen and not feel excluded. The fear of being replaced or betrayed is very present in the rigid trait.

Recognising the Rigid Character Trait

The rigid character trait describes individuals who are strong, competitive, and practical. They enjoy getting hands-on and leading. They are determined and fight for their beliefs, not easily giving up on their goals.

Moreover, they are very rigid in doing things and thinking, preferring to follow a structured and organised approach in everything they do.

They maintain a harmonious and graceful posture with a symmetric and athletic physical appearance. They are always in competition with themselves and others, constantly seeking to overcome challenges and reach new levels of success.

The Challenges of the Rigid Character Trait

Dealing with a rigid character trait can pose challenges that significantly affect those who possess it. These difficulties are often rooted in deep behavioural patterns that can be difficult to overcome. Let’s explore some of these challenges and how they manifest in everyday life:

Difficulty in Showing Weakness

Expressing vulnerability or weakness can pose significant challenges for individuals with rigid character traits. They might perceive such actions as undermining their image of perfection and control.

Perfectionism

Perfectionists are proud and firmly believe in their superiority. They constantly strive to maintain a facade of perfection and control over themselves and others.

Always Competing

For perfectionists, life is a constant competition, both with themselves and, sometimes secretly, with others. They see every challenge as an opportunity to prove their competence and superiority. So, if I am the best, I won’t be replaced.

Rigidity, Lack of Flexibility

Individuals with rigid character traits struggle with unforeseen events or plan changes. They prefer structure and predictability and may feel uncomfortable when confronted with unexpected or uncontrollable situations.

What is the Impact of the Rigid Trait on Women During Menopause?

This paragraph explores the impact of the rigid character trait on women’s lives during menopause, highlighting both the negative and positive aspects of this trait.

Negative Impact:

Excessive Rationality

Women with rigid character traits tend to be overly rational, meaning they may hesitate to make important decisions during menopause. They require concrete evidence before acting, which can delay crucial decisions at this stage of life.

Difficulty in Asking for Help

They may struggle to admit they need help, seeing it as a sign of weakness or incompetence. This can lead to emotional isolation and difficulty in seeking support during menopause.

Need to Demonstrate Masculine Strength

Despite being seductive, women with rigid traits often feel the need to demonstrate masculine strength, which can hinder the recognition and expression of their vulnerabilities during menopause.

Energy Dispersion

They tend to have multiple plans and routines, leading to energy dispersion. Although they can handle multiple tasks at once, this can also result in physical and emotional exhaustion during menopause.

Positive Aspects:

Fight for Convictions and Seek Support

Women with rigid traits usually fight for their beliefs and seek support for their causes. This can be advantageous during menopause as it helps them face challenges with determination and support.

Consistency and Rigidity in Routines

They are consistent and rigid in their routines, which can provide emotional stability during menopause. Regular schedules and activities can help with hormonal and emotional changes during this phase.

Acceptance and Imposition of Rules

Women with rigid traits tend to accept and impose rules, which can help establish boundaries and promote a sense of control during menopause. This helps create structure and direction during a time of transition and change.

Conclusion

The rigid character trait has its roots in childhood, during the period of infantile sexuality development, and can have a significant impact on adult life, especially during menopause.

Individuals with this trait may face challenges such as difficulty in showing weakness, perfectionism, constant competition, and lack of flexibility.

However, they also possess positive qualities such as fighting for convictions, consistency in routines, and imposition of rules. Recognising these challenges and embracing these qualities makes it possible to face menopause with more confidence and resilience.