Thanks to Art of Growth, for core material.

Core Need/Motivation
Type Ones have a need to be good, to do right, to have integrity, and to improve.

Characteristics
Type Ones are conscientious, ethical, controlled, and principled.

Description
Type Ones are guided by a strong sense that there is a right way to do things. They are adept at distilling complexity into clarity and often see things in black and white. Type Ones focus on improvement of self and others, attempting to enhance the world around them. Most Type Ones have a strong inner voice that acts both as a critic and a coach, regularly pointing out where they have fallen short and how they could do better.

Type Ones’ attention naturally goes to what needs to be fixed or improved rather than to what is already satisfactory. This should not be confused with negativity; they are often optimistic about the potential for improvement. Their idealism tells them that if they work hard enough, they can reach an elusive goal of perfection. Because they see what needs improvement, they often feel it is their responsibility to make those improvements, and they cannot rest until the job is done and done right.

Their undying belief that anything and anyone can improve drives them to better themselves, improve others around them, and excel at work. Personal desires such as joy, beauty, and fun are often suppressed in order to get things done and do the “right thing.” In certain settings, they might release their usual self-control, appearing as the opposite of themselves, giving into indulgences.

Primary Center: Body/Instinctual

As body-based types, Type Ones often have a reserve of physical energy, but they exercise intense self-control over their feelings and impulses which can lead to physical rigidity and tension. They have a good sense of “knowing” in their gut, but may not be consciously aware of this resource, and often jump from a “gut sense” to thinking rationally in the head center, skipping over the emotions of the heart center.

The Gifts of Type Ones

Ones can walk into a chaotic situation and create order and efficiency. They are reliable. If they are asked to complete a task, they do, and they get it done as near to perfection as possible. Because they are improvement-oriented, they regularly strive for improvement in themselves and in the world around them.

The Challenges for Type Ones

Type Ones can be critical, judging of self and other people. Because they feel responsible to do the right thing, they can feel that they are the only ones who are doing this and then become resentful. This can show up as frustration or even anger. Because they don’t want to be perceived as angry because it is not “right,” they will “put on a smile” when angry.

Communication with Type Ones

Ones are precise, clear, direct, honest and detail-oriented in their communication style. 

When interacting with Ones, it is helpful to take their concerns seriously and respect their integrity. They will, in turn, respect you if you are responsible, honor your commitments and own your mistakes. Although they can be critical of others, they are also usually very self-critical, so they are sensitive to criticism.