Expressing Yourself With Color
by Nancy Engle, July 7, 2008

Our world is full of color. It is often the first thing that catches our eye when we enter a room, shop for household furnishings, or buy clothing.

Color influences and/or reflects our mood, and has a psychological effect of our behavior. Schools choose colors that will stimulate and enhance the learning process (hopefully). Hospitals choose colors that are soothing and relaxing to the patient. When we decorate a room, we choose colors that enhance the mood we wish to create. Color often dictates the choices we make.

Think of your favorite outfit. You know, the one you wear when you want to make a good impression. The one that makes you feel like you're on top of the world. You know you look great when you wear it. The color is perfect for you.
So, what does all this have to do with the color of ink? Just as painting a room a favorite color or wearing a favorite color can make a statement, so can the color of ink you choose to write with. Most people write with the standard black or blue ink without giving it much thought. Others deliberately choose to make a statement with their choice of ink color.

Although little has been written on the meaning of choosing an ink color other than the traditional blue or black, I have come up with a few interpretations based on the general psychological statements that colors make. Sheila Lowe has added her own thoughts on interpreting ink color in her book Handwriting Analysis for Dummies.

Black or blue ink is the standard business ink color. When used outside the business environment as the preferred color it indicates someone with no desire to be exceptional or pretentious.

Turquoise is associated with making changes and is usually used by females.

Green represents restfulness, relaxation, and harmony. Those who choose to use green ink like to be seen as individuals and prefer a quiet environment.

Purple is often associated with spirituality. Individuals who choose to write with purple ink frequently like to be their own person and like others to know it.

Red is a color that physically stimulates, but can also be associated with anger. Those who choose to write with red generally want to stand out and be noticed.  They may be dynamic or angry. Interpretation depends on other personality characteristics found in the writing.

As with all other interpretations of the handwriting, these personality characteristics must be confirmed elsewhere in the writing sample. Also, when evaluating a handwriting sample that is written with an ink color other than the traditional blue or black, confirm that the writer prefers the color used and didn't use it because it was handy. As with the color choices we make in decorating or clothing, ink color makes a statement about our personality.

For more information about Nancy Engle, Personal Life Coach & Handwriting Analysis at The Healing Way, click here.

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©2008, Nancy Engle