We are each born with a particular genetic makeup and traits that are further shaped by our individual environments and life experiences, creating a personality unique to us. But at no point are we given a manual for how to use that personality in our relationships or at work, for how to make sense of the facets that create our sense of self, or for how to troubleshoot our personality if there are things we are unhappy with.

Personality: A User's Guide is that missing manual. An authoritative and comprehensive guide to personality psychology, this book outlines the different building blocks of our personality, presents the many theories and models that have been argued over the years, and helps you identify where you stand on the spectrum of key traits that define us.

Using this knowledge about yourself, the book also suggests ways you can better empathise with those around you who may have very different approaches to the world, and how we can all leverage our different strengths. The authors also consider the constantly developing nature of the self, and ways we can turn that to our advantage and make changes for greater success and wellbeing.

Finally, the book looks at some specific questions: Can our pets be said to have their own personalities? What happens when the 'dark triad' of negative traits are dominant? And is there a future in store where we can say that an AI has a genuine personality?

Georgi Yankov is a senior research scientist, developing traditional tests and innovative simulations scored with machine learning algorithms, and with expertise in the fields of computational psychometrics and personality assessment. Georgi holds an MSc from Baruch College, CUNY and a PhD from Bowling Green State University, both in industrial-organisational psychology. Nikita Mikhailov is a specialist in personality psychology, working with individuals, couples and teams to increase awareness and understanding of individual differences. His mission is to share the goodness of psychology with a wider audience, be it through workshops or stand-up comedy.