Do you know about Myers-Briggs?

 

Decoding Personalities: Exploring the Intriguing World of the Myers-Briggs Assessment

 

As an INFJ, delving into the world of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) has been nothing short of enlightening. Discovering that I belong to the rarest personality type—comprising just about 1-2% of the population—has not only explained much about the way I think and act but has also shed light on the challenges and unique strengths that come with being an INFJ.

In today’s world, self-discovery is as vital as breathing. An assessment that I now encourage everyone to do, accessible tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) have become resources of understanding, illuminating the complex tapestry of human personalities. Designed to delve into the depths of our psyche, the Myers-Briggs assessment offers insights into how we perceive the world, make decisions, and interact with others.

At its core, the Myers-Briggs assessment is a personality inventory based on Carl Jung’s theories of psychological types. It classifies individuals into one of 16 personality types, each represented by a unique combination of four dichotomies:

1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I): This dimension reflects where individuals direct their energy—outwardly toward the external world (Extraversion) or inwardly toward their inner world of thoughts and reflections (Introversion).
2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N): This dimension describes how individuals gather information—through concrete facts and details (Sensing) or through patterns, possibilities, and underlying meanings (Intuition).
3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F): This dimension refers to how individuals make decisions—based on logic, objectivity, and analysis (Thinking) or on personal values, emotions, and empathy (Feeling).
4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P): This dimension reflects how individuals approach the external world—through structured, organized, and planned ways (Judging) or through flexible, spontaneous, and adaptable approaches (Perceiving).

By understanding where we fall on each of these dimensions, we gain profound insights into our strengths, preferences, and potential areas for growth. For example, an individual with an INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) personality type is often described as a creative idealist, deeply in tune with their emotions and values, and driven by a desire for harmony and authenticity.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Myers-Briggs assessment is its ability to foster self-awareness and empathy. When we know our own personality type, we gain a deeper understanding of our motivations, communication styles, and decision-making processes. This self-awareness not only leads to personal growth but also enhances our relationships, as we learn to appreciate and respect the differences in others’ personality types.

The Myers-Briggs assessment also has practical applications in various fields, including career counseling, team building, and leadership development; Individuals can also leverage their MBTI insights to make informed career choices aligned with their natural talents and preferences.

However, as fascinating as all of this sounds, it’s essential to approach the Myers-Briggs assessment with a critical mindset. While it provides valuable insights, it’s not a definitive measure of personality and should not be used to label or limit individuals. Human beings are complex, multifaceted beings, and our personalities can evolve over time based on experiences and circumstances.

Nevertheless, the Myers-Briggs assessment offers a captivating glimpse into the intricate mosaic of human personalities. It empowers us to embrace our uniqueness, celebrate diversity, and navigate life’s challenges with greater understanding and compassion.

If you’re interested in discovering more about your personality type, you can take the assessment here on the 16 Personalities website.

Thanks for reading!

Jen