What's Your Type?

I took a personality test the other day. At first I thought it would be like all the other ones I have ever tried to take, long and too generic. A one size fits all. However, this test was oddly specific and only took me about 10 minutes. It ended up describing my personality so accurately it was slightly creepy. According to the study, which is based on the Myers-Briggs personality test, there are five aspects of a personality:

Mind: Introverted (I) vs. Extraverted (E)

This part of your personality is basically defined by your level of expressiveness and degree to which you seek external stimulation. I tend to feel more energized socializing or being around other people, whereas Introverts feel more energized when they are able to spend time alone.

Energy: Intuitive (N) vs. Observant (S)

This scale determines how you see the world or in other words, your dominant perspective.

Intuitive thinkers tend to be more visionary and enjoy abstractions and ideas. Observant types focus more on facts and concrete, observable things.

Nature: Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

This scale determines how we make decisions and cope with emotions. Thinkers rely on logic and rational thinking and tend to conceal their emotions. Those with the feeling trait are more sensitive and compassionate, unafraid to wear their hearts on their sleeves.

Tactic: Judging (J) vs. Prospecting (P)

This scale measure how we assess options and approach planning. Judging types tend to be more careful planners and believe in rules and traditions. Those with the prospecting trait are more relaxed when it comes to planning and enjoy spontaneity and keeping their options open.

My personality type is ENTP.

I am an extrovert (with a slight hint of introversion) who relies on logical and rational thinking. I actually enjoy solving problems and meeting new challenges. I dislike routine and monotony, and I am a terrible planner. This personality test has helped me understand character traits that I knew I had, but couldn't really explain or understand before.

Of course, there are negatives to each type. I prefer to reason with people and have intellectual conversations, but because I don't always consider someone's emotions or personal attachment to a topic or situation, I tend to inadvertently hurt people's feelings.

Either way, I think everyone should take this test.The research behind it is not new, but the format is refreshingly simple and accurate. Just go to 16personalities.com and you can start right away, no registration or anything required. (I am not being sponsored in any way, I just found it really helpful.) Keep in mind that your results are not all encompassing, because we know nothing is black and white. There are definitely shades of gray, but if you answer honestly the insight can be beneficial.

Happy Learning!