The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is based on the work of
psychologist Carl Jung and was developed by Katharine Briggs and
Isabel Briggs-Myers. It measures four dimensions of personality
including what energizes you, how you take in information, how
you make decisions and your style of living. Knowing your
Myers/Briggs type can give you insight into your core self or
who you were born to be.
While the MBTI has been administered to many people in both
work and personal environments, few have had an accurate, in
depth interpretation of their results. They may vaguely remember
their “letters” but have no clue as to what they mean.
Understanding your personality type can be extremely validating.
It is only in understanding ourselves that we can be truly
compassionate with ourselves and others.
Often times when people recognize differences in themselves
from others, they wonder “what’s wrong with me,” rather than
appreciating the unique gifts that they have to offer. Societal
pressure can also force us to try to fit a mold that is not
suited for us. When we do not fit this mold, we feel flawed in
some way. The more we attempt to conform, the more emotionally
damaged and self critical we become. We wonder why we can’t find
the right career, why we have communications problems in
relationships, why we can’t seem to remember details, why we are
unorganized, why we feel uncomfortable in large social groups
etc.
Many people are surprised how well their MBTI results
describe them. There is often a sense of relief, with responses
like, “you mean there is nothing wrong with me” or “there are
other people out there like me?” The validation of the core self
allows for permission to be real and enjoy full self expression.
