I have always been interested in psychology. It fascinates me how everyone can be the same, yet different at the same time. With that being said, I have always gravitated towards one aspect of psychology in particular: Personality.

Personality psychology is the study of similarities and differences in psychological traits that shape how we view ourselves and perceive the world around us. It is a very complex and somewhat controversial subject, but luckily some systems and studies help us understand the concept of personality. One of these is the MBTI system.

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, or MBTI, is one of the most widely-used personality indicators. The MBTI focuses on four or five aspects of personality: Introversion or Extraversion (I or E), iNtuition or Sensing (N or S), Feeling or Thinking (F or T), Judging or Perceiving [or prospecting] (J or P), and sometimes it will test if your Assertive or Turbulent (A or T).

I or E. Introversion and Extraversion doesn’t necessarily refer to either liking or disliking socializing; it refers to how we gain energy. Do you get excited and energetic when you socialize, or does it drain you? Extraverts gain energy from socializing and it normally drains an introvert, who gains energy by being alone and introspecting. You might think you’re one or the other, but pay extra attention the next time you socialize – you might be surprised. I thought I was an introvert my whole life, but when I started paying attention, I realized that I normally felt more energized during and after socializing and was more extraverted than introverted.

N or S. iNtuition and Sensing deals with how we gather information. Sensors concentrate more on the real world. They use their five senses to collect information and prefer concrete facts rather than abstract theories. Those who are iNtuitution dominant like to find patterns and think in the realm of possibilities. They can see connections that others might miss and enjoy to think about the future and abstract theories

F or T. Feeling and Thinking is how people make decisions. Thinkers tend to be more logical, thinking about the pros and cons of a situation and making the best decision based on all the facts present. While feelers, on the other hand, tend to make decisions based more on how the options or situation makes them feel, and often how their decision would affect others. Now, everyone is capable, and does use, both logic and emotion in decision making, but this category focuses on which you use more.

J or P. Judging and Perceiving is how we deal with the outside world. Judgers prefer organization, structure, and firm decisions. Perceivers are more flexible, adaptable, and potentially more open-minded.

A or T. Finally, Assertive and Turbulent focuses on how we view ourselves. Assertive personalities tend to be more confident about themselves and their decisions, resistant to stress, and even-tempered. Turbulent individuals tend to be more self-critical, success-driven, and perfectionistic. They are better at noticing the little details, but often overthink and turn small problems into huge catastrophes.

All of these factors go into 16 four or five letter codes that is a personality type; all with their own unique traits. The MBTI isn’t perfect, but it is a good tool to learn more about yourself and others around you.

I’m an ENFP-A (Extraverted, iNtuitive, Feeling, Percieveing [Prospecting], and Assertive). Finding this out has allowed me to better understand my strengths, weaknesses, and has made me more comfortable and proud of who I am. If you would also like to learn more about yourself, here is a link to 16Personalities.com, one of the most accurate, free, and descriptive websites on this subject. Now, go out there and happy learning! https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test