What is your MBTI profile ?
Understanding your personality can be a transformative journey, offering profound insights into how you interact with the world and with others. One of the most popular ways to explore this is through the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), a personality assessment tool based on Carl Jung’s theory of psychological types. By taking the MBTI test, you can identify your unique personality type, also called MBTI Profile, which can illuminate your preferences, tendencies, and potential areas for growth.
The Origins of the MBTI
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator was developed in the 1940s by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter, Isabel Briggs Myers. They were inspired by the work of Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, who proposed that human behavior is not random but follows identifiable patterns. Jung’s theory of psychological types forms the foundation of the MBTI assessment. Briggs and Myers sought to make Jung’s theories more accessible and practical. They developed the MBTI to help people understand their own personalities and improve their relationships.
The 16 MBTI personality types
The MBTI identifies 16 distinct personality types, each based on a combination of four key dichotomies: Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I), Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N), Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F), and Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P). These dichotomies represent different preferences in how people perceive the world and make decisions. For example, a person who prefers Thinking might rely more on logic and objective criteria, while someone who prefers Feeling might prioritize empathy and personal values.
How is the MBTI profile determined?
The MBTI profile is determined through a series of questions designed to identify an individual’s preferences in the four dichotomies. The answers to these questions reveal which side of each dichotomy a person leans towards, resulting in a four-letter code that represents their personality type. For example, someone who prefers Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Perceiving would be categorized as an INFP.
We use the MBTI profile in business to enhance team dynamics, improve communication, and foster personal development. It helps us understand personality differences, optimize work styles, and assign roles that align with individual strengths, ultimately boosting productivity, collaboration, and job satisfaction in our organization.
Take an appointment
+41 76 803 98 00
marc@marc-prager.ch
The Four Key Dichotomies
The MBTI assessment categorizes personality types based on four key dichotomies. Each dichotomy represents a spectrum, and individuals tend to lean more towards one end than the other. Understanding these dichotomies can help you better understand your preferences and tendencies.
Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)
The Extraversion-Introversion dichotomy relates to where you direct your energy and attention. Extraverts tend to focus on the external world, enjoying social interactions and activities that involve people. They often feel energized by being around others and thrive in collaborative environments. In contrast, Introverts prefer focusing on their internal world, valuing solitary activities and deep, meaningful conversations. They often feel drained by too much social interaction and need time alone to recharge.
Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)
The Sensing-Intuition dichotomy describes how you perceive information. Sensors rely on their five senses to gather information and prefer concrete, factual data. They tend to focus on the present and practical realities, excelling in tasks that require attention to detail. Intuitives, on the other hand, look beyond the surface, seeking patterns and possibilities. They are drawn to abstract concepts and future possibilities, often excelling in tasks that require creativity and innovation.
Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
The Thinking-Feeling dichotomy pertains to how you make decisions. Thinkers prioritize logic and objective analysis. They value consistency, fairness, and truth, often making decisions based on impersonal criteria. Feelers, however, prioritize empathy and personal values. They value harmony, compassion, and relationships, often making decisions based on how they will affect others.
Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)
The Judging-Perceiving dichotomy relates to how you approach structure and organization. Judgers prefer a planned, organized approach, valuing structure and predictability. They like to have things settled and enjoy making decisions. Perceivers, on the other hand, prefer flexibility and spontaneity. They enjoy keeping their options open and are often adaptable and open to new experiences.
The Benefits of Knowing Your MBTI Profile
Understanding your MBTI profile can offer numerous benefits in both your personal and professional life. It can help you gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, improve your relationships, and guide your career choices.
Improved Self-Awareness
Knowing your MBTI type can help you gain a clearer understanding of your preferences and tendencies. This self-awareness can lead to greater confidence and a better understanding of how you interact with the world. For example, if you are an INTJ, you may recognize your need for strategic planning and long-term goals. This insight can help you make more informed decisions and pursue opportunities that align with your strengths.
Enhanced Relationships
Understanding the MBTI types of others can improve your relationships by helping you understand their preferences and communication styles. For example, if you are an ENTP and you know that your colleague is an ISFJ, you can tailor your communication to be more supportive and considerate, which can lead to more effective collaboration.
Career Guidance
Your MBTI profile can also provide valuable insights into your career preferences and potential. For example, ESTJs may thrive in leadership roles that require organization and decision-making, while INFPs may find fulfillment in roles that allow for creative expression and alignment with personal values.
Personal Growth
Understanding your MBTI type can also highlight potential areas for personal growth. For example, if you are an ISTJ, you may recognize a need to develop more flexibility and open-mindedness. By working on these areas, you can become a more well-rounded individual and improve your interactions with others.
FAQ
What is the MBTI profile?
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) profile is a psychological tool that categorizes individuals into 16 different personality types based on their preferences in four dichotomies: Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I), Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N), Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F), and Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P). These types aim to provide insights into how people perceive the world and make decisions.
What are the benefits of knowing your MBTI profile?
Understanding your MBTI profile can offer various benefits, such as improved self-awareness, better communication skills, and enhanced personal and professional relationships. It can help you recognize your strengths and areas for growth, as well as understand the diverse perspectives of others. This knowledge can be particularly useful in teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution.
Can your MBTI profile change over time?
While some aspects of your personality may evolve due to life experiences and personal growth, your core MBTI preferences are generally stable over time. However, it’s possible for individuals to develop behaviors and skills associated with other preferences, particularly in different contexts or stages of life.
Is the MBTI scientifically validated?
The MBTI has been widely used in various fields, including psychology, education, and business, but it has also faced criticism regarding its scientific validity and reliability. Some researchers argue that the MBTI lacks empirical support and that its dichotomies are not as distinct as the theory suggests. Despite these criticisms, many people find the MBTI to be a valuable tool for personal development and understanding interpersonal dynamics.
Other articles on the same subject
This article has been written by Marc Prager.