Steps for Using the Myers-Briggs

Myers-Briggs is a personality indicator assessment based on the premise that it allows a person to better understand variations in his behavior and the resulting impact of those behaviors. Used by both men and women, the assessment will help you become aware of your moods and personality and how you can use this information to deal better with your family, peers, subordinates and those in authority over you. A basic understanding of the assessment and its history will help you better comprehend how to use it in your daily life.

History

• The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) was developed by Isabel Briggs Myers and Katharine Briggs (her mother). In 1913, Carl Jung developed a theory as to why people are so different and act in different ways. He concluded that each person is either an introvert or an extrovert. Isabel and Katharine used his theory to develop their test. Beginning in 1941 and continuing through ongoing research, the two women determined that there are four general patterns that each person follows. Each of those four patterns is further refined into four, for a total of 16 distinct types of personality that can be attributed to each individual person. Ironically, it wasn't until after Isabel's death in 1980 that the MBTI became widely used in the workplace.

16 Types

• The 16 types are broken down into a group of letters, one from each of the four basic patterns, which are: extrovert or introvert (E or I); sensing or intuition (S or N); thinking or feeling (T or F); and judging or perceiving (F or P). After completing the assessment, you might be considered an "INFJ." You have more introvert tendencies than those of an extrovert. Your intuition is keen and you usually have strong compassion for others. Generally, you are organized. Suggested careers include teaching, library, law, and psychology. Mother Teresa was an INFJ personality.

Steps for Taking

• The MBTI consists of a series of questions, of which there are no "right" or "wrong" answers. You must answer each question honestly to obtain the best possible result. The questions relate to your thoughts on being an extrovert or introvert, sensing and intuition abilities, thinking and feeling reactions, and your judgment and perception skill. Myers-Briggs recommends that the test be interpreted by a certified, trained professional. Many companies have staff trained to understand and interpret the MBTI. They will provide confidentiality, give appropriate feedback, help you assess your type and apply the results to your career and life. MBTI offers an Interpretive Report, which has 93 questions. This report provides you with your basic four-letter personality type, a description of each letter, and a general pattern of your preferences in life. Various tests are offered through an online arrangement with M-B.

Steps for Using

• Research by Myers-Briggs and other professionals points to the MBTI as being an accurate assessment of your preferences because the same result is obtained when it is repeatedly taken by the same person. The test administrator will help you understand the results and may offer suggestions on your career path. You should not feel as if you "must" follow a specific career path. However, following one of the suggested careers could help you attain your goals in life, as you will likely be more content in your job. On a personal level, the MBTI gives you knowledge to understand your reactions to grief, happiness, and challenges. Having a good idea of why and how you will react in any given situation will give you a better balance in life.