Do you know the difference between a person with preferences for Introversion and one with preferences for Extraversion? Many people mistakenly believe that the word introvert refers to someone who is quiet and shy, while an extravert is someone who is talkative and outgoing. These terms actually refer to whether it is your inner or outer environment which is the source and focus of your energy.
This is just a tiny part of a new world I've discovered through becoming certified to administer the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator(R) assessment, the most widely used personality inventory. Based on the theories of Carl Jung, who believed that much conflict results from normal, healthy differences in personality type, the MBTI(R) tool describes four pairs of dichotomies called preferences, such as Introversion and Extraversion. There are 16 combinations of these preferences, thus 16 personality types.
I first took the MBTI assessment in 1989 and learned that my personality type is found in only 1% of the U. S. population! But the beauty of the MBTI instrument is its affirmation of the invaluable contribution of each personality type, no matter how rare.
I found taking the MBTI assessment to be a life - changing experience, as it taught me to appreciate and develop my unique strengths. So when I learned several years later that I could become certified to share the MBTI tool with others, I jumped at the chance! This involved two months of pre - work, attending a four - day workshop in November 1998, and passing a rigorous 93 - question exam covering type theory, statistics, test construction, administration and ethics. To my delight, I only missed three questions for a total score of 97%!
My favorite aspect of using the MBTI instrument is making people think. After explaining the differences between the preference pairs, I ask my client what the implications of these differences are. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing the light go on in her mind as she suddenly realizes how these differences impact and can be used to enhance her own relationships. That's when I know I've succeeded in passing along my discovery of a wonderful new world.