Understanding the Complexity of Personality Tests: A Personal Experience
Personality tests, such as the popular 16 Personalities test, have gained significant popularity in recent years. These assessments are designed to help individuals better understand their own behaviors, motivations, and compatibility with others. However, as someone who has taken numerous personality tests, I must share my experiences and insights to highlight both the benefits and limitations of such tools.
Reflecting on My INTJ Identity and the Evolving Nature of Personality
My journey through the world of personality tests began with the realization that these assessments often reveal a snapshot of one's current self, rather than an immutable and eternal essence. For instance, I have always identified as an INTJ, a personality type characterized by being strategic, logical, independent, and perfectionistic. But, as I have transitioned through various life challenges such as learning disabilities, low self-esteem, and crippling social anxiety, my behavior and decision-making processes have naturally evolved.
As I reflected on past decisions and behaviors, I noticed that some of my responses during the tests were influenced by extensive training and practices. For example, my efforts to overcome social anxiety led me to adopt more public speaking skills, and my involvement in process management introduced me to the importance of efficiency and perfection. These qualities may have resulted in answers that reflected my current state rather than my natural, untrained tendencies. In fact, when taking the test without prior training, I found myself aligning more with INTP, a type often described as creative and innovative but less focused on structured routines. While there is a minor difference between INTJ and INTP, this experience emphasizes the importance of recognizing the context in which such assessments are taken.
Reviewing Multiple Personality Tests: A Mix of Accurate and Misleading Insights
Recently, out of curiosity, I took several personality tests and observed the varying results. One test, labeled as the DISC test, placed me as a Disc C, which seemed broadly correct but placed an emphasis on my rule-following tendencies that I found excessive. My reliance on routine and structured environments serves as a coping mechanism for my social anxiety, but my routines are personally curated, not imposed by others. I harbor no fondness for blindly following authority or strict hierarchical structures, hence the higher score in Disc C may be an exaggeration.
Another test labeled me as an ISTJ, identified as someone who upholds traditions, is dependable, and maintains integrity. While I do aim to be honest and maintain my word in professional settings, I strongly contested the perception of myself as someone who doesn't offer opinions often. I am often a “gobby little shite,” as the author humorously put it, and I frequently interject in conversations where I may not be the most appropriate voice. My least favorite phrase, “stay in your lane,” captures my frustration with that label.
My final test labeled me as an INTJ, which I firmly reject. While my love for debates and logical reasoning is indisputable, my lack of depth with details and inability to be fully logical in nature is a clear contradiction. This test failed to recognize my genuine feelings and capabilities, making me feel a profound sense of disappointment. It highlighted how these tests often provide a surface-level understanding rather than a deep, accurate reflection of one's personality.
Limitations of Personality Tests: A Balanced View
My experiences with different personality tests underscore the limitations of such assessments. While they can serve as a useful tool for personal reflection and self-awareness, they are not infallible. The results can be heavily influenced by external factors such as recent life events or the individual's current state of mind. It is crucial to view these tests with a critical eye, recognizing that they are merely a part of a broader understanding of one's identity.
Conclusion: Embracing Personal Diversity and Self-Acceptance
In conclusion, while personality tests can provide valuable insights, they should be approached with caution. The evolving nature of our personalities, influenced by life experiences and personal growth, can lead to varying assessments. The smart arse label, often assigned to me, reflects a mix of introversion, logical reasoning, and humor, which is a true representation of who I am at present. Ultimately, finding the right balance between self-awareness and self-acceptance is key to personal development.