THE MBTI BLOG

"Shhhh....I'm an ISTJ. Don't tell."

2009-11-05T20:32:00.004-06:00

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) practitioners will be the first to tell you that all personality types are created equal. There is no one best or worst personality type. And yet, even the most experienced type practitioners may admit that at times, they wish they had a different personality type. Do we just want what we don't have? Ladies, you will understand this analogy- if you have curly hair, what do you wish you had? Straight hair. If you have straight for, what do you spend hundreds of dollars trying to make your hair do? Be curly.

I don't genera

lly think there's a problem with type envy. When someone tells me they wish they were a different personality type, I typically begin by asking why. That discussion usually brings to light that the individual feels his/her blind spots are limiting. That's a wonderful thing to realize. While you can't change your type, you can certainly work to flex to other types more comfortably. So

instead of envying a type, try to emulate that type. Imagine what someone with that type would do in a given situation. Perhaps find someone to mentor you on that type.

Sometimes, though, we aren't so vocal about envying a type. Instead, we try to put on a mask or act out a character in order to manage others' perception of us. I've always thought of myself as being confident and secure in my type. Yet, this week I realized for the first time I desperately try to hide my J preferences.

One of my colleagues told me he believes I'm a closet ISTP, which fascinated me because my J preferences are extremely clear. Here are some examples that show my J-ness:

If I haven't been to a location before, I drive there the day before so that I know what to expect. What will the traffic be like? Which side of the road is it on? What does the building look like? What if it's raining and I have to park far away?
I have to be everywhere 15 minutes early or I panic.
Meetings without agendas freak me out.
Chit chat when something needs to be done annoys me
If I decide at midnight that my room should be rearranged, then I have to do it right then. And if that means I need to run to a 24 hour store for supplies, then so be it.
I have the same breakfast every single morning, and have the exact same routine every night before bed.
I start projects when they are assigned, and prefer to have them done weeks before the deadline.

So, how is it possible I could be confused for a Perceiver? Because I lie. I lie.

In my mind, all of those extreme Judging behaviors seem a bit wacky to the "cool, relaxed, spontaneous P's." In my mind I've decided to make my outward persona look calm and unstructured. I'm like a duck. I only let others see me looking graceful above water, but beneath the water, my legs are kicking like crazy just trying to keep me afloat.

How did I get so mixed up? How did I, a type practitioner who believes in the value and equality of all types, become insecure in my type? Actually, the reality is that I'm not insecure in MY type. I like who I am. I like being an ISTJ. But, I worry that my cool, relaxed Perceiving colleagues won't enjoy my strong Judging behaviors.

But, the problem is that when I work so hard to cover up my natural J preferences, I give off the wrong cues to my coworkers. They may believe I truly do have Perceiving preferences and therefore change their behaviors to flex to my supposed P preferences.

Sir Walter Scott had it right when he said, "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive."

When it comes to personality type, perhaps Shakespeare was more accurate- "To thine own self be true."

The Obligatory Halloween-Themed Post- I'm Going as an ENFP This Year!

2009-10-29T00:46:00.006-05:00

Aside from the fact that it's only 2 days until Halloween, and it's necessary for all bloggers to write a Halloween-themed post, I happen to LOVE Halloween. It is by far my favorite holiday.

What's not to like? Dressing up as someone/something else? Randomly bugging neighbors you would normally never acknowledge? Getting to peek inside of your neighbors houses? FREE

CANDY? The question of whether you will g

et a trick OR a treat? Wearing a mask so no one knows who you are? The ability to remain in character as long as you want? Making art out of vegetables? Watching "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" over and over again (one of the greatest movies EVER)? I mean, really, why do we only celebrate Halloween once a year?

In my family, we went BIG for Halloween. I'm fairly certain we never wore a store bought costume...ever. My mom made all of our costumes by hand, and they were almost

never something mainstream (vampire, ghost, devil, etc). My mom planned our costume at least a month in advance and to this day, my brother and I still dress up each year- even if only to pass out candy to the trick-or-treaters.

My mom knew how much work it takes to create a really great costume and she was always happy to make the most of the holiday. It take a lot of work to become someone else- if only for a day. The same is true of your personality (see how I did that....smooth transition, right?!). Our natural preferences guide our daily behaviors, but we are also forced outside of our comfort zone every day and have to use our non-preferred functions. That takes WORK.

I've been working almost exclusively outside of my preferences for a few weeks

now and I'm exhausted. As an ISTJ trying to perform like an ENFP, I find that I constantly have to remind myself that I need to do what is natural for me. Just like

wearing a Halloween costume, it's so easy to slip out of character and go back to being "you." I've been relying on two ENFP mentors along the way to remind me when I slip out of character and return to my natural ISTJ preferences. At one point last week I remarked. "This touchy-feely stuff is WORK!" I desperately want to point out when someone's feelings are unwarranted because they're responding to faulty information (like any clear ISTJ would)

but I didn't because an ENFP would never invalidate someone's feelings like that.

But just like the end of Halloween night, I've had fun but I'm ready to take off the wig and make-up and just eat some candy. It's a good exercise, though. By forcing ourselves to wear the mask of another personality type, we train ourselves to see the world through that lens. We say and do things we wouldn't normally say or do, and we see the difference in results. Just knowing there's a different path you can take can help you remember that everyone sees the world differently and no one approach is right or wrong.

The more we force ourselves to "try" a different preference, the more we become comfortable with those behaviors. Keeping with the Halloween theme- the longer you stay in character the easier it is to continue with those behaviors. I'm not saying you will ever change your type. What you will do, though, is develop an acquired taste for that non-preferred function. In other words, it's not your favorite meal, but if the chef isn't serving your favorite dish, you will be satisfied with this alternative. The more you use your opposite functions, the more comfortable, less stressed, and more adept at that function when you must use it.

So, as a little exercise in type development, try living and working in character for a day. Pick a personality type that is not your own and constantly

think to yourself- what would this personality type do? You may even spook yourself with the results (another phenomenal Halloween tie-in!).

Words of Wisdom from "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown":

"There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the Great Pumpkin. " -Linus

"Never jump into a pile of leaves with a wet sucker." -Linus

Linus: "You've heard of the fury of a woman scorned, haven't you? "

Charlie Brown: "Yes, I guess I have."

Linus: "Well, that's nothing compared to the fury of a woman who has been cheated out of trick-or-treats. "

Money, Money, Money, money, MONEY....and Type- a webinar.

2009-10-19T18:23:00.003-05:00

Sorry...every time I talk about money I get "For the Love of Money" by The O'Jays in my head.

Seriously, though, couldn't we all use a little bit of money advice these days?

Well, the latest APT eChapter webinar talks about just that...

The 8 Functions of Money

Using the Function Attitudes to Understand and Improve

Your Money Management

Facilitated by Ray Linder, MBA, Owner of Goodstewardship and APTi's Vice President of
Finance

TUESDAY, NOV. 10, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. EDT/ 12:30 PDT

PLEASE CHECK DAY for PACIFIC RIM TIME ZONES (www.timeanddate.com) Friday in NZ, AUS, HK

The program: Money can wreak havoc as we have all seen in the last year and a half. However, if it is used in ways consistent with our personality type, it can bring serenity and security. Personality type can help orient your financial behavior to making psychologically satisfying financial decisions. To skillfully manage your money with less stress and more success, you must have an awareness and understanding of your preferred patterns of financial behavior.

About the speaker: With proven personal coaching, leadership development and team building programs and services that help people be themselves with more skill, Ray Linder has worked with more than 10,000 individuals across a range of both large and small companies, government and municipal agencies, non-profits and the military.

Ray's work is internationally recognized and he has conducted hundreds of custom-designed teambuilding and leadership development workshops for clients that include Fortune 100 companies, the U.S. Army and Air Force, government agencies such as the Office of Personnel Management and the Department of Health and Human Services, the District of Columbia, and major universities.

He is the author of three books, and his many media appearances include a feature story on CNBC, USA Today, the Washington Post, the Boston Herald, Leadership, and the Bulletin of Psychological Type. Ray is associated with several world-class organizational and leadership development consulting firms, has an adjunct faculty position at the Federal Executive Institute, and in addition to his current training and coaching work, his business experience includes corporate and investment finance, fundraising and development, and sales. For more information, please go to Ray's website, www.goodstewardship.com

How to register: Registration can now be done through the APTi website or through a link on the eChapter website (http://www.apt-echapter.org/ ) We accept MasterCard, Visa and American Express.

Cost: eChapter members pay US$ 6. Cost for all others: US $25. Ensure your billing address matches that of the card you are using. eChapter members, please sure to log in (near upper right corner) to qualify for the member pricing.

Deadline for registration: Nov. 5

CEU: Our application for 1 MPCP CE is pending approval.

About the eChapter: The APT eChapter is a chapter of the Association for Psychological Type International. It operates in the same way as any traditional chapter of APTi, except that meetings and programs are virtual. Like any other chapter, it manages its own finances and membership. The eChapter's primary charter is to meet the needs of under-served APTi members who are unable to join or participate in a local onground chapter. Questions: Contact Mary Charles Blakebrough, President (mcbreakthrough@mindspring.com ) or Kathy Howard, Co-VP of Programs (kathy@hdaconsultants.com).

Upcoming Programs: Watch for new and exciting programming in 2010. Also, visit our new blog by Katherine Hirsh by going to our website, http://www.apt-echapter.org/

Guest Blog Sharing an Activity for the FIRO-B or FIRO- Business instrument

2009-10-07T21:25:00.004-05:00

Readers have submitted questions over the past few months asking for new activities to help create those wonderful "a ha" moments during training. Specifically, one reader asked for help with the FIRO instrument. Because she is certified to administer the MBTI, she is also qualified to purchase and administer the FIRO-B and new FIRO Business tools.

I've asked Sherrie Hayne, a consultant with CPP, to share one of her favorite FIRO activities, and she was kind enough to agree. Sherrie is a MBTI Master Practitioner and is also a MBTI Certification Trainer. She has had extensive experience delivering the MBTI and FIRO instruments to large organizations as a one-on one coach, workshop facilitator and trainer. I'd like to thank Sherrie for sharing this activity with everyone and I hope you will find it useful.

Firo-B or Firo Business Exercise

Click or Clash?

Evaluating Firo scores alongside another person can shed light regarding how well your wishes align with another’s behaviors. While scores alone do not guarantee there will be conflict in an otherwise healthy relationship, it is a great way to predict potential red flags for new team members or help diagnose the root cause of existing conflict. For the sake of this example, Firo Business terminology is used, but if you are a Firo-B user, just substitute the terms with Inclusion, Control and Affection.

Instructions:

Compare person A’s wanted score to person B’s expressed score. If they are within the same range, they click! If however, they are not in the same range particularly if one is high and the other is low, they may clash.

Example:

Person A’s wanted Involvement score is high. Person B’s expressed Involvement score is low. Person A wants to be included in meetings and work activities and enjoys receiving recognition. Person B only includes others when it is critical and tends to keep to himself. Person A sees B as ‘aloof’, person B sees A as ‘too intrusive.’

This comparison can be done in the reverse, as well as for Influence and Connection.

Keep in mind if the two people already have a healthy working relationship the data may help them be alert of areas for potential disagreement or they may have already addressed the issue. For existing conflict, this is often an AH HA moment. Many individuals are able to clearly see the root of their disagreements. An action plan should be defined in which both individuals agree to specific behavioral changes. For new team members, prevention is the key! This data can bring to the surface areas to be aware of to reduce the potential for misunderstandings in the future.

And finally, if several team members have very compatible profiles with each other but clash with one person, there is much potential for isolation and ultimately derailing team behaviors.

More Ways to Extend Your MBTI Training Experience

2009-10-05T21:34:00.010-05:00

Check out these great programs by APT International for ways to extend your MBTI training knowledge and acquire Continuing Education Credits for MBTI Master Practitioner status:

___________________________________________

Register now for the APT International Final Trainings 2009

Application: Conflict Management is Self-Management: The Role of Psychological Type in Managing Conflict
November 5 & 6, 2009
in Seattle, Washington with Chuck Pratt
Cost: $550 APTi Members, $610 Non-Members

This two-day workshop will explore the connections between two powerful tools/models – psychological type and emotional intelligence. Participants will:

reframe conflict in ways that will be more helpful to them
recognize the role of type differences in conflict through a series of experiential exercises
recognize the role of type differences! in group conflict through a group process exercise
receive personal feedback about their conflict style from a sound assessment
apply their new knowledge to a real life conflict situation

E-Learning: Type & Relationships: Caring, Conflict & Meaning
October 26 – November 15, 2009 with Katherine Hirsh & Elizabeth Hirsh
Cost: $280 APTi Members, $350 Non-Members

How do Type preferences impact who you are in relationships? What are your goals for yourself and your loved ones? Combining active participation and reflective analysis, this online workshop is designed to help you become more aware of the role Type preferences play in your relationships as well as assist you in helping others (e.g., clients, or loved ones) become aware of the same in their relationships. Join us and take part in an online exploration that honors the complexity and richness of relationships.

E-Learning: Master Your Money Personality
November 30 - December 12, 2009 with Ray Linder
Cost: $89 APTi Members, $145 Non-Members

Money can buy happiness, but only if it is used in ways consistent with our personality type because it is psychological, and not material, satisfaction that we desire. Personality type can help orient your financial behavior to making psychologically satisfying financial decisions. If you are going to be able to manage your money with less stress and more success, you must have an awareness and understanding of your money personality - your preferred patterns of financial behavior. Master Your Money Personality is an insightful online workshop that will give you valuable self-awareness and help you increase your financial skills, enhance your influence with others, and enable you to have a greater sense of enjoyment with your money. You will then be freed to use your money in ways that bring you personal, emotional, and relational satisfaction.

To view the rest of our 2009 training calendar, click here!

BIG NEWS- Katherine Hirsh is Now Blogging for APT eChapter

2009-10-05T09:04:00.005-05:00

For those of you who purchase Introduction to Type booklets from CPP, the name Katherine Hirsh should ring a bell. She is the author of so many type application materials including the NEW MBTI Teambuilding Program (which I blogged about here), Type and Decision Making, and Introduction to Type and Teams (English and Spanish). She is a world-renown trainer and speaker.

Katherine is an INTP and truly an MBTI expert. So, I was quite excited to read the following email from APT eChapter announcing their new blog- authored by Katherine Hirsh. The APT eChapter is well known for creating inexpensive webinars (less than $10 usually, and sometimes free!!!) with rich, unique content for type practitioners, so I'm quite excited to see what this blog will bring. Please take some time to check it out, subscribe to the blog in a reader/your email, and become involved either through feedback, comments, or guest blogging yourself. It's truly an honor to have a world-renown type expert join the blogosphere, so let's congratulate APT eChapter and Katherine Hirsh for joining the blogging dialogue! http://aptechapter.wordpress.com/

By the way, it is only $25 to join APT eChapter, and it's worth every penny!!!

_________________________________________________

The APT eChapter is pleased to announce that Katherine Hirsh, well known author, workshop facilitator and keynote speaker, will be blogging on the website. You can find her by going to the eChapter website: http://www.apt-echapter.org.

Katherine has been using psychological type and the MBTI® Tool in coaching, training, management consulting, education, and personal, professional and faculty development for more than 20 years. An INTP, she is a founding member of the APT International (APTi) eChapter and a frequent contributor to the APTi Bulletin.

"We intend this to be a space for you to go to engage with others passionate about personality type; discover new information sources, events and experiences in the world of type and read, reflect and comment on issues and ideas," said Katherine about the blog.

In other words, this new feature is intended to be a conversation. So please check it out and join in the dialogue. We can't wait to hear what you have to say.

Webinar- October 7th- Exploring the Successful Use of Assessments for Training and Development

2009-09-29T21:45:00.005-05:00

Here is an invitation from CPP to attend a webinar on October 7th at noon ET on how to choose the right personality assessment for your needs and how to get results.

There will be customer stories from the United States Air Force, Shell Australia, and a leading professional services organization. Here is the official invite with registration information:

___________________________________________________________

Organizations use personality assessments to help employees develop a common language, so even the most diverse groups of people can work together effectively.

But when it comes to selecting an assessment, how do organizations choose one that meets their needs? Is it ever appropriate to use several assessments in combination? Most importantly, how do organizations integrate personality assessments with process in a way that impacts performance and results?

We are excited to invite you to a Webinar on October 7th that answers these questions through the stories of three top organizations; The United States Air force, Shell Australia, and a leading professional services organization. These organizations used assessments such as the Myers-Briggs®, FIRO-B®, and TKI tools to develop a framework for universal communication and informed team building that made an impact on their business results.

Register now.

Speakers include:

Richard S. Hassan Vice President, Career Development Systems, TSM Corporation

Rich will detail how the United States Air force used the Myers-Briggs, FIRO-B, and TKI assessments to craft a holistic business solution.

Breanne Potter Regional Consultant, CPP

Breanne will speak on behalf of Shell Australia, and describe their use of the Myers-Briggs assessment for teambuilding, conflict resolution, and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Sherrie Haynie Regional Consultant, CPP

Sherrie will present the case of a world leading professional services organizations who used the FIRO-B assessment to improve the performance of newly forming teams, and teams in transition.

Please come prepared ready to ask questions and learn. There will be limited time for discussion at the end, but we will provide a post-webinar executive summary that answers questions we are unable to get to during the presentation.

Title: Exploring the Successful Use of Assessments for Training and Development

Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Time: 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM PDT

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 Server, Vista

Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.4 (Tiger®) or newer

Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/798736347

Hope to see you there!

Myers-Briggs® ThinkBox Awarded Human Resource Executive® Magazine’s Top Products Award

2009-09-22T19:10:00.004-05:00

BIG NEWS!!! The latest offering for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator just received a TOP PRODUCT AWARD from Human Resource Executive's Magazine!

The Myers-Briggs ThinkBox was named the creme of the crop as one of the Top 5 Newest Training Products in 2009, which is a tremendous accomplishment since the product was just released/debuted in June 2009.

I've blogged about the MBTI ThinkBox before here, and am planning a new post soon covering the newest upgrade to the platform which includes a "Team Edition" that begins with a Team Performance Survey to assess the team's status with regard to 7 factors critical to team success. The MBTI ThinkBox platform then links training and development resources to those specific areas of development and provides team members with the opportunity to drive their own development with the support of a 24/7 on-demand eLearning platform.

To read Human Resource Executive Magazine's review of the MBTI ThinkBox tool, click here.

To view a demo of the tool and learn more about licensing and pricing, visit http://mbtithinkbox.com or contact your Regional Consultant at CPP here.

In addition, CPP has created a series of blog posts that take a deeper look at each component of the MBTI ThinkBox tool:

A Deeper Look at the MBTI® ThinkBox - Plus Special Resources for You!

A Deeper Look at the MBTI® ThinkBox - Opening The Box

A Deeper Look at the MBTI® ThinkBox - Charting My Team

A Deeper Look at the MBTI® ThinkBox - My Personal Development Plan

A Deeper Look at the MBTI® ThinkBox - E-Coaching

A Deeper Look at the MBTI® ThinkBox - Wrapping it Up

APT International Upcoming 2009 Trainings

2009-09-02T23:49:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to share the APT International training calendar for the remainder of 2009. The Money and Personality discussion could come in quite handy for those of us learning to be thrifty in a recession!

__________________________________________________________________

APT International Upcoming 2009 Trainings

Are you looking to advance your type skills but do not have time to travel? If so, check out APTi's upcoming E-Learning Programs. Using our Blackboard® platform, participate in these training sessions from anywhere according to your own schedule.

E-Learning: Type & Learning Styles
September 14 – October 4, 2009 with Lorna Minewiser
Cost: $280 APTi Members, $350 Non-Members

This course is designed to help participants, especially students, teachers and trainers, find out which of the learning styles best fits them and to examine the strengths, key motivators, and blind spots of their types as they relate to teaching and learning.

E-Learning: Type & Relationships: Caring, Conflict & Meaning
October 26 – November 15, 2009 with Katherine Hirsh & Elizabeth Hirsh
Cost: $280 APTi Members, $350 Non-Members

How do Type preferences impact who you are in relationships? What are your goals for yourself and your loved ones? Combining active participation and reflective analysis, this online workshop is designed to help you become more aware of the role Type preferences play in your relationships as well as assist you in helping others (e.g., clients, or loved ones) become aware of the same in their relationships. Join us and take part in an online exploration that honors the complexity and richness of relationships.

E-Learning: Master Your Money Personality
November 30 - December 12, 2009 with Ray Linder
Cost: $89 APTi Members, $145 Non-Members

Money can buy happiness, but only if it is used in ways consistent with our personality type because it is psychological, and not material, satisfaction that we desire. Personality type can help orient your financial behavior to making psychologically satisfying financial decisions. If you are going to be able to manage your money with less stress and more success, you must have an awareness and understanding of your money personality - your preferred patterns of financial behavior. Master Your Money Personality is an insightful online workshop that will give you valuable self-awareness and help you increase your financial skills, enhance your influence with others, and enable you to have a greater sense of enjoyment with your money. You will then be freed to use your money in ways that bring you personal, emotional, and relational satisfaction.

To view the entire remainder of our 2009 training calendar, click here!

New Two-Day Workshop on Generations and Personality Type

2009-08-31T22:26:00.002-05:00

OKA just released this message regarding their upcoming workshop on Personality Type and Generations:

_____________________________________________________________________

Generations and Type Workshop - Now enrolling for September
Check out OKA's latest type offering

Some generational facts - and what they mean:

Traditionalists (born between 1920 and 1945): About 50% of the men of this generation served in the armed forces at a time when the US military won a World War and defeated fascism. This group learned the lessons of this service well, and as a collective took these hierarchical, traditional, command-and-control systems and structures into the workplace, and they tend to establish and maintain these structures to this day.

Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964): A baby was born in the United States on average every 8 seconds for nearly 20 years - a birthrate not seen before or since in this culture. As a result, the 76 million members of this generation grew up in crowded families, schools, playgrounds and communities where social interaction skills, sharing, mediation, collaboration, competition and team work all become required for survival. These are skills that Boomers have brought with them into the workforce - paving the way for organization development and professional development - now standard features in most work places.

Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980): Starting in the mid 1960s, and throughout the 1970s, a number of important things happened in US culture - among these were that the birthrate plummeted, the economy stalled, the divorce rate skyrocketed and dual-income or single-parent families became increasingly the norm. Originally termed the "Baby Bust" generation, members of Generation X were the first to grow up with these realities as the new standard. As a result, this group developed an independent, realistic, and at times cynical edge that questions authority, tends to be more open to change and skeptical of the benefits of organizational loyalty or promises of tomorrow.

Millennials (born between 1981 and 2000): A tidal wave of Millennials (over 75 million) is entering and will be entering the workforce in the upcoming decade. This group is a collection of people who have never experienced a world without personal computers, the internet and technology-enhanced or enabled personal connections. This group is plugged in and paying constant, partial attention to everything, and they are about to benefit, change and stress your organization in ways that just ten years ago we would not have been able to imagine.

OKA now offers Generations and Type, a fast-paced two-day course that presents the generations model (drawn from extensive research) and then offers type as a vocabulary and structure to use in bridging gaps that exist in the understanding and values of the generations. Taught by Hile Rutledge and co-designed by Rita Murray and Hile Rutledge, Generations and Type will be offered September 24 and 25, 2009 at OKA's training center in Fairfax, Virginia. The class is supported by a new workbook, Generations, Bridging the Gap with Type, by Rita Murray and Hile Rutledge, an interactive piece designed to establish both the generations and type models and then knit the two together.

For information about, or to enroll in the upcoming class visit Generations and Type Workshop.

For information about, or to order the workbook visit Generations, Bridging the Gap with Type.

Online Workshop by Dr. John Beebe on Hidden Parts of Personality Type

2009-08-31T22:17:00.002-05:00

Just received this invite from Type Resources for a great new online workshop series with Dr. John Beebe.

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Blind Spots and Breakthroughs:

Explore the Hidden Parts of Personality Type

In this

1^stEver Web Workshop Series by Dr. John Beebe

$195 / each online workshop

Before Sept 10^th: $175/each or 2 for $300

Series of 8 for $995

Join us in this exploration of the archetypal energies that motivate us, under the guidance of one of the master Jungian analysts of our day. Dr. Beebe's pioneering Eight-Function Model provides a framework for discovering the hidden strengths and blind spots of each type.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Beebe and each other about the way they express and experience their own functions. Forum discussions will continue the dialogue between sessions.

Time: Wednesdays, 1:00 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time (10:00 - 11:30 AM Pacific Time).

Dates and Topics:

Visible spine of the personality
- Sept 23 and 30, 2009 - Hero/Heroine (1^st function)
- Oct 21 and 28, 2009 - Anima/Animus (4^th function)
Shadow spine of the personality
- Nov 11 and 18, 2009 - Opposing Personality (5^th function)
- Dec 9 and 16, 2009 - Demonic/Daimonic (8^th function)
Visible arms of the personality
- Jan 20 and 27, 2010 - Good Parent (2^nd function)
- Feb 17 and 24, 2010 - Puer/Puella (Eternal Child) (3^rd function)
Shadow arms of the personality
- Mar 17 and 24, 2010 - Witch/Senex (6^th function)
- Apr 7 and 14, 2010 - Trickster (7^th function)

All web sessions will be recorded and available for review throughout the series by participants.

Friday Fun- The iNtuitive Kitten

2009-08-21T08:59:00.005-05:00

It's Friday, and time for a light blog topic. I am currently cat/dog sitting for my parents while they vacation in Boston. So, in addition to my two Papillon dogs and one Labrador, we also have another Papillon and baby kitten (about 9 weeks old) demanding attention today.

To say the least, the first night was an "experience." My parent's Papillon is like a grumpy old man with slight OCD. He has a very specific schedule, and will kindly remind you of that schedule by tapping your head with his paw while you sleep. He required one specific stuffed animal to sleep with every night, but first he must have a bone. However, this is not just ANY bone, it must be a Chicken Kabob bone by Waggin Tails. In addition, if the bone has been exposed to too much error, he will detect that it's stale and literally turn his nose up at it and wait for a new one. (I'm 100% serious here). He also noticed everything that is out of place, comes and alerts you when he hears a cell phone ringing (even on vibrate), and prefers minimal involvement with other animals. He is a doggie ISTJ.

Yes, that's right...I just typed a dog. I know there are plenty of type enthusiasts who do this, so I'm not ashamed to share!

The baby kitten opened my eyes to a new way to view iNtuitive preferences. The kitten sees opportunity in everything. Specifically, he perceives everything is a toy. Though I brought home over $40 in cat toys, in the last 24 hours he has preferred to play with:

the cursor on my computer (making it slightly difficult to see the screen)
they keys on the keyboard (he's learned that when he walks across it the computer makes sounds
the strings on my hoodie
my ring when it catches light
my fingers as I type
my hand- as I slept
my ear- as I slept
curtains (kitty rock climbing)
shadows on the wall
the stairs (I'm not sure what the stairs did to him, but he certainly won the fight)
the printer
the chimney (which he scaled the inside of at 5am and turned from a Siamese cat to a grey kitten)
Sharpies
straws

I could go on for hours! This kitten sees the opportunity for fun and opportunity in the most mundane things. As someone with a Sensing preference, this is something I struggle with. I look at an object and understand it's intended use. I am NOT good at finding alternative ways to use an item. I subscribe to a magazine called Real Simple, and each month they show how to use a conventional item in an unconventional way. I'm always amazed by the things they suggest because I would never be able to think that way. For example, in this month's issue they suggest keeping the cardboard center of a paper towel roll and stuff used plastic grocery bags inside. Then the cardboard tube becomes a homemade plastic bag dispenser. Huh, who would have thought?

As much as I despise the phrase "think outside the box," that's exactly what this is. Perhaps a better phrase could be "think outside of the sensing preference."

Does anyone share this struggle to flex to the iNtuitive preference? If so, how do you force yourself out of the sensing comfort zone?

More importantly, have you typed your pet? I'd love to hear other pet-lovers/MBTI enthusiasts who share this experience!

The House Analogy and How the MBTI Does Not "Put You In a Box"

2009-08-18T16:22:00.003-05:00

Last week I attended a great webinar sponsored by CPP, Inc and AMA in which MBTI experts Nancy Barger and Linda Kirby shared practical tips for using the MBTI instrument. During the webinar, I heard a great analogy that I had to share.

One of the biggest mis-conceptions about the MBTI is that personality types "box you in." These mis-informed individuals worry that being labeled a specific type limits them and their behaviors. Those who know and understand personality type know the exact opposite is true. In fact, personality type and the MBTI are all about understanding that everyone has natural preferences (like being right or left-handed) and while we can always display behaviors of our opposite preference, we still gravitate towards what is natural for us.

Those who have a problem with personality type "labeling" should be equally against being called right or left-handed. The label itself means nothing good or bad, it is simply a way to describe a set of likely behaviors.

Nancy Barger and Linda Kirby further explained the idea of preferences by using a 16 room house as an analogy. In your home, do you currently have a favorite room? For instance, I prefer my office while my fiance prefers the game room. I have a good friend who can always be found in the kitchen. She says she feels "home" there. We all naturally gravitate towards one favorite room in our home. However, that doesn't mean that we don't spend time in other rooms...we just don't prefer to be there as long as our favorite room. Perhaps we feel a bit uncomfortable in that other room. Maybe we haven't found a "comfortable" place in that other room, but that doesn't mean we can't go in that room when necessary.

The same is true of personality type. In my 16 room house, I hang out in the ISTJ room. When at work, I often have to travel to the ENTJ room. I adapt to the room's surroundings, but as soon as I get the opportunity, I head back to my ISTJ room again. In my lifetime, I will occasionally visit each of the 15 other rooms in my house, but will never spend as much time in any room as I do in my ISTJ room.

Does this analogy make sense to you? What other analogies do you use to explain that type preferences are not intended to be limiting?

APT eChapter Sept. 23 Dick Thompson - Linkages Between MBTI and Other Instruments

2009-08-17T22:37:00.005-05:00

I just received this email from APT International's eChapter. They have absolutely phenomenal webinars each month, and I am a huge fan!

______________________________________

The Linkage between the MBTI® and Other Popular Instruments

Led by Henry L. (Dick) Thompson, Ph.D.

APT eChapter Webinar Program

Hosted by the APT eChapter and sponsored by

High Performing Systems

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2009

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern North America Time

About the Webinar: Join us for this dynamic, synthesizing webinar presentation on how one of the most popular business assessments, the MBTI® links to other instruments you may have in your consulting and coaching tool box. This presentation will be presented as a webcast.

Henry L. (Dick) Thompson, Ph.D., will present new perspectives on the linkages of psychological Type and FIRO® Element B™, the EQ-i® and StrengthsFinder® by sharing the latest studies, thoughts and practical applications on the interface of these instruments—bringing together his years of research and application in these this area.

By attending this session, you will:

See the linkages between the MBTI® instrument and other instruments
Learn how to administer the instruments together
Learn how to synthesize the results
Learn how powerful the instruments can be when used together in teambuilding applications
Receive a handout containing the slides used in the presentation
Receive Dr. Thompson’s article on using the MBTI® and FIRO Element B™ and The Interface of Type and Emotional Intelligence Landscapes.
Be eligible to receive one MBTI® CEU

About the Speaker: Henry L. (Dick) Thompson, Ph.D., is president and CEO of High Performing Systems Inc., an international management consulting firm he founded in 1984 to help leaders, teams and organizations achieve high performance. He holds a B.A., M.A., M.S., and Ph.D., and served as a professor and department chair at the University of Georgia. He has gained valuable experience developing and leading teams—from the battlefield to the boardroom. He is an internationally recognized consultant, researcher, speaker, and author of books on psychological type, emotional intelligence, and FIRO®. His areas of expertise and research include leadership, emotional intelligence, FIRO®, stress, psychological type, chaos, complexity, and teams. Dr. Thompson is one of the world’s leading researchers in the areas of psychological type, emotional intelligence, and FIRO®. The Leadership Potential Equation™ and The CommunicationWheel® are just two of many tools he has developed to facilitate the creation of high performing leaders, teams, and organizations. Dr. Thompson serves on the board for The University of Georgia’s Institute of Artificial Intelligence. He has held leadership positions at the APTi and chapter level, and received several APTi awards to include the Mary McCaulley Lifetime Achievement Award for work with the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator instrument.

Speaker’s Publications: He is the author of Jung’s Function-Attitudes Explained, The CommunicationWheel®: A Resource Book, Introduction to the CommunicationWheel®, Introduction to FIRO Element B™ in Organizations, and co-editor of the new Handbook for Developing Social and Emotional Intelligence. Due for publication in 2010 is The Stress Effect: Why Smart Leaders Make Dumb Decisions (working title) by Jossey-Bass. He has also published over 30 articles on psychological type.

About Our Sponsor: High Performing Systems Inc. is an international management consulting firm founded by Dick Thompson, Ph.D. in 1984 to help leaders, teams and organizations achieve high performance.

How to REGISTER
We accept MasterCard, Visa, and American Express in addition to personal checks (US banks only) as payment for programs and membership fees.

High Performing Systems is sponsoring the webinar with Dick Thompson

APT/eChapter is celebrating being able to register both programs and membership through the APT International (APTi) website by sponsoring those who call into the teleconference line.

The program is FREE to current eChapter members, APTi-only members, and guests. You still must register for the meeting to be given access information and handouts for the teleconference.

To join the eChapter, you must be a new or renewing member of APTi

Visit our website at www.apt-echapter.org for more information on registration and eChapter membership.

About the eChapter: The APT eChapter is a chapter of the Association for Psychological Type International. It operates in the same way as any traditional chapter of APTi, except that meetings and programs are virtual. Like any other chapter, it manages its own finances and membership. The eChapter's primary charter is to meet the needs of under-served APTi members who are unable to join or participate in a local onground chapter.

Questions?
Contact Mary Charles Blakebrough, President (mcbreakthrough@mindspring.com ) or Carol Linden, Co-VP of Programs (clinden001@nc.rr.com ).

CAPT's 2010 Training Workshop Calendar for MBTI Advanced Application Now Available

2009-08-13T12:31:00.006-05:00

I just received this informational email from CAPT (the Center for Application of Psychological Type), and thought I'd share. CAPT provides phenomenal training and advanced application workshops for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).

______________________________

For over 25 years CAPT's training workshops and instructors consistently earn the highest marks for value, relevance, and delivery.

CAPT's expanded 2010 schedule of workshops is now available for online viewing and registration, and this broad selection includes:

MBTI® Certification Program: the basic training to purchase and administer the most widely used personality assessment
MBTI® Step III™ Certification Program: the new training program for one-to-one counselors with advanced degrees
Advanced Classes: approved for the MBTI® Master Practitioner Credential Program
Leadership and Teams: using the Klein Group Instrument® (KGI™) assessment
Personality Type for Children: using the Murphy-Meisgeier Type Indicator for Children® (MMTIC®) instrument
Archetypes: using the Pearson-Marr Archetype Indicator® (PMAI®) assessment.

We are offering a special price for the highly rated MBTI® Certification class in Gainesville—only $1195. Enjoy a visit to CAPT's home office and get $300 in savings when you register 30 days in advance!

Take advantage of one of the most experienced faculties and most established training programs in the country as you develop new skills to enhance your personal and work lives.

Click here to see CAPT's searchable workshop schedule for 2010. Or call CAPT at 1.800.777.2298. Enrollment is limited, so register early!

MBTI Preferences and Innovation

2009-08-12T04:03:00.006-05:00

As I was preparing a presentation on Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) instrument preferences and innovation this evening, I thought the topic might be of interest to readers here as well.

When we talk about innovation, it is first important to clearly define what innovation means. Many people believe innovation and creativity are synonymous, but in fact innovation refers to the implementation of ideas.

Therefore, one can be creative without necessarily innovating. Similarly, we can look at innovation as having two separate steps: the generation of an idea and the implementation of that idea.

When you break it down into those two components, it becomes clear which MBTI preference pairs play the dominant role in innovation:

Sensing and iNtuition for ideas

Judging and Perceiving for implementation

We find that MBTI preferences play a major role in the process and type of innovation produced. For example, individuals with a Sensing preference will tend to make smaller changes to incrementally build on what already exists. They use their own experiences as a basis for all changes. Whereas individuals with iNtuitive preferences will think more big picture and start generating ideas from scratch or based on underlying patterns.

Neither type of innovation is better or worse than the other. Each one comes with their own levels of risk, cost, and reward. Each situation demands a different level of innovation. This is another reason why a diverse team composed of different MBTI preferences is advantageous. With diversity comes greater depth and thoroughness of the innovation process.

I like to start most activities about type and innovation with group discussions. I suggest you put members in type alike groups (SP, SJ, NP, NJ) and have them talk through and report out on the following questions.

1) What is innovation?

2) What was your most recent innovation?

3) Name 3 impressive recent innovations in the world. What makes those innovations important?

4) Who is the most innovative person you know? What makes him/her innovative?

5) What do you believe is your strength in the innovation process? Why?

6) What do you believe is your biggest challenge in the innovation process? Why?

Each of these discussions should bring out some type-related differences. For instance, the Sensing groups may report recent innovations that were more process oriented (streamlined accounting process that reduced paperwork by 10%) whereas the iNtuitive groups may report more intangible innovations like a new branding message or shift in corporate culture.

Additionally, the non-accounted for preferences will also play a part. For example, individuals with a Feeling preference may report out more people-centric innovations versus the Thinking preference group.

I think these discussions bring about such rich experiences that they cannot be overlooked for a more structured activity.

However, if you are looking for a structured activity, I would suggest considering the Zig-Zag Model of decision making. Innovation is really just a specific form of decision making. In fact, in the book Introduction to Type and Innovation by Damian Killen and Gareth Williams, the innovation process is broken down into four steps. Define, Discover, Decide, and Deliver.

I believe the first 3 of these 4 steps match perfectly onto the Z-model.

Define = Sensing preference

Discover = iNtuitive preference

Decide = Thinking and Feeling preferences

then...

Deliver = Judging preference

To go even one step further, I highly recommend the Living Zig Zag Model exercise that is described in the new MBTI TeamBuilding Program by Elizabeth Hirsh, Katherine Hirsh, and Sandra Krebs Hirsh. In that binder, the handouts and PowerPoint slides walk you through how to turn the popular Living Type Table exercise into a Z-model exercise by visually displaying how long each individual would theoretically spend on each function in an hour.

As people physically walk from the Sensing box to the iNtuition box, etc it becomes visually apparent how certain parts of the decision-making/innovation process are being ignored and which parts are over-represented.

Once we know and understand how we make decisions and innovate, it is important to set goals for moving outside of our preferences. We can do so by asking others with opposing preferences to be our "buddy" in the innovation process. He/she can work to keep you "honest" and at times force you outside of your comfort zone. For those who prefer to work alone, perhaps visual reminders like a post-it note in your cubicle that says something like "Have I ruled an idea out too quickly?" could remind you to go back and reconsider ideas you've judged too early.

There are so many different ways to approach the topic of innovation, the I highly suggest you check out Introduction to Type and Innovation. The sections and diagrams on Ideascape (tm), Typescape (tm), and Innovationscape (tm) are incredibly valuable and far too meaty to cover in one blog post. Additionally there are further discussions on which "types" of innovation are most likely for each MBTI preference (Hint: NP's are known for the most original innovations).

So, now I will turn the question to you....what is your type and how do you innovate?

Do your ideas build upon what is already existing or start from scratch?

Do you feel your strength is coming up with the ideas or implementing them?

Where do you struggle in the innovation process?

MBTI Courses and eLearning Opportunities and Master Practitioner Credit Available

2009-08-11T13:31:00.003-05:00

I received this email from APT International today and wanted to share all of these great opportunities to extend your MBTI understanding. Additionally, these courses include MBTI Master Practitioner, APA, and NBCC contunuing education credits.

APT International 2009 Fall & Winter Trainings

Had a great time at the Dallas conference and want to keep the learning alive? Unable to join us but seeking an opportunity to talk type and build your skill set? If so, register now for our fall workshop line-up which features both online and onground events:

Application: Using Type and Emotional Intelligence to Develop Leaders: Synergistic Connections Between the EQ-i® and Psychological Type in Portland, Oregon on September 14 & 15, 2009 with Chuck Pratt

E-Learning: Type & Learning Styles online September 14 – October 4, 2009 with Lorna Minewiser

Using Type Lenses in Leading Type Workshops co-sponsored with OKA in Fairfax, Virginia on September 22 & 23, 2009

E-Learning: Type & Relationships: Caring, Conflict & Meaning online October 26 – November 15, 2009 with Katherine Hirsh & Elizabeth Hirsh

Application: Conflict Management is Self-Management: The Role of Psychological Type in Managing Conflict in Seattle, Washington on November 5 & 6, 2009 with Chuck Pratt

E-Learning: Master Your Money Personality online November 30 - December 12, 2009 with Ray Linder

To view the entire remainder of our 2009 training calendar, click here!

Also, keep your eye out for NEW upcoming trainings that will take place this Fall & Winter!

Did You Attend the APT International Conference? Share Your Experiences Here!

2009-08-10T22:15:00.003-05:00

I am always looking for practitioners in the field of MBTI consulting to share their experiences here. If you are ever interested in guest posting, I would love to hear from you.

Specifically, this week I would love to hear from you if you attended the APTi Conference in Dallas, Texas last week. I was unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts, but I heard it was full of amazing speakers, new research, and plenty of activity ideas.

I've asked a few people to share their APTi Conference experiences, but I imagine every single attendee could share something unique from their experiences.

If you are interested in guest blogging, please email me at breannepotter@gmail.com.

I do not have any specific requirements for a guest blog. Obviously, the content needs to be related to the MBTI, but the topic and length are all up to you.

Please include a few sentences about your background related to the MBTI and a picture of yourself (unless you don't want your picture posted). Also, let me know if you'd like your contact information shared with readers to they can follow up with you directly. I'm happy to provide a link to your blog or website as well.

I thank you in advance, and can't wait to see all of the different perspectives from the conference!

How to Correctly use the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator instrument

2009-08-10T22:09:00.003-05:00

I wanted to share a link to a great article published in this

month's Talent Management magazine and online. Rich Thompson, CPP's Director of Research, helps explain some of the many misconceptions about the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) instrument. He explains the differences between understanding and predicting behaviors, traits versus preferences, and use in development versus selection.

Here is a link to the original post: http://www.talentmgt.com/index.php?pt=a&aid=1026&start=0&page=1

MBTI Webinar August 13th- Practical Tips and Techniques for using MBTI

2009-08-03T02:18:00.002-05:00

MBTI® Unplugged Webinar:

Practical Tips and Techniques for Using the MBTI® Assessment

AMA and CPP are pleased to bring you this Webinar which offers you the opportunity to ask questions and get practical answers from two internationally acclaimed MBTI® experts.

Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009

Time: 1:00–2:30 p.m. Eastern Time

Meeting Number: 82018-00001

Cost: $149

Register Now

What You'll Learn

For 90 minutes you'll have the opportunity to hear answers to questions asked by people using the MBTI® instrument in real-world situations in topic areas such as:

• Using the MBTI® instrument with teams
• Applying MBTI® concepts for managing conflict
• Leveraging the indicator to assist with generational issues
• How personality type interplays in multi-cultural settings
• Using the indicator for coaching and development

Learn more about the unique format of this Webinar

Speakers

Linda Kirby, Ph.D.
BargerKirby|Consulting

Nancy J. Barger, M.A.
BargerKirby|Consulting

This program will count as 1 CEU towards your MBTI® Master Practitioner Credential.

Seats are limited at this webinar. Register Now — please use priority code XCQ5 when you do.

Laid Off? Why Not Re-Evaluate Your Career Path Choices?

2009-07-13T20:15:00.004-05:00

In my last post (only a few hours ago), I shared that I have recently lacked inspiration for writing recently. It never ceases to amaze me how social media friends operate as a support group. Within minutes, I received several emails from people sharing they've had the same experience, and offered advice. The greatest inspiration so far has come from people asking for posts on specific topics. Ask and you shall receive!

With unemployment rates reaching a 26 year high of 9.5%, there is a large chance that some of you reading this blog are unemployed yourselves. In fact, I would guess that every reader knows someone currently unemployed and needing direction. So, a Twitter friend asked me to approach this topic from a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment perspective, and I agreed.

It is important to note that I am not a career expert. What I can offer, though, are some practical tips from a personality perspective for examining your career path and job search activities.

While it is difficult to imagine any blessing from being laid off, you can create an opportunity for yourself by re-examining your career path choices and potentially explore a new path. My suggestion would be to find a career coach (look here for some suggestions or email me for help) and take both the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the Strong Interest Inventory. These

assessments look at career choices from different perspectives.

The MBTI Career Report can help you better understand where people who share your personality preferences tend to work. This report is by no means prescriptive or an equation

for the perfect job. Rather, it should help you ask yourself some questions about what work activities and results motivate you. The report includes (among many other sections) a list of the top 10 occupations for your personality type. These occupations are ones that your type are drawn to for some reason. The question is "is that 'something' the 'something' that will motivate you and provide satisfaction?"

The report also indicates how, based on your personality type, you typically approach a job search and potential strengths and weaknesses of that approach. A job search is more about finding the right job, but also HOW you try to find that job. Are you waiting for the opportunity to come to you? Are you relying too much on your social network? Are you not relying enough on your social network?

One other are of the report that offers practical application is how to develop in your career once you've found that perfect job.

You can see a sample of a MBTI Career Report here.

I also enjoyed this article on the MBTI Career Report: http://www.cppiconsuccess.com/2009/04/are-your-clients-looking-for-a-career-change/

In addition, many people find the Introduction to Type and Careers book by Allen Hammer very helpful. It's an inexpensive, comprehensive guide to careers for each type ($14.95 each from CPP.com). For example, this booklet explains that ISFP's are drawn to service-related fields such as Nursing, dental assistant, law enforcement, etc. In fact, ISFP's are common in the healthcare field in general. The booklet goes further to explain why (i.e. their strength in the area of gentle persuasion is one great example).

Once you know your MBTI preferences, you will likely also find the following two books interesting. The first is "Do What You Are" by Barbara and Paul Tieger. The second book is "What's Your Type of Career?" by Donna Dunning. There are many other books, but these two are extremely popular with my clients. I also find "Type Talk at Work" (by Otto Kroeger and Janet Thuesen) to be popular with those trying to develop within an established career.

With regard to the Strong Interest Inventory, the assessment looks at how your interests can guide not just what you do, but where you do it. I recently blogged about this here. You can see a sample of the Newly Revised Strong Interest Inventory Report here.

When you combine the power of the MBTI with the insights of the Strong Interest Inventory, you get a really vivid picture of careers that can fulfill your needs and offer higher job satisfaction. You can view the combined MBTI Career and Strong Interest Inventory Report here.

As I suggested before, I cannot stress the importance of finding an experienced career coach to both professionally debrief your MBTI and Strong Interest Inventory results, but also to help you structure your job search process. Once you settle on a career path, the search itself is affected by personality preferences.

For example, as an ISTJ, I researched and settled on my college major and future career path when I was a junior in high school. I stuck to that plan and achieved my goals along the way with little deviation along the way.

ENTP's on the other hand tend to get bored with their jobs/career paths fairly often and tend to have a more winding career path. I have an ENTP friend who has changed full career paths nearly every 4 years (not just the job, but full career). ENTP's see opportunity in dramatic change, whereas ISTJ's tend to see opportunity only in incremental change.

These differences in and of themselves really require one-on-one coaching and guidance from a professional. I'm glad to answer all of your career search questions and/or point you to a local career coach as well!

Happy Job Hunting!

Desperately Seeking Inspiration

2009-07-13T19:01:00.003-05:00

If you're a regular reader, you may have noticed that the frequency of the posts here have decreased in the last few months. I could give a million excuses about workload, lack of free time, or household responsibilities, but the truth is that I'm in a rut.

I can't explain it in any other way that that- a deep, dark, pit of ruttiness! I used to blog as a way to escape. It was a place where I could express myself and share my experiences with the MBTI. Even as I write this post, I find the words difficult to type. I've re-written the first two paragraphs 5 times. How can something that used to give me energy and be so easy now seem like biking uphill?

I didn't even really want to blog about this rut, because it felt too personal to share (and as a contained Introvert, I don't share unless I have to). But then I realized the issue is really a lack of inspiration, and everyone has moments where we lack inspiration.

So, I began to explore where I could seek inspiration. Sometimes I find blog topics by reading other blogs and providing a response to those posts. Sometimes I get new ideas from Twitter or a thought-provoking quote. None of those have worked for me lately.

Then, finally the irony occurred to me- for inspiration writing on my MBTI blog, I can find inspiration from someone with opposite type preferences from me. Someone with different type preferences can be a guide outside of yourself. They can shine light on areas you believed you've already explored. We all see the world from different lenses, and I believe I need a new set of lenses on this blog.

I've had many mentors so far in my career, but perhaps the one that has given me the most insight and motivation was a recent coworker. I don't believe it is a coincidence that she prefers ENFP. I am fascinated at how she approaches a problem that I've already moved beyond. It never ceases to amaze me how she proposes changes in a friendly, win-win way. I believe I learn the most from people with opposite preferences.

So, to find my inspiration, I need to rely on others. That is NOT something I regularly do as an ISTJ, but desperate times call for desperate measures.

While I desperately seek my own inspiration, I'd like to hear where you go to find inspiration in your work, hobbies, responsibilities, etc.

In addition, I'd like to share more voices on this blog. If you would like to guest post on personality type issues/experiences, I'd be happy to hear from you! Please email me at breannepotter @ gmail.

How to Find Your Soul Mate Using the MBTI Assessment

2009-07-04T13:09:00.003-05:00

Admittedly, that title is a bit deceiving, because this post is all about how every type can be compatible with every other type.

That's right, there is no perfect equation of Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) instrument results that make you a better or worse match for anyone else. I am an example of "opposites attract" myself. As an ISTJ, I have daily struggles in communication and understanding with my ENTP fiance, but when you want to make it work- you do.

Similarly, like-types don't necessarily have the easiest relationships either. Just because you view life from the same lens, doesn't mean there won't be disagreements, conflicting priorities, and values.

Relationships and marriages take work. That goes for every kind of relationship. Whether you're looking for the "perfect" co-worker, team member, leader, or soul mate...there is no perfect MBTI type that will ensure a stress free relationship.

The key is understanding and respecting one another. Once you learn to see value in the unique ways in which we all view the world, you can learn how to give and take to make a healthy, happy relationship.

Robert C. Dodds: "The goal in marriage is not to think alike, but to think together."

Updated: What is the most common MBTI personality type on Twitter?

2009-06-15T14:06:00.009-05:00

I recently re-researched the most common Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) instrument personality type on Twitter via a SurveyMonkey.com survey. There were 215 participants (after filtering out duplicates, non-twitter users, and people who reported they did not know their MBTI preferences). Clearly this is a tiny sample of the overall Twitter population and the survey was meant to be fun (not scientific), but these were the results from my efforts.

A few summary notes:

The personality types that are OVER-represented on Twitter are highlighted in Blue.
The personality types that are UNDER-represented on Twitter are highlighted in Red.
The most common personality types on Twitter are ENFP, INTJ, and INFJ (representing 40% of my sample population)
The least popular type on Twitter was ESTP (only 1 participant) ESFJ, ISTP and ISFJ (each with 3 participants)
52% of the Twitter population reported Introversion, and 48% Extraversion
81% of the Twitter population reported iNtuition preferences vs. 19% Sensing
55% of the Twitter population reported Thinking preferences vs. 45% Feeling
57% of the Twitter population reported Judging preferences vs. 43% Perceiving
NF (Idealist) = 40%
NT (Rational) = 41%
SJ (Guardian) = 14%
SP (Artisan) = 5%

ISTJ
% of General Population: 11.6%
% in Twitter Sample: 6.05%

ISFJ
% of General Population: 13.8%
% in Twitter Sample: 1.40%

INFJ
% of General Population: 1.5%
% in Twitter Sample: 12.56%

INTJ
% of General Population: 2.1%
% in Twitter Sample: 13.49%

ISTP
% of General Population: 5.4%
% in Twitter Sample: 1.4%

ISFP
% of General Population: 8.8%
% in Twitter Sample: .93%

INFP
% of General Population: 4.4%
% in Twitter Sample: 5.58%

INTP
% of General Population: 3.3%
% in Twitter Sample: 9.97%

ESTP
% of General Population: 4.3%
% in Twitter Sample: .47%

ESFP
% of General Population: 8.5%
% in Twitter Sample: 1.86%

ENFP
% of General Population: 8.1%
% in Twitter Sample: 13.95%

ENTP
% of General Population: 3.2%
% in Twitter Sample: 8.84%

ESTJ
% of General Population: 8.7%
% in Twitter Sample: 5.58%

ESFJ
% of General Population: 12.3%
% in Twitter Sample: 1.4%

ENFJ
% of General Population: 2.5%
% in Twitter Sample: 7.91%

ENTJ
% of General Population: 1.8%
% in Twitter Sample: 8.84%

While the differences between the general population and the Twitter population are interesting, I think the more interesting question is HOW each personality type uses Twitter. Some use Twitter for social interaction, where others use it almost as a social bookmarking site. Some use Twitter as a marketing/sales tool, whereas others just lurk and watch the public timeline flow.

A more interesting study would look at the content of tweets by personality type. In addition, you could study variables like # of tweets/day, # of followers/following, etc. I think that kind of study would be fascinating!

We must also acknowledge that there are plenty of sampling biases in this survey. There is a question of whether or not some personality types are more likely to participate in volunteer surveys in the first place. Also, the survey was promoted to others within my network via "retweets" so it could potentially be that my twitter friends (and those that they retweeted the message to are not the "normal" twitter population.)

As a side note, I plan to leave the original survey site on SurveyMonkey.com open and continue collecting responses to see if results change with a larger sample size. The survey is available here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=BsbZQS4IQ5hpVANWrxfxSA_3d_3d

So You Wanna Be a MBTI Master Practitioner?

2009-06-11T18:10:00.004-05:00

I've recently had several questions from readers about how to become a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) instrument Master Practitioner.

First, and foremost, please check the official Master Practitioner page for details, applications, and Continuing Education opportunities. I will also provide a link to the Master Practitioner site on the right hand navigation column.

However, I'd also like to address some of the most common questions here:

What is the difference between a Certified Practitioner and a Master Practitioner?

A Certified Practitioner is anyone who has successfully completed the 4-day MBTI Certification Workshop from an accredited provider (CPP, AMA, CAPT, Type Resources, or G/S Consultants) and passed a final exam. Whereas, a Master Practitioner has also completed and passed the Certification Course, but also has a substantial documented background of holding MBTI debrief workshops and has completed Continuing Education Units. In other words, through experience and continuing education, we recognize those individuals with the highest level of MBTI expertise as MBTI Master Practitioners.

How do I become a Master Practitioner?

The full details can be found here. But the basic requirement is that you need to complete a 4-day MBTI Certification Course and after that you can apply to start the Master Practitioner process. Then, you will use the MBTI Master Practitioner site to document 40 hours of work with the MBTI instrument and 40 hours of qualified continuing education. You can apply for the Master Practitioner status through the website link above. There is a $250 application fee.

Are there any perks to becoming a Master Practitioner?

Yes! First, the Master Practitioner status allows you to distinguish yourself and your expertise from other practitioners. More importantly, you can choose to be listed among the MBTI Master Practitioner Referral Network which can direct business your way and extend your social/business network.

Where can I find a provider of Continuing Education Units?

Here: http://www.mbtimasterpractitioner.org/search-mbti-training.htm

Be sure to check the many online courses too, which provide flexibility and cost savings from travel.

What else would you like to know?