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MBTI S1-3 Understanding MBTI Beyond Stereotypes: The right way on an MBTI quest.

Man with a backpack stands on a rocky mountain peak, under a vibrant blue sky with clouds, overlooking a vast, serene landscape, implying the message about how he is determined on a quest.

Your MBTI type has nothing to do with personality.


Wait, what? Isn't there a 16 personalities test? If you consider what I've mentioned about the Barnum effect, it makes sense to conclude that most personality descriptions are broad and general. Furthermore, people are complex. Almost all descriptions will have answers like "it depends". That means


  • You are brave in a situation and cowardly in another.

  • You are confident in a situation and diffident in another.

  • You are generous in a situation and selfish in another.


The right way: Never associate MBTI type with any personality traits.


Your MBTI type has nothing to do with strength and weakness.


This can also be inferred from the Barnum effect. All descriptions about specific MBTI types are quite imprecise, whether they are positive or negative. When viewed without bias, all MBTI types are equal, with none being better than the others. Each type should be treated with fairness.


The right way: Never associate MBTI type with pros and cons.


What is MBTI really about?


Stylized yellow wireframe brain diagram on a blue background with circuit patterns and geometric shapes, showing how MBTI is the framework of the mind.

  1. It is the blueprint of cognitive functions in your mind. It shows how your mind works on an abstract level, supported by how you act in a certain situation. Each MBTI type has cognitive functions with specific roles.


  2. Most importantly, it guides you on how to better your personality. Each MBTI type has a unique path for self-improvement and becoming a more capable individual. Interestingly, these paths can sometimes conflict! This also explains why the same advice might not be suitable for all MBTI types.


What is the right way to begin an MBTI quest ?


Repeat the following steps in you MBTI journey.

  1. pay attention to your/others' behavior and speech patterns.

  2. consider, "which cognitive functions are involved in these patterns?"

  3. reflect on, "which roles do these cognitive functions serve as?"


This wraps up the MBTI S1 Series. In my MBTI S2 Series, I will explain each cognitive function in simple terms. Are you ready?




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