The s model of personality is based on 4 preferences.

Where, primarily, do you direct your energy?

How do you prefer to process information?

How do you prefer to make decisions?

How do you prefer to organise your life?

This is one of the most widely used questionnaires in the world. It reports your preferences for E(xtroversion) or I(ntroversion, S(ensing) or N(intuition), T(hinking) or F(eeling) and J(udgement) or P(erception). In combination this results in 16 personality types, such as INTJ, ESFP, INTP.

All Types have a four-letter description
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), reports your preferences on four scales. Each scale represents two opposite preferences. The four letters that make up your type can help you understand yourself and your interactions with others.

The possible combinations are:

I or E

S or N

T or F

P or J

The questionnaire can provide valuable information, but the real value of the Myers Briggs model of personality is in deciding your type for yourself.

Extraversion-Introversion
Extraversion-Introversion differences affect how we deal with the outside world. Extraverts (E) are energized by having interactions with others, and may often speak without thinking something through. They are people of action and present their best abilities to the world. Introverts (I) prefer quiet reflection, and may think about something and never get to the point of telling others. They keep their best skills to themselves, and present their secondary skills to others. Studies estimate that 75% of the population is Extraverted, while only 25% is Introverted.

Sensing-Intuition
Sensing-intuition differences affect how we take in and process data. Sensors (S) gather information through experiences and are practical and orderly. Intuitors (N) gather information and process it in innovative ways and are creative and imaginative. It is estimated that 75% of the population prefer Sensing while only 25% prefer intuition.

Thinking-Feeling
Thinking-Feeling differences affect how we make decisions. Thinkers (T) make decisions objectively and impersonally using logic. Feelers (F) make decisions subjectively and personally based on what they feel is “right”. This personality grouping is the only one that shows any gender difference, with male Thinking- Feeling preferences being 60%-40% and female Thinking-Feeling preferences being 40%-60%.

Judging-Perceiving
Judging-Perceiving differences affect how we prefer to live. Judgers (J) like being planned and structured and having things settled and decided. Perceivers (P) like being spontaneous, unstructured, open, and flexible. In the general population, Judging-Perceiving preferences are 55%-45%.

Extraverted Prefers to draw energy from the outer world of activity, people and things	Or	Introverted Prefers to draw energy from the inner world of reflections, feelings and ideas
Sensing Prefers to focus on information gained from the five senses and on practical applications	Or	Intuitive Prefers to focus on patterns, connections and possible meanings
Thinking Prefers to base decisions on logic and objective analysis of cause and effect	Or	Feeling Prefers to base decisions on a valuing process, considering what is important to people
Judging Likes a planned, organised approach to life and prefers to have things decided	Or	Perceiving Likes a flexible, spontaneous approach and prefers to keep options open

Where, primarily, do you direct your energy?

To the outer world of activity, and spoken words OR the inner world of thoughts and emotions

If it is toward the outer world of activity or words, it is called Extroversion, denoted by the letter E. If it is toward the inner world of ideas, information, or thoughts, it is called Introversion, denoted by the letter I. Extro- is a prefix meaning ‘without’ and Intro- is a prefix meaning ‘within’.

During each day you will undoubtedly spend time spontaneously doing or saying things, as well as retreating into the inner world of contemplation and thought.

You, like every other individual, need a particular balance of both introversion and extroversion. However, laying aside special circumstances like those in the previous paragraph, one of Extroversion or Introversion will normally increase your level of energy, whilst the other will decrease it. The following table lists words and expressions that are often associated with extroversion and introversion:

Extraverts (E) outgoing, gregarious, expansive many social relationships expressive, congenial public mixer, mingler at parties when studying, finds a place near other people lonely if alone often easily begins new relationships discusses everything with everyone loves to be in midst of things works ideas out with others’ input talks enjoys being the center of attention the outer world objective reality = immediate environment easy to read seek interaction enjoy groups act or speak first, then think expend energy focus outwardly talkative like variety and action think out loud enjoy discussing

Introverts (I) reserved, attention on rich inner life a few deep, personal relationships reflective, quiet observer private one-on-one conversations when studying, finds a place where others won’t intrude savours and seeks time alone gets to know people more slowly shares personal life with intimates loves to close his/her office door works ideas out internally listens resists being the center of attention the world of ideas subjective reality = ideas and understanding more difficult to read like to be alone enjoy one-on-one think first, then speak or act conserve energy focus inwardly quiet like to focus on one thing at a time think to themselves enjoy reflecting

Preference, Role, or Learned Behaviour

One feature differentiating E from I is whether action or thought comes first. Finding your true, inner preferences is therefore more difficult, because everyone adapts to some degree to each situation.

However, the difference between people who have a preference for extroversion and introversion becomes more apparent when there is a free choice. In these situations, the extrovert will tend to act, and the introvert tends to think. However, very few situations involve a truly free choice, as your behaviour (at work, for example) may be influenced by factors such as:

The culture of the organisation (some employers expect action-oriented behaviour, others expect considered responses)

Your training or upbringing

A range of environmental factors, such as whether the situation is a new or familiar one, whether recognition or reward is given, and the effects of stress or illness. The need to restore balance may also be a factor (e.g.: an extrovert may need some time alone after a busy week).

Nevertheless, your innate preferences will still influence the way that you behave, as well as those factors listed above. In a situation demanding action, an introvert may nevertheless bring a more thoughtful approach, or delay the taking of action.

In a situation demanding thought, the extrovert may tend to talk the problem through, or move to action more quickly. Another indicator or your true preference may be the level of stress or enjoyment in a situation. Where your preferences coincide with the demands of the situation, you may find it quite enjoyable. An extrovert may find it frustrating or stressful if required to work in an introvert style, but enjoyable or energising if required to work in an extrovert style, and vice versa for an introvert.

How do you prefer to process information?

In the form of known facts and familiar terms OR In the form of possibilities or new potential?

If it is in the form of facts or familiar terms, it is called Sensing, denoted by the letter S. If it is in the form of possibilities or new potential, it is called iNtuition, denoted by the letter N (N is used rather than I, to avoid confusion with Introversion). The term Sensing is used because information is taken in primarily by way of the senses. The term iNtuition is used because information is perceived primarily in an intuitive fashion.

Sensing tends to be interested in tangible reality, focusing on the present, and seeing what is, rather than what might be. The preference for iNtuition gives a greater emphasis on insight and the future, focusing on what might be, rather than what is.

Sensing tends to communicate in direct ways, whilst iNtuition prefers to communicate in creative ways. The following table shows words that are normally associated with each of these two preferences.

Sensors (S) energy focused on what is actuality, reality focus on the present realistic, straightforward and practical pay attention to specifics facts, examples, evidence literal detailed information likes new ideas with practical applications interacts with events when they happen seeks enjoyment down-to-earth very aware of all sorts of sense impressions pleasure lovers, consumers often contented imitative seeks to possess dislikes sacrificing present pleasure for future goals turns living in the present into an art strong appreciation of comfort, luxury, beauty, pleasure refines existing skills are pragmatic trust their past experience tend to want things as they are

Intuitives (N) energy focused on what could be possibility, potential focus on the future conceptual, imaginative and inspired focus on the big picture insights, ideas, inferences, hunches figurative analogies, metaphors, abstract information a love for new ideas anticipation of future events seeks inspiration in the clouds especially aware of sense impressions that relate to ideas inventors, initiators often restless original seeks future expansion will sacrifice present pleasure to bring in new possibilities turns building for the future into an art strong appreciation of initiative, entrepreneurship learns new skills are speculative trust their imagination and hunches tend to want to try something new

How do you prefer to make decisions?

On the basis of logic and objective considerations OR On the basis of personal values

If it is on the basis of logic and objective considerations, it is called Thinking, denoted by the letter T. If it is on the basis of personal values, it is called Feeling, denoted by the letter F. The following table lists words often associated with each of the two preferences.

Thinkers (T) objective, convinced by logic analytical logical, cool dissect clarify compare, emphasize explaining divide explore laws, rules, policy impersonal thoughtful truthful brief and businesslike achievement cultivate contrast, separate are firm-minded analyze the problem are direct value competence decide with their head value justice can be seen as insensitive are good at critiquing usually don’t take things personally

Feelers (F) subjective, convinced by values caring, compassionate, tender Passionate, warm Care Forgive Appreciate Understanding Include Caress Extenuating circumstances Personal Sentimental Tactful Friendly, has difficulty remaining businesslike Appreciation Cherish, adore, nourish, sympathize Include, relate Are gentle-hearted Sympathize with your problem Are tactful Value relationships Decide with their heart Value harmony, mercy Can be seen as overemotional Are good at appreciating Usually take things personally

How do you prefer to organise your life?

In a structured way, making decisions and knowing where you stand OR In a flexible way, discovering life as you go along

If it is in a structured way, making decisions and knowing where you stand, then it is called Judgement. If it is in a flexible way, discovering life as you go along – this is called Perception.

Someone whose preference is Judgement prefers, in their lifestyle, to make decisions. This means that they prefer to make decisions about what to do, where to go, what to say, and so on. As a result of these decisions, their lifestyle appears organised.

That is, someone whose preference is Judgement, prefers to make decisions in the world of actions and spoken words, and therefore appears organised.

Someone whose preference is Perception prefers, in their lifestyle, to learn or experience new things. This means that they prefer to find out more, rather than making decisions, and are more comfortable when they keep their options open. As a result of this openness, they can appear flexible. That is, someone whose preference is Perception, prefers to perceive new things in the world of actions and spoken words, and therefore appears flexible. Some words often associated with Judgement and Perception are:

Judgers (J) Comfortable after decisions made Sets fixed goals and concentrate on achieving them Decided, ordered, seek closure Enjoys having projects framed by definite deadlines Work now, enjoy if there is time planned structured loves to reach completion, finish projects goal-oriented, wants to get the job done prefers knowing what they’re getting into ahead of time steady, sustained effort decisive protect themselves from unplanned experiences exacting make the right decisions, do the right thing as students, carry out an orderly, systematic study plan sometimes accused of being too rigid should be, must be, definitely, absolutely definite, clear-cut, final

Perceivers (P) comfortable leaving options open goals are more open-ended, subject to change flexible, curious, seek openness feels that deadlines should be adjustable enjoy now, work later spontaneous vague, indeterminate, amorphous, easy going loves to begin new projects process-oriented, how will the task be accomplished? very adaptable to changing situations on-and-off effort puts off decisions depend on their ability to handle unplanned experiences tolerant have as many experiences as possible, miss nothing as students, may put off studying until the last minute sometimes accused of being too indecisive could be, might be, perhaps, maybe tentative, experimental, exploratory, provisional

Working out your own preference

Everyone’s personality reflects all aspects of the Myers Briggs model. We all use Extroversion as well as Introversion, Sensing as well as iNtuition, Thinking as well as Feeling, and Judgement as well as Perception.

However, your type is a permanent influence in your personality,  that influences your choice, where the opportunity allows, of which preference or team role to perform. The letters that represent your preferences are combined to produce your Myers Briggs Type, such as ENTJ. An ENTJ prefers Extroversion, iNtuition, Thinking and Judgement. The ENTJ is likely to feel energised by having lots of things going on (E). They will tend to interpret events by seeing patterns or overviews (N). They will tend to make decisions on the basis of logic (T) and organises their life on a logical basis (J).

The sixteen types

This section contains a brief overview of the sixteen types that result from the Myers Briggs model. Everyone is an individual, but Myers Briggs highlights general themes or similarities between people.

ESTJ take their energy from the outside world of actions and spoken words. They prefer dealing with facts and the present and makes decisions using logic. Their life is organised on a logical basis and are therefore practical and likely to implement tried and trusted solutions to practical problems in a businesslike and impersonal manner. They prefer to ensure that the details have been taken care of rather than spend time considering concepts and strategies.

INFP take their energy from the inner world of thoughts and emotions. They prefer dealing with patterns and possibilities, especially for people, and prefers to make decisions on the basis of personal values. Their life is flexible, following new insights and possibilities as they arise.

They are quiet and adaptable; up to the point when their values are violated, the normally adaptable INFP can surprise people with their stance. They seem to be very interested in ideas, and may sometimes make very creative contributions. They have a hidden warmth for people and a desire to see self and others grow and develop. They prefer to undertake work that has a meaningful purpose.

ESFP take their energy from the outside world of actions and spoken words, preferring to dealing with facts, which they usually takes at face value. They also prefer dealing with the present and with people, and probably derives much enjoyment out of friendships.

Their life is flexible, living it very much in the present, and responding to things as they arise. They are impulsive and friendly, seeking enjoyment out of life, and makes new friends easily. They like taking part in solving urgent problems, such as fire-fighting or trouble shooting and operates best in practical situations involving people.

INTJ take their energy from the inner world of thoughts and sometimes, emotions). They prefer dealing with patterns and possibilities for the future, and making decisions using impersonal analysis. Their life is organised on a logical basis. They are strategists, identifying long term goals and organising life to meet them, tending to be sceptical and critical, both of self and others, with a keen sense of deficiencies in quality and competence.  They often have a strong intellect, yet is able to attend to details that are relevant to the strategy.

ESFJ takes energy from the outer world of actions and spoken words, preferring to dealing with facts and making decisions on the basis of personal values. They like dealing with people and organises life on a personal basis. They are a very warm people, seeking to maintain harmonious relationships with colleagues and friends, who are a very important part of their life. They can find conflict and criticism very difficult to handle. They have a strong sense of duty and loyalty and is driven by a need to belong and be of service to people.

INTP takes energy from the inner world of thoughts and sometimes, emotions. They prefer dealing with patterns and possibilities and making decisions on a logical basis. Their life is flexible, following new insights and possibilities as they arise. They are quiet and detached and adaptable up to a point as sometimes they may stop adapting, insisting that there is a clear principle at stake. They are not interested in routine, and will often experiment or change things to see if they can be improved. They operate best when solving complex problems that require the application of intellect.

ENFP takes energy from the outer world of actions and spoken words. He/she prefers dealing with patterns and possibilities, particularly for people, and makes decisions on the basis of personal values. His/her life is flexible, following new insights and possibilities as they arise. He/she is creative and insightful, often seeking to try new ideas that can be of benefit to people. He/she may sometimes neglect details and planning, but he/she enjoys work that involves experimentation and variety, working towards a general goal.

ISTJ takes energy from the inner world of thoughts and maybe, emotions. They prefer dealing with facts and making decisions after considering the various options. They organise their life on a logical basis, being quiet, serious and well prepared for most eventualities. They are keen observers of life, developing a good understanding of situations, which is often not expressed. They have a strong sense of practical objectives and works efficiently to meet them.

ESTP takes their energy from the outer world of actions and spoken words, preferring to deal with facts, which they usually view objectively and makes decisions on a logical basis. Their life is flexible, consisting of a series of activities that interest them. They are action oriented problem solvers and prefer to work with practical organisational issues. They can be impulsive, and like taking part in trouble-shooting-type work. They can sometimes neglect follow-through, but will work best when there is a lot going on that needs organising and solving.

INFJ: takes energy from the inner world of thoughts and emotions.  Preferring to deal with patterns and possibilities, particularly for people, and makes decisions using personal values. Their life is organised on a personal basis, often having a private sense of purpose in life and working steadily to fulfil that goal. They demonstrate a quiet concern for people, being interested in helping them to develop and grow. They are good at developing insight into people, though it can often remain unexpressed.

ENFJ: takes their energy from the outer world of actions and spoken words. They prefer dealing with patterns and possibilities, particularly for people and making decisions using personal values. Their life is organised on a personal basis, seeking to develop and maintain stable relationships with those people they likes. They are actively concerned with promoting personal growth in others, are highly sociable and expressive of feelings towards others, but can find conflict and criticism difficult, particularly if it might damage long term relationships. They work best in situations involving people.

ISTP: takes energy from the inner world of thoughts and maybe, emotions). They prefer dealing with facts and making decisions on a logical basis. Their life is flexible, demonstrating an interest in acquiring new information that leads to a practical understanding of the way the world works. They are quiet and detached and adaptable, up to a point. They are good at solving organisational problems that need to be thought through, being curious about how and why things work, and can seem impulsive, producing surprising ideas or doing something unpredictable.

ENTJ: takes their energy from the outer world of actions and spoken words. They prefer dealing with patterns and possibilities and making decisions after considering the consequences of the various courses of action. Their lives are organised on a logical basis, tending to control life, organising systems and people to meet task oriented goals. They take the role of executive or director, using a business-like and impersonal approach and may appear intolerant of people who do not set high standards for themselves or don’t seem to be good at what they do.

ISFP: takes energy from the inner world of thoughts and emotions. They prefer dealing with facts and people and making decisions on the basis of personal values. They are adaptable up to a point and quiet and friendly being interested in people, enjoying their company preferably on an individual basis or in small numbers. They take a caring and sensitive approach to helping others. They enjoy the present and tends to dislike confrontation and conflict, usually acting as a very supportive member of a team.

ENTP: takes energy from the outer world of actions and spoken words. They prefer dealing with patterns and possibilities, making decisions on a logical basis. They are adaptable, tending to focus on new ideas and interests as and when they arise, particularly if they involve increasing their competence or skill. They can be an ingenious problem solver, constantly trying new ideas out, and can seem to enjoy a good argument. They are interested in instigating change and operate best in overcoming new difficulties where the solution requires the application of creative effort.

ISFJ: takes energy from the inner world of thoughts and emotions. They prefer dealing with facts and people and making decisions on the basis of personal values. Their life is organised on a personal basis, seeking to enjoy relationships with people they like. They can be quiet, serious observers of people and are both conscientious and loyal. They prefer work that involves being of practical service to people as they are often concerned for and perceptive of how other people feel and dislikes confrontation and conflict.

Coach	ESFJ/ENFJ
Crusader	ISFP/INFP
Explorer	ENTP/ENFP
Innovator	INTJ/INFJ
Sculptor	ESFP/ESTP
Curator	ISFJ/ISTJ
Conductor	ESTJ/ENTJ
Scientist	ISTP/INTP

The Personality Types Indicate Preferences, Not Abilities
Your type is the combination of preferences you chose when you answered the test. It is up to you to decide what type you truly are, since only you know your true preferences.

The scores on the test indicate clarity of preference, not strengths or abilities to perform in the various areas.

All of us use all of the functions at different times; your type indicates those functions you prefer to use most often.

For example, Sensing “S” types are capable of abstract thought, but its not their preferred action, it takes more energy than it would take an iNtuitive “N” type. By the same token, iNtuitive types are capable of being more sensing of their environment, but its not their preferred action, it takes more energy than it would take a Sensing type.

Extraverted people can enjoy moments of quiet introspection just as Introverted people can enjoy being around strangers.

My point is, the different types have preferences, not a limitation of abilities. This discussion of personality types is not to imply we aren’t capable of responding to different situations with what is needed, instead, it is to point out preferences that we have that direct our long term choices in life, our relationships and our careers.

We All Have Special Gifts
There are no “good” or “bad” types. All types contribute special gifts to the world. Knowing your type can help you understand and develop both your most and least preferred functions, as well as help you understand and work with other people.

Falsification of Type
Sometimes best-fit type is easily arrived at because it is the same or close to a person’s Indicator results. But when best-fit type is hard to discover, it may be because a person is:

Still developing his or her preference (this is especially true of young people);

Confusing his or her preference with the expectations or preferences of parents, family, or friends;

Confusing what is required by work with what he or she actually prefers;

Worried that someone in authority will see the results and disagree with the chosen preferences;

Not acting typically because of stress or crisis; or

Reacting to cultural pressure to have certain preferences (for example, society’s valuing of planning ahead or of being outgoing).

Sometimes people do not realize these forces prevent them from using their true preferences. In other cases, people know they are acting against their preferences but feel forced to do so. In either case, severe stress can result from acting outside of one’s preferences for long periods of time.

Neil Benbow

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