A few years ago, I happened to be at a men’s retreat sitting inside a small workshop that was detailing the 16 different personality types categorized by Katharine Cook-Myers and Isabella Briggs. It’s better known as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. The mother-daughter duo advanced this from the work of Psychologist Carl Jung. Ok, great.
When the speaker was finished, I raised my hand to ask if personalities could change over time. He replied “no.” My brain whispered “bullshit.” Not one to form face-valued conclusions, I did some research on my own. I took the personality test and learned that I am an ENFP. It stands for Extrovert | Intuitive | Feeling | Perceiving. Not shocking as those letters seemed to fit. However, I do an awful lot of Thinking and more than my share of Judging. And truth be told – I’m kind of an Introvert lately. Sometimes I feel like I’m two different people. But it’s explainable, not a diagnosis.
The Myers-Briggs test has its critics and controversy surrounding the testing methods. Still, it is the go-to assessment in the world of personality types.
NEW: In an ever-changing world comprised of multiple generations, I have one conclusion. We are all being driven crazy purposely anyway. Think of how often Google or Facebook change their algorithms. Think of how often we change our minds. Think of how frequently we are asked to switch our thinking at jobs. So yes, personalities can change — especially when forced or with age. But since Generation X still exists (despite the push into seeming exclusion), I’d like to advance mine by taking it back. I love who I am. I like what I offer, and I like the guy I’ve become despite my mistakes and setbacks. No one is perfect.
Introducing the New Now Next Blog. It’s a simple format (and the formula used in newscast writing)to keep people up to date on a story. The idea is that its always moving forward instead of being the victim of regurgitation from an earlier broadcast. However, If my hunch is correct, you’ll still see some history, nostalgia, and tradition built in. It will also offer some reflection, intention, direction, and connection. But it will all move the needle forward somehow. It’s worth a shot.
NOW: I’ve spent that past year future-tripping a lot these days thinking of my career and what I really want out of life. In fact, personality types are often used to help determine career paths. I’ve read a lot about going after what makes you happy and doing what you’re passionate about doing. Now I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m still (and likely always will be) passionate about TV, broadcasting, media, news, talk and the realm of fact-finding. But I think newscasts could be a little more contemporary and enterprising. I’m also still fascinated by Faith, Music, Theater. There is nothing wrong with living a multi-faceted life and combining interests.
NEXT: As some of you know, I became a certified life coach this year. It’s not a full-time gig. It’s just a way to honor the side of me that likes to teach and encourage. But I’m exploring some different paths in it to see where I land and how I can best utilize what I’ve learned. I’m life coaching in the areas of Life, Career, Spirituality, Leadership and Core Values. Also, I’m going to continue learning. I’ve acquired four certificates in all this past year. Life-long learning doesn’t mean you’re late to the game. It says you’re still interested in being surprised and energized.
ALSO NEXT: Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 16th. I’m making a cameo appearance in a play called “Never Too Late.” It’s the play that served as the blueprint for the TV show “All in the Family.” Super Summer Theatre and RAW Productions are putting on the show. Tickets at: www.supersummertheatre.org. The show is at the studios, not at the summer location.
