Introversion
Sensing
Feeling
Judging
I really enjoyed reading what it all meant. Some things I think were spot on and others maybe not so much. I think it definitely gives insight to who I am, what makes me tick, and possibly how others perceive me. According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), generally ISFJ types are kind, practical, warm, loyal, and thoughtful. I certainly think I possess these wonderful traits, and hope that others recognize this in me as well, so I guess I am not the exception to the rule in this case.
However, after reading, "They are usually in tune with their feelings and are capable of remaining calm during difficult situations," well...I chuckled a little. My emotions seem to trump my logic in most situations that are less than pleasant. This could be why, just as the indicators suggest, I do not like conflict and will work to accommodate others. Sometimes this is to my own detriment. I can't tell you how many times in my life I have NOT said what I was thinking or feeling because I thought it might offend or upset someone. Unfortunately, this usually leads to small issues becoming large ones because I let things that are bothering me pile up until I am ready to explode. Then every little thing bothers me. I tend to internalize these feelings and it often leads to me being filled with stress and thinking of every worst possible outcome of whatever situation I am in.
In true ISFJ form, I had to get up and turn the background music playing down because it was too distracting. I guess that plays into preferring a quiet work environment to facilitate my reflection. I think that too much going on around me makes it hard for me to focus my thoughts and feelings. This is probably why I am typing this at 10:48pm when my children are fast asleep, or at least I hope they are!
I found the career exploration section of this peek into my "type" to be especially beneficial. You see, this is my fourth semester in school and I have yet to decide what I want to focus on; what my degree will be in. A few of the suggested careers really peaked my interest: Personnel Administrator, Paralegal, and Social Worker; just to name a few. Looking back at my professional experiences, I most enjoyed the Human Resources field. I really thrived in that genre. Being a Social Worker is something that I think would very much be a double edged sword for me. I think that I would be really good at it, but I also believe that I would get too emotionally involved to be able to do it successfully. I would have a hard time leaving work at work.
Some things within myself that I have been trying to work on are also detailed in this summary. It actually reinforced something positive for me. Being able to recognize my own shortcomings and wanting to improve myself is something I hope to never stop doing. I have always had a hard time saying no to people. This must go back to the "pleaser" inside of me that always wants to help others. I don't remember where I saw this, probably a shared post on Facebook, but I try to remember it when I am asked for help.
When you are saying yes to someone, make sure it doesn't mean saying no to yourself.
That is a great thought! I often try to help to the point where it hinders what I need to do for myself and my family. In the last couple of years, I have really tried to focus my energy on what is right for my family. The aftermath of changing my thinking has proven to be interesting at times, disheartening at times, but overall a positive outcome. The people who I once thought were among my closest of friends, sisters it turns out really aren't. People that I once saw as an aquaintenence have become my strongest supporters. I think it is important to evolve as a person, and part of that is looking at those around you and recognizing why they are there and sometimes seeing that maybe they shouldn't be.
In reading about decision making of an ISFJ, I have to say that I do NOT fit the mold. Examining a situation, evaluating information, reflecting to ensure a fair choice was made, and being objective doesn't play a huge role in my initial decision making. I really appreciate that this overview also mentioned things my type "need to do" to ensure good decision making. I think if I tried to take my time during the decision making process and objectively examined the practicalities of a decision, then I could do all of those things. That is something I need to work on.
I found the information about stress triggers and outcomes to be of particular importance to me. I stress about EVERYTHING. I have so many blessings in my life, which I do try to focus on, but I can stress myself out in many situations. Stress affects people in different ways. For me, it really hinders my thought process, being able to take action, and have peace in my mind. I am going to try to implement some of the suggested things that could help reduce my stress level. As it suggests, I will try to get more sleep, focus on my spirituality, choose activities that require a creative mind frame, and become more assertive. The sleep thing will have to start tomorrow!
As I reflect on this read, I am thinking about the four words that make up ISFJ. Introversion - I agree that I tend to be an introvert with my feelings, emotions, and thoughts. I will never forget my first day of college. I was nervous, excited, scared, and proud. As I walked into my first class, I remember telling myself to get uncomfortable, do things I normally wouldn't do. I told myself that this is MY education and if I don't speak up and be an active participant, then I am doing myself a huge disservice. I used to wait to see if someone else would state an opinion or ask a question that I was also thinking. I think that being active about learning has become an essential tool in my success in college and in life. Sensing and Feeling - I think these go hand in hand for me. I am driven by emotion, wear my heart on my sleeve, connect and get attached to those around me. I have a genuine concern for humanity. I want to encourage others and hope that they will encourage me. Judging - I see this word in a negative light. I think it is human nature to judge the things and people around us. I know I have been guilty of it, as I am sure everyone has at one time or another. In reconnecting with God over the past year or so, I have really tried to listen more, understand more, and judge less. Judging isn't my place. I truly believe that we are all here to be a community of people, uplifting one another and praising in each others successes. I don't want to judge or condemn someone for their thoughts or actions, just as I would hope that others wouldn't judge me.
I printed the results of my Jung Typology test and plan to refer back to it on a regular basis. I think it is a great reminder of who I am, who I want to be, and who I don't want to be both as a person and as a writer. I pour myself into my writing. It is like leaving a piece of myself out there for others to read and to see. The more I know and recognize about myself, the more my writing will improve.
Pretty long blog for something who didn't want to blog. I am beginning to see why this is such a useful tool. It is about writing every day because each word will get me closer to being a better writer.
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