Overall I had a really positive experience with the Meyers-Briggs personality test. Even though I was able to accurately predict my exact lettering (ESFJ) from the very beginning, I learned a lot more about myself in a brand new way. What was most surprising to me was how my peers perceived me. They view me very differently then I know myself to be. Because of this, as I move forward, I must now consider that if my peers perceive me as one who is introverted or not as strong of a leader as a I see myself, then I need to do a better job letting others see the real me or the “Me I’ve always wanted to be.” Two of the things that my peers mentioned were: 1) “You are too studious”. Yes, I care greatly about my studies and taking the next step so that I will be able to go to the college of my choice, however I do have a “fun-side” to me, and not only do I care about school, but I am deeply committed to my dancing and community service. 2) “You are too nice.” Although many people think that dancers are just dainty little flowers, it would be interesting for them to spend an evening at my ballet studio where we all appear to be graceful however, one does not get to the company level at a pre-professional studio without being a fiercely-dedicated, artistic, and competitive athlete. I can understand why my peers think I am “too nice” sometimes also, because each day I strive to treat others well and I constantly consider my legacy just-in-case I have to pick up and move the next day like previous experiences. Just because I want to be remembered as the “nice girl” or someone who treated others well doesn’t mean that I am less interested in being an effective leader. My life experiences have shown me that time is somewhat fleeting. Each time I leave a place I can only hope that if my name were to appear in conversation that others would say, “She was a ray of sunshine, I miss her.”
This is a terrific post, Emily. I think you are really processing some interesting points here about who you are, how you are perceived, and how you want to be perceived. I will say that being and effective leader and being "nice" are not exclusive. You can be both. Too, don't give in to those who say you are too studious or not fun enough. I rarely see you without a smile on your face and you can always work to balance your hard work with your ability to relax and have fun.
ReplyDeleteCredo was excellent. Just get the Voicethread linked here!