I am an INFP!

For the most part, I agree with the statement. By using labels to define someone as an introvert or extrovert we bring certain expectations and misconceptions about his or her personality.  During the Myers-Briggs presentation, the extroverts seemed present themselves as more social, emotional, and expressive.  As a member of the introvert group, I would argue that the level of each is does not solely depend on which group you are placed in.  Instead, I argue that introverts and extroverts just have different (generalized) ways of expressing themselves.  Introverts are still social, emotional, and expressive; I just tend to only reserve such expression for when I am comfortable.  For example, I am more comfortable with a small group of close knit friends going to the movies than a large group of acquaintances.  That doesn't mean I don't go when offered the chance, it just means if given the choice, I would choose the smaller group.  (Ironically, CORE is going to see Les Mis right now and I am choosing to stay in Graham and watch Netflix with two friends instead.)  

As an INFP (shout out to Lori!) I am described as:

While I agree with most of the descriptions (particularly the top section ;P ), I view them as mostly preferences and tendencies for one side or the other.  Over time, we have adapted (to an extent) to be suited for both in different situations.  

In general, I think the extrovert type is viewed more positively than introvert because people automatically assume that it refers to being social or anti-social.  However, that is not the case.  As Lori explained in class, extroverts get their energy externally, or from others, whereas introverts get their energy internally, or from ourselves.

On example of our differences can be found when examining the different approaches toward group and personal interviews.  I absolutely dread group interviews.  It leaves me feeling drained and nervous.  When I applied for a job at Lego Land last March, there was a job fair with group interviews after the applicants got past the resume examination.  I was nervous and fidgety the whole time.  Personal interviews are another story.  A month later (I didn't get the job...), I applied at a newly opening Panera, was interviewed by the manager and assistant manager, and was much more relaxed.  Now I know I'm generalizing by saying this, but I would think the extroversion group would experience the opposite and love group interviews but dread personal interviews.  However, the introverts would become more comfortable with group interviews as we continue to take more of them.  The same can be said of the extroverts and personal interviews.  Why? Because we adapt. 

and here are some memes I found on Google Images, just for fun...

Here's what I began to realize after posting comments on other's blogs:

I found that while I agree with being categorized as INFP, I never was never consciously aware of the same qualities listed on the results sheet.  Having them on paper definitely helps me better realize my strengths, weaknesses, and preferences.  However, being labeled as anything besides our my name can be constraining if I were to loose sight that I am Glen, not INFP.  INFP describes me, but it is not me. 

I believe that the MBTI is supposed to help us understand ourselves and others.  However, what was our attitudes toward E v I and J v P personalities before the MBTI?  It isn't supposed to put people into boxes. But...... outside of the MBTI, I think people still do. 

See everyone Wednesday!