You can say, “Everyone makes mistakes,” and your audience will nod in agreement. But if you ask them when they last made a mistake, few will be able to recall the details of their last error. It is only when you are in tune with your inner self that you discover you are a flawed human being who needs to adjust in areas where you are lacking. We all have shortcomings, so why not embrace that truth wholeheartedly and seize the opportunity to change and become a better person?
Managing any relationship requires due consideration of the other person’s perspective. This is the single most important aspect of effective communication I can think of, and one that is often lacking. But it requires empathy, compassion, and tolerance for others’ beliefs and points of view. It asks you to hold loosely onto your thoughts and beliefs, making space for alternate views.
In my mid-30s, I encountered my first personality test, the Predictive Index (PI) behavioural assessment. It’s a great tool for determining personality fit for specific roles in a company and serves as a guide on managing different personality types based on your own PI assessment. The tool became invaluable for hiring, developing, and retaining good people. I recall receiving my full assessment a few days after completing a three-day workshop. I was blown away by how accurately it described my habits, traits, and idiosyncrasies.
I emerge as an Altruist of the 17 different personality types.
Sometime later, I came across the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment. Again, a group of us managers participated in a three-day workshop to establish our personality types. The goal was not only to help us understand ourselves better but also to navigate different personalities more expertly. Once you are aware of your communication style, you can identify and adjust your behaviour to suit others. Despite my prior exposure to similar tools, the accuracy of the MBTI assessment caught me off guard. Facing truths about my shortcomings wasn’t easy, and making the necessary adjustments has become a lifelong challenge. Old habits, as they say, die hard.
I identify as the Commander personality, also known as ENTJ, of the 16 possible styles.
A few years ago, I encountered the Enneagram Personality Test. A client who consulted with large organisations and business leaders introduced it to me. I recently completed the assessment, expecting similar insights to those I’d seen before. To my surprise, the Enneagram’s depth and diversity of results were astonishing. Once again, its accuracy felt like a Drikus du Plessis knee to the solar plexus.
Of the 9 Enneagram Personality Types, I am a 2w3 — The Hostess.
Who would have guessed that at 62 years old, I am still learning every day how to better manage my flawed personality and work at making changes that will lead to a happier and more fulfilling life?
Delving below the surface of our conscious mind allows us to explore the subconscious realm where biases and prejudices reside. Most of our behaviour and personality are ingrained by adulthood. However, only by becoming aware of how others perceive us can we identify areas for improvement.
All the personality tests confirmed a consistent trait in me: I tend to be a servant-leader. For a long time, I assumed everyone shared this approach. But this narrow view stifled my growth and caused me unnecessary suffering. I am deeply thankful for tools like these, which have allowed me to see myself from others’ perspectives and use that awareness to be more authentic. How others see you often differs from how you see yourself, and this insight is the key to unlocking your full potential.
We all do things that sabotage our progress. We all make mistakes and can learn from them. Identifying where you’re likely to stumble helps you avoid those pitfalls. This foresight becomes visible only after introspection and taking steps to address your flaws. If you’ve never done a personality test, there are free versions available online, though professional assessments tend to be more accurate.
Have personality tests been as useful to you as they have to me? If not, perhaps it’s time to give one a try.
Have a wonderful weekend and remember — be generous! 😊
As always, thanks for reading. 🙏
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