Thomas Merton wrote in New Seeds of Contemplation, “For me to be a saint means to be myself. Therefore, the problem of sanctity and salvation is in fact finding out who I am and of discovering my true self.” In the book, The Road Back to You, author Ian M. Cron said, “We owe it to the God who created us, to ourselves, to the people we love and to all with whom we share this troubled planet to become ‘saints’.”
Last blog we began to talk about psychometric models or tests that can be used to better find out who we are. All models have certain strengths and weaknesses but in general they should help you on some aspect of your path of self-discovery. A British mathematician George box once stated, “All models are wrong, but some are useful.”
That is how we should approach using these models. They will provide insight and hopefully enable you to better understand your true self in a more objective manner. As stated in the earlier blog, although not the only way to approach improving your self-awareness, it would be best to work with a coach if resources are available.
When taking these tests, regardless of which one is used, it is important that you answer honestly rather than provide answers that you think are “correct” or desired. Some of these tests provide a score along a range of extremes. As an example, in the Meyers-Briggs test a person may score more towards the introvert or extrovert and that direction helps determine their type but it does not mean that they do not have any tendencies of the other type, only that this is their preferred approach. Also with other tests, one may be a specific personality type but usually has characteristics of other types within their overall personality.
Building self-awareness is a life-long effort but the dividends are well worth the effort. Begin by going on-line and trying some of the psychometric tests. It may be best to go to well recognized sites sponsored by independent organizations rather than smaller sites seeking to sell a program.
One site that I have used and observed good results is www.discovermyprofile.com and take the Short Personality Test. This site is from the University of Cambridge and will generate a useful OCEAN profile.
Once you’ve taken a test and received your results spend some time reflecting on them. Try to be as objective as possible and rather than dismiss findings that you believe are inaccurate reconsider the information to see if you have perhaps uncovered a blind spot. If you feel comfortable perhaps you could find a close friend with whom you feel comfortable sharing the results. If so, seek their thoughts and input.
Next, we will talk about other methods of receiving feedback from others. This can be very valuable and will help more thoroughly round out your perspective.