Make It Easy
Make It Easy
We are on the fourth set of personality preferences: Judging and Perceiving. The names do not indicate a judgmental or perceptive personality, it describes how a person prefers to organize their life. Judgers and Perceivers
A Judging type ("J") lives by lists. Once created, the list takes on a life of its own. Items must be done. "No, I can't go to the World Series, I have to wash my hair. It's on my list!" If you work with a J, you will notice they must create order around them. They keep score by tabulating completed items at the end of the day. They live for the check mark. "Look! I finished my entire list!" This is an exciting moment for a J -- never mind it took until 3 a.m.
The Perceptive type ("P") enjoys process; finding options and possibilities for every subject, task and decision. They are great researchers and think change is great! Ps make lists, but only consider them recommendations. "Here are things we could do if we feel like it." A P told me his motto is "adapt, adjust, overcome." He is more interested in the fun of getting there than in the actual outcome.
Each approaches work differently. Js have a work ethic. As kids they actually did homework before TV. Ps have a play ethic. Work must be fun or it isn't worth doing. This doesn't mean that Ps don't work hard, they are better at keeping work in perspective. And it doesn't mean that Js don't play -- they will if it's on their list.
Both preferences are valuable. The best results are found when each type is consulted and respected in the decision making process.
None of these types stands alone. Your type includes one from each of the pairs creating an operating system that determines how you see the world. While we have individual traits that come from gender, upbringing and life experiences, personality type analysis helps us understand and work with each other a little better.
For a resource list on the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, send an e-mail through the Web site below.
Beth Terry is president of Pacific Rim Seminars.
This column is excerpted from her upcoming book,
101 Ways to Make Your Life Easier. Send questions
on management, customer service and other issues
to beth@bethterry.com.