J

Have you ever taken the Meyrs Briggs Test ?

I took the test for the first time a few years ago and found that my type is "ENFP" Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving. I was so excited. I read the descriptions on whatever internet site I took the test on, and felt so known. Yes, I know that's ridiculous. But really, I totally identified with the description. It was so me. And it was very different from most of the people I was around during college, which made me feel even more special. And I love to feel special. Ps are very laid back. They don't like making set plans, they like to play things by ear. See what happens. Don't push it. Let things flow. Ps are very cool. I liked thinking of myself that way. Especially in the context of Stanford where many people had clear ideas about many things. For example, the courses they wanted to take three quarters in advance. No thanks.

Now that I'm out of school, things are different. Deadlines, e-mail response etiquette, deciding where to go for dinner. My attitude about all these things has shifted. I have come to loathe the "maybe" section of eVites. Why chose maybe when you can choose yes or no? Because let's be real, most people who chose maybe are just politely saying no. So just do the host a favor and say no upfront. I retook the test a few months ago. The results were quite revealing. Post college I am a J. Judging. And not just a little bit, but a very strong J. It was hard to accept for the first few minutes. But I've pretty much embraced it. It's not as cool as the P, it will never be. But there's something very satisfying about J. J is responsible, and knows what she wants. J is unapologetic and unconcerned with what other people think about her. J takes personality tests very, very seriously. Now I feel really empowered to be decisive. The test is only supposed to describe what's already there, but because I'm so impressionable, it has given me permission to adopt a new outlook.

In some ways I will remain P. I think it will always be hard for me to finish a book that isn't a page turner, and arrive somewhere early or on time, or pick out my outfit for the first day of anything without a second opinion.