Who's Who?
- Filipa Serras
- Nov 18, 2024
- 3 min read

Self-knowledge is one of the main paths to personal development. By better understanding who we are and how we function, we can maximize our strengths, minimize our weaknesses and seek strategies to achieve our goals.
There are several tools for personality identification, each with different approaches and insights, and it is in this sense that I highlight 6 of them, making known how they can be interpreted, what the strengths and weaknesses are, and the opportunities for success associated with each personality type.
So let's embark on the journey.
1. MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator)
The MBTI is one of the most popular tools for identifying personality type. It classifies people into 16 types based on four dichotomies: Extroversion/Introversion, Sensing/Intuition, Thinking/Feeling, and Judging/Perceiving.
Interpretation : Each combination results in a unique profile, such as ENTJ, INFP, etc. This system helps to understand communication preferences, work styles and social interaction.
Strengths : Knowledge of how people make decisions and problem-solving preferences.
Weaknesses : Can be interpreted too rigidly, limiting self-development.
Opportunities for Success : With the MBTI, it is possible to adjust the communication and collaboration style according to different profiles, which improves efficiency in teamwork and personal relationships.
2. Big Five (Five Major Personality Factors)
The Big Five model describes personality in five dimensions: Openness to new experiences, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness and Neuroticism. This model is widely used and is based on scientific studies.
Interpretation : Assessing levels on each of the five factors provides a detailed picture of how people deal with situations and relationships.
Strengths : Flexible and scientifically validated, it is useful for a broad assessment of behavior.
Weaknesses : It does not offer specific typologies, which can be difficult for those looking for something specific.
Opportunities for Success : Identifying dominant traits can help in choosing careers, strengthening specific skills and managing interpersonal relationships, especially in work contexts.
3. Enneagram
The Enneagram is a system that identifies personality into nine types, each representing a way of perceiving the world and reacting to it. It focuses on internal motivation and deep fears.
Interpretation : Each type has a "passion" or main tendency, which influences their actions and thoughts. It is a tool for emotional and spiritual self-understanding.
Strengths : Helps explore the subconscious, identifying hidden fears and desires.
Weaknesses : Complex interpretation; may take time to internalize.
Success Opportunities : Excellent for understanding behavior patterns, promoting deep self-awareness and empathy. The Enneagram is useful for leadership development and conflict resolution.
4. DISC (Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Compliance)
The DISC model categorizes individuals into four main traits, assessing how they react to challenges, interact with others, respond to rules, and adapt to the environment.
Interpretation : The four traits describe how someone acts in work and social situations, identifying communication and leadership styles.
Strengths : Simple to interpret and apply in a professional environment.
Weaknesses : May be limited in terms of deep self-knowledge, as it focuses more on behavior than on emotions and motivations.
Success Opportunities : Great for creating harmonious teams, as it allows the combination of different styles, promoting better communication and greater group productivity.
5. Keirsey Temperament Test
The Keirsey Temperament Sorter classifies personality into four temperaments: Guardians, Artisans, Idealists, and Rationals. Each temperament is subdivided into specific types that characterize attitudes and behaviors.
Interpretation : Assesses both behaviors and preferences in social and work environments, helping to identify natural roles that someone tends to assume.
Strengths : Focused on temperaments, it is easy to understand and apply.
Weaknesses : It may be simplistic for those seeking a more complex analysis.
Opportunities for Success : By understanding one's temperament, one can adopt strategies that maximize productivity and satisfaction. The test is useful for career guidance and professional development.
Link: https://www.keirsey.com/
Conclusion
Choosing the right tool to identify personality type depends on each person's goals:
The MBTI and DISC are ideal for professional development and work relationships.
The Big Five and the Enneagram are great for a deeper understanding of personality and inner motivations.
The Keirsey Temperament Sorter helps identify talents and potential, directly guiding personal and professional development.
Regardless of the tool you choose, the most important thing to remember is that personalities are complex and multifaceted. Interpreting these results with flexibility and openness is key to gaining meaningful insights and driving real, sustainable growth.
Now that you have these tools, discover yourself.
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