Both personality type tests and zodiac signs can reveal a lot about a person. Each is beneficial on the path to self-discovery and self-awareness. But how do they differ? Let’s take a look.
History
The Myers-Briggs personality test was created in 1875 as a tool to use in early childhood education. As their research progressed, they developed a system of 16 personality types that are now used to sort people into jobs. The Myers- Briggs test helps people identify careers and career fields they are best suited for based on their personalities.
Astrology dates back centuries. It is present in a number of ancient civilization’s belief systems including the Babylonians and Sumerians. Astrology came about as a way to understand the meaning behind stars. The Ancient Greeks defined the 12 zodiac signs and named them after constellations. They also paired them with dates that corresponded with their placement in the sky.
Personality Types Assessment
Personality type assessments, specifically the Myers-Briggs test is a great way to learn more about yourself. You might be wondering how it works. An article written by Elizabeth Harris for truity.com explains, “Personality typology uses a form of subjective assessment to determine what four letter type best describes an individual’s personality. In the Briggs and Myers’ system of personality typing, individuals fill in a questionnaire and their answers are used to analyse aspects of their personality, including how they behave in certain situations, their social preferences and tasks they might find easier or more difficult. These answers add up to a category of personality, drawn from the 16-type system.”
Zodiac Signs
You are assigned a zodiac sign based on your date of birth. Astrology predicts your personality traits, behaviors, basic characteristics and way of thinking based on where the sun, moon and the planets were at the moment you were born. Astrology has been around for thousands of years and is based on the belief that our environment (the position of the skies) affects us. While it cannot be scientifically tested the way a personality type test can be, it hasn’t stopped millions of people from believing in the information they receive from their horoscopes and zodiac signs.
Real Life Application
When you take the Myers- Briggs personality test (or others), it can lead to productive conversations about the ways in which people work best. It’s often used as a tool for managing employees. It allows people to discuss workplace issues in a way that doesn’t single anyone out.
Alternatively, zodiac signs are often used when talking about emotions and relationships. It allows people to get more in-tune with their feelings. It also helps people express feelings they have that they find difficult to articulate.
As you journey along your path of self-discovery and further self-awareness, both the Myers-Briggs personality test and your zodiac sign can help you learn more about yourself. While the information you will learn from each will be different, it will all be helpful.
