Re: Myers-Briggs LO2105

tim smith (timsmith@RedShift.Com)
Fri, 14 Jul 1995 10:36:55 +0000

Replying to LO1985 --

[... Subject line changed by your host. Tim had "Type Indicators
Discussion"...]

Whether or not MBTI, Enneagram, a Styles matrix, etc. are valid as tools
seems to beg the question of usefulness. Having used the old four
quadrant matrix for years, I can attest to its usefulness in assisting
individuals and groups in communicating more effectively through
de-personalizing behavior, and seeing manifestations as merely the result
of perspective influenced by the individuals "style". I believe it is the
'typing' issues that is potentially dangerous.

Jung, I believe, knew that his use of archetypes was simply an extension
of a way of looking, not a truth in itself. Metaphor, which I believe the
styles/archetypes are, allow us to go beyond what is given (the specific
behaviors in this case) to understand how what is given arises in us and
in others. As individuals and groups begin to develop greater equinimity
for themselves and others, relationships improve, wisdom develops, and
business gets better.

If these approaches are used to separate, rather than integrate our
understanding (in the case of do this, not that kind of work) they move us
away from our potential rather than toward it. Much can be awakened by
understanding how complex and dependant are all the aspects of our
consciousness. If we use these tools effectively, from a place of wisdom
and 'beginners mind', they can be useful, effective, and powerful tools
for personal and organizational transformation.

--
timsmith@RedShift.Com (tim smith)