The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is a psychometric questionnaire. It was designed to measure psychological preferences based on theories proposed by Carl G. Jung. According to his research people perceive the world and make decisions according to the principal psychological functions of sensation, intuition, feeling, and thinking. He believed one of these four functions is dominant most of the time.
No matter which function dominates our personality type we all need quiet time for reflection, rejuvenation, and renewal. In her book, the Artist's Way, Julia Cameron suggests weekly artist dates; a solo expedition to explore something that interests you, "a time to replenish our inner well of images and inspiration."
"We need solitude because when we're alone, we're free from obligations, we don't need to put on a show, and we can hear our own thoughts." ~ Tamim Ansary
Writing is a solitary vocation that requires a setting with minimal distraction and over the years I have grown fond of introverting, however, you do not have to be an artist to appreciate Ms. Cameron's advice. Consistent mind, body, spirit check-ins lead to improved balance, increased peace, and greater wisdom which makes tuning in to self a necessary and important challenge.
Solitude, unlike monophobia, is a conscious decision. Some find it difficult to dine in a restaurant, take in a movie, or embark on a weekend retreat alone. While there are others suffering in loneliness with powerful feelings of isolation that make it difficult for them to have meaningful human interactions, I make the conscious choice to hibernate at regular intervals. There is beauty in my alone time that infuses my enjoyment upon my return to my close circle of family and friends. I find that following brief periods of self imposed solitude, I grow into a freer, truer version of self.
Release the social pressures of perpetual connection and begin to embrace your alone time. When you embark on much needed sabbaticals to commune intimately with self, you discover, recover, and uncover your true nature in the deeper realms.
You are your most valuable resource and your very best thing. Make alone time a priority. There is beauty to be awakened there.
Which of Jung's four principals dominates your psychological functioning?
Do you make time for introverting a priority?
Have you avoided being in your own company? Why?
http://www.personalitypathways.com/type_inventory.html
