Working with people under stressful circumstances is tumultuous. It is important to communicate your strengths and weakness or a lot of time will be wasted arguing over task assignment. In survival situations, every moment is crucial and should be used wisely. While you read this article, I am asking you to take a deeper look into the type of person that you are. The Myers-Briggs personality test and a healthy dose of self-reflection will give you a better idea of how to excel during these critical times.
The Myers-Briggs personality test
is an inventory that applies Carl Jung’s theory of psychological types. This theory states that people’s behaviors are actually quite consistent. and I’m here to tell you that by determining your personality type you are giving yourself a better chance at survival. This information will also help you develop a deeper understanding of people’s perceptions and judgments. The inventory has 4 main categories: Extroverted/Introverted, Intuitive/Sensory, Feeling/Thinking, Judging/Perceiving. Click the links to learn more about this theory and to determine your personality type.
Take a moment to reflect on your results. How would your strengths transfer well into a survival situation? If you don’t agree with your test results, remember, it is not necessary to use a test to determine the best role for yourself in a survival situation. However, it is important to spend some time reflecting on the type of person you are.
So what did you find out?
Is alone time important to you?
Are you great at analyzing problems?
Are you spontaneous?
Do you like a solid plan?
Are you agreeable?
Strongly opinionated?
By taking time to be aware of these qualities you are helping yourself and the entire group. For example, if you know that you need alone time, communicate that with the group. You will be able to help everyone by finding a task that meets multiple needs, such as, gathering food, water, or firewood. Meanwhile, another person is great at talking to others about how they’re feeling and will be a great help in resolving conflicts between group members.
Are you organized? Plan a rations system!
Are you playful? Play with the kids!
Are you creative? Boost morale!
Are you a strong leader? Lead!
But, maybe someone else is too. No problem! Join forces and co-lead or split up the work. Or decide who can better lead certain tasks. With some time and effort, everyone in the group should have tasks that fit well with their personality.
In a survival situation, things are bound to become stressful at times. There will be a lot of new daily tasks, likely small quarters, and new and frightening experiences. Being self-aware and knowing your strengths and weaknesses will increase everyone’s chances of success and will be highly beneficial for the cohesion, longevity, and harmony of the group. By finding natural roles for everyone the group may find that they are no longer solely surviving, they are also thriving!
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