Do What You Are
by Paul D. Tieger & Barbara Barron-Tieger
Published by Little, Brown and Company
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Reviewed by Amy Loos
I've taken personality tests before as part of my college entrance exam and for work and to be honest most were outdated, general and at times mind-boggling. Authors Paul Tieger and Barbara Barron put a stop to these confusing tests as they pool their years of expertise and share their knowledge in their revised and updated, Do What You Are.
Readers will walk away with a thorough understanding of the sixteen personality types and correlating job fields that will enable readers to preview recommended career choices and learn how these personality types apply to their field of choice.
As I read Do What You Are I especially enjoyed one area: Part Two: The Formula for Career Satisfaction. In this section of the book the authors explain that while our basic personality type doesn't change, the ability to access all type preferences does change, and it is in this process, which happens naturally, that most of us allow ourselves the opportunity to become a well-rounded person. Simply stated, we age, experience life, and mature.
Another key element is realizing that we may choose jobs based on pressure. As the authors state, "Pressure to be what you aren't can cause lifelong confusion. If you are obliged to fit into a certain group mentality that really doesn't suit you (this could be a family dynamic, a school or community setting or a professional environment), you may end up denying your true nature and not enjoying your required role." How many of us have fallen into that trap? Our parents want us to be doctors or lawyers yet we yearn to be an architect so we spend years in jobs we hate to gain acceptance from those we love.
All in all, Do What You Are is an excellent reference tool that can be used over and over, year after year. So whether you're getting ready to graduate high school and are trying to figure out what to study or whether you're contemplating a job change, I think you'll find every aspect of this book helpful and insightful.
Armchair Interviews says: Helpful information for many aspects of your life.
Authors' Web site: http://www.personalitytype.com