Lykkers, have you tried this test yet? Lately, it seems like everyone is talking about MBTI personality types. Whether you're at work, in school, or just scrolling through social media, you've probably seen discussions about it.

People are forming online groups based on their MBTI types, memes are spreading like wildfire, and some even say MBTI is more accurate than zodiac signs. But what exactly is it, and why is it so popular? Let's dive in!

What is MBTI?

MBTI stands for Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, a personality test developed by Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Cook Briggs. Their goal was to help people understand themselves better and improve relationships by appreciating different personality traits.

Unlike traditional personality assessments, MBTI is a self-reported test that helps individuals understand how they:

• Gather information

• Make decisions

• Approach life

The test divides people into four personality dimensions, each with two opposing traits:

• Introversion (I) vs. Extroversion (E) – Do you recharge alone or around people?

• Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N) – Do you focus on facts or big-picture ideas?

• Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F) – Do you make decisions based on logic or emotions?

• Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P) – Do you prefer structure or flexibility?

Your results combine these preferences into one of 16 personality types, such as INFP, ESFJ, or ENTJ. These types are then grouped into four major categories:

• Analysts (logical thinkers)

• Diplomats (emotional connectors)

• Sentinels (practical organizers)

• Explorers (adventurous risk-takers)

Why is MBTI so popular?

One reason MBTI is taking over social media is that it feels scientific and offers career advice based on personality types. Many believe that because it uses a structured measurement system, it's more reliable than astrology.

Even The New York Times commented that part of MBTI's success comes from the fact that people love taking personality tests. It's fun, it helps us understand ourselves better, and it gives us something to talk about with friends.

In fact, remembering your friends' MBTI types has even become a new social trend! People are sharing MBTI compatibility charts to see which personalities make the best friends, coworkers, or partners.

MBTI in the Workplace

In a 2009 study in Sweden, researchers analyzed 1,630 employees across 156 teams and found that MBTI helped team members communicate better and understand each other's work styles.

Because of this, many companies now use MBTI in hiring and team-building exercises. Even celebrities have started revealing their MBTI types!

Recently, the topic “What is Eileen Gu's MBTI type?” trended online. The Olympic gold medalist said in an interview

“I'm an INTJ. I know I'm an introvert, but I also work hard to improve my communication skills. When I don't have enough energy, I feel tired because I can't fully express my extroverted side. Sometimes, I'd rather be alone, studying physics or writing essays.”

As soon as she said this, INTJs all over the internet started celebrating—“Wow! I have the same personality type as Eileen Gu!”

Is MBTI really scientific?

Despite its popularity, not everyone trusts MBTI. While many companies use it, the academic psychology community does not officially recognize it.

No major psychology journal has published research proving MBTI's accuracy. Oxford professor Merve Emre explains that one reason MBTI is appealing is because it is “non-judgmental”—meaning all results sound positive and avoid mentioning weaknesses.

This leads to what psychologists call the Barnum Effect—where people believe vague, general descriptions about themselves simply because they sound personal.

For example, MBTI results often focus on strengths, avoiding negative traits. Additionally, because it's self-reported, people might answer questions based on who they want to be, rather than their actual personality.

Should you trust MBTI?

MBTI is a fun and helpful tool for self-discovery, but it's important to remember:

It's not 100% scientific. Many experts question its accuracy.

Your personality is more than four letters. People are complex and can't always fit neatly into 16 categories.

Your MBTI type doesn't define you. Don't let it limit your career choices or relationships!

Instead of treating MBTI as an absolute truth, use it as a guide to learn more about yourself. At the end of the day, personal growth comes from real-life experiences—not just a test!

What do you think, Lykkers? Have you taken the MBTI test, and do you think it accurately describes you? Let's chat in the comments!