Personality and Cognitive Function

I’ve been digging deep into personality types and cognitive function this last year, trying to make sense of why I do, say, or think so differently from others. I’ve mentioned before that I am an INFJ, which is a fairly rare personality type. A few days ago I decided to try taking the Enneagram test. I’ve heard others mention “I’m a 1” or “I’m a 7” and they’re not referring to their level of attractiveness (I assume!). So I thought I’d look and see what I might be.

Turns out, I’m a 9. Not entirely surprising, given that 9s are Peacemakers. I’ve always been the peacemaker in my family. I hate conflict and as an empath, feel the emotions of others strongly. I think I retreat into books because I know that by the end conflicts will be resolved and peace will be restored. Unfortunately, reality isn’t always like that. Which makes it much less appealing.

I also took the HIGH5 Strengths test. This is supposed to identify your strengths. Becca Syme uses the CliftonStrengths test to help in her coaching. You have to pay for that test, but the High5 lets you see your top 5 strengths for free. Here are mine:

1. Philomath – “Philomaths love learning. They explore many interests, follow new paths, and acquire as much knowledge as possible. They don’t enjoy the company of so called ‘know-it-alls’, people with little curiosity and no desire to explore new ideas.”
2. Thinker – “Thinkers enjoy mental activity, intellectual discussions, and time alone in reflection. They find it difficult to work in teams that tend to act before thinking.”
3. Coach – “Coaches love discovering the potential in people and supporting others’ personal growth. It’s hard for them to accept when this potential is being wasted.”
4. Empathizer – “Empathizers are great at understanding how people feel and use this sensibility to do good for others. They become frustrated when asked to disregard feelings and focus solely on logic instead.”
5. Deliverer – “Deliverers follow through on their commitments and appreciate seeing ho this builds more trust and respect among others. They feel terrible of promises get broken – both on the receiving and giving side.”

I’m not entirely sure what to do with this information, but it does sound accurate to me. Now the question is, how do I use these strengths combined with my personality to the greatest potential? Is this another example of my “Philomath” strength? Am I simply acquiring as much knowledge on this interest as possible? Or can I put this knowledge to use?