Introduction
Many psychologists have been interested in personality over the years, with considerable research devoted to understanding its nature and role in shaping individual attitudes and behaviors. Personality traits can impact various aspects of an individual’s life, including career choices, work behaviors, and decision-making processes. This essay aims to highlight the significance of personal values and specific personality traits in shaping individuals’ decisions at work.
Personality and Decision-Making
Various personality traits significantly influence decision-making processes in different scenarios. For instance, open-minded people are more flexible while making decisions than those who are not as open-minded. These individuals also tend to perform better when faced with complex tasks (Tisu et al., 2020). Additionally, extroverted individuals are more likely to seek out social interactions within their workplace environment, which may positively impact their job satisfaction levels.
Personal values can significantly shape employment decisions concerning the type of employment one seeks or how one approaches a career path. For example, some people may avoid jobs that contradict their moral or ethical convictions even if such positions offer them higher pay or better benefits. In contrast, others might prioritize financial stability over doing something that aligns with their values.
My Personality Traits
As an introvert, I enjoy working alone as opposed to in a group. I typically take time before responding when asked questions, but I usually develop insightful responses. I am always respectful to others and demonstrate regard for them by listening attentively without interrupting or judging. This makes it easier for me to build relationships within the workplace environment. Additionally, I am generous and inclined to volunteer my time and resources whenever possible.
Even though I am independent, I like working as a team player with other people. I am a firm believer that teamwork makes the dream work. It is important to share ideas with other individuals before making a final decision since it improves the likelihood of getting a good outcome. I am humble because I know everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. A person should not be judged just for one error they made. I am always ready to learn because I want to better myself.
Personality and Environment
It is debatable whether personality traits remain consistent across different environments. Studies suggest that personality traits can change over time (Ramos-Villagrasa et al., 2019). For example, a person may be outgoing at work but introverted outside the workplace. My traits do not change depending on the environment since they are integral to who I am. I am always introverted in my workplace because I feel more energized when I keep to myself instead of constantly chatting with my colleagues.
I interact more with my family and friends at home, but I spend much time alone to feel energized. I enjoy my company, but I always reach out when I come across something I cannot do on my own. I conduct myself with humility wherever I am because I know someone will always be better than me. My generosity does not change because I know how it feels to be in need; hence, I will always lend a helping hand whenever I can. Therefore, I would say that my personality remains constant across different environments.
Personal Values and Career Choices
Personal values can significantly influence career choices in an individual’s life. A person’s core values significantly impact their job satisfaction levels (Vergauwe et al., 2022). Choosing a career path that aligns with personal values means a person is more likely to derive greater fulfillment in life than those who do not align their career with their values.
One must choose a career that makes them happy. Personal values act as guiding principles to one’s career as they determine the social interaction one has with people and the level of interaction needed to get work done. An extroverted person may thrive in the sales department compared to an introvert. Innovative and creative people tend to be successful as entrepreneurs because they consistently have fresh ideas to address market gaps.
Personal Values and Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Studying information technology (IT) and cybersecurity requires personal values such as health consciousness, spirituality, peace-loving, family-oriented thinking, and wisdom-seeking. IT professionals need these qualities to manage stress effectively for better output. Cybersecurity teams require wisdom when developing strategies against cyberattacks.
Health consciousness helps IT personnel address ergonomic issues related to computer usage (Maan et al., 2020). Additionally, peaceful-minded individuals will better handle conflicts within organizations, while family-oriented individuals aim for work-life balance. I have all these qualities, so I chose to study Information Technology and Cybersecurity.
Conclusion
An individual’s personality traits are essential in shaping their attitudes towards work decisions, including the employment opportunities they pursue. Similarly, personal values shape what type of career one wants to develop throughout one’s lifetime. Young adults should be encouraged to understand their values and intrinsic motivations when making important decisions, such as career choices.
Young adults considering further education and employment may engage in self-reflection exercises to evaluate whether personal values align with their selected career route. People must also be aware that personality traits can change over time and are not static. They should seek to develop the positive aspects of their personalities continually. Finally, employers need to recognize the importance of personality traits when recruiting employees, which could lead to a more diverse workforce and better work performance.
References
Maan, A. T., Abid, G., Butt, T. H., Ashfaq, F., & Ahmed, S. (2020). Perceived organizational support and job satisfaction: A moderated mediation model of proactive personality and psychological empowerment. Future Business Journal, 6(1), 1-12. Web.
Ramos-Villagrasa, P. J., Barrada, J. R., Fernández-del-Río, E., & Koopmans, L. (2019). Assessing job performance using brief self-report scales: The case of the individual work performance questionnaire. Revista de Psicología Del Trabajo Y de Las Organizaciones, 35(3), 195–205. Web.
Tisu, L., Lupșa, D., Vîrgă, D., & Rusu, A. (2020). Personality characteristics, job performance and mental health: The mediating role of work engagement. Personality and Individual Differences, 153. Web.
Vergauwe, J., Wille, B., De Caluwé, E., & De Fruyt, F. (2022). Passion for work: Relationships with general and maladaptive personality traits and work-related outcomes. Personality and Individual Differences, 185. Web.