I recently took a viral personality test and discovered something quite surprising about myself. This online quiz, which has been circulating widely on the internet, made me question my true nature. The experience prompted me to reflect on who I really am, and I believe it’s something everyone should undertake.
Growing up, I often received feedback that I lacked “common sense.” People would commend me for being “book smart” but implied that I fell short in practical intelligence. Initially, I dismissed these comments as mere resentment. Being raised in a working-class community where higher education was uncommon, I suspected that those around me were seeking to elevate their own wisdom above academic knowledge.
However, a recent study by the University of Pennsylvania shed some light on the concept of common sense. The research suggested that collective common sense is uncommon and that the notion itself might be somewhat illusory. This revelation led me to question my own understanding of common sense and whether I possessed it at all.
The personality test comprised three sections. The first segment involved responding to a series of common sense statements, ranging from the obvious to the abstract. As I delved into these statements, I found myself overthinking each one, scrutinising every word for potential interpretations.
The second section presented math problems that appeared designed to challenge the reader. As I grappled with these calculations, I realised that my mathematical skills might not be as sharp as I had assumed. Some of the questions seemed deceptively simple at first glance but proved to be tricky upon closer examination.
The final section required me to interpret facial expressions from close-up images of people’s eyes. This part reminded me of the “Reading the mind in the eyes” test developed by the Autism Research Centre to assess theory of mind. It raised questions about neurodivergence and prompted me to consider undergoing further assessments beyond my existing OCD diagnosis.
While I am cautious about self-diagnosing based on an online test, the experience has sparked curiosity about my own neurodivergent traits. I have witnessed friends discover conditions like autism and ADHD in adulthood, leading to a sense of relief and self-awareness. The prospect of understanding potential barriers to my daily functioning intrigues me, despite the challenges of accessing healthcare for diagnosis and treatment.
As I contemplate seeking further assessments, I remain pragmatic about the process. Worrying excessively serves little purpose, and I acknowledge the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective. Ultimately, this test has encouraged me to explore aspects of my identity and seek clarity on potential neurodivergent traits that may influence my experiences.