The NPQE Framework

Self and Identity

Since the dawn of language, humans have used storytelling to explain who they are and their view of the world. Identity, then, can be viewed as a continuously developing story that each person crafts about their life, giving a structured form to their experiences and aspirations.

In personality psychology, extensive research has been done on the concept of narrative identity, though that exact term wasn’t popular among psychologists until the 1980s, when researchers began to explore the suggestion that identity could be visualized as a story. The concept that we use stories to understand and communicate who we are quickly gained popularity. Researchers studying this area observed that to grasp the intricacies of people’s personal memories and the meanings that they associate with them, asking individuals to narrate their experiences offered valuable insights.

Over time, the concept of narrative identity has grown more nuanced, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of individuals’ lives and how they are influenced by culture, ongoing relationships, and conversations. Researchers now view narrative identity not just as a single, overarching story but as numerous and varied narrated experiences (big or small stories) that embody significant moments. These stories serve as a means for people to understand themselves better by linking events across time to craft a cohesive sense of identity. This perspective allows for a richer exploration of personal identity, highlighting its complexity and the role of narratives in shaping how people see themselves and their place in the world – and how they define themselves to others.

NPQE employs a story-based approach to personality exploration in order to tap into the richer nuances and revelations that can come from this process compared to more traditional, rote personality testing. Drawing from numerous theories and disciplines, we’ve identified a range of personality tendencies that define these narratives. Let’s explore each one.

Personality Tendencies

NPQE thoroughly explores our fundamental personality tendencies: Pace, Exploration, Aestheticism, Sociability, and Hospitality. These are broader, more general inclinations that subtly influence how we think, feel, act, and interact, without rigidly determining every aspect of these elements. This allows for the exploration and accommodation of specific aspects like personal goals, values, and principles within this overarching framework.

These tendencies exhibit significant stability over time and a broad scope of influence on our lives. Each one is perceived as an integral, “natural” part of us from the early stages of our lives. Experiencing a significant shift in any of these inclinations is likely to be challenging and may also feel inauthentic, like moving away from our “true self.” Therefore, understanding these personality tendencies provides a useful, empowering lens with which to view ourselves, leading to improved self-awareness and helping us navigate life’s challenges.

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Pace

This tendency reflects our preferences for dynamism and variability or stability and consistency in life. It’s about how we organize and expend our energy as well as what kinds of environments help us thrive – or cause us stress.

Pace ranges from Dynamic to Stable. In this spectrum of energy and organization, individuals can thrive on chaos, routine, or a blend of the two. Understanding what kind of environment gives you energy – or drains your energy – can be crucial to telling a story where you feel empowered.

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Exploration

This tendency determines whether we’re more focused on intellectual curiosity or on things that directly relate to, and have an immediate impact on, our own lives. It shows how much we enjoy – or dislike – engaging with abstract, conceptual, and philosophical ideas and content.

Exploration ranges from Speculative to Experiential. Individuals may find themselves enthralled by deep philosophical and theoretical concepts or more focused on everyday matters. They may also fall somewhere in between the two ends of the spectrum. Understanding where your intellectual interests lie – and where they don’t – can help guide your focus and ensure that you structure your goals, time, and effort efficiently.

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Aestheticism

This tendency reflects the degree to which we gravitate toward beauty and art or practicality and usefulness in our lives. It shows whether we prioritize form, function, or a combination of the two.

Aestheticism ranges from Impressionistic to Utilitarian. On this spectrum of appreciation and focus, individuals can vary from highly creative to straightforward and practical – or a balance of both. When you understand what kind of sensibility attracts you most, it becomes easier to surround yourself with things that inspire, motivate, and satisfy you, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.

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Sociability

This tendency indicates how inclined we are to interact and engage with others. It shows the extent to which we need and seek social stimulation in our lives, whether we’re usually active participants or passive observers.

Sociability ranges from Gregarious to Solitary. Individuals may thrive in active and crowded environments, revel in their own company, or have more flexible social interests. Understanding your own social needs and boundaries can guide you toward situations and relationships that complement your natural inclinations, helping you lead a more fulfilling and satisfying social life.

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Hospitality

This tendency represents the extent to which we are friendly, positive, and enthusiastic about other people. It reveals our initial, default reaction and attitude toward the people we meet, which can influence our social interactions.

Hospitality ranges from Welcoming (radiating warmth and kindness) to Cautious (being reserved and withholding trust) and everything in between. Recognizing your own approach to strangers can help you understand your comfort zone, set appropriate boundaries, and potentially avoid situations that make you uncomfortable, thereby improving how you build relationships.

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