Dressing Your Truth®: My Self-Assessment Story

I Was Not Living My Truth

As a child, I was told that I was too serious; that I ought to smile more. "What for?!" I'd ponder. "Had someone said something funny? Am I about to have my photo taken?"

Too often, our natural gifts and talents are tragically perceived as flaws. I sometimes worry, while walking down the street, that I might be perceived as unfriendly, unemotional, or austere. In my personal relationships, I am concerned that I might come off as too critical or too "honest." In large-group settings, I often feel pressured to socialize and connect because that's what I am supposed to do. I didn't know it until now, but these are all evidence that I had not been living my truth.

In Carol Tuttle's Dressing Your Truth® (DYT℠) Energy Profiling™system, every person has a “Type,” which is determined by the nature of energy expressed in one's physically features and movement. Tuttle argues that when people fail to express themselves truthfully, they look and feel exhausted. The DYT℠ philosophy isn't just about fashion and looking good, it's about finally being comfortable with one's true self.

Finding My Truth

It can be tricky to discover one's own energy Type. Unlike many personality tests, DYT℠ has no assessment component, which conveniently assigns practitioners to their appropriate "Harry Potter House." Instead of a placement test, DYT℠ requires its users to intuitively discover their Type themselves as they wrestle with the free materials over time.

Although I haven't yet come across any scientific studies backing Tuttle's model, the results speak for themselves. DYT℠ has helped countless people move through life with greater conviction—especially those whose natural energy was repressed or confused during childhood.

Tuttle recommends that newcomers try this tapping exercise as they embark on their own truth-finding journeys. It's a psychophysical meditation designed to release negative emotions and false beliefs people may be unintentionally harbored about themselves, and then prepare their minds and hearts to connect to their true selves. (Remember, it's not essential. But if you do try it out, release your inhibitions and really go for it. Think of it as a free therapy session with yourself.)

Can You Guess My Energy Type?

Due to copyright restrictions, I am not allowed to teach Carol's work. But I can share defining stories from my life and then let you guess my Type once you've learned more from her site.

Learn more on Energy Profiling™:

• Access dressingyourtruth.com for FREE. (Her site has the most-helpful videos. She wants all web traffic driven here.)
• Tuttle has also shared some supporting YouTube videos to help you define or confirm your energy Type at your leisure (without needing to sign up for her email list).

Symmetrical, Rectangular Facial Features

I have balanced and exact facial features. My high cheek bones seem to mirror my jawline. My eyebrows, eyes, and mouth are set on parallel lines. Ever since visiting China, I have considered my nose to be relatively straight, pronounced, and slender. My fingers do not taper, also creating parallel lines. Even some of my nail beds are flat across the bottoms. If my mom hadn't taught me to smile with my teeth, I would naturally smile with closed lips. After considering it, there are three reasons I smile with closed-lips: 1) a thin smile requires the least amount of energy/movement. 2) Even when feeling joyful, I prefer not to abandon reason for emotion. 3) By turning up the corners of my mouth, it would cause my my eyes to close slightly, inhibiting my ability to perceive the world.

Poised

I hold myself with a natural air of confidence, and regality. I tend to sit and stand with erect posture with my hands held symmetrically at my sides or clasped in my lap. Thinking back on my college years, it seems odd that I chose to pursue ballroom dance out of all the physical recreation options available to me. I now realized that it called to me because I enjoy holding myself with poise. One of my favorite dance-class assignments was to literally glide across campus as if I were balancing a cup of water on my head.

Analytical

My personality can be summed up in two words: bold and balanced. I am mentally grounded. I gather as much data as possible then search for patterns to help me puzzle out the best conclusions. For example, when I observe more-empathetic people comforting those in pain, I am there also. But rather than feeling deeply with them, I naturally seek to cognitively understand the causes of the pain so that I can help sufferers make sense of it.

Additionally, my highly–analytical mind had trouble initially settling on an energy Type because I could see myself in each one. #TooMuchThinking

Symmetrical

When I go out for a run, I listen to music using wired headphones connected to an Apple iPod on my waistband. I always feed the wire under and around the back of my shirt so the wavy cord doesn't poke out or flop about on just one side of me. (Ideally, I would run with wireless Apple AirPods, which are precise in their design, simple, and symmetrical.)

Not a Doodler

I don't doodle; I erase, fix, and perfect things. When I take notes, my pages are filled with bullet points and diagrams to visually illustrate concepts for the benefit of myself and others.

Perfecting

I feel an odd compulsion to publish a blog post after only writing a first draft of it. I think I do this because I am so anxious to "improve" upon it. After publishing a post, I will often spend the next few days (or weeks) editing and re-editing it. I even review and "fix" old blogposts from years ago because they "could be better." (I still feel a little self-conscious about this one.)

Bold Wardrobe

When selecting which clothes to wear, my natural energy resonates with the following style traits:

• DESIGN — Tailored, clean lines speak to me. I didn't notice until I went through my closet, but all my clothes are either striped or solid. Wearing wavy lines and asymmetrical designs make me feel like a goofball. Yuck! Additionally, I don't like wearing unnecessary accessories. 
• TEXTURES — I love to feel sophisticated and sporty. This means I feel good in high-shine, slick, smooth, sleek, polished, and precise textures.
• FABRIC — If the material doesn't hold it's shape, I can't wear it. I prefer heavier, sturdy materials. If it's loose, wavy, or floppy…it's frumpy.
• PATTERN — I love balanced patterns. Even my favorite graphic tees are symmetrical. Also, too many colors on a pattern feels busy to me (more colors = more movement = bad).
• COLOR — Of all the chromas (tints, tones, shades, hues), I feel most excited and energized by combinations of the 12 bold, striking, high-contrasting, pure, saturated hues. Bold orange, brilliant blue, and rich purple are my favs.

Leadership Personality Traits

Some characteristics that describe me include: astute, centered/still, classic, clean, concise, constant, cultured, dignified, diplomatic, exact, formal, independent, poised, precise, professional, reflective, serious, sleek, sophisticated, strong, and thorough. I have resonated with all these attributes growing up, especially in various leadership roles. Early on in life, I was blessed to know that I would eventually be responsible for that which others do. And that in order to be successful I would need to take counsel from those I would be responsible for, thereby magnifying and learning from their strengths and abilities. Even when I am not in an official leadership capacity, I often feel responsible for others and will take charge of situations without being asked.

Big Picture

I am able to step back from the chaos. I can clearly see the bigger picture. I am gifted to be able to weed through brainstormed ideas and see the beginning from the end. I am able to think critically about how to perfect the subject and end up with a successful result. I then work to duplicate and scale solutions so more people can benefit from my thinking.

My desire to comprehend the big picture is illustrated by my frequent use of the phrases, "Let me ask you more questions," "let me clarify," and "I need to understand this more clearly." When I say these things, I feel like I am tapping into my true self.

Additionally, I'm the guy who spends forever deliberating over purchase decisions. I tend to want to fully design solutions before jumping in with their implementation. I compare all of the product details with its competitors to discover which one best meets my needs. The more information I have, the more confident I feel moving forward.

"Guidelines," not Rules

I'm skeptical of authority. For example, when I receive advice from friends and family, I rarely accept what they have to say wholesale. I pick and choose what makes sense to me. For example, despite everything in my life pointing to a specific energy Type, I still would love to be assessed by Carol Tuttle herself, just to make sure. But even then, I would might only accept her assessment as wise counsel rather than as an authoritative declaration.

Introverted, and Not

Spending time alone is rejuvenating for me. However, I also love socializing (under my conditions)—with the right people, and for the right amount of time. So I considered the possibility that I am an ambivert. But that's just not true. I can still be an introvert while selectively enjoying meaningful interactions with others. I call myself a social introvert. Despite my brain's nagging, I don't need to be "more outgoing."

Honest

I value other's trust and respect. I follow the rules. And when people come to me seeking advice, they do so because they know they will receive a truthful and insightful response. I don't coddle or lie. I couldn't hide behind a fake smile if I tried; my soul would never allow it.

Man of Few Words

I crave to understand others, and to be understood in return. A broad vocabulary helps me to express myself precisely. I find special joy in using the words, "exactly," "precisely," and "perfect."

I've always been a thoughtful and reflective soul. Even as a child, I remember having lengthy internal dialogues with myself (but never out loud, because that's crazy). Unfortunately, these inner thoughts are often self-critical and can take a toll on how I perceive myself and others. *Lightbulb* I had a childhood stutter (but strangely, I never realized I did because, in my mind, everything made sense). Perhaps my stutter was partially due to my brain's inability to externally express my internal thoughts.

Low Internal Energy/Movement

"Less is more" for me. My whole life, I've felt an uncomfortable pressure to raise my energy level to match the higher energies for those around me. It wasn't natural for me. I am definitely capable of being excited about things. But when I do, it is exhausting! For example, after working weeks as an EFY counselor, I literally required days of recovery.

Calculated, Decisive Tone of Voice

In addition to meticulously choosing my words, I try to annunciate carefully. I hate it when others call me "Ryan" after mishearing me pronounce my first name during introductions. That's why I'll often introduce myself as "B-Ryan."

People often trust me simply due to the decisive tone and meter of my voice. I guess it makes my arguments sound more authoritative. (It also makes me sound like a know it all, which I have to guard against.) Rather than being convinced by the nature of my delivery, I want people to be convinced by the merit of my arguments. To accomplish this, I often qualify my statements, and avoid using superlatives and pejoratives.

Some people say I have a soft, soothing voice. But I think that's just my way of subconsciously trying to bring balance to all the higher-energy Types in my family.

Evangelical-like Enthusiasm

When something matters to a me, I am committed to taking actions consistent with my beliefs. I also have a strong desire to share my knowledge with others because of my honest desire to improve the world. Whether it is an exercise regimen, a religious/political belief, or how to properly store a used sponge, I will advocate for others to adopt (or at least try) my way of doing things, convinced that their lives will be better for it.

Benefits of DTY℠

Now that I have finally embraced my natural energy, my life has immediately changed for the better.

I Feel More Like Myself

In an effort to avoid feeling ashamed about aspects of my personality, I was willing to be someone I wasn't. I now see that many of my perceived challenges are actually gifts. For example, instead of seeing myself as “critical,” I now see myself as “thoughtful" and "discerning.” I believe others will notice how I see myself and follow my lead.

Instead of wishing I could be the light of the party, I am comfortable with the fact that my gift is to be able to bring light to one (or a few people) through deep, one-on-one interactions. For example, at institute tonight, I chose not to feel bad about only connecting with one friend before taking my leave, when usually I feel compelled to stay and mingle.

I finally understand my obsession with finding just the right word to explain myself! Or my freakish ability to notice if an object on a webpage that is slightly off after only a quick glance at the computer screen. By coming to understand my “perfecting” nature, I have ironically given myself permission not to be perfect!

My Wardrobe Feels Energizing

I love the physical space of my new closet. The metaphysical idea of my closet now lifts me instead of weighing on my mind. I love every article of clothing I have chosen to keep. (I've even kept some articles from other Types. Eventually, I'll likely phase them out. But I'll keep them in the meantime because they still spark joy.) I even added a chair to my closet so I can comfortably put my shoes and socks on. I've added a folding area, and a green plant to add feng shui to my new environment. My new relationship with clothes has stirred in me a greater desire to get up in the morning, dress myself in something life-affirming, and go out in public and face the day with confidence.

I'm no longer just covering my body with fabric; I'm deliberately accentuating my natural energy, and it feels great! No more baggy jeans or cargo shorts for me. I avoid wearing billowy sweats/sweatshirts that make me feel like I'm drowning. Even when I'm lounging about the house, I feel more comfortable when dressed in properly-fitting clothing. I've moved away from gold accessories (which match my hair and complexion), in favor of silver, if I choose to wear any at all.

I applied a combination of three philosophies during my clothing purge:

1. Konmari Method — First, I touched each item, and discarded any that do not spark joy.
2. Dressing Your Truth® (DYT℠ for men) — Of the remaining clothes, I determined which ones  resonated with my energy, and kept those.
3. Capsule Wardrobe —Eventually, I hope to pare down even further by keeping only the pieces in my collection which are absolutely essential to my wardrobe.
   1. Capsule Wardrobe 101 (Un-Fancy)
   2. How to build a capsule wardrobe (Project 333)
   3. Where to donate your stuff and do good (Miss Minimalist)

Shopping Has Become So Simple!

I absolutely love shopping now. Before, I had only three, "dude" criteria for buying clothes: 1) Do I like it in the moment? (e.g., Is the graphic design on the tee funny?) 2) Will it fit my slender body? 3) Is it worth the cost? It was taxing because I had to go through that mostly-subjective process with each item on the rack. Now, instead of deliberating over every article, I have the skills to quickly scan a rack for my specific style without breaking my stride. Thanks to the DYT℠ model, what once required tons of cognitive and emotional energy, is now a snap.

I've Learned to Respect Others' Energy

Now that I see myself with greater compassion, I am also able to cut others a break. For example:

• Type 1℠ — I can help personalities who are more social and idea-generating in nature maximize their gifts by asking for their opinion more often. I'll know I'm tapping into a their natural energy when they seem bubbly, smiley, and effusive. I realize now that by not valuing peoples' ideas which failed to directly lead to a solution, could make them feel unappreciated regarding their contributions. I will try to take a moment to validate all of the great ideas, hopes, dreams, and plans presented (which never come to fruition, but were nevertheless essential in the journey towards a solution) before moving on.
• Type 2℠ — At Circles last night, I was counseling with an emotionally sensitive woman who was obviously feeling the tremendous weight of caring for her kids in her current homeless situation. Before jumping to goal-setting with her, I made sure to spend extra time sussing out and validating her feelings and emotional needs. I knew I had succeeded when she broke from the normal script and held my arm and said, "thank you for caring." Additionally, I seem to move on to solutions before taking adequate time to sit with emotions. Therefore, in my future interactions, I will practice not offering advice unless requested, but rather listen and ask questions until they feel ready to move on. When advice seems invited, I will be more careful to preface what I offer with a preparatory gut-checker like, "You know I care about both you and this topic deeply. [Validate their emotions by restating.] May I have your permission to share my real thoughts on this?"
• Type 3℠ — I've learned through frustrating experience, that when some people say they'll meet me in 5 minutes, it translates to mean they wish to arrive in 5 minutes, but in reality it may be more like 10-15—and that's okay! That's just how some people use their energy to naturally power through life and get things done.
• All Types — The better I understanding the DYT℠ model, the more I see and appreciate the value everyone has to offer. Instead of viewing people through a lens of how different they are from me, I now want to thank them for being who they are, and for offering their unique gifts to the world.

BONUS Content

My Gifts

I have many gifts and talents that can bless the lives of those around me. Here are just a few:

• I constantly seek to acquire new knowledge and wisdom.
• I can easily and quickly see what needs to be done to improve and perfect things.
• I easily follow rules (if I trust its source).
• I am stable, consistent, and loyal. People can depend on me.
• I am clear and precise in my speech and movements.
• I am straightforward and determined.
• I reflect an aura of authority and sophistication.
• I finish what I start.
• I feel and think deeply.

Here Are Some of My Common Challenges

• I may become cold and distant and make it difficult for others to approach me.
• I may be perceived as bossy and judgmental.
• I may be harsh or too demanding, especially toward myself.
• My perfecting nature may be perceived as being critical.
• My black-and-white thinking may make it difficult for me to see others’ points of view.
• I often think everyone else should think and behave like me.

Living Celebrities Who Share My Energy

• Audrey Hepburn
• Steve Jobs
• Tom Hiddleston
• Tom Cruise
• Roger Federer
• Rafa Nadal
• Idris Elba
• Simon Cowell (on American Idol)
• Anne Hathaway

Pinterest 

Examples of my DYT℠ clothing styles:

Eyes and upper lip set on parallel lines. (Source.)

Oblong-shaped tennis cufflinks.

Regal. High-contrast. Bold.

Stripes.

Striking.

Block colors. High contrast. Saturated hues.

Tom's symmetrical face. Navy and white. Tailored/snug fit. Stripes. Sleeves off the wrists.

Inspirational Music for All Types

In his song, Glorious, David Archuleta (2008 American Idol runner-up) celebrates the contributions that each of us can make in life, if we will allow ourselves to live authentically.