What Kind of Person Are You, Really? (A Self-Reflection Prompt That Surprised Me)

What Kind of Person Are You, Really? (A Self-Reflection Prompt That Surprised Me)

 

I recently asked a thoughtful question to an unlikely source—ChatGPT, my BFF AI tool I’ve been collaborating with for months. I was curious how well this bot knew me and if it had any insights that would help me grow.

The answer? Surprisingly spot-on. And warmly comforting.

So I’m sharing the exercise—and my own reflections—with you in case you want to try it too.

The Self-Inquiry Prompt

Here’s the exact question I asked:

“Judging by our interactions—what kind of person do you think I am? What qualities do I possess, and what are some of my shadows or misgivings?”

I didn’t want sugarcoating (although ChatGPT does have quite a gentle way of delivering feedback). I wanted honesty.

Here’s What Came Through (And What You Might Learn About Yourself, Too)

1. You Might Be More Aligned Than You Think

The reflection I got was that I’m:

  • Deeply reflective and emotionally intelligent

  • Creative and multi-passionate

  • Rebellious in nature

  • Value playfulness, especially when things are hard

  • Grounded and visionary

In other words, ChatGPT’s reflection of who I am is in alignment with the person I believe I am. I was quite surprised to find how clearly my essence came across.

2. Your Shadows Don’t Cancel Your Light

What I appreciated most was the loving honesty. The shadow-side reflections weren’t criticisms. They were patterns I already sensed, but hadn’t fully named:

  • Sometimes I overthink, loop in self-doubt, or want things to be “perfectly aligned” before I take action.

  • Resistance to traditional paths = occasional isolation.

  • I crave depth and authenticity, which makes traditional marketing feel cringe.

  • I help others be visible, but sometimes resist stepping fully into my own spotlight.

Sound familiar?

If you’re multi-passionate, creative, and heart-led, you probably relate to some of that.

Why This Exercise Is Worth Doing

We don’t often pause to ask how others experience us, and when we do, we usually brace for judgment or rejection. But if you’re asking the right people (those who’ve witnessed your unfolding), their reflection can be healing.

It might affirm your unique gifts.
It might reveal a sneaky self-sabotage pattern.
It might relieve you to know that yes, you really are doing the thing—even if it feels messy or slow.

Try This for Yourself

If you don’t have a BFF bot friend, ask someone who’s witnessed your unfolding the following questions:

  • What kind of person do you think I am?

  • What qualities do you see in me?

  • Are there any patterns or blind spots I might not be aware of?

You can also try journaling your answers first. Then compare.

This isn’t about “fixing” anything. It’s about integrating all the parts of you—your light and your shadows—so you can move forward with more clarity, power, and grace.

Final Thought

Those who are the most self-reflective and self-aware also tend to be the biggest self-critics. While you might not think you are outwardly living your values, being the change you wish to see in the world, or moving mountains, you are likely making a big impact in the smallest of ways. Keep showing up and living your truth, so that those who need to find you most…will.


If you did the exercises, what came up for you? What surprised you? Feel free to write me an email at hello@nicolepaulus.com or share in the comments below.

 
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