Getting Into Character: The ENFJ (Extravert, iNtuitive, Feeler, Judger)

Today we finish our detailed look at all sixteen Myers-Briggs labels. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up. You can look in each month, starting in February, and read all the posts titled Getting Into Character to get a view of the entire study.

Last week we looked at the INFJs, our friends and family members who help us focus on the future. Today we will change just one letter and see what a difference it makes when we go from the Introverted INFJ to the people-charged ENFJ, those awesome people who see our future potential and help us live up to it.

Living Life with an ENFJ: ENFJs are cheerleaders for living up to your own potential. They are leaders, organizers, supporters, and encouragers. They see what could be and they believe people can live up to their ideals and aspirations. They are insightful and often take others' feelings into consideration when making decisions. They are people of integrity and watch to see that the people around them live that way too. They believe the best about people and use warmth and encouragement to both support and prod people in their life. ENFJs are creative, coming up with new and innovative ideas.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ENFJ: ENFJs are people-oriented and up-front people and this is reflected in their choices of careers and service opportunities. ENFJs enjoy organizing fellowship and creating atmospheres that make people feel welcome. They promote change and meet large scale needs of people in their life and produce changes for the better. Some careers or volunteer positions that often appeal to ENFJs include: actor, counselor/therapist, clergy, trainer/teacher, designer, marketing, accountant, auditor, writer, attorney, assistant, and economist.
Free Time for an ENFJ: Before an ENFJ will spend time on personal hobbies or free time, all responsibilities to others will be complete. They also put relationships ahead of their own desires. ENFJs are avid readers and movie-goers and they enjoy watching how characters live and deal with real-to-life difficulties. Because they also enjoy talking about what they've read, they frequently participate in book clubs or reading groups. They are people-watchers, so you may find them doing that with characters or flesh-and-blood people. ENFJs enjoy helping people, so their free time might include aspects of that.  They don't like conflict and so they generally will stay away from highly competitive sports and activities or ones where people could get hurt.

Warnings for the ENFJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ENFJs need to beware. ENFJs can easily get their feelings hurt. They need to learn to not take things so personally and to listen to what people are really saying. Since they are people-focused, it is easy for ENFJs to forget the mundane tasks of day-to-day living and focus too much on relationships. They need to remember what needs done at home, at work, or in other areas of their life. ENFJs can come across as bossy to others. Be careful that you don't run people over and allow others to have less-than-perfect outcomes. Life is not about always being perfect, so give people a break.
Spiritual Helps for the ENFJ: Since ENFJs spend so much time and energy directed toward others, they may wish to focus inward for their worship and study times. They can combine this with corporate worship and study, but they need time alone so they can really focus on themselves without the temptation to turn their energy toward others. Their ability to clearly see into the future can aid people and organizations in prophetic-type ways. ENFJs enjoy being "out front", so they will need to balance this with time in quiet, personal study and reflection. ENFJs are organized and scheduled, so this will likely come out in their spiritual life. ENFJs may need to focus less on those around them for a time and go deeper into their own spiritual formation.

What Others Say About the ENFJ: Are you beginning to see yourself of someone you love on this page? If so, you know that they (or you) are people who are verbal, diplomatic, loyal and idealistic. ENFJs are enthusiastic and energetic and expressive. They also support those around them and are loyal to the people in their life.
Okay, who do you know that is an ENFJ? If you are an ENFJ, let me hear from you. I would love to know who out there can help lead me to the future!

That's it, folks! We've studied all eight pairings and now all sixteen options for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. You may want to go back now and fill in any blanks. I'm going to take the month of August off from Getting Into Character and I'm planning to take a look at learning styles in September. Until then, we'll continue with lessons two days each week. This has been a great time studying this aspect of personality with you.

Check back in on Monday when we talk camping. See you then!

Getting Into Character: The ESFP (Extravert, Sensor, Feeler, Perceiver)

Today we continue our look at the sixteen specific types and we are down to the last four. Can you believe it? This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ESFJ's, our lovely friends, family, and neighbors that make us all feel welcome. This week we will change it up by switching the last letter and meet the ESFPs. You probably have one or two friends with this label because they are known for being fun and friendly.

Living Life with an ESFP: Friendly to everyone, ESFPs usually have a wealth of friends and acquaintances. They give of their time and talents willingly and add a zest and enthusiasm to everything they involve themselves in doing. Truly people-focused, ESFPs understand themselves and their beliefs and values and want to understand those things about the people in their life. They are optimistic, energetic, and choose to look past the flaws and focus instead on the positive qualities in people. ESFPs generally like life, live it exuberantly, and they bring joy to the people they encounter.
Career/Service Area Choices for an ESFP: ESFPs will enjoy work or service opportunities that allow them to assist others with tangible acts. Adept at using their own time and talents, they also succeed in helping others to work in their own areas of expertise. ESFPs enjoy planning and helping with socials and they will gravitate to jobs and volunteer positions that allow them to express this in their daily activities. Often you will find ESFPs working and serving with youth, young adults, or in sports/action-oriented jobs and ministries. Because of the same desire to plan, help, and socialize, you might find them working with the sick or the elderly. Some careers and occupations ESFPs might gravitate toward are: childcare, coaching, supervisor roles, religious educator, receptionist/assistant, respiratory therapist, recreation worker, researcher, homemaker, or entrepreneur.
Free Time for an ESFP: ESFPs love being active and and social and you will find them involved in things such as sports, crafts, or just hanging out with friends. Whatever they are doing, chances are it will include other people. If they participate in solitary activities like TV watching or reading, they often get extremely involved with the characters almost as if they were real people, and they like to discuss the episode or book with others. Friends are important the them and they have many because people are drawn to their fun-loving and friendly ways. ESFPs are known to be practical jokers, so watch out or they will try to pull one over on you!
Warnings for the ESFP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ESFPs need to beware of: While they are natural people-pleasers, ESFPs run the risk of trying to please everyone, all the time, and never making anyone truly happy, including themselves. They need to determine their own needs and not try so hard to keep the peace that they let them go unattended. ESFPs often wear many hats and balance can become a problem for them. Their tendency to be spontaneous and their lack of planning for the future can be a problem when they prioritize by what comes to mind first rather than what is most important or most pressing. ESFPs enjoy people so much that this can get them in trouble. They often don't act if it means they must do it alone. They need to learn to have confidence in their ability to do things well and alone if necessary. They also spend so much time socializing that they don't take of things at work or home that need to be done.
Spiritual Helps for the ESFP: ESFPs looking to engage more in their spiritual journey will likely enjoy engaging directly with people also on the journey. ESFPs like to discuss and process what they are learning with other people. That said, ESFPs will also enjoy personal or group retreats for relaxation, rejuvenation, and fellowship. ESFPs prefer group devotions and study time to going it alone. They also seek to see the tangible examples of God in their daily life. ESFPs prefer to consider both the positive and negative sides of a spiritual life and need to focus on building their faith. Often growth in faith can get neglected in their pursuit of spontaneity. ESFPs also like to use all their senses to appreciate and discover God.

What Others Say about the ESFP: Are you beginning to see yourself of someone you love on this page? If so, you know that they (or you) are playful, easy-going, enthusiastic, and friendly. Relationship-oriented, ESFPs are cooperative, vivacious, talkative, warm, and fun. They bring enjoyment to everyone they meet, are informal and comfortable to be around. Everyone needs (and probably has) at least one ESFP in their life!
Okay, who do you know that is an ESFP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, we change a couple of the letters and look at our friend the ISFJ. See you then!

Getting Into Character: The ESFJ (Extrovert, Sensor, Feeler, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.
I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the INTP's; those one-man or one-woman truth finders. This week we will change it up once more and look at the letter-opposite, the ESFJ.  Read on to hear about those ESFJs and their Welcome Wagon approach to life.

Living Life with an ESFJ: If you live with or work with an ESFJ, you already know how they make you, and everyone else they encounter, feel welcome. ESFJs work toward harmony in every facet of their influence. They are known for being thorough and loyal. If an ESFJ tells you s/he will do something, you can consider it done. They follow through on promises and projects and they keep their word, or die trying. ESFJs are also proactive servers. They not only see needs that others sometimes miss, but they also respond, always helping out. They are also keenly aware of the needs of people and can be found working toward harmony on all fronts by taking into account how their decisions will affect those around them. ESFJs make people feel welcome, help keep people organized, and set priorities for bot people and organizations. Proponents of tradition, ESFJs have been called "faith preservers" for the rest of the personalities. Unlike some of the other types, ESFJs will accept the structure imposed by the culture--unless it goes against compassion or kindness.


Career/Service Area Choices for an ESFJ: Because of their organizational skills, ESFJs excel in jobs or volunteer positions where they are called on to develop a plan to get things done. They also tend to know the priorities of the organization, company, and people involved and can work to meet them. ESFJs make people feel welcomed so they will enjoy and find success at jobs/ministries dealing with hospitality or working with people facing life issues such as sickness, infirmity, incarceration, advanced age, and new circumstances such as a move or a new baby. ESFJs enjoy working in environments where people are conscientious, sensitive, and appreciative. They are warm and caring servers, able to make the people around them feel valued and welcomed. ESFJs enjoy passing traditions from one generation to the next, so often they are drawn to working with youth ministries or social organizations. Some occupations that often appeal to ESFJs include secretary/assistant, researcher, teacher, homemaker, career/occupational therapist, nurse, trainer, lawyer, or owning their own business.

Free Time for an ESFJ: ESFJs like to play only after work is completed. Often they enjoy activities that include other people. However, they will steal away to recharge and renew after many days of meeting the needs of others. Typically they don't enjoy doing things alone, so once they recharge, they will try to connect the activity to someone else. ESFJs enjoy the value-oriented aspects of living life and frequently get with others to discuss movies, books, community or family needs. ESFJs tend to participate in events, sports, or hobbies that are regularly scheduled. ESFJs enjoy spending their free time helping to keep tradition alive. They may host the family holiday dinners or plan the annual egg hunt, the visit to the Christmas light display, or the Fourth of July horseshoe match. ESFJs participate in community or church volunteer opportunities when they can.


Warnings for the ESFJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ESFJs need to beware of: One of the favorite phrases in the ESFJs vocabulary is "You should/ought to do...". ESFJs need to learn to let others talk and only give their opinion when asked for it. The constant giving of ESFJs can wear them out. They need to learn to recognize and take care of their own needs before they burn themselves out. This same tendency also affects their ability to get things done. Often ESFJs spend so much time focused on people that they fail to accomplish necessary tasks in their own life. ESFJs need to be careful not to caretaker so much that the other person becomes dependent on them. ESFJs are people-oriented, but sometimes have a tendency to share too much. Learn to keep some things to yourself. And ESFJs need to give themselves permission to question traditions and to let them go when they no longer meet a need of fulfill a purpose.

Spiritual Helps for the ESFJ: For ESFJs, tradition is king, so they often enjoy very traditional spiritual lives. But their desire to keep harmony and meet the needs of those around them can cause problems. ESFJs tend to ignore conflicts and to pour themselves out to the point of exhaustion. ESFJs sometimes have a skewed vision of God as judge and forget His other qualities. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt. Their people-pleasing nature also opens them up to spiritual manipulation. However, often when they have been the victim of this, they learn to recognize it and won't let it happen again to themselves or others. ESFJs generally enjoy traditional Bible studies with a focus on practical applications. Their people-focus lends itself to ministries of evangelism and outreach. ESFJs typically enjoy retreats, especially those with a strong fellowship component and love ministries that allow them to infuse grace into the lives of others.

What Others Say about the ESFJ: If you are seeing a person emerge from this description, you know that they are warm, caring, and oriented toward people. ESFJs are adept at recalling facts and details. ESFJs are known to be sociable, sympathetic, tactful, and responsive to the needs of others. They can be described as harmonious and cooperative. They are deeply involved in the day-to-day struggles and triumphs of the people in their life. They are at their best in dealing with people in structured and organized ways, getting things done and doing it in a way that keeps the peace keeps tradition alive.
Okay, who do you know that is an ESFJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, we will change just the last letter and take a look at our friend the ESFP.

Getting Into Character: The ESTJ (Extrovert, Sensor, Thinker, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ENTJ's view of the world as one big event to plan or problem to solve. This week we will change just one letter and see if ESTJs are really that different from their ENTJ friends. Since we change the letter that deals in how we take in information, you will see they are similar in many of their characteristics, but they difference comes from how they know what they know. ESTJ's are take charge people who get things done.  

Living Life with an ESTJ: ESTJs are adept at seeing the necessary steps to complete a project or solve a problem. They are masters at leading others in accomplishing set goals, often leading by their own example to dig in and help until it comes to completion. They excel in organization especially to enable themselves and others to meet day-to-day concerns. ESTJs are efficient, consistent, and can easily express themselves in clear, logical, objective ways. The ESTJs in your life will do what they say and are known for having their act together. Not only do they get things done, but ESTJs are able to anticipate problems along the way and can adjust for them. ESTJs also keep you on their toes with their constant need to have hard questions answered. ESTJs are task-focused do-ers who enjoy completing things to mark off their do-to list.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ESTJ: ESTJs will enjoy working or ministering in areas that are task-oriented, structured, organized, and include other hard-working people. They are often promoted to leadership levels because of their logical, practical, and effective use of times and resources. They tolerate changes but only if the change makes sense for the over-all goal and doesn't mess with their master schedule. They are comfortable making decisions and dealing with concrete facts. They get things done, using the policies, procedures, and politics of the workplace/environment to do it. Some occupations/positions that often appeal to ESTJs include: government workers, insurance agents/underwriters, judge, management, military personnel, police officer, sales representative, supervisor, technology teacher, accountant/auditor/banker, teacher, librarian, and consultant.
Free Time for an ESTJ: ESTJs prefer to complete their work before engaging in free time activities. Often they use their free time as a reward they've earned or in working toward a goal. ESTJs enjoy active pursuits so you will see them participating in sports or gregarious leisure activities or as spectators at events with lots going on. When they spend time with friends or family, they often organize the group into some organized game or sport. Male ESTJs frequently engage in hunting, fishing or golf. Women often send their time in pursuits where they can involve their spouse or children.
Warnings for the ESTJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ESTJs need to beware of: ESTJs are often accused to being inflexible. Often they make decisions quickly but then refuse to deviate from the original plan, even in the face of new information. ESTJs will do well to give themselves permission to change their mind. Their quick decision-making also causes them to set themselves up for future problems as they are often so focused on making a decision that they don't think ahead to any fall-out that may occur. ESTJs are skeptical and often look at people for what they can do to accomplish their goals. ESTJs must learn that they aren't always right and seek to discover the opinions of others. They may run over co-workers, friends, or family and need to learn to show appreciation and emotion when appropriate. ESTJs tend to be emotionally reserved, however, when too much builds up they blow their top, often at seemingly inconsequential things.
Spiritual Helps for the ESTJ: Because of their logical and practical approach to life, ESTJs can become legalistic. Their skepticism may lead them to doubt or refusal to believe what cannot be proven. Spending time in mediation and personal reflection may serve to bring wrong attitudes to the surface where they can be dealt with by the ESTJ. Spending time with those less-fortunate and really getting to know them may help ESTJ focus less on the "rules" and more on the "exceptions" and bring more empathy and less legalism. If they pursue answers to the tough questions rather than dismissing anything they don't understand, often ESTJs become people with rock-solid faith.
What Others Say about the ESTJ: Known for their ability to recall facts about reality, decide quickly, and get things done,ESTJs are born leaders. They deal in facts, logic, and practicalities. They are sometimes seen as rigid or inflexible when they set their mind on a course and refuse to change direction. They honor their commitments and want to help others do the same. ESTJs are systematic, structured, responsible, and conscientious.
Okay, who do you know that is an ESTJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, let's change it up by switching every letter. INFP's--you're up!

Getting Into Character: The ENTJ (Extravert, Intuitive, Thinker, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.

I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ISFPs', inward-energized analytical, logical, fact-based approach to life. This week we will change every letter and see if ENTJs are truly the polar opposite of our friends from last week. ENTJs are planners, visioneers, and problem-solvers who are adept at bringing people along to work out the ideas they have stirring in their minds.

Living Life with an ENTJ: ENTJs are known for their skilled leading, their ability to bring order out of chaos and logic into problems, by stepping into leadership roles when they see a need. Their ideas are oriented toward the future and geared toward meeting a need, achieving a goal, or solving a problem. They are adept at stimulating others to do what's necessary to get the job done. Their Thinking and Judging influences allow them to think both logically and objectively about situations and then express their thoughts and judgements in clear, concise, and creative ways. Often their work becomes their life as they strive toward the goals and achievements they've set for themselves. They don't take "no" for an answer and they are natural skeptics. ENTJs are able to see how the parts of an organization, object, or situation relate to the whole, which enables them to develop strategies for planning, goal-setting, and finding solutions.


Career/Service Area Choices for an ENTJ:   Since ENTJs are so skilled at focusing on the future, they also enjoy ministry/volunteer/career opportunities that allow them to use these gifts. ENTJs are also results-minded people with a global perspective and who excel at leadership, so they should keep that in mind when seeking out service or career options. Some ministries or volunteer positions that might appeal to ENTJs are anything to do with finances such as fund-raising, investing, and finance. Evaluating and developing projects often are a strong-suit, so ENTJs might look for opportunities to serve on committees for building projects or strategy sessions for organizations. Some careers that often include a high percentage of ENTJs include: administrators, attorneys, consultants, credit investors, designers, engineers, managers, mortgage bankers, systems analysts, teachers/professors (especially of adults), and human relations/resources.

Free Time for an ENTJ:  Often for the ENTJ, their work is their play. If they engage in leisure activities, it usually has a purpose toward meeting long-range goals they've set for themselves. ENTJs are busy and don't enjoy not having anything to do. Don't look for them to sit still for long. They also prefer to spend time with others, so most of their free time is spent in a group setting. ENTJs tend to be competitive and they love to debate, so you will likely see this show up in their hobbies and interests. ENTJs prefer to participate in regularly scheduled activities as opposed to spur-of-the-moment endeavors.
Warnings for the ENTJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ENTJs need to beware of: Since much of their time is spent looking toward the future, ENTJs can allow this to interfere with their leadership and personal relationships. They often can't let go of their goals and cringe under anything that they feel lacks purpose. ENTJs tend to demand competency from themselves, but this can spill over into demanding it from everyone around them and sometimes makes them seem like professional critics. Or on the flip-side of that, they may blame themselves when something fails, thinking their own incompetency caused the failure. ENTJs are zealous, but this enthusiasm can lead them to make decisions hastily and to railroad others in the process. They can become so focused that they discount others' needs and appear impatient. ENTJs are often accused of being emotionally cold. They fear losing control of their emotions and are uncomfortable in situations that are too emotionally charged.

Spiritual Helps for the ENTJ: ENTJs will likely enjoy spiritual settings that allow for rigorous study, debate, and discussion. They will want to have clearly defined principles and purposes for their faith and will often pursue scientific means to support their beliefs. Born leaders, ENTJs enjoy taking headship of projects and experiences that allow people to deepen their faith while doing or serving in some capacity. ENTJs also enjoy times of meditation and prayer.

What Others Say about the ENTJ: Known for their logical, controlled, objective, and planned thinking, ENTJs can come across as critical and tough. However, when tempered, ENTJs strong personality may be described as strategic, challenging, and decisive. ENTJs are also heralded as being fair in their dealings with others. Other personality types appreciate the ENTJ for their leadership and visionary qualities.
Okay, who do you know that is an ENTJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, let's change just one letter (the N to an S) and see what difference that crazy little guy makes!

Getting Into Character: The ENFP (Extravert, Intuitive, Feeler, Perceiver)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted it in green, so you can easily catch up.

Again this week, we will change just one of the letters—the Thinker to Feeler—but look at the difference this makes in the personality of these two individuals!

My cousin tells me this is her label, so here I am waving--let's get started.

Living Life with an ENFP: ENFPs are people-oriented by their Extraversion type and the other three letters deal in feelings, hunches, and sensing things not seen on the surface. You will notice the ENFPs in your life as being extremely others-centered. They are those who know everyone and everything going on. If they don't know it, it probably hasn't happened yet. They are warm and appreciative and excel in understanding the needs of others so they draw friends like kids to the ice cream truck. They inspire those around them and have a zest for life. ENFPs enjoy variety, flexibility, and newness and will probably be much more excited to start projects than to see them through to completion. They are spontaneous, charismatic, and can easily change directions. They are curious and enthusiastic which makes them often restless.
Career/Service Area Choices for an ENFP:  ENFPs are often seen as free spirits and their love for people make them suitable for jobs and ministry or volunteer positions that give them stimulating and challenging opportunities, while keeping rules to a minimum. They are sensitive to work relationships and work to promote harmony in their relationships. They like to be included in decision-making and would rather focus on ideas. ENFPs often look for jobs in the service industry, especially those that allow them to help humanity in some way. They will thrive in situations where they have flexibility and novelty. Some careers or ministries that often appeal to ENFPs are: artist/entertainer, public speaker/evangelism, clergy/counselor, consultant, journalist, social scientist, nurse, writer/editor, teacher/trainer, youth worker, missions, public relations, social worker, advocate for the less fortunate.

Free Time for an ENFP: Whatever ENFPs do in their free time, it usually includes other people. They join activities that include others or they will invite them to attend with them. Often they explore new hobbies, sports, or places. They sometimes like to include their play in their work and may have more flexible boundaries here than other types. ENFPs also like to read and travel as this gives them opportunities to see, learn, and do new things. ENFPs can be dreamers so their free time might include thinking up new schemes and plans. Many ENFPs enjoy sports.
Warnings for the ENFP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ENFPs need to beware of: Since they love new and changing opportunities, they often only stick with things for a short period of time. ENFPs also have a tendency to over commit in their quest for the next best thing. Be careful to commit to things you really have a passion to do and finish what you started before moving on. ENFPs had a wide variety of knowledge but sometimes come across as just knowing enough about everything to be dangerous (or annoying). ENFPs are such people-persons that they can often get caught up in the lives of their friends and family. ENFPs need to learn their limits so they don't neglect taking care of themselves. On the flip-side of that, ENFPs often do things big--they overextend to the point of saturating themselves with the good things in life. As a result, they may completely wear themselves out or develop an unhealthy lifestyle.
Spiritual Helps for the ENFP: ENFPs might enjoy worship arts--singing, dancing, artist expression, drama. They also may enjoy worship in the natural world. Time for self-reflection will benefit the ENFP in allowing them to explore their own feelings. Because they enjoy being with people, they often relish study, discussion, and prayer in small group settings. But ENFPs may also enjoy methodical spiritual disciplines, often switching their focus between prayer, meditation, worship, and study, among others.
What Others Say about the ENFP: People enjoy the encouragement and inspiration they get from spending time with ENFPs. If you have one in your life, you will likely admire their quest to help those less-fortunate. They will be a steady source of insight and ingenious ideas. You will notice their tendency to dream about the future and to enjoy a changing and fluid existence.

Okay, who do you know that is an ENFP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we change it up and switch ALL four letters. We will look at the personality opposite of the ENFP and see if they truly are completely different. And it's not too late to send me your personality type if you want to see it here.

Getting Into Character: The ENTP (Extrovert, Intuitive, Thinker, Perceiver)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.

I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of last week’s post (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted it in green, so you can easily catch up.

We will change just one of the letters this week—the Sensor goes to the Intuitive—but look at the difference this makes in the personality of these two individuals!

So, because my lovely ENTP friend let me know her type way back at the beginning of this study, that is where we will go for week two.

Living Life with an ENTP: ENTPs possess confidence in themselves and their abilities. You might recognize them as the people who willingly lead others into the unknown. In a nutshell, they are leaders. ENTPs enjoy taking risks, challenges, and developing strategies for getting things done. ENTPs are highly independent and will resist routine and rules that don’t make sense or that are simply for the sake of rules. They push against boundaries and boundary-makers. Many ENTPs are entrepreneurs and they enjoy change and opportunities to try out their ideas.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ENTP: ENTPs enjoy areas of work or service that are not stagnant. They excel at projects or endeavors that employ change, flexibility and challenge. Given their Extroversion, they will want to be around people. Given their tendency for leadership, they will want to be out front. ENTPs prefer to brainstorm and envision a project rather than stick around to see it through the maintenance and up-keep of it. They tolerate only enough structure to keep things moving, but relish freedom to be creative in their problem-solving and planning. Some occupations that interest ENTPs include: actor/artist, chemical engineer, computer analyst, credit investigator, journalist, public relations/human resources, marketing, sales, photographer, psychiatrist, teacher, management, designer, clergy, and counselor.

Free Time for an ENTP: ENTPs enjoy leisure activities that allow for taking risks or give them new avenues for their energy. They often enjoy traveling, competitive sports, and activities that allow them to test themselves in body or in mind. However, they also enjoy reading. ENTPs usually make their plans as they go and prefer to not have all the details set in stone from the beginning of any adventure.

Warnings for the ENTP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ENTPs need to beware of: Because of their highly competitive nature, ENTPs can alienate people with their need to win and be right. ENTPs can also be so focused on their own ideas and concepts that they refuse to see the faults that are clear to others. Competitiveness also rears its head when someone questions their plans or ideas. They feel they have a “corner on the truth”. Strive for cooperation, not competition. ENTPs may not take deadlines seriously because of their ability to plan and brainstorm. Often they underestimate how long something will take in reality, because it was so simple for them to think it through in their head. Sometimes this leads to over-commitment. ENTPs need to learn to work within the boundaries of systems and procedures. They often view them as guidelines and really struggle when they must follow exactly.

Spiritual Helps for the ENTP: ENTPs will likely enjoy corporate worship and in-depth Bible study. They will relish opportunities to debate and discuss spiritual matters and questions with teachers and classmates that can meet their challenges. Travelling to (or extensive study of) the Holy Land will likely have a profound effect on their personal spiritual relationship. ENTPs are busy and so they may need to focus on solitude and rest to connect with God.

What Others Say about the ENTP: If you have family or friends that are ENTPs, they help you enjoy life by leading you to places unknown. They are risk-takers, game-players, and rule-breakers. They are spontaneous, energetic, and fun-loving. Get ready to have an adventure when you are with an ENTP.

Okay, who do you know that is an ENTP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we tweak just one other letter, and see what a difference it makes when we explore the ENFP. Let me know your label and I’ll fit it in the schedule here at the beginning.

Getting Into Character: The ESTP (Extravert, Sensor, Thinker, Perceiver)

Today we start of specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am not certified to administer the MBTI. The cost is high when I don't have an employer willing to send me for training. (We're talking like $2000!) I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.

Each of us has a label of four preferences and among those four, we have a "favorite"--one that we've perfected. Let's take pizza for example. For the sake of our discussion, everyone has been given a slice of pizza. Everyone's piece of pizza consists of four parts--the cheese, the toppings, the sauce, and the crust. Some of you will prefer the cheese. Others eat it for the toppings. Still others relish the sauce. And some of you carb-lovers, live for the crust. You all have all the parts, but you also have a favorite--one you return to again and again and if you could only have one part, that's the one you'd choose. It's the same with personality. You have one area that you fall back on time and again--one area you've perfected.


For the sake of this study, we are not going to go into all the logistics of the dominant and other functions. What you need to know is that your dominant function is one of these four: Sensing, Intuition, Thinking, or Feeling. That is why you can have the same four-part label as someone and still not be personality-clones. There are nuances even among people that share a label.

So, because my lovely ESTP friend (who shall remain nameless, Hi!) was the first to send me her type, that is where we will start. We will look at six specific areas.

Living Life with an ESTP:  ESTPs are known for their love of life. They like to have a good time and thanks to their Extravert tendency, they invite others to come along. They are FUN, with a capital F. They like to "do" rather than "be" and are always moving. They are rational thinkers that stay calm in a crisis and have an eye for the practical tasks that need completing. They don't pull any punches--they tell it like they see it, employing the truth in a straightforward manner.  They are practical, out-going, realistic. They see what needs doing and are resourceful and efficient.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ESTP:  ESTPs don't back away from a crisis and will enjoy work or service opportunities that keep them moving and on their toes and using their hands. They enjoy problem-solving and can handle factual information. They require flexibility in their jobs and of course, being Extraverted, they will want contact with the public. Some occupations an ESTP might enjoy and find success in would be: auditor, carpenter/craft worker, farmer, laborer, law enforcement officer, service worker, transportation operator, sales/marketer, administrators, doctor/health care, librarian, entrepreneurs, among others.

Free Time for an ESTP: ESTPs enjoy being active and will probably be interested in sports and other activities. They like to participate in sports as players and spectators. They also may enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and pastimes that involve taking risks. They are also often collectors--especially of things related to their other pursuits.

Warnings for the ESTP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ESTPs need to beware of: Weighing their words before they speak. If they use tact, they will find their foot is less often in their mouth. They will need to pull in the reins and plan before starting out on a new adventure or project. Just because they work well under pressure doesn't mean that they should keep themselves in a constant state of upheaval. They must remember to balance play with work. ESTPs need to be careful that they don't spend too much time "doing" and being busy that they don't spend time reflecting or focusing on other important people/matters.

Spiritual Helps for the ESTP: ESTPs might feel closest to God when they are in nature. Because of their ease with facts, they may enjoy in-depth Bible study, specifically with a group of others. They will likely focus on the practical  or logical aspects of their faith and often enjoy more charismatic churches or expressions of faith. They are the movers and shakers of the church.
What Others Say about the ESTP: If you have an ESTP family member or friends, they keep things lively. They help you have a good time. They are generally easy to be around and keep things fun and interesting, helping other focus on the joy found in life.

Okay, who do you know that is an ESTP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we tweak just one letter and see what a difference it makes when we explore the ENTP.

Getting Into Character--The Extravert

Today I want to talk a bit about personality. This applies to all of us and is useful if you are a parent, a spouse, a friend, or if you are a fellow writer and want to cast a particular character.

We each are born with specific traits that add up to make our personality. There are a whole lot of other areas--learning style, love language, gifts--that also weave together to make us the uniqe tapestry we are, but those are for other discussions. Today let's look at the "Extravert". This is the way a person is energized. Don't confuse Extrovert with Extravert. Extraverts can be loud or quiet, boisterous or studious. But what we are concerned with is where do they get their energy--from outside themself (extra) or from inside (intro).

Extraverts are people who like action, interaction and activity. They like to have a lot going on at any one time. They love to be around people and get energized by their encounters with others. They will be the person who is pumped after being at a party or with friends and may want you to listen as they verbally process the whole affair. They love being a part of a team or a group and will enjoy being part of a team sport as much for the company as for the competition.

They might be described as outgoing, bossy, busy, talkative, persuasive, impulsive. They enjoy interruptions and look at them as opportunities. They often act first and think it through later. That is also true about their conversations. They are foot-in-the-mouth people because they talk first and say exactly what they are thinking. They can appear bossy because they have a tendancy to take over, especially if no one else steps up.

Maybe you see yourself in this description. If so, rejoice in the fact that you know lots of people, have a broad spectrum of knowledge and get things done. You also need to be aware that you can run over people with your energy, your mouth, and your attitude. You may need to rein yourself in at times. You are also going to be happiest if at least part of your day involves other people, preferably face to face. You will enjoy careers and volunteer opportunities that allow you to interact with people.

If you see your spouse in this description, you now know why he acts the way he does or why she is so wound up when you come home from being with friends. Chances are if your spouse is an Extravert, you are not. Opposites attract. Now you know your spouse will be happiest if she has time in each day to be around people or that he will gladly tackle your "honey-do" list for the promise of some group activity later.

If you see your child in this description, you are going to be one tired parent! Okay, seriously, they are going to want to join every club and sports team but they will need your help to learn how to rest and spend time alone too. They will likely respond to rewards that involve spending time with friends. They will need your guidance in not saying everything that comes to mind and to learn to think about how something will affect the person who hears it. Don't plan on listening to that new CD when you pick them up at school, because your child will want to recap and relive the day for you.

If you see yourself in this description, but not your child or spouse, you will need to balance your need for people time and their need for quiet and personal processing.

Both Jewel and Jot are Extraverts and they can talk forever. There have been times when they cornered some poor, unsuspecting grocery clerk and, even though the person was backing away, they wouldn't stop talking. They are not nearly as competitive as Justice, but they both enjoy being part of a sports team and you will hear them talk about the people they will see at the game rather than the hope for a win.

Who do you now that fits this description and how does this information help you in our relationship with him/her?

Next Friday we will look at the flip-side, the Introvert.