ENFP Introduction

ENFPs are people-centered creators who are energized by new ideas, people, and activities. ENFP personality types are known to be active, flexible, and innovative in their conduct. These MBTI types have a strong need for meaningful, emotional relationships with others.

I. What Does ENFP Stand For?

ENFP stands for Extraversion, iNtuition, Feeling, and Perception and is one of 16 personality types studied from the MBTI test (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator). The MBTI personality assessment developed by Isabel Briggs Myers, Katharine Cook Briggs, and David Keirsey from the work of psychiatrist Carl G. Jung, the types of psychology based on theories of cognitive functions. Keirsey named ENFP The Champion/ The Campaigner because this group tends to help others, and ENFPs are one of the four oriented-idealist personality types.

II. Personality Traits of The ENFP Group

The outstanding characteristic of ENFPs is enthusiasm, especially when it comes to the things that spark their imagination - in this case, ENFPs can be very dynamic and easily persuade others to join them. Ironically, this feature can also turn away from ENFPs, when they suddenly find themselves being in the spotlight, considered to be the inspirational leader and the masters of others, ENFPs strive to be independent, so unsurprisingly, they do not always want to be the focus of attention.

They dislike focusing too much on details and repeating old processes. ENFPs favor novelty, tend to be optimistic, energetic, and have strong emotions. They aspire to win and share their experiences with others.

The ENFPs are also very emotional and sensitive, they see emotions as something that everyone should take the time to understand and express. However, this trait can also cause a lot of stress for them, as ENFPs can often focus too much on someone else's motivation and the meaning of that action. Observation and intuition are their two dominant personalities, but they can make serious mistakes when trying to infer from the feelings of others as a basis for their decisions.

ENFPs are not people who tend to obey, they go their separate ways and believe in their intuition. They have many talents, but they only show when they are comfortable with their surroundings. People with this personality can become impatient and frustrated if they are put in a boring position, unable to express themselves freely - but when ENFPs find their spot or the job they want, their imagination, empathy, and courage can produce incredible results.

ENFPs are friendly and endearing. This group is one of the most soft-hearted people. They may be wise, dignified, pious people for a long time, but when they get the chance, they can immediately play around like a child and tease others.

ENFPs are very competent. Just knowing enough can satisfy them, although it may be uncomfortable for personality groups that are prone to precise thinking. However, there are also some successful ENFPs in precise sciences such as mathematics.

ENFPs are sometimes taken by surprise because of being dominated by emotions. Hasty emotional-based decisions can explode with an unintended outcome. Many ENFPs have suddenly quit their jobs just because of such moments.

As a variation of Idealist from Plato's point and Ethicist's from Aristotle's, ENFPs differ slightly from other NFs in most specific aspects. Like other Idealists, they talk a bit abstract and are always ready to cooperate with others to accomplish the goals set out. They are interested in matters related to people, always concerned with ethical issues, and can do a good job with human resources.

ENFPs are loyal adherents of altruism. Light-hearted, gullible, and mystical, they are people who are in repeated situations but still find new solutions in the direction of thinking about the future. In the eyes of others, ENFPs are compassionate, forgiving, and trustworthy. They are often rich in creativity, trust in their intuition, always yearn for a romantic life, look for unity, want to be recognized by everyone and to be mature and wise. 

In terms of intellect, ENFPs tend to be more about diplomacy than strategy, logistics, or tricks. Moreover, they always like to explore, so they will often do better in the role of an Advocate for providing information rather than the role of coordinating and guiding the implementation of the plan of a Mediator. And because ENFPs are overly emotional, they tend to be a Champion at inspiring others rather than mending the wounded souls of a Healer.

III. The Cognitive Functions of The ENFP Group

Dominant: Extraverted Intuition

ENFPs often focus on the world of possibilities. They are good at abstract thinking and do not like to focus on small details, instead, they are creative and focused on the future. ENFPs are good at seeing things as they can rather than just focus on what they are. They naturally tend to be concentrated on relationships and are skilled at finding patterns and connections between people, situations, and ideas.

Auxiliary: Introverted Feeling

When making decisions, ENFPs value sensations rather than relying on logic and objective criteria. They tend to follow their hearts, empathize with others, and let emotions guide their decisions. ENFPs have a desire to live true to themselves and their values. Things that match their values will be seen as their ideal world.

Tertiary: Extraverted Thinking

This cognitive function focuses on the logical organization of information and ideas. When viewing information, ENFPs can use this function to sort through various data to detect connections effectively. For example, an ENFP can verbalize his/her thoughts while solving a problem, giving out all the information to create an easy-to-follow thinking system.

Inferior: Introverted Sensing

ENFPs demonstrate this functionality by comparing their current experiences with past experiences. In doing so, they are often able to recall the memories, emotions, and senses with which they are associated with those events. This allows individuals to look for patterns and form expectations for future events based on their previous experience.

IV. ENFP Values and Motivations

1. ENFP values

ENFPs are creative, energetic, passionate about people and their abilities. They always bring ideas, vitality, and stimulate others to develop with enthusiasm in their breaths. ENFPs like the beginnings of a project or a new relationship, they can communicate intelligently and have a sense of instantaneous awareness to know the needs of others so they can offer timely help and advice. 

ENFPs are very friendly, enthusiastic, intelligent, and well-mannered. They see this world as full of opportunities, and they always feel passionate and interested in everything. Their enthusiasm allows them to inspire and motivate others more than any other personality type. They can convince people of anything. They love life and see it as a special gift to them, and they always live their best to deserve it.

ENFPs are capable and skilled people. They are highly effective at doing things they are interested in. They prefer short-term jobs, so during their career, they can go through many different jobs. To outsiders, it seems that ENFPs have no clear direction and goals, but in reality, they are very consistent because they have a great sense of self-worth. What they do must be commensurate with their own value.

ENFPs always want to be true to who they are and to do what they believe is right. They see meaning in everything around them, and they always try to find ways to adapt to their own lives and values to achieve peace of mind. They are always conscious and even afraid of losing themselves. Since inspiration is an essential part of ENFPs' life, and also because they always strive to keep the middle ground, they are often passionate individuals with many advanced ideals.

2. ENFP Motivations

ENFPs are stimulated by new and interesting ideas. They like to verbalize their thoughts with others to come up with ideas around a bit. Working alongside other energetic and enthusiastic creators tends to help ENFPs advance.

ENFPs are very human-oriented, which means they tend to feel most energetic around friends, family, co-workers, or even strangers. Having the opportunity to meet and network with new people tends to constantly stimulate ENFPs.

ENFPs' inclination to unique and unknown experiences tends to make them more comfortable with risk and change than most people. They can constantly step out of their comfort zone to grow and broaden their horizons.

They tend to feel energized by inner excitement for the future. Optimism keeps them steadfastly moving forward and although they do not tend to plan too far, most ENFPs are confident that the future will bring good fortune.

ENFPs feel motivated when they are heard and understood by others. When their friends, family, and colleagues take the time to listen to what they share and join the discussion, ENFPs may feel like their presence and ideas are welcomed and appreciated.

When ENFPs can participate in exciting missions, they will feel happier and more productive. They will be able to make good use of their strengths and enjoy the work they are doing, which will likely improve their overall level of engagement in the work environment.

V. Strengths and Weaknesses of ENFPs

1. ENFP Strengths

Most ENFPs have good interaction skills. They have an inherent ability to understand a person through only a short period of contact, and they use that ability and their flexibility to build relationships with others.

Their curiosity to learn. People with this personality can discover new things. They will not hesitate to move out of their comfort zones to learn new ideas. Besides, they are very liberal and imaginative.

Their enthusiasm and energy. They easily get excited when finding new things and never tire of sharing them with someone else if they listen. Their enthusiasm does provide opportunities to create social relationships.

An observant mind. They have a thirst for knowledge that makes them constantly observe everything and cannot ignore for a single moment.

Good financial management

They can overcome failed relationships (even though they often blame themselves)

Their loyalty and conscientiousness – they want lasting relationships

They strive to create a mutually beneficial relationship

2. ENFP Weaknesses

As the world of ENFPs is always filled with exciting opportunities, everyday tasks turn out to be something tiresome for them. They don't focus on tedious and detailed forms of work, and often they will let them fall into oblivion. They won't feel any interest if they are forced to do that kind of work. This is a huge challenge in the lives of most ENFPs, and sometimes causes conflicts between family members.

An ENFP that goes the wrong way can turn out to be a controller – and they are exceptionally good at it. The gift of communication makes it easy for them to get what they want. Though most ENFPs won't take advantage of this ability because it is against their self-worth.

ENFPs sometimes give severely mistaken judgments. They have a wonderful ability to use their intuition to perceive the truth about a person or situation, but when they use their judgment, it can lead them to a false conclusion.

ENFPs who have not learned to do something to the bitter end often have difficulty keeping family happiness. Always predicting the possibilities, they tend to be fed up with what's in reality. 

ENFPs sometimes get distracted and fall out of track. Unlike other extroverted groups, they need some time to balance themselves and make sure they are doing what is right for their values. ENFPs that can balance themselves are usually very successful. Conversely, other ENFPs may have the habit of dropping off a project if they see more potential ones. That is why they never achieve truly remarkable results even if they can do those things.

VI. Personal Relationships of ENFPs

1. Romantic relationship

When it comes to relationships, ENFPs are excited to share with their partners the myriad of eye-opening ideas and experiences that life has to offer. For them, relationships are an interesting process of mutual discovery and imagination, an opportunity to connect with another soul.

They take their relationships very seriously and are extremely dedicated to the people they have committed to wholeheartedly. During the dating phase, ENFPs will show these qualities by igniting new flames with affection and will do everything they can to build a strong relationship by showing conscientiousness and trustworthiness by whatever means available.

Long-distance relationships are quite common among ENFPs, as they consider physical distances just another idea, not consistent with concepts like love. This allows them to demonstrate their commitment, by staying honest despite their physical distance, and by working through it to surprise their partner. These are a testament to ENFPs' deep mystery, idealism, and emotion, and such efforts often keep the flames of a relationship sparkling.

They also express these sexual ideals and explore physically with their imagination and passion, and see their time together as an opportunity for their feelings for each other to shine. ENFPs will be willing to experiment with their partner, even at the very beginning of a relationship, but they can also be strangely perfectionist, believing these physical actions represent their deeper love and should not be done sloppily. This perfectionism also reflected their sensitivity and desire to be satisfied and ENFPs appreciate a well-timed, well-positioned compliment.

A strong sense of their values will help the majority of ENFPs stay committed to their relationships. However, ENFPs often like something new in their lives, so they like to build relationships with people who are comfortable with change and enjoy experiencing new things.

2. Friendship

ENFPs strongly value their friendship, even more so than all the other NF groups. They are very loyal to friends and are sometimes turned into sacrifices by more heartless people. ENFPs find their energy when they are with others. Some of them have a really hard time being alone often.

As friends, ENFPs are pleasant and supportive, always sharing and developing ideas, being open-minded, receptive to the thoughts and feelings of others. This warmth and sincerity make them proficient in pulling people out of their shell and as a result, they tend to have a huge circle of friends.

ENFP friends tend to be very caring and supportive, but they also need to ensure that their needs are met. People with this type of personality are often deeply involved in the lives of their friends to the point of forgetting to take care of themselves. Moreover, ENFPs also tend to cultivate unrealistic expectations when it comes to friendship. This can potentially lead to stress and frustration when realizing that their friends are not as perfect or as dedicated as they want them to be.

The more extroverted types naturally appeal to them, but ENFPs will also go further and surprisingly persevere in their attempt to learn more about introverted types. The ability to mingle with others and speak their language with that characteristic pervasive enthusiasm supported them in this endeavor and the mysterious appeal of the introverted groups will draw ENFPs in.

Fortunately, ENFPs are open and sincere enough in their friendships and, at the same time, connect and understand even their acquaintances so they realize that not everyone expresses themselves in the same ways and that's fine. Their sensitivity may make hanging around with more critical and controversial personalities, such as group Thinking (T) and Judging (J), strongly expressed, but they value, even cherish anyone who values them, and the adventures and experiences they have together are what makes a good life possible.

3. Parenthood

ENFP parents create many delightful experiences for their children, but sometimes it also makes children who are inclined towards group iNtuition (N) or Thinking (T) feel stressed. Children affected by the life cycle of ENFP parents will find them conflicting and confusing. These parents want to be the best friends of their children, but sometimes they play the role of strict and disciplined fathers and mothers. The plus point is that ENFPs are always consistent with their values, which motivate and educate their children greatly.

The reason ENFP parents are great is their sense when they have everything new and beautiful that they will be able to share with their children every day as they learn and grow. Throughout the lives of their children, ENFPs provide a combination of love and support that is almost overflowing and an environment that revolves around freedom and creativity. ENFP parents want their children to share their point of view in an unlimited world and, of course, still under their guidance.

When their children reach adolescence, all of these emotions and attention can begin to be obscured, and their children may seek more personal independence. This can be a challenge for ENFP parents – they have strong emotions and invest a lot of those emotions in the things and people they care about. ENFP parents want to see if their ideas work and this also applies to their thinking about parenting.

Luckily for them, as long as they raise their children with a sense of useful independence, rather than an aimless and antagonistic response, ENFPs will find that their child has developed a strong sense of self-esteem and self-worth, confidently stepping out into the world at their own pace and style, knowing that they have both themselves and their parents ENFPs to depend on.

4. Relationship with other personality groups

They are inherently outgoing so they are always enthusiastic in communicating, trying to create connections, and understanding with people around them. ENFPs like to get to know different people, inspire them, and encourage them to develop:

For INFP, ENTP, ENFJ groups: they have similar characteristics and many things in common so it is easy for ENFPs to share values, interests, and approaches with these groups

For INTP, INFJ, ESFP, ENTJ groups: they have some differences but these differences are attractive to ENFPs. They still have something in common to create a balance in their relationship with each other

For ISFP, INTJ, ESTP, ESFJ groups: at first, ENFPs may have some difficulty accessing and connecting with these personality groups. However, after interacting for a while, they will discover commonalities as well as other points of view that can complement each other

For ISTP, ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ groups: these personality groups are opposite and conflicting with ENFPs, but if it is possible to develop a relationship, this is an opportunity for ENFPs to learn and grow themselves, the challenges always come along with great opportunity.

In short, ENFPs are very serious in relationships but approach it with spontaneity and effort. They require sincerity and depth from relationships and will try their best to make things work as they want. ENFPs are enthusiastic, trustworthy, caring, and always try to nurture their relationships. They can communicate competently and have the ability to inspire and help others to express all the energy they can. Energetically and lively, ENFPs are often immersed in passion and appreciated for their warmth of sincerity and beautiful ideals.

VII. ENFP Career Paths and Development Areas

ENFPs are very lucky because they are quite good at many things. An ENFP can achieve great results at things they are interested in. However, they are easily bored and often don't work to the point. Therefore, they usually avoid work that requires meticulous and repetitive tasks. They will do their best in jobs that allow them to freely create new ideas or work in a team. The limiting and patterned things are not ideal for this personality group.

ENFPs are very gifted, dynamic, and future-oriented. They can easily compete with other personality groups in the career field when it comes to seeing the bigger picture or finding the fundamentals. Furthermore, despite being a type F, ENFPs excel at using their logical thinking, forming a very powerful combination of intuition and reasoning – they can focus on the main goals and then organize, plan to achieve them. There are many potential careers that make good use of the ENFP trait – people with this personality tend to analyze multifaceted systems, becoming scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. These are the places where ENFPs can really shine – for example, scientists and engineers with large networks. They are compatible with the following career fields:

• Art, design, and entertainment (actors, musicians, singers);
• Social media (Editor, Public Relations, Author);
• Education (Teachers, Administrators);
• Business, management, and sales (Marketing, Human Resource Management, Business Management);
• Science (Psychologist, sociologist);
• Individual Care Services (Personal trainer, nanny);
• Science (Psychologist, sociologist);
• Politicians, Diplomats;
• Scientist, Engineer;
• Programmer, System Analyst, or Computer Expert.

VIII. How ENFPs perform in the work and learning environment

The two main goals that ENFPs look for in their work and learning environment are the opportunity to discover new ideas and the opportunity to carry out that discovery with like-minded people. These qualities show up across all levels of the hierarchy, although ENFPs want almost no hierarchy at all.

As subordinates, ENFPs will impress managers with their creativity and adaptability. They are also good listeners thanks to their warmth and openness and can easily analyze and understand other people's points of view. As a result, they may not be suited to an extreme HR management environment with a lot of attention to small details. They need the freedom and creativity to fulfill their mandate, and if this need is not met, managers may find ENFP subordinates quickly under pressure.

They love to explore new ideas and learn new things, and once something becomes familiar, its appeal begins to fade. If managers are able to maintain a spirit of guidance and close friendship instead of bossy and authoritarianism, they will find loyal and dedicated ENFP contributors.

As co-workers, ENFPs view their colleagues as friends that they genuinely care for, support, and cheer for when they are in trouble or stress. They are warm and optimistic, always finding and proposing beneficial situations for everyone.

They value different opinions and respect the manner of their peers. Therefore, ENFPs tend to be instinctive leaders in a group, absorbing colleagues' motivations and technically the glue that holds the group together.

As managers, ENFPs prefer non-hierarchical systems and an upright and unsupervised environment. They establish true friendships with their subordinates and work together as a member instead of a commander. ENFP managers will tend to believe in the concept of intrinsic motivation, the idea that things are worth doing in their own interest, not because of some complex system of punishment and rewards.

However, it is also challenging when faced with situations that require the necessary reprimands and subordinates really like to be directed closely, with clearly defined goals and schedules. Soft and fair approaches such as carrot and stick are recommended for ENFP managers. Either way, ENFPs' ability to tailor their communication style to almost any style will always shine, making things flow and adapting to their team's needs.

IX. 10 Things you might not know about ENFPs

1. One study found that the ENFP personality group exhibited higher than the normal incidence in psychodrama. Most of them are inclined towards theater arts. ENFPs love to tell funny stories, especially about their friends. Perhaps because of this bias, many of them tend to become reporters.

2. The ENFP personality group is estimated to make up about 7 to 8% of the total world population, they are referred to as "journalists", "champions", "imaginative builders".

3. ENFPs are fascinated by mysteries and will do their best to understand others if they feel that something is hidden within. This is one of the reasons why ENFPs tend to form extremely strong friendships with other types of NF and NT.

4. ENFPs tend to avoid people with strong personalities due to their sensitivity and intuition, such as group Thinking (T) and Judging (J) – those types of personalities may have strong opinions on a wide range of topics, and ENFPs may feel quite annoying arguing with them.

5. ENFPs are workaholics and multitaskers.

6. The percentage of ENFP women is the majority compared to men.

7. The need for a perfect relationship can cause ENFPs to change their relationship status on a regular basis.

8. ENFPs have a tendency to wander in thoughts.

9. ENFPs are overthinkers.

10. Born to be natural leaders but ENFPs dislike controlling others and vice versa.

X. ENFP famous people

• Hunter S. Thompson, journalist and the author of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas;
• Mark Twain, a famous journalist and writer;
• Bill Cosby, a famous actor, writer, musician;
• Oscar Wilde, an Irish poet and playwright;
• Aldous Huxley, the author of Brave New World;
• Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks;
• Samuel Clemens, a famous American writer;
• Walt Disney, the founder of The Walt Disney Company;
• Phoebe Buffay, one of the six main characters on Friends (1994–2004).