Navel-gazing
I eschewed personality type tests for years because, frankly, I found them boring. But I took one (out of boredom!) a couple weeks ago and it pegged me as an ENFP (the Visionary), which, as it turned out, is exactly right. Not only does it describe me to a T - I am very clearly 100% this type - but it makes me feel better about my discipline-hopping (as apparently this is pretty normal for ENFPs). Is it any wonder I’ve only applied to interdisciplinary Master’s programs?
But these bits surprised me and made me laugh:
• This type is found in only about 5 percent of the general population, but they have great influence because of their extraordinary impact on others. (Is this good, or does it mean I’m a freak?)
• Because they tend to be hypersensitive and hyper-alert, they may suffer from muscle tension. (NO JOKE. I’m wound tighter than a top most of the time.)
• People to people work is essential for ENFPs, who need the feedback of interaction with others. (Chuckling - I was telling Tom yesterday that my greatest struggle in writing is that I don’t get a grade for my work, so I don’t know if the editor liked it or not.)
• Common occupations picked by ENFPs include artist, clergy, consultant, counselor, entertainer, journalist, public relations worker, social scientist, social worker, teacher, and other occupations that allow ENFPs to use their creativity and insight.
And this was the real kicker . . .
• Flexibility and autonomy are important to ENFPs, who may bolt from organizations in which this is not attainable.
Any other ENFPs out there?
tala wrote:
based on what my parents have said and what i know of myself, i think right now i am closest to an ENFP in personality, and i guess i always have been. ha! that’s why i like you. :)
p.s. that thing about being involved in too many things and not heavily involved in one thing… GAH! i never, ever seem to sit down and do something, i’m always spread too thin. yet i dislike the prospect of lacking something to do even more.
Posted on 22-Oct-07 at 8:46 pm | Permalink
trqacy wrote:
YES! I can tell you that’s me without even taking the test. You should read The Hyper-sensitive Person…it’s a serious of books about making the most out of being “hyper-sensitive” (such as making lifestyle changes to bring out your creativity, how to foster relationships with others, how to stay atop everything and thrive). I heart those books.
And I heart your blog as always :)
Posted on 22-Oct-07 at 9:17 pm | Permalink
Josh wrote:
Count me in. Totally.
Posted on 23-Oct-07 at 12:03 pm | Permalink
charity wrote:
Is this Mr & Mr Myers-Brigss? If so, John (ENFP) was put through the entire battery in the State Dept. years ago. SO now you know…
Unlucky him married nearly the opposite me …
Posted on 23-Oct-07 at 7:18 pm | Permalink
katy~* wrote:
i’m enfj. i didn’t think we were entirely the same.
enfj’s are extroverted feeling w/ introverted intuition.
~*
Posted on 26-Oct-07 at 2:48 pm | Permalink
Joshua Longbrake wrote:
I am an ENFP as well.
Posted on 31-Oct-07 at 4:23 am | Permalink