From Fragmented to Complete: What Each Myers-Briggs® Personality Type Needs for Wholeness

Throughout life, many of us go into a sort of autopilot when it comes to our decisions, actions, and perceptions. There’s a way that comes naturally to us, and, for the most part, it serves us well. But there’s also a secret longing for something else, something more. Why? Where does it come from? And how can we integrate that secret longing into our lives in a meaningful way? That’s what we’ll be exploring in today’s article!

Not sure what your personality type is? Take our new personality questionnaire here. Or you can take the official MBTI® here.

Why we have a missing piece:

Having a personality type means that we have certain natural tendencies that stand out. INFJs, for example, can intuit patterns and emotions without having to work really hard at it. ESTPs, in contrast, can stay present and react to incoming changes with logic and practicality fairly easily. When we are “in our type”, we operate with our natural strengths. Because they come easily to us, we tend to assume they come easily to everyone. Of course, as we go through life we start to realize this is not the case. Or some people just think others are ignorant or unwise rather than realizing that other people just have a completely different set of strengths entirely.

But here’s the thing, operating “in type” isn’t always what’s needed. And we all have many layers to our personality type. INTJs, for example, aren’t just introverts, intuitives, thinkers, and judgers. They also have an extroverted side, a sensing side, a feeling side, and a perceptive side.

Your Mental Toolbox

One of the best ways to understand your personality type is through understanding your cognitive functions. Now don’t worry, I’m not going to get super complicated about this, and you don’t have to have a certification in typology to understand what we’ll be exploring here.

Cognitive functions are mental tools that you use to experience the world, make decisions, and perceive situations.

The dominant function is the mental process you live and breathe. It’s the way you see the world and experience things without having to try.

An INFJ or an INTJ have introverted intuition as their dominant function. This means they don’t have to put a lot of concerted effort into seeing patterns or making hunches about how things will play out in the future. It’s just how they do things. It’s their modus operandi, if you will.

The dominant function is the part we most identify with ourselves. We have the highest capacity for mastery and competence here. When we’re using our dominant function we tend to feel like we’ve got it all figured out. We know what to do, and if everyone else could just see things our way life would make a lot more sense.

The inferior function, in contrast, tends to be a constant source of shame and vulnerability. We feel uncertain here, less sure of ourselves, and if we have to use this function we tend to feel awkward, frustrated, and incompetent. Both the dominant and inferior function are the “core of the self” according to typology expert and psychologist John Beebe.

But here’s the thing. We want so much to be good at our inferior function. In fact, John Beebe states, “Despite its burden of shame, the inferior function, with its connection to soul or spirit, is also a place of great idealism in the psyche. The higher cause or mission that seizes our energy is often associated with this area of the psyche where we are ourselves rather weak and inept.”

In short, we aspire to use our inferior function well, we ache to integrate it into our lives, but we feel so awkward and uncertain about it that we often avoid trying to use it, especially publicly. But, this inferior function, along with your dominant function, make up the “core” of your personality type, and thus it’s crucial to try to get them to work together in tandem.

Now let’s get started figuring out how this missing piece shows up for each of the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types and how you can further integrate it into your life.

The Quest for Wholeness for Each Myers-Briggs Personality Type

The INTJ

As an INTJ, it’s natural for you to get insights, spot patterns, and make predictions and strategies. It’s also natural for you to be rational, straightforward, and trusting of empirical evidence and logic. You can easily go through life forecasting events, mapping out plans, and spotting logical discrepancies. In fact, you’ve probably been doing this naturally for a long time. Hopefully people in your environment have applauded your skills here; I know some INTJs are surrounded by skeptics who don’t take their intuition seriously, and then that’s a whole different story.

The Missing Piece for the INTJ:

What’s difficult for you as an INTJ is being fully present in the moment. You’re a heady person, and many INTJs say they feel like “brains with dangling limbs” (I actually said this myself to my husband last night). But being present, spotting a lot of concrete details, reacting to changes in the moment, being spontaneous, this is harder for you.

Yet you long for beauty, groundedness, and connection to nature. You probably get a thrill from being in nature, seeing a breathtaking sunset, or working with your hands in some way. But as an INTJ you likely put off being in the “real” to focus instead on theories, concepts, plans, and strategies. Sometimes you can get so busy with the world of the mind that you lose touch with the world of the senses. And over time, this can make you feel disconnected with a part of yourself, or a little bit empty.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

·         Spend time in nature. This is healing for the soul and I guarantee you won’t regret it.

·         Take time to savor the moment each day. Slow down your thoughts and just notice the way things look, smell, feel, taste, and sound.

·         Take up a hobby that gets you into your senses; this could mean cooking, baking, learning to play a musical instrument, dancing, sports, or even photography!

·         Open up your shades every morning or go out on your porch and just take in the morning sunlight, the breeze, and the sights and sounds all around you.

·         Find ways to get more in touch with your senses and the present moment. Mindfulness practices, massages, and grounding techniques can all help with this.

Find out more about INTJs: Why INTJs Struggle with Loneliness and How to Cope

The INFJ

For someone with an INFJ personality type, the world is a place filled with possibilities for deep connections and understanding. Sensing patterns, grasping potential, and forecasting how things will play out comes naturally to you. You also have a deep empathy for people and probably absorb a lot of other people’s emotions without even having to try. This deep well of empathy makes it easy for you to connect with others, actively listen, and sense the underlying motivations and feelings that people are grappling with.

The Missing Piece for the INFJ:

What’s difficult for you as an INFJ is staying present in the moment, focusing on a lot of details, and seeing the beauty of the “now.” Many INFJs are so focused on concepts, predictions, and future possibilities that they lose touch with where they are in the moment and all the opportunities they could experience right now. Many INFJs feel overwhelmed when they have to focus on a lot of details, especially new ones they’ve never worked with before. For example, a lot of INFJs feel stressed when they have to drive in a new city where they aren’t familiar with the roads and have to react to unexpected sights, sounds, and changes.

Yet INFJs crave alignment with the world around them. They want to feel present, grounded, and in synch with nature. Many INFJs have even told me how they fantasize about being quick on their feet, responsive, or highly skilled at some sensory task. And the truth is, this strength can be cultivated! It will just take more work and practice for an INFJ than it might take for a Sensing-Perceiving personality type.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• Practice grounding yourself in your body. Yoga or gentle exercise can be a good way to start. Paying attention to your physical sensations brings you back to the present.
• Engage with your environment. Try to notice new things in familiar places, or take up a pastime like gardening or cooking that encourages you to work with your hands and notice finer details.
• Allow yourself to enjoy sensory pleasures. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe, listening to music, or using aromatherapy, find ways to delight in the sensory aspects of life.
• Spend quiet time in nature. As an INFJ, you’ll likely find peace and inspiration in natural settings. Take a walk, meditate, or even just sit and watch the clouds roll by for a few minutes each day. It can make all the difference in feeling present and connected to your surroundings.
• Play at something that calls on quick reflexes. This could be table tennis, beat saber, or even improv practice. Just go easy on yourself and don’t get flustered or embarrassed if you struggle initially.

Find out more about INFJs: The Dark Side of the INFJ Personality Type

The INTP

If you’re an INTP, your world is filled with unending questions, theories, and possibilities. Your mind bounces from one idea to the next, untangling the underlying principles of how things work or philosophies are formed. You can analyze anything, dissect it, spot inconsistencies, arguments, loopholes, and logical fallacies. There’s not enough time in your lifetime to learn all you want to learn and discover all you want to discover. You are at your happiest when you can engage in intellectual exploration without restrictions. To outsiders, you might seem detached or overly focused on your inner world, but for you, this is where all the fun happens!

The Missing Piece for the INTP:

What you feel less certain about as an INTP is the emotional world around you. Abstract thinking is a walk in the park for you, but figuring out how to make charming chit-chat with complete strangers probably feels like carrying the One Ring to Mount Doom (sorry, if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan, I might have just annoyed you). You might find yourself dreading social events or struggling to know where you stand with other people. Many INTPs describe a sense of feeling awkward or out of place in social settings or easily rejected or dismissed. Similarly, managing emotions can be perplexing, as you tend to default to logic over feeling. This can sometimes lead to a disconnect between you and others, who might perceive you as cold or indifferent. But this doesn’t always have to be the case! Many INTPs I’ve personally known have developed this “missing piece” and are confident and engaged in their social lives.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• Practice expressing your emotions in a comfortable setting. Start by writing down your feelings in a journal or talking about them with someone you trust.
• Challenge yourself to socialize in small, comfortable settings. Interacting in small groups or one-on-one can help you develop your interpersonal skills without feeling overwhelming.
• Explore the arts. Even if you don’t consider yourself artistic, engaging with art can help you develop an appreciation for emotions and perspectives outside of your logical comfort zone.
• Go people watching. Find a busy place and observe people’s body language, facial expressions, and interactions. This can be surprisingly interesting and informative!
• Join a club around an interest you have. Whether it’s a book club, comedy group, or astronomy club, finding people who share your interests can help “break the ice” for you socially and get you more quickly involved in a social setting that brings you joy.

Discover more about INTPs: How INTPs Say “I Love You”

The INFP

As an INFP, it’s easy for you to sense how you feel about things, what seems “right” or “wrong”, or does or doesn’t feel authentic. You can quickly get a sense about how safe someone feels to talk to or how unsafe or phony they might be. You can also come up with creative ideas at the drop of a hat, using those ideas to brainstorm, innovate, or imagine something original and meaningful. Creating new worlds in your mind, staying true to what you believe in, and diving deep into the emotional nuances of someone’s experience are all things that come naturally to you.

The Missing Piece for the INFP:

The part where things get tricky is the practical implementation of your ideals. You can dream up dozens of possibilities and develop deep values that mean the world to you. But when it comes to taking actionable steps towards realizing your dreams, things can get confusing and you start to feel uncertain. Procrastination and self-doubt can be significant hurdles, as you may fear that any real-world manifestation of your ideals will fall short of your vision. Sticking to one course for a long time in order to finish a project can feel overwhelming, or you may simply struggle to know the best strategy to get towards your vision.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• Set small, achievable goals. Breaking down your larger dreams into manageable tasks can make it easier to take the first steps towards achieving them.
• Practice self-compassion. Understand that perfection is unattainable, and forgive yourself for the missteps along the way. Every effort you make is a step forward.
• Seek out like-minded individuals. Joining groups or communities that share your values can provide support and motivation to turn your ideals into action.
• Swallow the frog. When faced with a daunting task, tackle it first thing in the morning when your mind is fresh and you have the most energy. Then, no matter what happens the rest of the day, that part is over and you’ll feel more energetic and ready to face whatever happens.
• Reward yourself for progress. Recognize and acknowledge the steps you’ve taken towards your dreams, and celebrate even the small victories along the way.

Find out more about INFPs: 21 Songs That INFPs Will Relate To

The ISTJ

If you’re an ISTJ, you know how to extract wisdom from your past experiences and use that wisdom to create a more stable and secure world in the present and future. Your world is structured, ordered, and meticulously planned, which not only provides you with a sense of security but also makes you incredibly reliable to those around you. Logical plans are your forte; you excel in organizing facts and details to achieve your goals, making you an invaluable asset in any team. Every ISTJ I know has a detailed calendar, a consistent routine, and a satisfaction with knowing they won’t be caught off guard.

The Missing Piece for the ISTJ:

What’s not so easy for most ISTJs is dreaming up new and unusual ways to do things, brainstorming innovative solutions, or adapting to sudden changes. The comfort you find in tradition and the tried-and-true can sometimes get in the way of being adventurous or trying something new. Venturing into uncharted territory, being spontaneous, or simply “going with the flow” can feel unsettling and awkward. This adherence to routine and preference for certainty can limit your flexibility or make you feel anxious and overwhelmed in new environments.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• List all the possibilities you can think of to deal with a current issue in your life. Don’t use ideas you have used in the past; just let yourself go – no idea is too ridiculous. Write them all down, no matter how far-fetched they might seem.
• Look at your morning routine. Consider if there are any new ways you could change your morning routine to get more energized or inspired.
• Seek feedback from diverse perspectives. Surround yourself with people who think differently from you and are open to sharing their ideas. This can help broaden your perspective and make you more flexible and open-minded.
• Practice flexibility in non-critical areas of your life. Choose aspects of your life where the stakes are lower to practice being more adaptable and less planned.
• Find somewhere new to go for a walk every week. This could be a new park, trail, or neighborhood. Embrace the unknown and let yourself explore without a specific plan in mind.

Find out more about ISTJs: 10 Things That Excite the ISTJ Personality Type

The ISFJ

As an ISFJ it’s easy for you to spot details, learn from the past, and use that knowledge to make your present more secure, stable, and calm. You crave tranquility and you like the feeling that life is going to have predictable ebbs and flows that you can count on. At the same time, you have a gift for empathizing with others, helping out in practical ways, and noticing when someone is feeling down and stepping in with emotional support.

The Missing Piece for the ISFJ:

What’s not as easy for you is dealing with new, unexpected changes. You may secretly wish you’d go out and try new things, but when the opportunity arises, you might feel overwhelmed or uncertain. Being spontaneous, innovating, or adapting to new situations might fill you with dread or insecurity. At the same time, you probably wish this was easier for you. Some part of you might want to be one of those people who can just switch plans on a whim, go on spontaneous adventures, or experiment with new things. The good news is that I’ve known quite a few ISFJs who have developed this part of their personality, but it took effort and practice.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• Start small with changes. Incorporate minor variations into your daily routine, such as trying a new recipe, taking a different route to work, or rearranging your living space. Small changes can help build your comfort with the new and unknown.
• Plan for spontaneity. It might sound counterintuitive, but scheduling time for unplanned activities can make the act of being spontaneous feel safer and more manageable.
• Set a “try something new” goal. Make it a goal to try a new activity, hobby, or experience at least once a month. Documenting these experiences in a journal can also help in reflecting on the growth and enjoyment these new experiences bring.
• Buddy up with someone adventurous. Spending time with friends or family members who are naturally more spontaneous or adventurous can inspire you to step out of your comfort zone, with the security of having someone you trust by your side.

Discover more about ISFJs: 24 Signs That You’re an ISFJ, the Protector Personality Type

The ISTP

As an ISTP it’s easy for you to figure out how things work, compose logical arguments, or take advantage of opportunities on the fly. You enjoy a flexible life and enjoy adventures that test your physical and mental limits. At the same time, you thoroughly enjoy learning new things and have a deep curiosity about how nearly everything works. This natural inclination gives you a vast amount of knowledge in a wide variety of fields that you can call upon at a moment’s notice.

The Missing Piece for the ISTP:

What’s not so easy for ISTPs is dealing with the unpredictable world of emotions. ISTPs often learn to get along with others by keeping quiet, using humor, and being the resident troubleshooter. But they tend to get flustered and overwhelmed when there are a lot of emotions at play. They may even struggle to sort out their own feelings, preferring to keep them hidden or push them aside rather than deal with them. This tendency can make it hard for them to get close to people, to open up, and to feel like they really are known or know someone else deeply. Throughout life this can feel like a small part of themselves is empty and aching to be filled with companionship, connection, and genuine emotional understanding.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• Journal your feelings. Start by writing down your emotions and thoughts in a journal. This can make it easier for you to get to know yourself and what’s going on for you emotionally.
• Share small personal stories. Begin by sharing minor, personal anecdotes with friends or loved ones. This can gradually help you become more comfortable with opening up about larger, more significant topics.
• Practice people watching. Find a busy place like a shopping mall or a community event and find a spot to people watch. Use your natural awareness and curiosity to try to make guesses about how people are feeling and what their body language means.
• Find something helpful to do for someone else each day. Whether this means doing the laundry for your spouse, getting coffee for a co-worker, or making cookies for a neighbor, find a way to make a positive impact with someone in your life.

Find out more about ISTPs: What ISTPs Do When They’re Really Stressed Out

The ISFP

As an ISFP, it’s easy for you to know instinctively what you like or dislike, what feels right or wrong in a situation, or to stay true to what you believe in. You recognize that emotions aren’t just meaningless storms that pass over you, but they are valid data that should not be ignored or repressed, but analyzed and learned from.

Along with your emotional awareness, it’s also easy for you to be present in the moment, notice opportunities and details, and become one with your environment. You organize your life around living in accordance with your values, following your heart, and having the freedom to do work that is truly meaningful to you.

The Missing Piece for the ISFP:

What’s not so easy is making actionable plans and organizing your life with a sense of structure. The idea of planning far into the future or setting rigid goals can feel constraining and stifling. And your natural passion and loyalty to your feelings can sometimes make it difficult for you to remain objective in situations that might benefit from a more logic-driven perspective. This can be frustrating because it might get in the way of you achieving goals you set out for yourself or backing up your opinions with logical arguments that others will take seriously. You have incredible potential to make a meaningful difference in the world, but actually setting up the strategy and making it happen in an organized way can feel daunting and overwhelming.

How to Find the Missing Piece:

• Create a vision board. Start by visualizing your goals and aspirations in a creative way that speaks to you. A vision board can help you see the bigger picture of what you’re aiming for without overwhelming you by details.
• Break tasks into smaller steps. When faced with overwhelming projects or goals, break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This can make it easier for you to take action without feeling constrained by a rigid plan.
• Look for objective feedback. Surround yourself with a diverse group of people who can provide you with different perspectives. Get into friendly arguments with people you trust to practice backing up your worldview with rational arguments.
• Try a bullet journal. Use a bullet journal system to organize your thoughts, tasks, and goals in a creative and flexible way. This can help you stay organized without taking a lot of time or effort.

Find out more about ISFPs: 24 Signs That You’re an ISFP, the Virtuoso Personality Type

The ENTJ

Okay ENTJs, you’re up! It’s easy for you to organize, direct, and strategize. You naturally see the most effective way to accomplish a goal, and your rationality and big-picture vision keeps you moving towards your ambitions at a rapid pace. You’re also gifted with the ability to spot patterns, sense potentials, and notice how things will likely play out in the future. You use this knowledge to spot viable opportunities and make the most of them before it’s too late.

The Missing Piece for the ENTJ:

What’s not so easy for you as an ENTJ is getting in touch with your feelings and values. My dad is an ENTJ and any time a family conversation would get too emotional, he would immediately find a way to excuse himself and go “check his emails.” As an INTJ I can relate to this tendency! But sometimes it gets in the way of really getting close to people…or yourself.

You might feel that your life revolves around “all work, no play” if you’re not careful. It’s easy for you to make goals, crunch numbers, and make forward progress, but for what? Sometimes you’re not sure what will make you truly happy. At other times you feel overwhelmed by emotions; your own or others. Being around emotional people can immediately make you annoyed, uncertain, or flustered. It can be difficult for you to talk about your own feelings because you often push them to aside to focus on what you need to do. Over time this can leave you feeling emotionally repressed, one-sided, or imbalanced.

How to Find the Missing Piece for ENTJs:

• Set aside regular time for self-reflection. Dedicate a few minutes each day to sit quietly and reflect on your feelings and experiences. This can be through meditation, journaling, or just contemplating in a peaceful setting.
• Engage in creative activities. Creative outlets like painting, writing, or playing music can help you express emotions that you might find hard to articulate otherwise.
• Start a gratitude journal. Every day, write down three things you’re grateful for. This can help you connect with your values and appreciate the positive aspects of your life.
• Seek out nature. Spend time in natural settings to calm the mind and soul. Nature can help you feel more grounded and connected to your inner self.
• Talk it out with a trusted friend or mentor. Sometimes, discussing your thoughts and feelings with someone else can help you understand them better and see things from a new perspective. Try to push away feelings of this being silly, pointless, or unimportant.
• Practice mindfulness. Learning to be present and fully engaged in the moment can help you become more aware of your feelings and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Read this next: 10 Must-Read Books for ENTJs

The ENFJ

As an ENFJ it’s easy for you to pick up on people’s feelings, notice how they’re doing, and find ways to step in and provide emotional support. Emotions are like temperatures that fluctuate all around you and you instantly recognize when the mood is up, down, or somewhere in between. Because of this emotional insight, people tend to enjoy coming to you with their problems or their joys. You’re amazing at giving positive feedback, lifting someone’s mood, or finding ways to inspire them. At the same time, you also have an intuitive insight into future potential and can quickly spot ripple-effects, patterns, and possibilities.

The Missing Piece for the ENFJ:

What’s not so easy for you as an ENFJ is giving your detached, analytical thoughts room to breathe – especially with other people. You might bite your tongue instead of speaking a truth that might make others feel bad. You might underestimate your ability to understand the logic of something, so you avoid arguing or debating because you worry you’ll just seem incompetent. You might have an interest in frameworks or models, but you might feel overwhelmed when you try to explain them. But this is something you wish you could achieve with more confidence, and many ENFJs can! Let’s look at how to do this.

How to Find the Missing Piece for ENFJs:

• Play strategy games. Find board games, video games, or apps focused on strategy and problem-solving. Games like chess, Sudoku, or even puzzle-based video games can stimulate logical thinking in an entertaining way.
• Join a debate club or group. Engaging in friendly debates on topics you’re passionate about helps you articulate your thoughts clearly and consider multiple perspectives, enhancing your logical reasoning in a social setting.
• Start a ‘curiosity journal’. Make it a habit to write down questions you have about the world, people, concepts, etc. Research these questions in your free time and explore the answers, encouraging a habit of inquiry and analysis.
• Take on a DIY project. Tackling a project where you have to follow logical steps to create or fix something can boost your confidence in handling complexity and problem-solving.
• Participate in escape rooms. Escape rooms are fun, immersive puzzles that require critical thinking, teamwork, and quick decision-making—all in an exciting plot.
• Engage in reflective practice. Set aside time to reflect on decisions you’ve made in the day, considering what went well and what could be improved. This practice can help you understand your thinking patterns and enhance decision-making skills.

Discover more about ENFJs: All About the ENFJ Personality Type

The ESTJ

As an ESTJ it’s easy for you to be sensible, logical, and straightforward. People rely on you for your grounded wisdom and can-do attitude. You easily see the most efficient ways to achieve your goals, and you don’t waste time on impracticality. You’re down-to-earth, diligent, and resourceful, with an ability to make quick decisions to get to the outcome you want as rapidly as possible.

The Missing Piece for the ESTJ:

What’s not so easy for you as an ESTJ is being in touch with your feelings and deeper motivations and desires. You might get so involved in work and projects that you lose touch with who you really are and what you really want. In fact, it’s easy for you to sweep your feelings under the rug to focus on tasks. You feel like doing this is what’s better for everyone most of the time, because you always see so many projects around you that need doing, so many issues that need fixing.

However, some part of you feels disconnected from yourself when this happens, and over time you can feel an emptiness and a desire to slow down and find out what makes you truly happy and content. You may also find that sweeping your feelings under the rug can make you impatient with other people’s feelings and less supportive than you want to be.

How to Find the Missing Piece for ESTJs:

• Set aside regular time for self-reflection. Dedicate a few moments each day to reflect on your feelings and motivations. This could be through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting quietly without distractions.
• Engage in creative pursuits. Try out some hobbies that aren’t focused on productivity, like painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument. This can help you connect with your inner self on a deeper level.
• Get feedback from friends or family. Sometimes, listening to other perspectives can help you understand aspects of yourself that you might not see. Choose people who know you well and ask them about your strengths, weaknesses, and how they perceive your emotional openness.
• Practice active listening. When engaging with others, focus fully on what they’re sharing without planning your response. This will help you develop empathy and patience, making it easier to connect with your own emotions in the process.
• Explore your past. Reflecting on your childhood and past experiences can shed light on your current feelings and behaviors. Understanding these can help you reconcile with your past and understand what truly makes you happy.
• Volunteer or help others. Sometimes, putting yourself in situations where you’re helping those in need can open your heart and make you more attuned to others’ feelings, as well as your own desires and motivations.

Find out more about ESTJs: 24 Signs That You’re an ESTJ Personality Type

The ESFJ

It’s natural for you to sense how people are feeling, spot practical needs, and make individuals feel appreciated and supported. You’re down-to-earth and friendly, and you probably get a lot of people who want to talk to you about what’s going on in their lives. It makes you happy to connect with other people, to feel intimate, needed, and helpful. At the same time, it’s easy for you to glean wisdom from past experiences and course-correct based on things you’ve learned before. You know history is an amazing teacher so you look to your own history or the stories of people you admire to make your present life more stable, secure, and routine.

The Missing Piece for ESFJs:

What’s not so easy for you as an ESFJ is to put your feelings aside and focus purely on the logic of a situation. Giving criticism, accepting criticism, and looking at the bare rationality of what you feel can give you a sense of uncertainty and unease. You might bite your tongue instead of telling someone the truth in order to keep the peace. You might hold very strong, firm beliefs but struggle to explain them in a purely logical context. You may also struggle with setting boundaries and putting yourself first, taking on a lot of emotional burdens that wear you down in the long run.

How to Find the Missing Piece for ESFJs:

• Join a logic puzzle or brain teaser club. Engage your mind in challenging activities that require logical reasoning, such as Sudoku, chess, or logic-based puzzles. This fun approach can stimulate your critical thinking and reasoning skills in a way that also helps you connect with others.
• Start a book club with a twist. Choose books that spark debate or offer complex moral dilemmas. Discussing these with friends or club members encourages you to articulate your logical perspective and listen to others’, enhancing your ability to reason through discussion.
• Engage in strategy-based video games. These games require planning, critical thinking, and logical decision-making. They offer a fun way to practice these skills in a virtual environment, where the consequences of decisions can be explored in a safe space.
• Take an online course in philosophy or critical thinking. Delve into subjects that challenge your perception and require deep thought. Many platforms offer free or low-cost courses that can broaden your understanding of various reasoning methods and logical theories.
• Set up a debate night with friends. Choose topics of interest or current events, and take turns presenting opposing viewpoints. This encourages you to think critically about your stance and how to logically defend it, fostering a better understanding of your own and others’ reasoning.

Discover more about ESFJs: 7 Things That ESFJs Experience as Children

The ENTP

As an ENTP it’s easy for you to spot patterns, possibilities, and new ideas. You love trying new things, exploring the unknown, and innovating. It’s much more fun for you to think outside the box then to do what’s already been done before, so people count on you when they need unusual solutions to problems. You also have a gift for critical thinking and can easily spot logical fallacies or inaccuracies and understand the components of how things work. You value radical honesty and enjoy amassing knowledge so that you can have a thorough understanding of how the world works.

The Missing Piece for ENTPs:

What’s not so easy for you as an ENTP is sorting through a lot of details, doing things the tried-and-true way, and creating a sense of stability and consistency. You might feel like you’re bravely going forward into the unknown but constantly dealing with setbacks because you lost track of certain minute details or didn’t create consistent habits that would have made your whole life way more effective and simple in the long run.

How to Find the Missing Piece for ENTPs:

• Use digital apps for organization. Many ENTPs I know swear by the calendar app on their phones to remind them of appointments and tasks. Use other useful tools like Evernote or Trello to keep track of important information and ideas.
• Implement a ‘power hour’ into your routine. Dedicate one hour each day to attend to the little things that are easy to procrastinate on, like tidying up, answering emails, or planning meals for the week. This helps in keeping your surroundings and mind clutter-free.
• Practice mindfulness and meditation. Taking time each day to clear your mind can improve focus and reduce stress, making it easier to pay attention to the details and stay grounded.
• Create rituals around work and relaxation. Establishing routines signals your brain when it’s time to focus and when it’s time to unwind, helping you to be more productive during work hours and fully relax during downtime.
• Buddy up with an accountability partner. Sharing your goals and daily achievements with a friend or colleague can help you stay on track. Choose someone who is supportive yet will hold you accountable to your commitments.

Find out more about ENTPs: 12 Amazing Fictional ENTP Characters

The ENFP

As an ENFP it’s natural for you to spot possibilities, sense potentials, notice innovative solutions, and dream up creative new goals you could achieve. It’s also natural for you to think about your values, what matters to you on a deeper level, and stay in touch with your feelings. This emotional awareness paired with powerful imagination and an ability to innovate can make you a powerful visionary and motivator. You also have a knack for connecting with others, understanding their emotions, and inspiring them to chase after their own dreams.

The Missing Piece for ENFPs:

What’s not so easy for you as an ENFP is to stick to routines, follow through on long-term plans, or focus on the practical aspects of daily life. Many ENFPs have no problem chasing after new ideas, even ones that are a bit risky, because they love novelty and spontaneity. But they also often feel that their lack of consistency and attention to detail is getting in the way of their big ideas and dreams like an Achilles’ heel. They can also get flustered by the unpredictability of their lives and by the lack of stability. Even though they enjoy a flexible life they still sometimes feel the aching longing for calm and predictability.

How to Find the Missing Piece for ENFPs:

• Practice gratitude journaling. Each evening, take a few minutes to jot down three things you’re grateful for. This daily practice can ground you, creating a stable moment of reflection that encourages you to notice the small, positive routines that you could try repeating.
• Adopt a daily stretching or yoga routine. Even 10 minutes a day can work wonders for both the body and mind, instilling a sense of calm, improving focus on the present, and introducing a beneficial routine to your day.
• Set daily personal goals. Break your larger objectives into smaller, achievable daily goals. Not only does this make it easier to focus on details, but it also provides a sense of stability and accomplishment. Spending a mere 10 minutes every morning doing this can help you feel more on top of your day and your life.
• Designate an ‘idea notebook.’ Carry a notebook with you at all times specifically for jotting down ideas and inspirations. This habit not only ensures you won’t lose those creative sparks but also lets you get back to the task at hand without switching gears completely, because you know your idea is safe in your notebook.
• Initiate a ‘no screens’ hour before bed. Use this time for calming activities that don’t involve electronic devices, like reading, meditating, or planning the next day. This routine not only helps in creating a tranquil end to your day but also in cultivating a more structured approach to your nightly habits.

Find out more about ENFPs: All About the ENFP Personality Type

The ESTP

As an ESTP it’s easy for you to stay present in the moment, leap on opportunities, jump into action, and make life an exciting blend of spontaneity, excitement, and adventure. Pair this with your natural ability to think logically, learn how things work, and weigh leverage points, and you’ve got someone who is both action-oriented and clever. You can think quickly in a crisis and your troubleshooting skills give you an edge when life throws something unpredictable your way.

The Missing Piece for ESTPs:

What’s not so easy for you as an ESTP is grasping patterns, mapping out future potentials, dwelling on concepts, and looking for a deeper abstract meaning in your day to day activities. For many ESTPs, life feels unpredictable, so why waste time predicting? You can only know the present moment, so you feel it only make sense to focus there rather than anticipating something that may never actually come to be. The focus for ESTPs is more on what’s tangible than what “could be” in the distant future. Yet ESTPs do sometimes feel like they’re always improvising, always in a rush, never quite “there” where they want to be entirely. They may also feel that there is a lack of deeper meaning in their lives, a hunger for something that they can’t quite put their finger on.

Finding the Missing Piece for ESTPs:

1. Attend a philosophy or psychology workshop. This might sound like a total snooze-fest to you, but this can also help you get in touch with meaningful ideas that make your life more inspiring and fulfilled.
2. Engage in strategic games or puzzles. Games that require future planning and strategic thinking, like chess, can refine your ability to anticipate and plan. They’re not only fun but also sharpen your mind’s ability to think steps ahead and see the larger picture.
3. Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about. Getting involved in something bigger than yourself can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, helping you find out what gives you a deeper sense of satisfaction and meaning.
4. Practice mindful reflection. Setting aside time for activities like meditation or even mindful walking in nature can help you connect with your inner thoughts and musings.
5. Look for symbols around you. Whether you’re flipping through a magazine, watching television, or driving past a billboard, notice the underlying motivations of the various symbols that are used. Notice how they affect you. Now think of how you can use symbols in your own life in a meaningful way.

Find out more about ESTPs: 24 Signs That You’re an ESTP, the Daredevil Personality Type

The ESFP

As an ESFP it’s natural for you to live in the moment, savor the details all around you, be in motion, make life exciting, fun, and fulfilling. You’re also deeply in touch with your values; what feels right or wrong with you, what makes you happy, and how to be authentic and true to yourself no matter the odds.

The Missing Piece for ESFPs:

What’s harder for you as an ESFP is planning ahead, mapping out your future, slowing down and thinking about the underlying meaning of things and the deeper implications. You can find yourself in a state of constant action, moving from one activity to the next, but finding yourself in situations you didn’t predict, feeling a little lost in the commotion. You may also find that there’s something deeper you’re craving, but you’re not quite sure what it is.

Finding the Missing Piece for ESFPs:

1. Start a vision board. Use a corkboard, a poster, or even a digital platform like Pinterest to gather images, quotes, and items that get you excited about your goals and dreams.
2. Create a ‘bucket list’ with a twist. Beyond just listing things you want to do, include experiences that could enrich your soul, such as watching a sunrise from a mountain peak, learning a new art form, or helping someone in a life-changing way.
3. Schedule regular ‘slow days.’ Once a month (or more, if possible), have a day where there are no plans, no rush—just you, reflecting, exploring, and doing things to cut out distractions and embrace calm. This can include journaling, a solo nature hike, meditating, or some other idea you have.
4. Attend workshops or talks on topics outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s astronomy, philosophy, or environmental science, learning about different fields can offer new perspectives, spark curiosity, and connect you to larger ideas and communities.
5. Pay attention to your dreams. Dreams can be a powerful tool for subconscious reflection and insight. Keep a journal next to your bed so you can easily record any vivid or recurring dreams you have, then explore their meanings and how they relate to your life. You may uncover hidden desires or inspirations you never knew were there.

Read This Next: All About the ESFP Personality Type

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you find these tips helpful? Do you have any other suggestions to share with people who share your personality type? Let us and other readers know what you think in the comments!

Want to explore more about your personality type? Dive into our eBooks, Discovering You: Unlocking the Power of Personality Type,  The INFJ – Understanding the Mystic, The INTJ – Understanding the Strategist, and The INFP – Understanding the Dreamer. You can also connect with me via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

References:

Depth Typology: The Guide Map to Becoming Who We Are by Mark Hunziker (WriteWay Publishing, 2016) p. 175-182

Functions of Type by Gary Hartzler and Margaret Hartzler (Telos Publications, 2005)