Here’s How Adventurous You Are, Based On Your Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

Do you crave the adrenaline rush of new and exciting experiences? Or maybe you prefer more laid-back adventures like trying new foods or exploring local hotspots? Whatever your definition of adventure is, your Myers-Briggs® personality type plays a significant role in shaping your sense of adventure.

Each of the 16 personality types has unique cognitive processes that influence their perspectives on the world around them. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the sense of adventure of each Myers-Briggs® type.

But as usual, let’s start by clarifying terms.

Not sure what your personality type is? Take our personality questionnaire here. Or you can take the official Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI®) here.

What does adventurous really mean?

According to vocabulary.com, adventurous means “you’re willing to go where you haven’t been before and do things you’ve never done, even if you don’t know how it’s going to turn out.”

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines adventure as, “disposed to seek adventure or to cope with the new and unknown.”

The Sense of Adventure of Each Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

ISTJ & ESTJ – The Sensible Explorers

ISTJs and ESTJs may not be the “jump in feet first” kind of adventurers. They prefer to plan ahead, budget, research, and map out the adventure before taking the plunge. You can bet they’ve got backup plans for backup plans too, just in case things go sideways!

Once they’ve done their due diligence, ISTJs and ESTJs are all set to embark on their adventure. While they may not be chasing wild and unpredictable experiences, they’re more than willing to explore new places or try something that requires a touch of skill. Their sense of adventure is firmly grounded in reality and meticulous preparation – because who says you can’t have fun and be organized at the same time?

ESTJs tend to have a bit more of an adventurous spirit than ISTJs simply because they are more comfortable improvising with unexpected scenarios. While neither types like unpredictability, ESTJs tend to react to it more quickly because they’re more tuned into the external world and tend to have a faster-pace of responding to changes. ISTJs are more likely to have a thorough course of action and slow down and think when an unexpected situation arises.

Find out more about ESTJs and ISTJs: The Unique Intelligence of the ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, and ESFJ Personality Types

ISFJ & ESFJ – The Community-Minded Adventurers

ISFJs and ESFJs seek adventures that bring a wave of nostalgia or a heartwarming connection with others. From reliving childhood roller-coaster rides to vineyard tours in France with newfound pals, they’re all about cherishing beautiful memories or making new ones with their beloved crew.

Just like ISTJs and ESTJs, ISFJs and ESFJs are meticulous planners. They won’t jump off a cliff with a bungee cord or spontaneously book a flight to the middle of nowhere. They prefer smooth adventures, enjoyable for everyone involved. This means budgeting, figuring out what everyone wants and needs, mentally mapping out events, and preparing for any unexpected crisis. Once everything is organized, the SFJs can confidently embrace new experiences, having minimized chaos (both personal and physical) as much as possible.

ESFJs tend to be a bit more adventurous than ISFJs simply because they are a bit more comfortable with unpredictability. While both types prefer order over chaos, ESFJs are more apt to flow with it than feel paralyzed. ISFJs can deal with a certain amount of “expected” unpredictability, though, and they usually mentally brace themselves for the possibility of that before any adventurous pursuit. But when life gets too chaotic, ISFJs will explore a more vicarious form of adventure. For example, indulging in an action-packed book from the coziness of their own bedroom or curling up in bed with chocolates while Indiana Jones battles villains on the screen!

Find out more about ISFJs and ESFJs: Here’s What It’s Like Inside the Mind of an ISFJ, ISTJ, ESFJ, or ESTJ Personality Type

INFJ & ENFJ – The Visionary Explorers

For INFJs and ENFJs, adventure is like a treasure hunt for meaning and insight. These idealists seek out experiences that give them a sense of profound wonder and a spark for their imagination. Whether this means soaring in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia or heroically rescuing someone from a flood in a helicopter, they choose inspiration over just an adrenaline rush (but hey, sometimes they get both!).

Both ENFJs and INFJs appreciate a good plan, unlike those spontaneous Perceivers (you know who you are!). But every now and then, even the most organized personalities crave a taste of spontaneity. ENFJs may surprise you with impulsive bursts of action and excitement. If friends are involved, they are often open to spontaneous road trips, unexpected thrills, or explorations into terrains that allow them to connect with others in their shared pursuits.

INFJs, on the other hand, tend to be more cautious by nature, but don’t be fooled – they too have their moments of unexpected impulsivity. You might be surprised to find your ordinarily bookish, reserved INFJ taking part in a daring last-minute road trip!

The sense of adventure for INFJs and ENFJs is not limited to physical experiences but extends to their inner world as well. They are constantly seeking to connect the dots and find meaning in everything they encounter. This can lead them down a path of spirituality, where they explore esoteric philosophies and unearthly realms. Many INFJs and ENFJs report having mystical experiences, where they sense a profound connection with the universe or something spiritual in nature. They use art, music, and literature as a medium to express their abstract thoughts and emotions, and find joy in discovering the hidden meanings behind them.

Find out more about INFJs and ENFJs: Inspiring Morning Routines for INFJs, ENFJs, INFPs, and ENFPs

INTJ & ENTJ – The Strategic Adventurers

INTJs and ENTJs seek adventure to fulfill their insatiable curiosity. When life gets too stagnant, they want a challenge or something new to inspire their intuitive minds. The pursuit of knowledge and discovery can lead them to challenging and thrilling experiences. This could mean going on an archeological tour to uncover ancient ruins or whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River – anything that gives them a challenge to overcome and the ability to learn something new about the universe or themselves.

Because INTJs and ENTJs are Judgers, of course they’re going to take a more planful approach to adventure. Spontaneous trips can be stressful for them because they like having a clear sequence of events in place. Having a strategy, knowing how things will play out, and being prepared for any obstacles that may arise – these are the true requirements of an adventure to an INTJ or ENTJ.

ENTJs tend to appear a bit more adventurous than INTJs, simply because they are a bit more comfortable with taking risks, making quick decisions, and responding rapidly in unexpected situations. They can also be quicker to come up with strategies on-the-fly if something doesn’t go as planned. INTJs, however, are more likely to plan for every eventuality and prefer having a thorough course of action before attempting something new. But both types can have unexpected bursts of adventurous impulsivity, which can be surprising to people who are used to them being more planned-out, controlled, and organized.

Find out more about INTJs and ENTJs: Inspiring Morning Routines for INTJs, ENTJs, INTPs, and ENTPs

ISTP & ESTP – The Thrill-Seekers

ISTPs and ESTPs represent the action-oriented, tactical types of the 16 personalities. For many STPs, life is an adventure from beginning to end. However, it’s important to avoid getting too caught up in stereotypes. While most STPs crave action and thrills, some find satisfaction in physical immersion rather than taking huge risks. There appear to be two distinct paths that STPs can pursue. For some, thrill-seeking entails jumping out of planes and scaling mountains. For others, adventure lies in less extreme pursuits like learning, experimenting with new ingredients in the kitchen, or simply absorbing every physical sensation of a wave crashing against their feet on the shore.

With ESTPs, this insatiable craving for exploration often leads them on daring quests with their adventurous friends. They tend to be planning-averse, always up for spontaneous adventures and embracing the “fly by the seat of your pants” lifestyle. ESTPs are the ones who eagerly exclaim, “Let’s do it!” and then craft a plan on the go, fueled by the excitement of the moment. They thrive in the thrill of the unknown, relishing in the adrenaline rush that comes from trying new things that push them physically and mentally.

ISTPs, on the other hand, prefer to have a clear understanding of the situation before they dive in – but that doesn’t make them any less adventurous! Instead of impulsively plunging into new experiences like ESTPs, ISTPs want to have a general idea of what to anticipate. But they’re no Judgers! They don’t usually map out a detailed plan complete with emergency backup plans. Instead, they anticipate a general idea of what’s going to happen and move forward, often with the idea that whatever challenge arises they can deal with in the moment. Armed with their technical prowess and exceptional problem-solving abilities, they approach challenges with a deliberate yet adaptable approach, ready to conquer whatever obstacles come their way.

Find out more about ISTPs and ESTPs: The Unique Intelligence of the ISTP, ESTP, ISFP, and ESFP Personality Types

ISFP & ESFP – The Soul-Seeking Adventurers

ISFPs and ESFPs love experiences that show them what they’re made of and unveil new facets of who they are. They’re the connoisseurs of new experiences, whether it’s mastering an art form, grooving to fresh beats, jet-setting on a whim, or throwing epic parties (ESFPs, we’re looking at you!). These types crave sensory adventures that create unforgettable memories and also connect them to their true selves, body and soul. Because let’s face it, standing atop a majestic mountain, surveying boundless beauty, is like a cosmic high-five that says, “You’re part of something amazing, and you’ve got endless potential!”

ISFPs find solace in the tranquility of sensory experiences and personal reflection. They have an innate affinity for nature, spirituality, and emotional resonance. From camping to snorkeling, they indulge in activities that connect them to the grand tapestry of life. While they may occasionally dabble in thrilling, high-adrenaline adventures, they also cherish the solitude that allows them to access their feelings and thoughts more clearly.

On the flip side, ESFPs tend to gravitate towards more intense and social experiences – ones that allow them to fully engage with the physicality of a situation. Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting or the thrill of dancing with the crowd at a concert, ESFPs enjoy pushing their boundaries and stepping outside of their comfort zones. It’s especially exciting if they can pursue these new adventures with friends (or meet new friends along the way!). Being able to connect with others in an new and unusual setting is a special kind of high for ESFPs!

Discover more about ESFPs and ISTPs: Here’s What It’s Like Inside the Mind of an ISFP, ESFP, ISTP, or ESTP

INTP & ENTP – The Curious Discoverers

INTPs and ENTPs are driven by curiosity and never tire of seeking adventure in new information and ideas. They love novel experiences that test their intellectual limits and expose them to new cultures and worldviews. Whether this means visiting historical landmarks or conducting scientific experiments with unknown outcomes – they’ll find a way to bring adventure into their everyday life. If life gets too routine or repetitive, they’ll be itching for a mental or physical adventure to open up new possibilities and insights in their mind.

ENTPs are typically a bit more adventurous than their INTP counterparts; and their adventures tend to be more social as well. However, for ENTPs adventure is not just about the physical rush; they crave intellectual challenges. Imagine being in a foreign land, with no plan, forced to navigate a new culture or city. Talk about an intellectual rollercoaster! These new experiences ignite a spark within them, unleashing countless ideas and letting them test their troubleshooting abilities. For ENTPs, adventure is not just a way to explore, but a way to expand their worldview and discover new ideas and challenges they can overcome.

INTPs are more likely to take a solitary approach to adventure, exploring places they’ve never been, or even taking on academic subjects that will test the limits of their intellect and expand their minds. While they may be more conservative with their approach to exploration, they don’t shy away from taking risks if it means getting closer to a new idea or understanding. So while an INTP may not jump out of a plane or scale a cliff without any preparation, they’re usually open to exploring unfamiliar locations or taking spontaneous detours to uncover new ideas or information.

Find out more about ENTPs and INTPs: The Powerful Mental Processes of ENTPs, INTPs, ENFPs, and INTPs

INFP & ENFP – The Imaginative Explorers

INFPs and ENFPs have a remarkable sense of adventure that stems from their desire to explore novel ideas and ways of perceiving the world. They have an innate ability to envision the world as they wish it were, often veering away from conventional travel ideas. Instead, they seek out hidden gems and undiscovered areas that are off the beaten path. Their sense of adventure is fueled by a deep desire for creativity, curiosity, and meaningful connection. When life gets too predictable and repetitive, NFPs can feel like they’re trapped, uninspired, and empty. Fitting a sense of adventure and possibility into every day is as important as fitting in oxygen, food, or water.

For INFPs, adventure lies in the pursuit of uncovering deeper meaning and purpose. They find joy in immersing themselves in different cultures, using these experiences as a means to better understand themselves, their beliefs, and the world around them. While INFPs are often known for their artistic inclinations, they also find great fulfillment in connection with the natural world or with nostalgic experiences that bring them back to a feeling they had in childhood.

ENFPs tend to approach adventure with a more outgoing and social perspective. They love pushing their limits with friends and can be big risk-takers because they believe that trying new things helps them know themselves and what they’re made of better. Whether they’re backpacking through the mountains of Switzerland or embarking on a road trip through the captivating landscapes of the Midwest, ENFPs value experiences that allow them to forge deep connections with others, engage in meaningful conversations, face new challenges, and create lasting memories.

Both INFPs and ENFPs embrace adventure as a means of personal growth and self-discovery. Their inherent curiosity and openness to new experiences propel them to seek out unique opportunities and make the most of every moment.

Find out more about ENFPs and INFPs: An In-Depth Guide to How ENFPs and INFPs Think

What Are Your Thoughts?

How does your personality type influence the way you approach adventure? Do you tend to be more daring or conservative with your choices? Let us know in the comments below.

Discover even more about your personality type in 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!