Here’s How Open You Are with Your Feelings, Based On Your Myers-Briggs® Personality Type
Do you ever feel like you’re speaking a different emotional language than the people around you? Do you ever wish your partner or friend were more vocal about how they feel? Or, in reverse, do you wish you could quietly feel what you need to feel without being pressured to share it? Differences in how we each express our emotions can be the cause of many rifts in relationships. But if we had a little bit more understanding for each other; a little more patience, we’d all be able to have much more fulfilling and deeply meaningful relationships. That’s why today I want to explore how each of the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types feels about openly sharing their emotions. Are they an open book? Do they keep more inside? Let’s take a look!
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Here’s How Open You Are with Your Feelings, Based On Your Myers-Briggs® Personality Type
Table of contents
- Here’s How Open You Are with Your Feelings, Based On Your Myers-Briggs® Personality Type
- INFJ – The Mystics
- INTJ – The Strategists
- INFP – The Dreamers
- INTP – The Thinkers
- ISFJ – The Nurturers
- ISTJ – The Detectives
- ISTP – The Vigilantes
- ISFP – The Virtuosos
- ENFJ – The Mentors
- ENTJ – The Directors
- ESFJ – The Defenders
- ESTJ – The Captains
- ENFP – The Visionaries
- ENTP – The Trailblazers
- ESFP – The Champions
- ESTP – The Mavericks
- What Do You Think?
- References:
Estimated reading time: 23 minutes
INFJ – The Mystics
These introverted yet deeply intuitive individuals crave warm, intimate connections and seek out depth in their interactions with people. While they may not be an open book with strangers, they find great joy in sharing their innermost feelings, emotions, and values with close friends and loved ones. It’s in this trusted circle that they truly open up. They prize relationships where emotional openness is reciprocated and feel happiest when others are comfortable enough to share their feelings too. But what makes INFJs truly unique is their ability to shift perspectives; they can often understand when someone needs space and may need a little more time before opening up. Joel Mark-Witt and Antonia Dodge, from the Personality Hacker Podcast, say this about INFJs, “Being able to see things from another person’s worldview helps the INFJ explain why others do the things they do. Perspectives Drivers (INFJs and INTJs) realize the simple truth that all actions, regardless of how confusing or distasteful they are to others, make sense to the person who committed them.” Because of this ability to change perspectives, see others’ worldviews, and empathize, INFJs often can sense what someone needs (or would not like) emotionally without having to have it spelled out.
While INFJs appreciate emotional openness, they also tend to keep a part of themselves guarded. They sometimes hold back their darker feelings to keep up positive vibes and harmony in their surroundings. They don’t want to “hurt the mood” or bring other people down if they can help it. This delicate balance of craving emotional depth while understanding the need for personal space makes INFJs talented counselors, confidantes, and mentors.
Find out more about INFJs: Why INFJs and INTJs Get Overstimulated
INTJ – The Strategists
INTJs tend to be private about their feelings, yet they experience them deeply. These introspective and independent thinkers march to the beat of their own drum, valuing authenticity and rationality—even if it means going against the grain or causing friction. Nikola Tesla, the famous INTJ inventor and engineer, once said, “All that was great in the past was ridiculed, condemned, combated, suppressed — only to emerge all the more powerfully, all the more triumphantly from the struggle.” Tesla often did things that others shook their heads at, and said things that were authentic but not socially “appropriate” for the time. INTJs approach life this way. The key is to discover, learn, and grow, without trying to bend who you are for anyone else.
When it comes to openness, INTJs recoil at the idea of being pushed to share their innermost feelings with acquaintances (you might be the unwitting receiver of the “INTJ Death Glare” if you push for this). Yet, with close loved ones, INTJs appreciate a partner who can patiently listen as they explore the full spectrum of their emotions, both light and dark. INTJs might surprise even themselves with the depth and nuance of their own emotional world. Many find comfort in solitary activities that allow them to connect with their feelings privately, such as reading, writing, or even watching movies. But they tend to get embarrassed or irritated when those same emotions inadvertently spill over in public or social settings.
Discover more about INTJs: 24 Signs That You’re an INTJ, The Strategist Personality Type
INFP – The Dreamers
“From a young age, INFPs are wired to be deeply in touch with their emotions, constantly scanning and observing their responses to situations. They recognize that everyone is the hero of their own story, and they can get into flow by listening to the experiences of other people, understanding more about themselves in the process.” – Joel Mark Witt and Antonia Dodge, Personality Hacker: Harness the Power of Your Personality Type to Transform Your Work, Relationships and Life
INFPs are blessed with an inner world that is rich and profound, filled with endless emotional depth. Unlike many, they don’t see their feelings as fleeting thoughts; instead, emotions are vast worlds to be explored and understood. While they may be private about their feelings with the broader world, INFPs deeply value authentic sharing with their trusted circle of friends and loved ones. Although they stay on the quiet side, in trusting, one-on-one moments, they will open up more deeply. It just takes time for them to gauge how safe someone is to share their deeper inner world with.
One of the INFP’s greatest natural skills is their ability to listen. They genuinely care about understanding the nuanced layers of others’ emotions, providing a depth of empathy that’s hard to find elsewhere. However, they hate when feelings are trivialized or rushed, as they believe each emotion deserves the time and space to be fully understood and felt. Shallow conversations and a reductionist view of emotions can feel almost insulting to them.
Curious about INFPs? Find out more: 24 Signs That You’re an INFP, the Dreamer Personality Type
INTP – The Thinkers
INTPs are often guarded about their feelings and not always sure what to make of them. They’re naturally wired to focus on logic, accuracy, analysis, and exploration, and as a result, emotional introspection tends to slip to the wayside. Diving deep into their feelings can be a daunting, energy-draining task – one that leaves them exhausted rather quickly. But that doesn’t mean they should avoid it! While it is hard work, and indeed takes energy, it’s still crucial for self-awareness and connection. However, friends and partners need to practice patience and understanding, allowing INTPs the time they need to process their emotions without rushing them.
INTPs may occasionally blurt out their feelings during moments of intense stress, only to feel embarrassed, awkward, or even upset about it afterward. These eruptions often happen because they just need to get the feelings out in order to hear and process them, even if they later disagree with the outburst. It’s important not to be pushy during these times or to take everything they say at face value. Joel Mark Witt and Antonia Dodge from the Personality Hacker podcast state, “This (short-term grip) is generally manifested as an explosion of emotion. Usually unfamiliar with emotional expression, the INTP will experience a temper tantrum, often lashing out with blame at others. Without the skill developed to reign the emotion in, usually it has to be fully expressed and worked through before the INTP calms down enough to reflect.”
One helpful practice for INTPs is journaling. This solo activity can provide a structured way to explore and articulate their feelings, making the emotional world a little less daunting. By writing things down, INTPs can slowly connect with their emotional side without feeling overwhelmed.
Find out more about INTPs: The Childhood Struggles of INTPs
ISFJ – The Nurturers
ISFJs gain meaning from supporting people and forging meaningful relationships built upon trust and mutual understanding. Although they tend to be reserved at first, once a friendship or close bond is formed, ISFJs are incredibly open-hearted, sharing their feelings and experiences to foster solidarity. They have a knack for making others feel valued and understood, often turning simple conversations into deeply meaningful exchanges.
When it comes to relationships, ISFJs have a gift for creating a harmonious atmosphere. They’re very attuned to the emotional climate around them and work tirelessly to maintain a positive, uplifting “vibe.” This often means that they might hide their darker or more negative feelings to keep things smooth and pleasant for everyone else. Yet, like everyone, they have their moments where stress, frustration, or overwhelming emotions might cause them to blurt out their true feelings. These rare outbursts can leave them feeling anxious or guilty afterward, worried about the impact on the overall mood.
Even though ISFJs may struggle with expressing negative emotions, they find immense comfort in environments where they feel safe to be vulnerable. With the right people, they can open up about their deeper fears and insecurities, generating a stronger rapport and a more resilient connection. Despite their quiet nature, ISFJs’ genuine concern for others and their desire for emotional harmony often make them invaluable friends.
Discover more about ISFJs: The ISFJ Personality Type and the Enneagram
ISTJ – The Detectives
ISTJs tend to give the impression of being stoic and reserved, but beneath their calm exterior lies a well of deep feelings. They’re incredibly observant and pragmatic, carefully analyzing the world around them through a lens of practicality and efficiency. This approach sometimes makes it appear as though they are detached from their emotions. However, ISTJs do experience their feelings; they just tend to keep them under wraps. If you were to look on the inside, you’d see that they frequently ponder questions like, “What has meaning for me?” or “What am I feeling right now?” To an outsider, though, they may look completely unreadable.
In reality, ISTJs can be surprisingly sentimental. I’ve known so many ISTJs who have wept during touching movie scenes or even insurance commercials. But for ISTJs, they tend to channel their emotions into actions rather than words. This could mean dedicating time, energy, and resources to underdog causes that resonate with their values. It could mean giving you a generous financial gift during a time when you’re feeling pressed. But they aren’t usually the types to blurt out a bunch of touchy-feely sentiments when you’re having a hard day.
Open communication with an ISTJ requires patience and understanding. They need time and personal space to feel comfortable enough to share their innermost thoughts. One-on-one time is best for creating a safe environment for them to open up. It’s helpful to paraphrase back what you think they’re trying to express, and gently ask if you got it right, without jumping to conclusions. This way you can avoid misunderstandings, get clarity, and show respect for their process.
Get to know more about ISTJs here: Here’s What It’s Like Inside the Mind of an ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, or ESFJ
ISTP – The Vigilantes
ISTPs like their world to make sense in a practical, logical way. When it comes to emotions, though, these sensible types often find themselves stumped. Emotions can feel like complex, awkward machines that drain their energy, leaving them baffled and exhausted. For ISTPs, getting into their feelings can be like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions: possible but painfully slow and frustrating.
When ISTPs do need to dive into their emotions, it’s crucial to understand that this process demands a massive amount of their energy, much more than what a feeling type would expend. Partners and friends often make the mistake of rushing them, expecting quick or articulate emotional responses. This only leads to misunderstandings and leaves everyone feeling more agitated than before. The secret to connecting with an ISTP on an emotional level? Patience. Lots of it. Give them space and time to process their feelings at their own pace.
To make this process a little easier, ISTPs can benefit from daily journaling. Just a few minutes each day spent reflecting on their feelings can slowly build their emotional endurance, making future emotional conversations feel less draining. Asking themselves questions like, “How do I feel?” and “Why do I feel this way?” can help exercise the emotional part of their personality, turning those clunky, exhausting moments into smoother, more manageable experiences over time.
Find out more about ISTPs: ISTJ vs ISTP – Which Are You?
ISFP – The Virtuosos
ISFPs have a magnetic, mysterious aura that makes you want to dig beneath the surface. They’re like living, breathing enigmas with a rich inner world of thoughts and feelings. ISFPs have incredibly deep emotions and often ask themselves profound questions like, “What gives my life meaning?” or “What truly matters to me?” But don’t mistake their introspective nature for openness. They guard their emotions closely and only share their true selves with those they deeply trust.
If you’re lucky enough to be included in an ISFP’s inner circle, you’ll discover that they’re exceptional listeners more than talkers. They are fascinated by the experiences and interests that make you uniquely you, and they appreciate when you show a genuine interest in their own quirky passions. Just be sure to tread lightly – any hint of pushiness will make an ISFP clam up.
Renowned UCLA neuroscience expert Dario Nardi once described ISFPs and their INFP counterparts as “Quiet Crusaders.” According to Nardi, these types come off as low-key, private, reflective, and sensitive, often dedicated to a cause they believe in with all their heart. He states, “Quiet Crusaders trust their inner compass. This can be a tremendously challenging and personal process. What brings happiness? What do their deep feelings, belief systems, and conscience advise? They try to balance these. Yet, one’s feelings may be buried deep or biased by traumatic events. And no matter how much effort is put into clarifying values, no system is perfect.”
So, if you want to understand an ISFP, take time to consider what makes them happy, what they believe in, how they feel about things personally. Don’t push the process, but just show curiosity, like an explorer seeking to understand a new culture or ecosystem. And be prepared for some pleasant surprises as you get to know this beautiful, complex type. It’s worth the effort!
Discover more about ISFPs: Why ISFPs Struggle with Loneliness, and How to Cope
ENFJ – The Mentors
ENFJs are the charismatic connectors of the world, trying to build intimacy and understanding wherever they go. Their empathy is practically superhuman, allowing them to understand and share complex issues and feelings with ease. This type thrives on getting to know people deeply, diving into conversations that explore the complex layers of human experience. They’re the ones who can strike up a chat about the meaning of life just as easily as they can discuss the latest trending Netflix show.
However, there’s a catch: ENFJs are carefully guarded about their own messier emotions. They take the room’s harmony very seriously and often hesitate to introduce any discord by airing their own inner struggles. The need to maintain a good vibe can lead them to hide their less polished feelings, even as they help everyone else feel safe, loved, and stable.
Joel Mark-Witt and Antonia Dodge from the Personality Hacker podcast put it perfectly: “Fluctuating emotions are often the first sign that people have unmet needs. An ENFJ may be so tuned-in and sensitive to emotions that they find it easy to help people feel safe, loved, and stable. This can be as simple as hosting a party and making it look effortless, to being a shoulder for a grieving friend to cry on, to helping your friends with complicated relationship issues.”
Yes, these social wizards can effortlessly host a soiree, making sure everyone’s laughing and connecting. They’ll comfort a crying friend, offer sage advice on romantic entanglements, and do it all while making it look like a piece of cake. But even ENFJs need a safe space where they can let down their guard and be messy, too. Understanding and appreciating this duality is key to truly connecting with an ENFJ. Their ability to create harmony doesn’t mean they’re immune to chaos; they just handle it with a touch more grace and a whole lot of heart.
Find out more about ENFJs: The ENFJ Personality Type and the Enneagram
ENTJ – The Directors
ENTJs are the action-oriented executives of the world, driving forward with strategy, objectivity, and a relentless momentum towards their vision. Their speciality? Crafting and executing game plans with military precision. However, in their determined sprint towards the future, ENTJs often find themselves a bit out of sync with their emotional world. They want to live a meaningful, authentic life, and to have good relationships with others. But understanding how their words and actions impact others on an emotional level can be puzzling for them. This tends to give ENTJs their characteristic bluntness – a trait some appreciate for its honesty, while others find it jarringly direct.
But let’s get one thing clear: ENTJs do care. Despite being frequently cast as the villains in various narratives, real-life ENTJs harbor a deeply sensitive, caring side. They just prefer showing it through meaningful actions rather than flowery words. Joel Mark-Witt and Antonia Dodge from Personality Hacker state, “ENTJs can become cynical when people make bad decisions or don’t do the reasonable or obvious thing. This can make it challenging for an ENTJ to sympathize with people’s individual situations and struggles. In fact, ENTJs may cause trouble for others, as they are unaware of how their actions impact other people.”
This doesn’t mean they’re doomed to emotional isolation. When ENTJs tap into their intuitive side, they gain a remarkable ability to see things from another person’s perspective, diving into others’ minds to understand where they’re coming from. For partners or friends of an ENTJ seeking emotional connection, patience is key. Understand that for an ENTJ, processing feelings demands a significant amount of energy and effort – someone like an ENFJ, with a dominant feeling process, is energized by this activity. But for an ENTJ it can feel like emotionally lifting a 5000-ton brick.
When ENTJs do muster up the strength to express how they feel, their words might lack the finesse others expect. They’re still learning the delicate art of framing their emotions in a way that lands gently rather than hitting like a sledgehammer. This can be a lifelong source of frustration for them. ENTJs can often benefit from prefacing their intentions before diving into an emotional conversation, with a disclaimer like, “I’m going to talk about this because I care, but forgive me if my words aren’t as sensitive as they should be. I’m trying.”
Daily journaling or mindfulness activities can help ENTJs become more familiar with their inner world. A few moments each day spent reflecting can lead to smoother, less clunky interactions in the future and might just help this dynamic type bridge the gap between heart and mind.
ESFJ – The Defenders
ESFJs are the heartbeat of the social world, always eager to create new connections and build rapport wherever they go. They have an uncanny ability to read emotions, making them masters at lifting the spirits of those around them and fostering a sense of unity. Often regarded as the “social queen or king bees,” ESFJs possess a natural charm and social ease that few can match. Their innate attunement to what’s socially appropriate guides them on how to act, speak, and behave smoothly, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included.
However, there’s more beneath that polished surface. ESFJs may keep their messier emotions under wraps, especially if those feelings might disrupt the mood or give a bad impression. It’s not that they don’t experience negative emotions – they just prefer not to air them out in a way that might seem brusque or harsh. This tendency can sometimes make them appear more composed than they genuinely feel.
Joel Mark Witt and Antonia Dodge from Personality Hacker capture the essence of ESFJs perfectly: “ESFJs love to orchestrate shared positive experiences where everyone is getting along. They have a genuine energy and openness to new experience that attracts people around them.” Whether it’s hosting a lively dinner party or organizing a community event, ESFJs naturally draw people into their orbit, making social gatherings look effortless.
Despite their social prowess, ESFJs need their own safe spaces where they can let their guard down and navigate their true feelings. Understanding this duality is crucial to connecting with an ESFJ on a deeper level. Their ability to create harmony doesn’t mean they’re immune to chaos; they just tend to manage it with more tact than most.. So, the next time you see an ESFJ working their social magic, remember there’s a whole spectrum of emotions they’re delicately balancing behind that warm smile.
ESTJ – The Captains
ESTJs are the steady-eyed captains of the world, steering their ships with efficiency, logic, and an unwavering focus on getting things done. Known for their objectivity and structured approach, they are the ones who keep systems and communities running smoothly. When it comes to communication, ESTJs value bluntness and directness – if there’s something to be said, it’s best said straightforwardly. They appreciate clarity and candor, and that’s exactly what they deliver.
However, doing emotional labor or trying to frame their words delicately for others is like lifting heavy weights for ESTJs. As thinking-dominant types, feeling is the most energy-intensive process for them. They excel at logical reasoning and structured planning, but investing energy in emotional matters often leaves them feeling drained. This focus on productivity can lead them to lose touch with their inner emotional state, and they can inadvertently offend people with their brusque straightforwardness.
Over time, this repression of their own emotions can culminate in what’s known as a “grip” reaction. During stressful periods, the emotions they’ve repressed can surge forth like a tidal wave, leading to feelings of being overwhelmed by rage, despair, terror, or panic. In these moments, ESTJs may isolate themselves, pulling away from others to try to cope.
To try to avoid repression, ESTJs can benefit from regular journaling, having someone they trust to talk to one-on-one occasionally, or taking part in activities that help them connect with their feelings, like listening to music or watching movies. Friends and family need to be patient with ESTJs – coaxing them to open up about their feelings and then criticizing their delivery is counterproductive. It’s akin to expecting a skilled pianist to suddenly master the saxophone without any practice. ESTJs need time and space to learn how to express their emotions effectively, and with practice, they can bridge the gap between their hearts and minds.
ENFP – The Visionaries
ENFPs infuse the world with enthusiasm, creativity, and original ideas. It’s not uncommon to find an ENFP whipping up a storm of ideas, adventures, and future possibilities, sparking excitement wherever they go. Friendly and open about their dreams, they love to brainstorm and inspire positive change. However, when it comes to their deeper, more complex emotions, they are a bit more guarded. It’s like they’ve got an emotional VIP section that only a select few get access to – and only if they’ve earned it.
Even though ENFPs are extroverted and thrive on social interactions, they also need their alone time to process their feelings. Think of it as hitting the pause button on the high-energy outward flow to dive deep into their inner world. Blurting out possibilities is easy for them, but when it comes to their feelings, ENFPs need to ensure their emotional trustworthiness gauge reads “safe” before opening up. Once they’ve sorted through their emotions, if they feel the person they’re talking to is worthy of their trust, they can share with authenticity and immediacy.
Unlike their Feeling-Judger counterparts, ENFPs care more about being genuine than sticking to what’s socially appropriate. If it comes down to choosing between telling a tactful white lie to maintain decorum or blurting out a blunt, uncensored truth, they’ll almost always choose the latter. They value realness and get impatient with the sometimes superficial dance of social niceties. So, if you see an ENFP laying it all out there, just remember – they’re keeping it authentic. And if you’re one of those lucky few who’s invited into their inner emotional circle, cherish it. They don’t open up to just anyone.
Find out more about ENFPs: 24 Signs That You’re an ENFP, The Visionary Personality Type
ENTP – The Trailblazers
ENTPs engage friends and strangers alike with their charm, wit, and inexhaustible well of ideas. Whether they’re brainstorming the next big innovation or engaging in a spirited debate, ENTPs thrive on intellectual sparring and bouncing off possibilities. They’re adept at generating a positive vibe, quickly lifting the spirits of a room – though let’s not forget, if they feel like stirring the pot, they can just as easily turn the atmosphere a bit more electrifying.
When it comes to social scenarios, ENTPs have a knack for “rubbing shoulders” with the right people and making a lasting impression. Their humor, often laced with a touch of irreverence, is an effective social lubricant, making conversations flow smoother and putting everyone at ease. And while they can be provocateurs, their debates are usually sprinkled with enough charm and offhand jokes to keep things lighthearted and engaging.
However, when it comes to sharing their deeper feelings, it’s a whole different ball game. ENTPs are more than capable of sharing immediate emotions like happiness, frustration, or surprise, but venturing into the deeper, more intricate layers of their emotional world is challenging. When people try to dredge these more messy feelings out of them, ENTPs can feel overwhelmed and frustrated. To them it feels like navigating through a maze, in the dark, with two left feet and a hyperactive cat pouncing on them at every turn. They might pause for long moments, trying to sort out what’s worth sharing, what’s real, and what might end up causing unintended hurt.
Under stress, ENTPs can find themselves blurting out a torrent of feelings in an uncharacteristic tirade. This emotional outburst is often their attempt to make sense of their turbulent inner world, but once the storm passes, they may regret or even disagree with what they said in the heat of the moment. So, while their intellectual agility makes them outstanding conversationalists and debaters, their emotional depth remains a challenge.
Partners and friends can play a pivotal role in helping ENTPs navigate their emotional maze by providing a safe, non-judgmental space where they can unpack their feelings at their own pace. Instead of pushing for deep emotional revelations or immediate disclosures, it’s far more effective to let the ENTP set the rhythm. A little humor can go a long way; keeping things light and playful helps create an atmosphere where the ENTP feels more comfortable opening up. Offering gentle prompts or sharing your own experiences can also encourage them to explore their emotions without feeling pressured.
ESFP – The Champions
ESFPs are bold, vivacious personalities who bring a contagious energy to most any situation. They thrive on experiences, action, and engaging with those around them in meaningful and fun ways. Whether it’s organizing a spontaneous road trip, making everyone laugh with their quick wit, or diving headfirst into a new hobby, ESFPs know how to keep life exhilarating. They wear their hearts on their sleeves and are generally open about themselves with those they trust. However, they can also rapidly gauge if someone isn’t safe to reveal deeper layers to, and they’ll keep that part of themselves well-guarded.
Unlike Feeling-Judging (FJ) types, ESFPs don’t get as hung up on adhering to societal propriety. They prefer to be real and authentic, even if it means occasionally saying something uncouth or “inappropriate.” This authenticity is a double-edged sword; while it keeps interactions genuine, it can sometimes ruffle feathers. But don’t be mistaken – ESFPs are still deeply sensitive to the emotions of others and aim to create a positive, inclusive environment as much as possible.
Joel Mark Witt and Antonia Dodge from Personality Hacker, state, “Because the need for expression lives deep in the heart of the ESFP, they are one of the most magnetic, energetic, and physically expressive types. ESFPs have an incredible talent for reading body language and understanding others by observing their nonverbal cues.” This ability to read and respond to others’ emotions makes ESFPs excellent at creating connections and fostering a sense of belonging.
Discover more about ESFPs: 24 Signs That You’re an ESFP, the Champion Personality Type
ESTP – The Mavericks
ESTPs are the dynamic, action-oriented, adventurers of the world. They know how to infuse situations with charm, humor, and practicality. These action-oriented, pragmatic types appreciate keeping things casual and real, effortlessly making people laugh and reading the room like seasoned pros. They have a knack for gauging the general vibe and tailoring their approach to fit the moment, ensuring that everyone is either laughing or at least relaxed. When it comes to expressing immediate feelings like frustration, happiness, or excitement, ESTPs are open books. However, ask them to dive into the deeper, more nuanced emotions, and you’ll see them squirming like they’re trying to paddle across an ocean in a storm with a broken tugboat.
Navigating these deeper feelings is no easy feat for ESTPs. They get easily frustrated if friends or partners rush them to open up or exhibit impatience. Accessing what they “really” feel deep down takes ages, though they can usually articulate their direct, logical observations with no problem. When stress hits, don’t be surprised if an ESTP suddenly unleashes a torrent of negative emotions. This is often a necessary catharsis for them, a way to reabsorb and logically sort out their feelings, but they might later regret or disagree with some of what they said in the heat of the moment.
For friends and partners, the key is not to take every emotionally charged word at face value. Understand that, for an ESTP, expressing deep-seated emotions is like venturing into uncharted waters. A bit of humor and a lot of patience can go a long way in helping them open up at their own pace.
What Do You Think?
We’d love to hear from you! Do you resonate with the descriptions of your personality type? What are your personal experiences or tips for others with your type? Let us and other readers know in the comments!
Find out 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!
References:
Personality Hacker: Harness the Power of Your Personality Type to Transform Your Work, Relationships, and Life by Joel Mark Witt and Antonia Dodge (Ulysses Press, 2018)
The Magic Diamond: Jung’s 8 Paths for Self Coaching by Dario Nardi (Radiance House Publishing, 2020)
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Spot on, Susan. Thank you. ISFJ here.
I will share my opinions with people i trust, but i stay reserved when it comes to physical affection. I always know how i feel about things, but i keep my feelings to myself unless asked. And i don’t reveal how i feel unless the person asking is someone i’m close to. Otherwise i either feel like it’s none of their business or i don’t want to rock the boat.