Here’s How You Feel About Change, Based on Your Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

Does the idea of change excite you and give you a rush of stimulation? Does the notion of change make you feel like locking yourself in your room, never to open the door? Different personality types respond to change in different ways. Some live for it while others see it as a kind of slow death, driving them away from a life they’ve grown comfortable with.

How do you experience change and what does your personality type have to do with it? That’s what we’ll discover in this article!

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Here’s How You Feel About Change, Based on Your Personality Type

ENFPs and Change

Change is an exciting word for ENFPs. These individuals are one of seven personality types who are most likely to be excited by change. They are also fond of variety, so going somewhere new, trying their hand at a new skill, or being around a new set of people piques their curiosity. Routine, everyday experiences can make them bored and de-motivated. If the change involves moving to a new location, they may struggle with saying goodbye to friends and loved ones or letting go of relationships.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to ENFPs:

• Give them time to talk about the change and all the possibilities and implications related to it.
• Explain the overall reason for the change. Where are you headed? What is the goal?
• Paint a picture or vision of where you see yourself (or them) in the future.
• Recognize the personal impact of this change. How will their personal needs be dealt with?
• Demonstrate that you care.
• Include them in planning.
• Give them plenty of options and be prepared to answer lots of questions.
• Understand that they like options, flexibility, and an open-ended plan.

ENTPs and Change

ENTPs get a rush of excitement when a change or new option is put on the table. Rarely scared of a risk, ENTPs are one of seven personality types most likely to appreciate change. They tend to get bored by a repetitive routine or a predictable lifestyle, so any time a new option is presented they tend to respond with enthusiasm and curiosity rather than dread.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to ENTPs:

• Give them a chance to be heard and have a voice in decisions.
• Keep lines of communication open – answer questions.
• Give them a general plan or direction to tinker with and develop.
• They appreciate options, and will likely generate more and more.
• Give them an opportunity to envision the future and influence changes.
• Explain the logic of the change. Why is this happening?
• Explain the systematic changes involved in the development.
• Explain the goals and overall structure of the change.
• Be fair and equitable.
• Give them time to gather information and explore options.
• Give them room to question goals and adjust plans as the process unfolds.

INFPs and Change

INFPs need a little time alone to reflect on changes and figure out whether the changes align with their values and desires. They hate feeling pushed or pressured into anything without having a chance to ruminate on it. That said, INFPs are one of seven types most likely to be excited by change. They enjoy variety, new possibilities, and tend to get bored when life feels monotonous and repetitive. The biggest struggle for INFPs is leaving loved ones if moving locations is a part of the change. They tend to be very attached to their relationships and will need a process or method of maintaining relationships.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to INFPs:

• Give them time to think through the change before asking for an immediate response.
• Ask them what they think about everything related to the change.
• Give them time to reflect on the changes before taking action.
• Explain the future vision you have. What is this change going to mean for the future? Stimulate their imagination by painting a vision of the future.
• Give them a general direction, but don’t overwhelm them with details and structure.
• Recognize the personal impacts this change might have on them.
• Explain the values that underlie the change. Are the motivations ethical?
• Explain the general parameters of the change. Give them options.
• Loosen up, don’t micro-manage them, don’t seem panicky.

Read This Next: 3 Weird and Wonderful Secrets of the INFP Personality Type

INTPs and Change

Change can be very exciting for INTPs. These types are typically flexible and willing to take smart risks. They can become easily bored by everyday, repetitive experiences and enjoy the challenge involved with change. What new options will it present? What creative avenues will be opened up? As introverts, however, INTPs need time alone to process the change before giving an immediate response. They want to ruminate about the change and all the implications and effects before they jump on board.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to INTPs:

• INTPs are very independent and self-sufficient individuals. Give them time to reflect on this decision and have a voice in changes made.
• Give them written, well thought-out communication or a one-on-one discussion about the change.
• Give them the overall rationale behind the change. What’s the big picture?
• Give them the general plan and let them tinker with it and imagine new possibilities or options related to it.
• Give them the logical reasons behind the change and why it is taking place.
• Demonstrate that the leadership in charge of the change is competent and capable.
• Be fair and equitable in the change.
• Give them the opportunity to gather as much information as possible.
• Give them room to adjust goals or implement plans as the process continues.

Read This Next: How INTPs Handle Conflict

ENFJs and Change

Ever planful and future-focused, ENFJs are initially excited about change. In fact, they are one of seven personality types most likely to be excited by change. They enjoy working over the details involved in a change and getting on board with planning and implementation. They are skilled at making sure everyone feels heard in the change process and are good at making sure personal needs are accounted for and developments run along at a smooth pace. That said, ENFJs can feel very stressed during change, especially if there are personal factors that negatively impact them or others. If the people around them are stressed or anxious about the change they can get so wrapped up in trying to fix things for other people that they burn out or feel emotionally overwhelmed.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to ENFJs:

• Discuss the personal impacts of the change directly with them. Ask how you can help.
• Explain ways that the change will benefit the people involved.
• Show that you are cooperative in working with others. Explain that the ENFJ won’t have to handle other people’s feelings entirely on their own.
• Communicate regularly about the change.
• Paint a picture of the future once the change is implemented.
• Ask their advice for any future implications that may arise related to the change.
• Include them in planning and implementation.
• Demonstrate appreciation and support.
• Give them a clear plan of action, with specific goals and expectations.
• Give them a time frame and a statement of priorities.

ENTJs and Change

Decisive and analytical, ENTJs enjoy the challenge and possibility that change provides. They are usually quick to question the logic of the change to make sure it is sound. They need time to envision where the change will lead in the future, and they will appreciate being able to discuss this with others. These types are usually valued during change because of their ability to manage transitions effectively and efficiently without getting emotional or distracted. They are skilled at implementing structure, staying on task, and meeting deadlines. They are also a good sounding board for discussing implications of where the change will lead and whether or not it is a smart move.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to ENTJs:

• Explain your reasons for the change. They dislike meaningless change but are excited about pragmatic, progressive change.
• Discuss the change in person and ask for their thoughts and ideas.
• Give them a voice in the change.
• Give them opportunities to design the change you want to see happen.
• Focus on the big picture.
• Explain the systematic differences that will be put into place because of the change.
• Demonstrate competent and confident leadership.
• Give them a clear, concise plan of action.
• Give a clear time frame and a statement of priorities.
• Show that you are taking action to get the change in place.

INFJs and Change

INFJs can have mixed reactions to change. While they enjoy being able to toy with a new vision or idea for the future, they can feel hesitant if they see implications that could be negative. They need more time to acclimate to change than many other types. They want to think through their position, analyze the potential effects, and consider how the change will impact them personally and the people around them. INFJs feel most motivated to change when they see a vision or image of the future that looks appealing and novel. They don’t like predictability or monotony and are excited by new options and possibilities – they just need time to mentally engage with the change and toy with the connections and impacts that it will have on everyone.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to INFJs:

• Present change to them one-on-one if possible.
• Give them time to process the change and think it over before expecting an immediate response.
• Explain the big picture – what will the future look like when this change is in place?
• Give them opportunities to design the future and influence changes creatively.
• Recognize the impacts this change might have on them or others.
• Explain the values and ethics underlying the change. Is this the conscientious choice?
• Show appreciation and support.
• Give them a clear idea of priorities, outcomes, and goals.
• Give a specific time frame for them to look forward to and plan for.

Read This Next: 24 Revealing Quotes About the INFJ Personality Type

INTJs and Change

Long-term planning is a gift of the INTJ personality type. They can be excited by change, but they need time to figure out their strategy and predict implications and likely effects. Unexpected, surprise changes can irritate INTJs because they want time to create a plan and avoid mistakes that come from impulsivity and haste. INTJs enjoy toying with a new idea or possibility, so change can be exciting for them. They also enjoy the challenge that change provides – it gives them something new to figure out, a new future goal or vision to bring to actuality. They just need to be sure that the people handling the change are competent and will respect their insights into the situation.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an INTJ:

• Give them time alone to reflect on the change and analyze it before expecting a response.
• Show that you have thought things through and given careful consideration to the implications of the change.
• Explain the overall rationale and reason for the change.
• Give them opportunities to influence and plan.
• Explain the systematic changes that will go into effect.
• Explain the goals – Where will this change lead to in the future?
• Be fair to everyone involved in the change.
• Give a clear, concise plan of action.
• Be clear on your time frame. Don’t be wishy-washy or vague.
• Don’t surprise them with the change.
• Ask for their opinions and ideas.

Read This Next: 12 Stress-Busting Tips for INTJs

ESFPs and Change

ESFPs have a knack for adapting to change and seeing the opportunities involved in it. These types enjoy variety and novelty and tend to get bored if life feels too repetitive or predictable. That said, they don’t like having changed forced on them, and they will want to have the freedom to make up their own mind about it and figure out whether it aligns with their values. They’ll want to know what options this change will provide, what exciting opportunities will open up, and how it will impact their relationships.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ESFP:

• Talk to them about what’s going on and get them involved.
• Keep lines of communication open and let them have a voice.
• Give them real facts and data to explain why the change is taking place.
• Be very specific and give a realistic picture of what to expect.
• Be very clear about the expectations, roles, and potential responsibilities.
• Recognize the impact this change will have on them and the people around them.
• Explain the ethics and values behind the change. Is this the morally right thing to do?
• Demonstrate that you care.
• Give them some flexibility and room to explore options.
• Don’t be rigid or panicky as this will set them on edge.

ESTPs and Change

Change and variety are thrilling to ESTP individuals. These types get a rush of excitement from a new adventure or challenge. In fact, according to the MBTI® Manual, these are one of seven types most likely to enjoy change. ESTPs tend to get bored if their environments become predictable or mundane. Rather than repetition and consistency, they enjoy novel experiences and a mixture of tactical and strategic risk-taking. However, they don’t like having their decisions made for them. They’re more likely to create change or instigate it rather than just follow along on someone else’s plan. If they’re going to pursue a life-altering change then they’ll want strong, logical reasons to do so.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ESTP:

• Give them time to talk about the changes and keep lines of communication open.
• Let them have a voice in the process.
• Give them real data and facts as to why the change is going to happen.
• Be specific and detailed when explaining your reasons.
• Give a realistic picture of what the future will look like.
• Be logical – explain why this change is happening and discuss the systematic changes.
• Be fair to everyone involved.
• Demonstrate confidence and competence.
• Let them gather more information as needed.
• Don’t be rigid or micro-manage during the process.

ISFPs and Change

ISFPs can feel hesitant when new changes come their way. While they are typically adventurous and flexible, they are also deeply attached to their loved ones and the lives they create for themselves. They need time to reflect on change, to analyze the implications and discern how it will affect their personal relationships. They want to feel that there is a meaningful reason to pursue a change, and they need to feel supported and given reasonable facts and specifics about why the change needs to happen in the first place.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ISFP:

• Discuss the change one-on-one and then give them time to process it alone afterward.
• Don’t expect them to have an immediate answer.
• Give them specifics and facts to explain your reasoning for the change.
• Give them a realistic picture of what the future will look like with these changes in place.
• Recognize the personal impacts of the change.
• Be supportive and appreciative.
• Explain the values that instigated the change. Are there any ethical reasons for it?
• Don’t be controlling or overly rigid.

ISTPs and Change

Well thought-out change and new opportunities tend to be very appealing to ISTPs. They don’t mind switching things up or pursuing a new challenge, but they dislike change that seems emotionally-directed or overly optimistic. ISTPs want to know what the systematic changes will be, what the logic is, what new options will open up, and whether or not the direction seems feasible. They also want plenty of time to reflect on a change and assimilate information before jumping on board.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ISTP:

• Give them time to think through their position before discussing it or expecting an answer.
• Be realistic and show the facts and data that led to this decision.
• Explain the logic for the change.
• Show competence and clarity in your decision-making process.
• Give them room to adjust goals and plans as the process unfolds.
• Explain the general parameters.
• Be flexible and let them present new options.

ESFJs and Change

Change can be unnerving for ESFJ individuals. These types enjoy mapping out their future and having all the details worked out so that life is on track to reach their goals. They enjoy consistency, traditions, and fellowship with well-known friends and family members. While they can enjoy the occasional adventure, they still appreciate stability and consistency. Change that is handled with concern, support, and organization can be exciting to them if it leads to a promising future. They just need to feel that their relationships aren’t at stake and that the people in charge will be supportive and competent.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ESFJ:

• Keep lines of communication open. Be honest and forthcoming.
• Explain the facts and details that led to this decision.
• Paint a realistic picture of where the change will lead.
• Respect their feelings and be supportive and appreciative.
• Show that you have a clear plan and a set deadline.
• Make expectations, roles, and goals clear.
• Explain the values that led to the change. Is this an ethical or moral decision?

ESTJs and Change

While change isn’t especially exciting for ESTJs, they tend to accept it if the goal is pragmatic and logical. They want to have a certain amount of control when change occurs and will be irritated if they are expected to just sit around and “let things happen”. They enjoy organizing, planning, and creating effective systems so that the objectives are met on an agreed-upon timeline. They will hate change if the people handling it are wishy-washy, vague, or unrealistic in their objectives.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ESTJ:

• Explain the logical reasons for the change.
• Be open and forthcoming with communication. Don’t beat around the bush.
• Explain with clarity and real facts why the change has to take place.
• Discuss the objectives, goals, and vision of where the change will lead.
• Be specific about what’s needed and what the expectations are.
• Have a clear timeline set forth and an organized plan of action.
• Be fair and considerate to everyone involved.

ISFJs and Change

ISFJs are one of the types least likely to be excited by change. Individuals of this type thrive on stability, consistency, and a sense of routine. They like knowing what to expect and they enjoy working in fields where they have developed expertise and deep knowledge. Having to change, especially if there doesn’t seem to be a strong reason to, can be very stressful for them. That said, ISFJs can appreciate change if it will improve their relationship, their security, or will promote a cause they believe in. They can also enjoy change if they’re given time to prepare themselves for it and acclimate to the idea. Change that is thrust upon them without warning is the most unsettling to them.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ISFJ:

• Let them know about the change well ahead of time.
• Be realistic and provide facts that back up your decision.
• Paint a picture of where the change will lead – but be pragmatic, not fanciful.
• Give them time to reflect on the change privately before expecting a response.
• Be very specific about the purpose of the change. Don’t be vague or wishy-washy.
• Be supportive and explain how people will be taken care of.
• Give a clear timeline and outline of expectations and goals.

ISTJs and Change

ISTJs need time to prepare for changes, and can be hesitant of a change initially. They enjoy stability and a sense of the familiar so having to suddenly react to a change can be stressful for them. If there is a strong, logical reason for a change to take place then they will usually get on board and be very helpful and thorough in preparations. But if the change seems poorly-planned, illogical, or impulsive they will be very skeptical and wary of embarking on such a venture. Planning and taking care of details is essential to these types, and if this part of the change-process seems hasty they will be apprehensive about whoever is leading the change.

Some Tips for Presenting Change to an ISTJ:

• Let them know about the change as early as possible so that they can prepare.
• Involve them in the process and ask their advice.
• Give strong, logical reasons for the change to take place.
• Be very clear about the order of the change (deadlines, expectations, goals).
• Use facts to back up your reasons for the change.
• Give them time to process the change privately before expecting a lot of discussion.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you agree or disagree with this article? How do you respond to change? Let us know in the comments!

Find out more about your personality type in our eBook, Discovering You: Unlocking the Power of Personality Type.