The Toxic Trait You Should Watch Out For, Based On Your Myers-Briggs® Personality Type

March is a time of growth and renewal. As we say goodbye to the cold and welcome the first signs of spring, it’s an excellent opportunity for personal development. Whether you’re an introspective INFP or a commanding ENTJ, each Myers-Briggs® personality type has a potential toxic trait that could stand a bit of work. Some have pruned away these toxic traits or exercised patience and grown over the years, but many others still grapple with these behaviors and don’t necessarily even see them as something to work on!

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

ISTJ: Resisting Change

ISTJs pride themselves on their common sense, practicality, and love for the tried and tested. However, sometimes they dismiss new ideas or unconventional possibilities without giving them a fair chance. Head-shaking and eyebrows raised, they can be suspicious of anything that is a departure of what they know. This stoic resistance to change not only limits them, but can also be frustrating for those around them looking to broaden their horizons.

• Be consciously open to new ideas and experiences, just a little each day.
• Experiment in low-stakes situations to experience the benefit of adaptability.
• Collaborate with someone who favors out-of-the-box thinking and reflect on the outcomes.

ISFJ: Avoiding New Experiences

For the attentive ISFJ, comfort zones are cozy – too cozy sometimes. Their reluctance to step outside the familiar can keep them tethered, never discovering joys beyond their horizon. Many ISFJs struggle to grasp their own potential. They can get so wrapped up in the details of their lives and only trusting what they’ve already accomplished, that they don’t try new things that could harness the huge potential they hold within.

• Commit to one new experience each month, no matter how small.
• Journal about your apprehensions and the actual outcome after trying something new.
• Reach out to a more adventurous friend to join you in your exploits.

INTJ: Avoiding Vulnerability

INTJs tend to have a stoic, confident demeanor and are famous for their mastermind strategies. But their loathing for vulnerability can lead to an emotional bottleneck, not letting the people closest to them see their true selves. Many INTJs would rather give themselves papercuts than open up about their feelings; but this can lead to a long-term sense of isolation and an inability to find close, meaningful friendships.

• Practice expressing emotions through writing if verbal sharing is difficult.
• Jot down your feelings in a journal as a way to process them and guide decisions.
• Reflect on past instances where showing vulnerability led to positive outcomes.

Find out more about INTJs: The Childhood Struggles of INTJs

INFJ: Not Living in the Moment

With rich inner lives and a forward-thinking outlook, INFJs can often find themselves disconnected from the present. Dreaming big is important, but not when it constantly pulls you away from the here and now. Sometimes stopping and smelling the roses actually matters. It might not feel like it, but we all have only one life to live and you don’t want to spend it all dreaming about the next chapter.

• Try daily mindfulness exercises to anchor you to the present.
• Create a gratitude journal to appreciate small, daily experiences.
• Challenge yourself to go on technology-free walks, just observing and connecting.

Discover more about INFJs: 10 Things That Terrify INFJs

ISTP: Neglecting Emotional Investment in Relationships

ISTPs are pragmatic and free-spirited, but they can inadvertently neglect the emotional investment required to strengthen bonds with their loved ones. Many times they underestimate just how much they mean to others or assume that others may not even like them. Over time this can lead to relationships dwindling via neglect or family members feeling that the ISTP simply doesn’t care about them.

• Make a conscious effort to express appreciation and affection to those you care about. Think small at first, like sending a simple “Thinking of you! Hope you’re well” text to someone you love each day.
• Engage in deep conversations periodically to show you’re invested in the relationship.
• Set reminders to check in with friends or loved ones to show you’re thinking about them.

ISFP: Procrastinating on Dreams

The creative ISFP often dreams big but procrastinates just as big. Distractions can take center stage, leaving passions and projects gathering dust. ISFPs have the power to match their imagination with action – they just need a push. Sometimes this avoidance comes from fear of failure or criticism, but it’s high time to dust off those dreams and make them a reality.

• Break your dreams down into actionable steps and set deadlines for each.
• Limit your exposure to known distractions, perhaps using apps to monitor and minimize usage.
• Find an accountability partner to encourage progress on your creative endeavors.

Find out more about ISFPs: How ISFPs Say “I Love You”

INTP: Doubting Their Worth

INTPs are inventive and analytical, but a nagging inner voice can sometimes convince them that they aren’t liked or needed. Many INTPs struggle to maintain relationships because they underestimate how much they mean to other people. They may not check in, make phone calls, or plan outings to deepen relationships or maintain existing relationships. This can result in failed relationships that could have thrived had they been given just a little more TLC.

• Keep a compliments log to remind yourself of your impact on others.
• Reach out for feedback on projects or ideas to see your value reflected through others.
• Engage in community or group activities that interest you (book clubs, game clubs, community outreach, etc,.)
• Resist the urge to interpret minor things (body language, eye contact) as signs others don’t like you

INFP: Not Putting Action Behind Your Dreams

INFPs are known for their deep well of creativity and imagination, often dreaming of possibilities that others would dismiss as “fanciful.” However, turning those dreams into reality can sometimes feel impossible. Formulating a plan and sticking with it rather than just thinking about it can be overwhelming. Many INFPs find themselves paralyzed, their brilliant ideas never seeing the light of day. But it’s important to remember that the world needs your unique ideas.

• Start by identifying one small, achievable goal that moves you closer to your dream. This could be as simple as writing for 15 minutes a day or sketching one new idea.
• Share your dreams with a trusted friend or mentor who can offer support and accountability.
• Reflect on the satisfaction of creating something true to yourself, instead of focusing solely on the end result. Start small and build from there, allowing your actions to slowly align with your dreams.

Discover more about INFPs: Here’s Why INFPs and INTPs Get Misunderstood

ESTJ: Lecturing Rather Than Listening

Confident and assertive, ESTJs can sometimes assume they have all the answers. This ‘my way or the highway’ approach can come across as lecturing and often doesn’t sit well with other people. ESTJs value efficiency and effectiveness, but this can lead to neglecting the opinions and feelings of those around them. Take time to slow down and listen and really process information before jumping into “command mode.”

• Before giving advice, ask questions to understand the other person’s perspective fully.
• Practice active listening techniques to ensure you’re really hearing others.
• Remember that leadership also involves encouragement and collaboration, not just direction.

ESFJ: Succumbing to Gossip

ESFJs tend to be social butterflies, but their love for conversation and connection can sometimes veer into the realm of gossip. Many ESFJs love the sense of camaraderie and kinship that comes with sharing a juicy bit of news. But the long-term effects can be devastating. Instead, focus on building genuine connections through positive conversations and uplifting actions.

• Challenge yourself to avoid discussions that involve speculating about others.
• Redirect conversations that turn gossipy towards more positive topics.
• Practice empathy by considering how you would feel in the other person’s shoes.

ENTJ: Ignoring Their Feelings

The assertive ENTJ is goal-oriented and rational, but sometimes at the expense of their emotional well-being. Feelings are sidelined until they can’t be ignored any longer, often resulting in a “blow up” that startles everyone (ENTJ included). Instead of objectifying your feelings and sweeping them under the rug, take time to understand and address them.

• Schedule regular self-check-ins to write down or process your feelings.
• Experiment with expressive outlets, like journaling, music, or art, to process emotions.
• When you do feel a blow up coming on, remind yourself that when you’re angry you are more likely to be overly-convinced in your “rightness.” Try to get some time alone to breathe deeply, punch a pillow, or otherwise let off some steam without damaging an important relationship.

Find out more about ENTJs: 10 Things You Should Never Say to an ENTJ

ENFJ: Forgetting Themselves

The ability to connect with others is a superpower when used correctly, but sometimes the ENFJ can get lost in their own vision of how things should be. They can become everyone else’s personal life coach and forget to tap into what they personally need or want. Set boundaries and stick to them, making time for yourself even when it feels selfish.

• Check in with your inner dialogue regularly – are you constantly thinking about others’ needs without considering your own?
• Establish boundaries to ensure you’re not overextending yourself.
• Carve out time daily for activities that focus solely on your wellbeing.
• Start a personal project or hobby where the focus is on your growth and happiness.

ESTP: Chasing Temporary Thrills

Adventurous ESTPs love the chase of new experiences, but sometimes this chase ignores the potential consequences for themselves and others. Fun can start to take priority over meaningful responsibilities or activities. And it’s all too easy for ESTPs to rationalize their actions with “I’ll deal with it later.” But taking a step back and evaluating the bigger picture can prevent unnecessary consequences.

• Reflect on past experiences where chasing temporary thrills led to negative outcomes
• Reflect on what long-term satisfaction looks like for you and set goals to align with that vision.
• Practice delayed gratification by resisting impulsive decisions in favor of more impactful ones.
• Seek out mentorship or advice from those who have successfully navigated the pursuit of lasting achievements.

ESFP: Seeking Quick Fixes

Active and fun-loving, ESFPs tend to live a life that is always in motion. But sometimes they look for shortcuts rather than putting in sustained effort, and this can result in work they’re not truly proud of or decisions they later regret. This can look like spending all their money on impromptu vacations rather than having a “safety savings fund” and then disaster striking later.

• Practice setting and achieving small goals before moving onto larger ones.
• Take the time to research options and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
• Surround yourself with people who value hard work and dedication, as their influence can help balance out impulsive tendencies.

Discover more about ESFPs: What It Means to be an ESFP Personality Type

ENTP: Rationalizing Manipulative Behavior

ENTPs are clever and adept at understanding others, which can sometimes translate into manipulative behavior if left unchecked. They may rationalize their actions as simply “outsmarting” others or getting what they want. But ultimately, this kind of rationalizing can lead to damaged relationships and pain later on. Instead, focus on using your intelligence to be ruthless with logic; even against yourself.

• Reflect on the consequences of manipulative actions and commit to ethical persuasion.
• Practice being radically honest with yourself and others rather than playing off other people’s feelings or your perceptions of their weaknesses.
• Tap into your Introverted Thinking side to debate your own logic when you find yourself trying to manipulate a situation.

ENFP: Flaking on Commitments

ENFPs are full of enthusiasm, but their free spirits sometimes struggle with sticking to commitments. Many an ENFP will dismiss irresponsible behavior as ‘just the way they are.’ But here’s the thing, there are so many ENFPs who have been able to accomplish staggering feats of patience because they stuck with their convictions even when it was hard. Your personality type, your energy, your eye for possibilities can be harnessed when you tap into your sense of right, wrong, and your long-term values.

• Keep a planner to track promises and deadlines, and hold yourself accountable.
• Learn to say no if you’re unsure you can follow through with a commitment.
• Take time every day to tap into your values and the things that really matter to you in the long run. Prune away obligations that are veering you away from those values, and hold yourself strongly to the commitments you know in your heart are meaningful and align with the kind person you want to be.

Find out more about ENFPs: 24 Signs That You’re an ENFP, The Visionary Personality Type

How Have You Experienced Your Weaknesses?

Do you agree? Disagree? Do you have any suggestions for other people with your personality type? Let us and other readers know in the comments!