What Each Myers-Briggs® Personality Type Loves to Do for Fun

Ever wondered what the different Myers-Briggs® personality types do in their free time? You’re not alone! Recently, I conducted a survey of over 85,000 people from my email list, social media followers, clients, and friends to find out. My goal was to find out what really excited or inspired each of the types.

A lot of times we think we’re all so very different, but we have more in common than we realize. Or we expect everyone to be exactly the same, when that’s hardly the case as well. As I surveyed my email list, I started to see patterns related to type. For example, extroverts always had “Talking to friends” as one of their top 5 leisure activities, whereas none of the introverted types had “talking to friends” ranking in their top 5. Research was popular with all the NT personality types, while the only Feeling personality type who selected this in their top 5 was the INFJ, and the only sensing type who got this in their top 5 was the ISTP. Every single personality type except for ENFJs and ENTPs had enough votes for “Playing or listening to music” for it to end up in their top 5 favorite leisure activities.

I also thought it was interesting that nearly every personality type had “being in nature” as one of their top 5 activities, yet people are spending less and less time in nature as a whole. According to a recent study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends 93% of their life indoors. 87% of their life is inside buildings, then another 6% is in automobiles. That’s only 7% of your entire life outdoors! Yet the average US American adult spends 6 hours and 35 minutes on their smartphone every day. And while none of the personality types got many votes for “Social Media”, one of the options on my survey, the average US Adult spends 2 hours and 24 minutes on social media every day. While looking at the survey results, I started to wonder how much of us really arrange our free time around what we actually love doing versus what we habitually do out of compulsion. Is “doom scrolling” keeping us away from the leisure activities that actually refresh and recharge us?

Let’s dive into the results and see if the most popular leisure activities for each type match your preferences! I’d love to hear (read) your thoughts!

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

Estimated reading time: 29 minutes

Survey Demographics

Before we get to the fun part, here’s a little background on who participated in the survey:

• Gender: 74% female, 23% male, 3% chose not to answer.
• Age: 57% were between 35-64 years old, followed by 16% who were 65+, 10.63% aged 25-34, 8.36% aged 18-24, and 6.27% aged 0-17.

The Choices Respondents Could Choose From:

• Gaming
• Playing or listening to music
• Watching television or movies
• Reading
• Creating art
• Crafting
• Watching sports
• Exercising
• Talking to friends
• Gardening
• Cooking or baking
• Being in nature
• Taking classes
• Research
• Social Media

INFJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Being in nature
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Researching
5. Watching TV or movies

Least Voted Activities:

1. Watching sports
2. Social Media
3. Taking classes
4. Exercising

Every INFJ I’ve ever known has been an avid book lover. They love diving deep into philosophical territory, self-help books, inspiring literature, or mind-bending suspense stories. It’s no surprise to me at all that reading got the most votes among this type. For the “Mystics”, life is about understanding the bigger picture, other people’s perspectives, and depth over temporary satisfaction. Books can aid in all of those pursuits. After all, it’s the easiest way to feel like you’re visiting other worlds and other people and new adventures!

Being in nature was also vitally important to INFJs. They have an affinity for the wonders and beauty of the natural world, whether that means enjoying quiet walks in the forest or contemplating ideas while being out in the fresh air. Playing or listening to music seemed to be among the top 5 for nearly every personality type; I think it’s a purely human thing to be drawn to music and the emotional resonance one can find there.

I did think it was interesting that INFJs were the only feeling personality type to end up with “Research” in their top 5 selections. But it does fit with their personality preferences when you think about it. INFJs are all about finding the deeper meaning behind things; the dance of the universe, the answer to all the “why’s” of existence. So it makes sense that they are curious and research-driven. It also likely has to do with their Introverted Thinking tertiary function, which is always seeking to find out how things work.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by INFJs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Daydreaming, traveling, spending time with pets, learning new languages, building puzzles, meditating, and hiking.

Find out more about INFJs: Two Inspiring Morning Routines for INFJs

ENFJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Talking to friends
2. Being in nature
3. Reading
4. Taking classes
5. Exercising

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Watching sports
2. Baking or cooking
3. Gardening
4. Watching TV or movies

ENFJs are the “Mentors” of the personality world, and they tend to feel at their best when they are connecting with people. Getting close, being real, and learning how people tick is what inspires this type. So it’s no surprise that “Talking to friends” got the most votes for favorite leisure activity. Mentors crave deep conversations and meaningful connections, using their time with friends to exchange ideas, offer support, and create lasting bonds. Being in nature is another favorite. Whether it’s hiking through forests or simply enjoying a walk in the park, nature gives them with an escape from their busy lives and a chance to get in touch with their senses and stay mindful and grounded.

Reading ranked 3rd out of the 15 options for ENFJs, and it’s not hard to see why. Delving into a book gives them a chance to relax and absorb new perspectives. After all, intuition is largely about perspective-shifting. Whether it’s fiction, biographies, or self-improvement books, reading allows them to expand their understanding of the world, other people’s psychology, and the human condition. Taking classes also ranks high among ENFJs, who are often lifelong learners. In fact, ENFJs were the only personality types who had “Taking classes” in their top 5 leisure activities! Always eager to grow and evolve, they enjoy enrolling in courses that range from academic subjects to spiritual discovery.

And in 5th place was exercise. Only ENFJs and ESTPs had exercise in their top 5 things they do for fun! Mentors enjoy staying active, and exercise allows them to tap into their tertiary sensing function and stay healthy and inspired. Taking part in activities like yoga, running, or team sports helps them to stay fit and balanced, channeling their energy in productive ways.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ENFJs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Organizing, spiritual discovery, spending time with pets, and biking.

INTJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Researching
2. Reading
3. Being in nature
4. Playing or listening to music
5. Watching TV or movies

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Social Media
2. Crafting
3. Creating art
4. Watching sports

For INTJs, or “Strategists”, life is short, and the clock is ticking on all the subjects they can master and learn about. Because of this, they’re nearly always researching, learning, and exploring. Whether the topic is cutting-edge science, historical breakthroughs, or the latest technological advancements, INTJs are driven to understand the “why’s” behind the cosmos. As an INTJ myself, I feel this deeply. One of the greatest sadnesses of my life is knowing that I won’t have time to learn and master all the things I want to understand.

Reading is another favorite activity that lets INTJs expand their already vast knowledge base. Strategists devour books on philosophy, science fiction, and non-fiction alike, diving into the complexities and insights each offers. Books provide both an escape and a means to deepen their understanding. My recommendation for INTJs? Plug your phone into another room at night and spend an hour reading before bed! But that’s up to you, of course.

Despite their largely analytical nature, INTJs are happiest when they’re also in touch with the natural world. Whether it’s a quiet walk through the woods, a climb up a challenging mountain peak, or a swim in the lake, the natural world gives them a much-needed break from intensive mental activity and keeps them grounded and conscious of their senses.

When it comes to music, INTJs also show their eclectic taste. While many INTJs I know lean towards classical or instrumental music, others prefer genres that evoke deep emotions or tell complex stories. Music offers them an emotional outlet and a way to express their otherwise highly controlled inner world.

Lastly, watching TV or movies gives INTJs a different kind of intellectual stimulation. They love well-crafted stories, whether they’re high-suspense mysteries, smart science fiction, or thought-provoking dramas. They want to watch something that will get them deeper in touch with complex concepts, future possibilities, or their own emotional experience.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by INTJs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Writing, plannings, organizing, and hiking.

You Might Also Like: Two Inspiring Morning Routines for INTJs

ENTJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Talking to friends
3. Being in nature
4. Playing or listening to music
5. Researching

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Creating art
2. Crafting
3. Watching television or movies
4. Gardening

For ENTJs, life is a giant chessboard, and every moment is an opportunity to strategize, grow, and conquer. Their ambitious and action-oriented nature means they’re always on the lookout for ways to improve and stay ahead. Reading tops their list because they see it as a tool for mastering new skills, gaining insights, and shaping their visionary plans. Whether it’s devouring business books, biographies, or novels, ENTJs seek out the mental stimulation and perspective shifts that reading offers.

Talking to friends is next, and it’s not just small talk. ENTJs want intellectually deep discussions that challenge their ideas and help them refine their understanding of the world. They surround themselves with people who can keep up with their rapid pace and be as real, authentic, and motivated as they are. Pointless chit-chat is definitely not their idea of fun.

Being in nature is also a much-needed escape from their intense, goal-driven lifestyle. Hiking up a mountain or taking a scenic walk helps ENTJs clear their minds, find inspiration, and come back with renewed energy for their pursuits. Nature helps them to stay grounded, in touch with their senses, and mentally focused.

Music I think is fundamentally satisfying to everyone, no matter their personality type. There’s a reason it’s on every single personality type’s top 5 list! Whether it involves playing an instrument like the piano, drumming out their thoughts, or just using classical music as the background to their work.

Lastly, ENTJs are natural researches. As Intuitive-Thinking types, they are constantly trying to seek out knowledge, mastery, and competence. It’s not enough to just see the world as it is, they want to see how it works and what it could be. They dive into subjects that spark their curiosity, from cutting-edge science to psychology to business strategies.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ENTJs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: playing piano, rock climbing, and even making stained glass.

INFPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Playing or listening to music
2. Reading
3. Being in nature
4. Watching TV or movies
5. Creating art

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Watching sports
2. Gardening
3. Baking or cooking
4. Exercising

Playing or listening to music takes the top spot for the INFP “Dreamer” personality types. Music is a key for INFP’s to unlock their deeper emotions, as well as a passport that transports them to other imaginative places. I remember my friend, an INFP, who would spend hours creating personalized playlists for his friends or tailored playlists for his moods. Of course, he also wrote his own music because nothing he listened to could be specific enough to fully convey his feelings.

Reading came in second for INFPs. For Dreamers, books aren’t just “Fun”, but they’re a gateway to understanding complex characters and expansive histories. With a book, they can travel to Narnia, Hogwarts, learn from the greatest thinkers in history, or become experts at a craft they’re passionate about. It’s no surprise that many of our greatest authors are rumored to be INFPs; people like Albert Camus, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Edgar Allan Poe.

Being in nature is another popular activity for INFPs. There’s something about the tranquility of the natural world that calms their often busy minds. A walk through the woods or a quiet afternoon by the lake gives them with a sense of peace and helps pave the way for creative ideas. Studies show that being in nature reduces stress, improves focus, and increases energy and creativity. It’s no wonder that INFPs find this so important.

Watching TV or movies is also popular among INFPs, where they can get to know complex characters and explore fantastical worlds that are beyond anything we can experience in our day-to-day lives. And finally, creating art rounds out the top five. Whether through painting, drawing, or crafting, INFPs find satisfaction in bringing their visions to life. I honestly have never known an INFP who wasn’t artistic in some way.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by INFPs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Spending time with pets, tai chi, meditation, writing, dancing, journaling, learning languages, daydreaming, and building with Legos.

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

ENFPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Talking to friends
2. Reading
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Being in nature
5. Watching TV or movies

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Watching sports
2. Baking or cooking
3. Crafting
4. Researching

There’s nothing an ENFP enjoys more than a lively conversation, exchanging ideas, and diving deep into intriguing topics with those their friends. Their epic curiosity and genuine interest in others’ stories make them natural conversationalists. They also love brainstorming, swapping opinions, or getting people involved in collaborative projects and ventures.

Reading comes in a close second. For ENFPs, books are a portal to new worlds and possibilities, drawing them into fantastical stories that fuel their creative minds. Whether it’s a gripping novel or an insightful non-fiction piece, reading helps them explore their ideas and perspectives more deeply and get in touch with their introverted feeling side.

For ENFPs, music is about finding an external mood for their inner feeling state. Songs can remind them of their values, the deeper feelings they sometimes push below the surface because the world expects them to be “sunny” all the time. Or music can help lift their spirits and get them energized to do something transformative or world-changing!

And of course, being in nature was a favorite activity as well. Whether it’s a hike through the forest, a day at the beach, or canoeing in their favorite lake, nature reminds them that the world is open and boundless and there is still so much to discover.

Lastly, watching TV or movies is a popular activity among ENFPs. They enjoy escaping into fantastical worlds and connecting with complex characters. TV shows and movies provide them with a shared cultural experience that they can eagerly discuss with friends and family. I mean, what better way to get to know a friend than to figure out which Stranger Things character they relate to most?

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ENFPs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Dancing, going to art expos, spending time with pets, imagining, and traveling.

INTPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Researching
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Watching TV or movies
5. Being in nature

Least Voted Activities:

1. Watching sports
2. Gardening
3. Baking or cooking
4. Social Media

Life for INTPs is meant to be a journey of endless discovery and intellectual stimulation. Reading is their favorite activity, allowing them to get thoroughly lost in the subjects that interest them. Whether it’s a gripping sci-fi novel, a dense philosophical treatise, or cutting-edge scientific papers, INTPs love expanding their mind with the written word. The same goes for researching; these natural-born theorists love discovering hidden truths and forming new insights about the world around them. If they haven’t learned something new in the last 15 minutes, they’re probably bored.

When it comes to watching TV or movies, INTPs look for shows and films that challenge their intellect and expand their understanding of human nature and society. This is probably why Christopher Nolan films are often a big hit with INTPs.

Lastly, spending time in nature keeps them grounded and gives them time for contemplation and relaxation, balancing their often busy thoughts with moments of tranquility and reflection.

Other activities that often capture their interest include debating, visiting art galleries, spending time with pets, photography, journaling, tai chi, and learning new languages.

Discover more about INTPs: 15 Iconic INTP Characters

ENTPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Being in nature
3. Gaming
4. Talking to friends
5. Researching

Leisure Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Exercising
2. Gardening
3. Crafting
4. Watching television or movies

Why?

ENTPs are happiest when they have a lot of intellectual stimulation and fresh ideas. Reading is a top activity for ENTPs, giving them a portal to countless realms of knowledge and a chance to satisfy their insatiable curiosity. They dive into books that challenge their perspectives, from the latest scientific discoveries to futuristic science fiction.

Being in nature is another important way for ENTPs to recharge and explore. The great outdoors offer them a tranquil escape from their bustling minds and a place to get grounded, go on adventures, and find inspiration. And gaming is where ENTPs can let their strategic and competitive sides shine. Whether it’s engaging in tactical shooter games or solving complex puzzles, gaming lets them exercise their problem-solving skills and enjoy the thrill of competition. It’s an arena where innovation and quick thinking come to life.

And of course ENTPs are extroverts, so “Talking to Friends” was also given a lot of votes. These Trailblazers thrive on engaging conversations, spirited debates, and brainstorming sessions that exercise their logical thinking skills and their imagination. For an ENTP, getting into an argument can be a way to build a relationship and bond with someone, which can be a surprise to Feeling types who often see arguing as a type of heated conflict that is more likely to cause rifts in relationships.

Researching is the pursuit that ties everything together for ENTPs. They are driven by a desire to understand how things work, develop mastery in various fields, and come up with original ideas. Be it cutting-edge technology or historical enigmas, ENTPs immerse themselves in topics that pique their interest. Icons like Steve Wozniak and Leonardo da Vinci exemplify the ENTP spirit, always pushing boundaries and innovating in their respective fields.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ENTPs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Having abstract conversations, martial arts, dancing

ISFJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Being in nature
3. Watching TV or movies
4. Playing or listening to music
5. Cooking or baking

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Watching sports
2. Taking classes
3. Social Media
4. Creating art

For ISFJs, tranquillity and caring relationships are what life is all about. These gentle nurturers find immense comfort and escapism in the pages of a good book. Whether it’s a riveting novel or an insightful piece of poetry, reading allows them to dive into alternate realities, filling up their inner lives with wisdom, empathy, or even practical knowledge.

Being in nature holds a sacred space in their hearts as well. The rustle of leaves, the song of birds, and the whispering winds offer a sanctuary from the hurried world outside. It’s in these quiet moments that ISFJs feel most connected, finding comfort in the beauty and details of the natural world.

When the day draws to a close, ISFJs often find joy in watching TV or movies. Relaxing with a good on-screen story gives them a chance to take a break from their often busy schedules and connect with characters they know and love.

Cooking or baking is more than just a chore for ISFJs; it’s an act of love. Crafting meals or baked goods offers an opportunity to nourish and care for their friends and family. The kitchen becomes a sanctuary where creativity and nurturing combine and they can experiment with textures, aromas, and flavors to create something that everyone will love.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ISFJs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Building puzzles, sewing, spending time with pets, quiet contemplation, and journaling.

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

ESFJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Playing or listening to music
3. Being in nature
4. Watching TV or movies
5. Talking to friends

Least favorite activities:

1. Watching sports
2. Creating art
3. Taking classes
4. Exercising

I fully expected “Talking to friends” to be the #1 favorite activity for ESFJs, but I was wrong! Reading came out at #1, but with more thought, I could definitely see why. Reading gives ESFJs the chance to both relax and unwind while connecting with characters who are going through real challenges and triumphs. They enjoy books that get them wrapped up in someone’s personal story; it can feel like they’re making literary friends along the way.

Playing or listening to music ranks high on their list as well. Music gives them both a creative outlet and a way to find emotional solidarity. Whether they’re attending a live concert or playing their favorite tunes at home, music helps them to find words for the experiences and emotions they are experiencing.

Being in nature is another favored pastime. Spending time in outdoor activities, like hiking or gardening, gives them a refreshing escape from their day-to-day routines, connecting them with their senses, which is something ESFJs naturally are drawn to.

When it comes to relaxation, watching TV or movies is a popular choice among ESFJs. They enjoy bonding with their loved ones over favorite TV shows, and they know how to make “movie night” feel like a special event complete with themed snacks (at least, I’ve experienced this with ESFJs).

Talking to friends is definitely one of the top activities for ESFJs. Their sociable nature loves meaningful conversations and exchanging ideas or advice.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ESFJs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Volunteering, spending time with pets, walking, building puzzles, and traveling.

Want to know more? Read A Look at the ESFJ Leader

ISTJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Playing or listening to music
3. Being in nature
4. Watching TV or movies
5. Gardening

Least Voted Activities:

1. Creating art
2. Taking classes
3. Talking with friends
4. Social media

For ISTJs, life is about finding balance and enjoying the quieter pleasures. It was no surprise to me that reading topped their list of favorite activities. Whether it’s historical novels, instructional manuals, or classic literature, ISTJs love diving into a novel or non-fiction story that takes them away from the hurry and overstimulation of everyday life. Music, too, is a vital part of their routine, whether they’re relaxing with some soothing classical tunes or playing their favorite instruments.

When it comes to leisure, being in nature is a refreshing escape. I know quite a few ISTJs who are avid hikers, even in old age, they don’t let the difficulty stop them. Others enjoy fishing by the lake or simply rocking on their front porch and listening to the birds! Watching TV or movies is also the perfect way for them to unwind, and, if you’re interested, you can see the ISTJ’s favorite movies here.

Gardening for many ISTJs is more than just a hobby; it’s a therapeutic process that lets them slow down, focus in-depth on the details (something SJs love), and make something grow.

Other activities that ISTJs frequently mentioned include photography, spending time with pets, building puzzles, organizing, bird watching, and collecting.

Find out more about ISTJs: 7 Things ISTJs Experience in Childhood

ESTJs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Talking to friends
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Watching TV or movies
5. Gardening

Least Voted Activities:

1. Creating art
2. Researching
3. Taking classes
4. Playing games

Picking up a book is more than just leisure for ESTJs; it’s a way to keep their minds sharp and informed. They often dive into business best-sellers, how-to guides, or historical texts that offer practical insights and lessons they can apply to their daily lives. And I’ve known more than a few ESTJs who loved a good sci-fi novel or mystery to unwind with as well.

When it comes to socializing, ESTJs are in their element. They love spending time with friends in conversations that are lively and peppered with good-natured debates. Music also helps liven up ordinary chores for ESTJs, and quite a few enjoy jamming out to their favorite songs while they take care of busywork that needs to be done.

Watching TV or movies is another way ESTJs unwind. Some favorite movies of this type include Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, and the Shawshank Redemption! I also know quite a few ESTJs who love The Walking Dead or Peaky Blinders.

ESTJs and ISTJs were the only two personality types that had “Gardening” in their top 5 leisure activites. They enjoy the tangible process of planting, nurturing, and seeing the fruits of their labor literally blossom. It’s a satisfying hobby that combines their detail-oriented nature with the pleasure of outdoor work.

Other things ESTJs do for fun that weren’t mentioned in the options they could choose from included: martial arts, travel, organizing, sewing, motorcycling, and collecting.

ISFPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Being in nature
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Crafting
5. Watching TV or movies

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Social Media
2. Watching sports
3. Taking classes
4. Exercising

ISFPs have a quiet strength and an eye for beauty in the world around them. Reading is a top-tier activity for them because it allows them to escape into different worlds and live vicariously through characters’ journeys. They enjoy stories with complex characters and are especially drawn to books where those characters have to face their inner demons and battle between the good and evil parts of themselves. I was surprised to see so many votes for reading among ISFPs simply because several ISFPs I know personally detest reading, but I keep telling them it’s just because they haven’t found the right book yet. Maybe if I show them these results, they’ll give it another try 🙂

Being in nature is also deeply important for ISFPs. There’s a special peace they find among the trees, by the lake, or while quietly observing wildlife. As Sensing types, they need to feel connected to nature, to the sights, sounds, textures, and smells of the outdoors. When life is lived almost entirely digitally or indoors they can find themselves feeling limited, uninspired, and stressed.

When it comes to music, ISFPs are deeply tuned in. Playing or listening to music is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to express their emotions and connect with their inner selves. From strumming a guitar to creating their own personalized playlists, music is a vital outlet for their rich inner worlds.

I was glad to see Crafting in the top 5 for these creative personalities! ISFPs love to work with their hands to create art, sculptures, pottery, or any other creative thing that can express their inner world or the things they love in nature. My teen daughter is an ISFP and spends hours every day sculpting, drawing, painting, repurposing thrift store finds, or even making 3D dioramas.

Lastly, watching TV or movies comes in as another popular activity. ISFPs enjoy diving into visual stories that stir their emotions and present relatable characters. This leisure activity also provides them with a chance to decompress and enjoy some quiet, recharge time.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ISFPs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Writing, napping, photography, flower arranging, animal husbandry, and sewing.

Find out more about ISFPs: The Childhood Struggles of ISFPs

ESFPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Being in nature
2. Reading
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Talking to friends
5. Watching TV or movies

Activities with the Least Votes:

1. Watching sports
2. Creating art
3. Taking classes
4. Baking or cooking

For ESFPs, life’s an adventure! These spontaneous, fun-loving individuals find joy in just about everything, but especially in connecting with the great outdoors. Whether it’s hiking up a scenic trail, camping under the stars, or taking a stroll through the park, ESFPs love immersing themselves in nature. The beauty, adventure, and unpredictability of the natural world opens up dozens of opportunities for them to play, explore, and experience.

Reading may come as a surprise to some, given their active lifestyle, but ESFPs savor getting lost in a good book. For them, reading is a way to explore different perspectives and live a thousand lives through the characters they encounter. From thrilling novels to eye-opening biographies, each book offers a new experience to dive into.

Music is another passion for ESFPs. Whether they are playing an instrument, singing their hearts out, or simply jamming to their favorite playlists, music is an essential part of their lives. It’s an outlet for their creativity and a way to express their emotions. They live for the rhythm and the beat that keep them moving and inspired. Many ESFPs in the survey commented that they wished dancing was on my list of options, and in the “Other” section, dancing got more votes for ESFPs than any other type.

Of course, talking to friends is high on the list for these sociable types. Their conversations are filled with laughter, stories, and raw authenticity. They love feeling connected to people, amping up the energy, and making an impact.

Capping off their top activities is watching TV or movies. For ESFPs, this is a fun and relaxing way to escape into different worlds and experience a range of emotions. They enjoy binge-watching their favorite shows or having movie marathons with friends and family, complete with plenty of snacks (of course!).

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ESFPs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Dancing, attending live events, traveling, participating in sports, and exploring new hobbies.

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

ISTPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Reading
2. Playing or listening to music
3. Being in nature
4. Researching
5. Watching TV or movies

Least Voted Activities:

1. Taking classes
2. Creating art
3. Baking or cooking
4. Social media

Why?

ISTPs want a mixture of intellectual stimulation and hands-on activities. Reading topped their list of favorite fun time activities; with several ISTPs in the comments suggesting they love mystery-suspense novels and science or technology magazines and online articles. Music too plays a vital role in their downtime, whether they’re listening to their favorite tunes or playing an instrument. It’s an escape, a way to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in something pure and expressive.

Being in nature is a big deal for ISTPs. They find peace and freedom under an open sky or while camping in the mountains. It’s a chance to reset and recharge. Researching is another favorite; they love diving deep into subjects that pique their interest, especially when it involves figuring out how things work or uncovering new information about the world around them. And lastly, watching TV and movies got a high number of votes. I even wrote a post about the ISTP’s favorite movies if you’re looking for something to watch on movie night!

Additional Activities:

Beyond the top five, ISTPs mentioned they love building model airplanes, playing tennis, playing and designing board games, playing sports, traveling, riding motorcycles, and tinkering with mechanics.

Find out more about ISTPs: The ISTP Cognitive Function Stack

ESTPs and Leisure Time

Top 5 Activities:

1. Talking to friends
2. Gaming
3. Playing or listening to music
4. Exercising
5. Watching TV or movies

Least Voted Activities:

1. Gardening
2. Taking classes
3. Social Media
4. Creating art

ESTPs are high-energy types who love to take on adventures with people, so it’s no shock that “Talking to friends” landed in their top spot. Engaging in lively conversations and sharing exciting stories is invigorating for these outgoing types. Gaming, whether online or on a console, also ranks high among ESTPs. The appeal of quick reflexes, strategic thinking, and tactical prowess fits perfectly with their desire for surprises, challenge, and competition. My husband is an ESTP and he spends hours every day gaming with lifelong friends, saving the world in a digital reality full of threats and warriors.

Playing or listening to music followed closely, and it’s easy to see why. Music provides an emotional outlet that even cool-headed ESTPs need from time to time. I’ve even heard from a couple of ESTPs that music helps them to process emotions they didn’t even know they had before.

Exercising is a natural fit for this type as well. ESTPs like to stay active and get listless if they’re sedentary for too long. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or competing in a sport, exercising helps them to channel their high energy constructively. Finally, watching TV or movies gives them a chance to relax and escape into a good story, although most ESTPs commented that they prefer to watch movies or TV shows with others rather than by themselves. If you’re interested in the movies ESTPs like best, you can see that in my post on the favorite movies of each personality type.

Other leisure time activities that were frequently mentioned by ESTPs, but weren’t on the options to vote for included: Playing sports, motorcycling, traveling, and archery.

What Do You Think?

Do these fun activities match up with what you enjoy? Do you have any other suggestions you’d give? Let us and other readers know in the comments! 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!