Are you an ENTP and wonder why you can't get things done when working for yourself?

[LowerYourEgo]

Do people actually care about the MBTI anymore?
I thought it was just a fad.

 

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[Simon Angel]

Do people actually care about the MBTI anymore?
I thought it was just a fad.

The 16 personalities test is a fad and highly inaccurate.

Jung's work on cognitive functions is life changing once you understand how your brain works and why you think the way you think.

Of course, it's considered little more than pseudoscience, but if that's true then it's weird how I am able to accurately guess people's personality type 90-95% of the time.

Two tests worth taking:

Keys 2 Cognition - Cognitive Processes Assessment

John's Personality Test

 

[DWX]

Well, it's safe to say my results are inconclusive.

I remember going down the personality-type rabbit hole a good few years back. Like most people here, I did the Briggs test (I think I ended up being an INFJ or whatever the rare one was... not sure).

The problem is I find myself over-scrutinising the questions and re-doing tests all the time, which is probably why my results resemble something like a kid's trick-or-treat candy bag. I don't know about anyone else, but I have this weird thing where I love the idea of structure/routine - and feel better for using them - but somehow struggle to remain consistent with the damn thing.

Anyhoo, tangents aside, I'm glad this thread was revived - it's been a fascinating read.

I can definitely relate to much of what has already been posted like getting bored quickly with an idea, etc. I also dig the suggestion of learning a skill that takes years to master (shout out to whoever shared that).

Thanks to @Simon Angel and everyone who chimed in. It's been a thought-provoking discussion.

 

[Simon Angel]

Well, it's safe to say my results are inconclusive.

I remember going down the personality-type rabbit hole a good few years back. Like most people here, I did the Briggs test (I think I ended up being an INFJ or whatever the rare one was... not sure).

The problem is I find myself over-scrutinising the questions and re-doing tests all the time, which is probably why my results resemble something like a kid's trick-or-treat candy bag. I don't know about anyone else, but I have this weird thing where I love the idea of structure/routine - and feel better for using them - but somehow struggle to remain consistent with the damn thing.

Anyhoo, tangents aside, I'm glad this thread was revived - it's been a fascinating read.

I can definitely relate to much of what has already been posted like getting bored quickly with an idea, etc. I also dig the suggestion of learning a skill that takes years to master (shout out to whoever shared that).

Thanks to @Simon Angel and everyone who chimed in. It's been a thought-provoking discussion.

Yeah, you're all over the place. I've been there, too.

Try this one: Personality Type Finder - Michael Caloz Coaching

It's not perfect either but there are practical examples for each question, so that might be easier for you to navigate through. It also tests your cognitive functions.

 

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[piano]

Well, it's safe to say my results are inconclusive.

I remember going down the personality-type rabbit hole a good few years back. Like most people here, I did the Briggs test (I think I ended up being an INFJ or whatever the rare one was... not sure).

The problem is I find myself over-scrutinising the questions and re-doing tests all the time, which is probably why my results resemble something like a kid's trick-or-treat candy bag. I don't know about anyone else, but I have this weird thing where I love the idea of structure/routine - and feel better for using them - but somehow struggle to remain consistent with the damn thing.

Anyhoo, tangents aside, I'm glad this thread was revived - it's been a fascinating read.

I can definitely relate to much of what has already been posted like getting bored quickly with an idea, etc. I also dig the suggestion of learning a skill that takes years to master (shout out to whoever shared that).

Thanks to @Simon Angel and everyone who chimed in. It's been a thought-provoking discussion.

I feel you a lot.

The thing that bugs me a lot in this thread is the fact that ENTJ=Productive alpha and ENTP=unfocused bum, which I think is very wrong.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not an ENTP and they indeed likely have a harder time than ENTJs, however ENTJs definitely aren't always as portrayed here. I know that since I am one and I figured my type out after months of reflection and research, not some superficial test that only takes like 3 things in account.

And that's the thing with you in your case. You could be the most productive person in your city and you could still be an INxP (l'm mostly joking, I love INFPs). You have to read up on functions, grips, shadow types etc. and simply see where you see yourself the most in.
Now, tests can be a starting point and they certainly were for me, but don't use them as the only tool.

And I honestly think that ENTJ could be the case with you too. Maybe look up the "ENTJ Fi grip". If you fit that criteria, you could likely be one (or an ESTJ).

And also, keep in mind that Mbti, enneagram and blablabla aren't that important imo, although maybe I'm just saying that since I already know bunch about it and myself.

 

[DWX]

Yeah, you're all over the place. I've been there, too.

Try this one: Personality Type Finder - Michael Caloz Coaching

It's not perfect either but there are practical examples for each question, so that might be easier for you to navigate through. It also tests your cognitive functions.

Thanks for sharing, I enjoyed this test.

The examples definitely helped me with answering the questions and I liked that it explained the inner workings of this way of typing. Don't get me wrong, I still haven't fully grasped the context, but I'll get there. My results came in as:

ISFP - Fi Se Ni Te - (72 points)
INFP - Fi Ne Si Te - (66 points)
ENFP - Ne Fi Te Si - (57 points)
INTJ - Ni Te Fi Se - (55 points)
ESFP - Se Fi Te Ni - (55 points)

ENTP came in at #7 (46 points), only to be outranked by INTP at 50 points. I'm going to go through the top few results to decipher which one I align more closely with and see where it takes me. Great share, cheers!


UPDATE: After some more digging, I'm starting to feel like I align more with ENFP/INFP, though, I can also relate to INTP a fair bit.

I feel you a lot.

The thing that bugs me a lot in this thread is the fact that ENTJ=Productive alpha and ENTP=unfocused bum, which I think is very wrong.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not an ENTP and they indeed likely have a harder time than ENTJs, however ENTJs definitely aren't always as portrayed here. I know that since I am one and I figured my type out after months of reflection and research, not some superficial test that only takes like 3 things in account.

And that's the thing with you in your case. You could be the most productive person in your city and you could still be an INxP (l'm mostly joking, I love INFPs). You have to read up on functions, grips, shadow types etc. and simply see where you see yourself the most in.
Now, tests can be a starting point and they certainly were for me, but don't use them as the only tool.

And I honestly think that ENTJ could be the case with you too. Maybe look up the "ENTJ Fi grip". If you fit that criteria, you could likely be one (or an ESTJ).

And also, keep in mind that Mbti, enneagram and blablabla aren't that important imo, although maybe I'm just saying that since I already know bunch about it and myself.

Yeah, man, this rabbit hole has certainly taken me down some dead ends, but I feel like I'm making progress. I'll definitely read up more on the functions, grips, and shadow types. Honestly, this is like learning another language.

Do you guys recommend any websites/YT channels/resources to study?

 

[srodrigo]

Do you guys recommend any websites/YT channels/resources to study?

I found Gifts Differing very good. By the person who invented MBTI.

 

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[LowerYourEgo]

The 16 personalities test is a fad and highly inaccurate.

Jung's work on cognitive functions is life changing once you understand how your brain works and why you think the way you think.

Of course, it's considered little more than pseudoscience, but if that's true then it's weird how I am able to accurately guess people's personality type 90-95% of the time.

Two tests worth taking:

Keys 2 Cognition - Cognitive Processes Assessment

John's Personality Test

The most accurate assessor of character is life.
Character is built through discipline and sacrifice, not by taking online tests.
Building that character and mental image of yourself overcoming obstacles will change your results on these tests.
Maybe it will result in you adding in your own biases.
But that image in your head is much more accurate than the original result once you become that character in your mind.
Then it becomes your authentic self.

 

[Simon Angel]

The most accurate assessor of character is life.
Character is built through discipline and sacrifice, not by taking online tests.
Building that character and mental image of yourself overcoming obstacles will change your results on these tests.

If telling yourself that helps you sleep better at night, keep doing it.

 

[starttoday123]

I definitely agree about the MBTI limitations, if nothing it’s not bad for small talk since so many people have learned something about it

It’s definitely true it’s difficult for N types to talk to S types though. Has anyone figured that out?

It’s also helpful to know the difference between Thinking and Feeling and know how to find a balance, more so as a concept

 

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[Simon Angel]

It’s definitely true it’s difficult for N types to talk to S types though. Has anyone figured that out?

It'll always be hard, but not because "N" types are geniuses and "S" types are retards (like people love to joke about.)

Simply put, S types are essentially destined to make the most of reality while N types are destined to venture out into the theoretical/abstract.

The former (S types) find philosophy, abstract concepts, and deep introspection to be boring/useless/intimidating but they also tend to become very in tune with their bodies and surroundings/develop a deep understanding of the "here and now" and the concrete.

Because they neglected the physical to focus on the abstract, the latter (N types) perceive them (the Sensing types) as unintelligent while also being envious of their advanced motor skills and ability to handle everyday things and real life in general.

 

[Simon Angel]

Thanks for sharing, I enjoyed this test.

The examples definitely helped me with answering the questions and I liked that it explained the inner workings of this way of typing. Don't get me wrong, I still haven't fully grasped the context, but I'll get there. My results came in as:

ISFP - Fi Se Ni Te - (72 points)
INFP - Fi Ne Si Te - (66 points)
ENFP - Ne Fi Te Si - (57 points)
INTJ - Ni Te Fi Se - (55 points)
ESFP - Se Fi Te Ni - (55 points)

ENTP came in at #7 (46 points), only to be outranked by INTP at 50 points. I'm going to go through the top few results to decipher which one I align more closely with and see where it takes me. Great share, cheers!


UPDATE: After some more digging, I'm starting to feel like I align more with ENFP/INFP, though, I can also relate to INTP a fair bit.



Yeah, man, this rabbit hole has certainly taken me down some dead ends, but I feel like I'm making progress. I'll definitely read up more on the functions, grips, and shadow types. Honestly, this is like learning another language.

Do you guys recommend any websites/YT channels/resources to study?

Just see where it takes you. I haven't ever studied the MBTI intentionally. I just randomly look up things that interest me like finding my own type or trying to guess the types of the people around me (or reading up on why they act a certain way), the types of movie characters, and the types of famous/historic people.

Judging by your tests, it looks like you're a Te-Fi or Fi-Te user. But since you also got INTP as a possibility, I'd be careful not to confuse Ti with FI (research the differences!)

 

[DWX]

Just see where it takes you. I haven't ever studied the MBTI intentionally. I just randomly look up things that interest me like finding my own type or trying to guess the types of the people around me (or reading up on why they act a certain way), the types of movie characters, and the types of famous/historic people.

Wow. To have amassed as much knowledge as you have from such sporadic curiosity is impressive.

I've just come up for air after what has been an intense couple of days diving into this. I now know why I was so intrigued by this subject a few years back, although I wasn't privy to Jungian cognitive functions back then. Definitely making time to study this more.

The more I've researched, the more I align with INFP. It seems to "fit" better.

 

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[RebornPhoenix]

@Simon Angel, I am impressed by this thread and your excellent responses to people. I was wondering if you could answer a question or two that have been juggling in my mind for a bit:

1. Researching personality feels good; however, in your experience, what % of personality do you believe is real (nature), and what part is developed by ourselves through experience (nurture)? I ask this question because, on the one hand, if a person determines to be an ENTP, they lead a happier life. But they may also limit their decisions due to their assumed personality.
2. Most of us - even those with good self-awareness - struggle with accurately gauging ourselves. I remember reading that we are hard-wired to overestimate ourselves. You have shared a few links to find our personality, but most links are based on answering various subjective questions. From my experience, the answers to these questions will vary depending on my mental state. As such, to what extent do you think that our estimations of our personalities are accurate?

In hindsight, the above are kinda questions, but thanks for taking the time to read this!

 

[starttoday123]

It'll always be hard, but not because "N" types are geniuses and "S" types are retards (like people love to joke about.)

Simply put, S types are essentially destined to make the most of reality while N types are destined to venture out into the theoretical/abstract.

The former (S types) find philosophy, abstract concepts, and deep introspection to be boring/useless/intimidating but they also tend to become very in tune with their bodies and surroundings/develop a deep understanding of the "here and now" and the concrete.

Because they neglected the physical to focus on the abstract, the latter (N types) perceive them (the Sensing types) as unintelligent while also being envious of their advanced motor skills and ability to handle everyday things and real life in general.

I feel better knowing it’s not just me, thanks so much!

 

[Simon Angel]

Wow. To have amassed as much knowledge as you have from such sporadic curiosity is impressive.

It's worth keeping in mind that it's been 6 years in the making. And my "sporadic" curiosity is an everyday occurrence, lol.

I've just come up for air after what has been an intense couple of days diving into this. I now know why I was so intrigued by this subject a few years back, although I wasn't privy to Jungian cognitive functions back then. Definitely making time to study this more.

Sounds like you're heavy on the Ne (as INFPs are).

The more I've researched, the more I align with INFP. It seems to "fit" better.

Good!

 

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[Simon Angel]

@Simon Angel, I am impressed by this thread and your excellent responses to people. I was wondering if you could answer a question or two that have been juggling in my mind for a bit:

1. Researching personality feels good; however, in your experience, what % of personality do you believe is real (nature), and what part is developed by ourselves through experience (nurture)?

Your thought processes & the prism through which you view reality (i.e. your dominant and auxiliary cognitive functions) tend to develop at an early age. In the ENTP's case, that's dominant Extroverted Intuition (Ne) and auxiliary Introverted thinking (Ti).

This means that the ENTP has always and WILL always be interested in exploring ideas, possibilities, various interconnecting patterns, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible (the latter can be done in many forms) while trusting their own rational conclusions above anyone else's.

Now, it might LOOK like a lot of people in this thread who are ENTP asked me for advice and trusted my own thinking over theirs, but that's not really the case...

ENTPs can and will trust someone else's thinking if and only if they consider them as equals.

In other words, an ENTP will NOT trust someone because they're a Professor, an Expert, a Doctor, or whatever authority in X space i.e. people that society/the system deemed worthy (but not the ENTP themselves). In fact, ENTPs are much more skeptical and critical of the aforementioned groups of people.

But to answer your question, your genetics, environment, traumas, and experiences very early on in life determine your personality type.

After that, your environment, traumas, deep-seated fears, and experiences in your early adulthood determine your enneagram type.. and your enneagram type determines your behavior, wants, desires, and fears.

For example, as an enneagram 8w7, I fear being controlled/manipulated, having my freedom taken away, lacking independence, and being vulnerable (physically or mentally ill, frightened, etc). As such, I've shaped my life in a way that allows me to not have to confront my fears most days. The "7" wing makes me prone to hedonistic pleasure-seeking, recklessness, and adrenaline, but it's more subtle than the 8.

Funnily enough, I've talked to other 8s and we've all agreed that planes make us anxious because we'd rather be the ones flying the damn thing instead of trusting someone else with our lives (even if that someone is an ex-military pilot with tens of thousands of hours of flight time).

1. I ask this question because, on the one hand, if a person determines to be an ENTP, they lead a happier life. But they may also limit their decisions due to their assumed personality.

Finding out your type won't necessarily make you happier, but it's certainly a step in the right direction toward that goal.

Regarding people limiting themselves to their assumed personality, yes, that's bad, so don't be too quick to type
yourself.

And remember that being a certain type does not stop you from doing anything that other types can, it'll just come more easily or harder for you than it does for them.

1. Most of us - even those with good self-awareness - struggle with accurately gauging ourselves. I remember reading that we are hard-wired to overestimate ourselves. You have shared a few links to find our personality, but most links are based on answering various subjective questions. From my experience, the answers to these questions will vary depending on my mental state. As such, to what extent do you think that our estimations of our personalities are accurate?

When I refer people to these tests I pay close attention to the way they communicate and the way they navigate through their results. I also have a look at their post history and/or ask personal questions.

So you might temporarily be using cognitive functions that you're not good at using (not sustainably, at least) and I'll usually see right through it after referring to your past. Actions speak louder than words, after all, but at the same time every type has "function speak" and dead giveaways that help when typing, even if the person is acting (whether intentionally or not) as another type.

Entrepreneurial/assertive ENTPs often mistype themselves as ENTJ.

Depressed/turbulent ENTPs mistype themselves as INFP.

Depressed/assertive ENTPs type themselves as INTJ.

Sporty/more physical ENTPs mistype themselves as ESTP.

Highly-empathetic and people-focused ENTPs can mistype as ENFJ.

The thing is, you're still an ENTP, and trying to live up to these other personalities' standards/stereotypes can make you bitter and resentful.

In hindsight, the above are kinda questions, but thanks for taking the time to read this!

You're welcome!

 

[Oso]

Depressed/assertive ENTPs type themselves as INTJ.

This gave me hope so I decided to try the test a few more times, in varying headspaces and emotional states.
I then ran them back ensuring I was in the same headspace/emotional state for each test (AKA: my "control group").

I keep F*cking landing on INTJ. I hate it.

 

[Simon Angel]

This gave me hope so I decided to try the test a few more times, in varying headspaces and emotional states.
I then ran them back ensuring I was in the same headspace/emotional state for each test (AKA: my "control group").

I keep F*cking landing on INTJ. I hate it.

What do you hate about being an INTJ?

 

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[Oso]

What do you hate about being an INTJ?

It's akin to something you said earlier (I don't feel up to searching for it, sorry, though I think it's in the same post I quoted above, lmfao) regarding misidentifying yourself can ultimately lead to resentment and anger.

When you are the thing, but you aren't like the other "the things," that same resentment and anger continues to grow. It's like being born with a superpower, but you can't figure out how to get your superpower to do superpower stuff. Meanwhile, the other people with the same superpower get to do all the cool shit that comes with it, and it simply comes natural to them.

It's almost as if what I was naturally born into completely contradicts my entire existence, and I have no idea how to resolve the misalignment. I originally commented on this post to make it clear not all INTJs are Elon. I spent years wishing I was a stereotypical INTJ only to accept the fact that isn't reality for me, so I've had to work harder to force myself to care about anything at all.

I have made tremendous leaps of progress over the last 2 years. Yet I can't help but think how much further I would've gone if I understood this side of myself more. Perhaps it's merely a problem of me "denying what I am." Who knows.

Either way, I appreciate the knowledge you've dropped throughout this thread. Thank you.

Cheers.

 

[srodrigo]

not all INTJs are Elon

I've always been very confused by Elon. He doesn't look like an INTJ at all to me, more like an INTP (I know a few of each type). But people who have a deeper knowledge of MBTI tend to type him as an INTJ, so I must be wrong. I just find him too childish and clowny to be an INTJ. Not to mention building so many different companies screams Ne. But I might be missing something else. He is a weirdo anyway, so maybe just difficult to type.