What Is The ENFP Personality Type? (2024)

The MBTI was created by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers, who based their work on Carl Jung’s theory of personality typology. Knowing your personality type is meant to give you a better understanding of how and why you do certain things, says Angela Ficken, a licensed independent clinical social worker and psychotherapist located in Boston. “MBTI aims to help individuals gain self-awareness, improve communication and relationships and make better career-related decisions,” she explains.

That said, it has its limitations. Your MBTI type should never be used for hiring purposes, as Ficken notes that it is not a scientifically validated tool for assessing job performance or predicting success in a specific role. She notes that it also shouldn’t be used as a way to stereotype or pigeonhole people, adding that, “MBTI should not restrict individuals to specific roles or limit their potential for growth and change. It’s essential to recognize that personality is dynamic and individuals can develop skills and adapt their behaviors over time.”

The ENFP personality type stands for Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling and Perceiving. Some of the most common words used to describe ENFPs are friendly, energetic, creative and innovative.

“ENFPs are known for their lively and outgoing nature and ability to connect with others on a deep level,” explains Ficken. “They are often described as creative and imaginative, with a talent for envisioning new possibilities.”

While ENFPs love their alone time and need to recharge, Ficken notes that they also really thrive on social interaction and building connections with others. “They are often drawn to causes that align with their values and a strong desire to impact the world positively,” she says. “While they can be spontaneous and impulsive, ENFPs also possess a keen intuition that helps them make quick decisions based on their instincts.”

ENFPs are known for being enthusiastic, energetic and creative. They are very perceptive and outgoing and are able to connect with people on a deep level. “ENFPs are known for their ability to see possibilities and envision new ideas, and tend to be adaptable and flexible,” Ficken says.

The energy of an ENFP is something that can actually rub off on other people, according to some experts. “They are often referred to as the ‘Champion’ personality because of their high levels of enthusiasm, which can be infectious, helping others stay motivated during long work weeks or long sessions in sports,” says Christian Glasgow, Ph.D., M.A., a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Ventura, California.

Strengths and weaknesses of ENFPs vary based on the individual, common characteristics of this personality type also include the following, according to Ficken:

• Enthusiastic and passionate
• Creative and imaginative
• Able to connect with others on a deep level
• Open-minded and adaptable
• Empathetic and compassionate
• Optimistic and inspiring
• Motivated by a sense of purpose and meaning
• Problem solvers

Some of their defining weaknesses, according to Ficken, may include:

• Easily distracted or overwhelmed by too many options or opportunities
• May need help with follow-through on long-term projects or commitments since they like to explore new possibilities all the time
• Indecisiveness
• May take criticism personally and struggle with receiving negative feedback
• May struggle to stick with a routine or structure since they prefer to go with the flow and follow their instincts
• May struggle with practical matters, like finances or time management, since they tend to be so focused on the big picture

ENFPs, like any personality type, have specific strengths that may make them better-suited for certain types of careers. The best kind of work environment for them is one that encourages them to tap into their creative side and allows them to really work with a team. “The enthusiastic, inquisitive and social cravings are why these individuals thrive in these types of environments,” Dr. Glasgow says.

Since they like to help other people and make a positive influence on the world around them, Ficken says they would be a great fit for the following careers:

• Counseling/therapy
• Writing/journalism
• Teaching
• Social work
• Event planning
• Coaching and development
• Religious callings
• Nursing/medication
• Sales

ENFPs are very perceptive—and also feel some pretty intense emotions. This can impact their relationships with others, whether romantic, professional or otherwise. While their weaknesses do include procrastination and an ability to be easily sidetracked since small details don’t interest them, they are generally pleasant to be around and to be in any kind of relationship with.

Romantic Relationships

ENFPs seem to thrive in a romantic relationship, mainly due to their natural caregiving ways, agree both Dr. Glasgow and Ficken. “Being intuitive and empathetic helps these personality types thrive in monogamous relationships,” says Dr. Glasgow.

ENFPs have the ability to really connect with their partners and the inclination to care for, support and encourage them. And because they’re so creative and willing to try new things, this can make time spent with this personality type fun and exciting, adds Ficken.

“However, they may also be prone to impulsive decision-making and sometimes struggle with commitment,” Ficken says. “ENFPs may tend to idealize their partners and may need to work on accepting their partners’ flaws and limitations.” That said, this doesn’t define all who fall within this personality type. Many can be loving and passionate, and can easily develop bonds and connections with others.

Platonic or Family Relationships

ENFPs are outgoing and sociable, which makes them more likely to have large groups of friends. They love spending time with others and are empathetic, making them great listeners and advisors for friends, says Ficken.

“In family relationships, ENFPs often prioritize maintaining strong connections with their loved ones and enjoy spending time with family members who share their interests and values,” adds Ficken. “They are typically warm, affectionate and nurturing, and often go out of their way to help family members who are in need.”

ENFPs do like their independence and may struggle with family members who are controlling, demanding or overbearing, notes Ficken. While many enjoy developing close relationships with others, like anyone, they still need alone time.

Work Relationships

ENFPs have enough enthusiasm and drive to be positive additions to pretty much any workplace.“They thrive in environments that allow them to use their creativity and imagination to solve problems and develop new ideas,” says Ficken. They may love working in a team and can be adaptable to different situations.

However, Ficken points out that some ENFPs may struggle with very structured or routine tasks or workplaces.

Overall, ENFPs are known for being outgoing, friendly, creative, collaborative and positive. They are often great team players and strive to make the world a better place for those around them. “ENFPs are often guided by their values and desire to impact the world positively, and they are often motivated by a sense of purpose and meaning,” Ficken says. “They are open-minded, curious and enjoy exploring new ideas and perspectives.”