How to Identify Whether You Are an ENFP or an INFJ
Understanding your personality type can provide valuable insights into your strengths, preferences, and behaviors. ENFP (Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) and INFJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) are both popular personality types that share some similarities but also have distinct characteristics. This article will explore the key differences between ENFP and INFJ, and how you can clarify your type.
Key Differences
Cognitive Functions
ENFP: Dominant function is Extraverted Intuition (Ne). ENFPs are energized by exploring ideas and possibilities. They tend to be spontaneous, enthusiastic, and enjoy engaging with the external world. They are often described as charming, optimistic, and adaptable.
INFJ: Dominant function is Introverted Intuition (Ni). INFJs focus on internal insights and meanings, often taking a more reflective and contemplative approach. They are typically more reserved and prefer deep, meaningful connections. INFJs are often seen as reflective, purposeful, and intuitive.
Extraversion vs. Introversion
ENFP: Generally more outgoing and sociable, enjoying a wide range of interactions and experiences. They thrive in dynamic, multifaceted environments where they can share their ideas and be part of a group. Social gatherings and new experiences are energizing for ENFPs.
INFJ: More reserved, needing alone time to recharge. They prefer deeper conversations with a few close friends rather than large social gatherings. INFJs often find social settings draining and need time to process their thoughts and feelings in solitude.
Decision-Making
ENFP: Tend to make decisions based on personal values and external possibilities. They seek new experiences and are often driven by a desire to explore and try new things. ENFPs value spontaneity and enjoy taking on varied challenges.
INFJ: More likely to rely on their internal values and insights, often taking a more structured approach to decision-making. INFJs are goal-oriented and prioritize meaningful connections and long-term objectives. They can be seen as deliberate and organized in their actions.
Focus
ENFP: Focus on exploring new ideas and experiences. They enjoy trying out different hobbies, interests, and perspectives. ENFPs can be seen as scattered in their interests, sometimes jumping from one thing to another.
INFJ: Tend to focus on long-term goals and the development of deep, meaningful relationships. They are known for their dedication to personal growth and their pursuit of purposeful connections. INFJs often have a deep sense of commitment and passion for their endeavors.
Steps to Clarify Your Type
Self-Reflection
Consider your preferences in social situations. Do you feel energized after socializing or do you need time alone to recharge? Reflect on how you interact with different environments and people. ENFPs often enjoy the energizing effect of social interactions, while INFJs may find they need alone time to rejuvenate.
Personality Tests
Take reputable personality assessments like the MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) or Enneagram and look for patterns in your results. Compare your cognitive function descriptions to see which resonates more. MBTI profiles provide detailed insights into your dominant, auxiliary, tertiary, and inferior functions, which can help clarify your type.
Explore Cognitive Functions
Research the cognitive functions associated with each type. Understanding how Ne and Ni manifest in your thought processes can provide valuable insights. ENFPs often use Extraverted Intuition to explore possibilities and ideas, while INFJs use Introverted Intuition to access internal insights and meanings.
Consider Your Values
Reflect on what you value most in life. Do you prioritize exploration and novelty, such as trying new experiences and ideas? Or do you value depth and meaning, such as building long-term relationships and achieving personal growth? ENFPs often value exploration, while INFJs may prioritize depth and meaning in their relationships and goals.
Talk to Others
Sometimes discussing your traits with friends or family can help highlight which type you align with more closely. They might offer perspectives you hadn’t considered. Friends and family who know you well can provide insights based on their interactions with you, which can be helpful for clarification.
Conclusion
Ultimately, understanding your personality type may involve a combination of introspection, testing, and feedback from others. Remember, personality types are not strict labels but frameworks to help you understand yourself better. They can provide valuable insights into how you think, feel, and behave, enabling you to better navigate your personal and professional life.