I am a woman, a life coach, and according to Jung’s typology, an ENFP.

I know that for many, it will be interesting to hear a first-person perspective of how an ENFP sees themselves. My first-person account will be based on myself as well as others who I know very well. I will show you an overall image of the ENFP type as I see it. That will include what ENFPs love, and what they don’t; what they like, and what they don’t; and what they aim for, and what they would rather avoid.

IN WORK

ENFP

It is very hard for ENFPs to work in teams, and to be doers. Yes, they can complete tasks and solve difficult problems, but only in the short term – they will do it and move on. Tedious work, paperwork, or writing reports feel like punishment to the ENFP type.

On the other hand, if a project that is interesting to an ENFP requires that they take the lead, their potential is amazing, as long as they are in the role of an initiator, inspirer, and leader. Qualities like responsibility, support, tenacity, and accuracy will show then, too. In these situations, an ENFP wants to not just complete work, but to do it very well, to feel happy and satisfied with the work and its result.

If an ENFP has a strong internal drive, then they can put in 12-15 hours of work in a single day. Sometimes, they will do this for days without a break, until they finish writing the text, drawing the image, or any other project – that is, until they see the final product of their work. However, they can drop a project as soon as their interest goes away. Therefore, many interesting initiatives remain unfinished, and as a rule, ENFPs do not return to them.

IN FRIENDSHIP

ENFPs love life, and they value friendship and socialization. They are devoted, kind, loyal, generous, and ready to make sacrifices. They do not hold on to small grievances and arguments, but will not forgive betrayals. Their friendships are strengthened by common interests, readiness to take risks, and exploration. They are not very responsive to housekeeping-type topics, but discussions of books, historical facts, or new discoveries evoke an instant emotional response.

IN LOVE

This personality type is loving, selfless, free-spirited, affectionate, giving, understanding, and sensitive. But, for an ENFP, sex just for the sake of sex is boring. For them, there needs to be passion and fireworks, genuine confession, and surprises. Sexual role-playing games are welcome, and experimentation as well. What’s most important is for it to be exciting and unconventional.

IN FAMILY

mother and son

As spouses and parents, ENFPs are not really meant for conventional family life. While they are loving and caring, performing tasks like paying daily attention to the family is mundane and a burden for many of them. However, ENFPs as grandparents are just a thrill for kids. Spending time with their grandchildren, having fun, travelling, joking, and being somewhat rowdy, then returning the kids to their parents and being free again, makes them truly happy. They are forever stuck in childhood! It is in their nature to be rowdy and to break rules and norms.

THINGS THAT ENFPs WOULD LIKE TO DO BETTER

Often, ENFPs are too hasty, and make decisions that are not too logical. They are not great at time management. ENFPs don’t like to redo their work even if they know they haven’t done their best. They are unnecessarily scrupulous in matters of justice and fairness. Sometimes, it can be difficult for them to act firmly and say no – they would rather just do something for someone.

ENFPs can recklessly spend money without thinking about consequences. As well, they are often too trusting and are therefore deceived.


I hope this piece will help you if you ever come across an ENFP and have to interact with one. What has your experience as or with an ENFP been like? Leave your comments below!

- Eleanor Godman, Life Coach