ENFJ Introduction

ENFJ MBTI type: The Giver

I - ENFJ definition and how to determine who is The Protagonist

1. What is ENFJ? 

One of the 16 personality types recognized by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is ENFJ, a personality type also known as the giver or protagonist (MBTI). Each of the letters in the acronym 1 ENFJ, which stands for extraversion, intuition, feeling, and judgment, corresponds to a different MBTI category. 

Warmth, openness, loyalty, and sensitivity are frequently used to describe people with ENFJ personality types. ESFJ, ENFP, INFP, ISFJ, and INTP are acronyms for a few other types.

The ENFJ is frequently seen as the strongest "people person" of all the personality types. They can develop friendships with people of all personality types, even those who are more reserved or introverted. 

They do possess the capacity to influence and even manipulate others due to their capacity to perceive other people's emotions and change how they behave. Their strong sense of morality and desire to make others better themselves serve as a counterbalance to this. The ISTP personality type is the antithesis of the ENFJ. 

One of the least common personality types is the ENFJ. According to psychologist David Keirsey, between 2% and 5% of people have an ENFJ personality type.

Primary ENFJ Characteristics 

• Strong extraverts who value social interaction, ENFJs enjoy being around other people. They are rarely lonely as a result. 
• ENFJs are excellent communicators who frequently exhibit warmth, affection, and support. 
• ENFJs excel at motivating others and find satisfaction in doing good deeds. 
• Although ENFJs are not self-centered, they frequently become preoccupied with serving others so that they can overlook their own needs. 
• Additionally, ENFJs have a propensity to be overly critical of themselves, placing the blame for their own mistakes and failing to recognize their own accomplishments. People with this personality type must routinely set aside time to take care of their needs as a result. 
• ENFJs excel at bringing disparate groups of people to agreement. They can therefore be excellent leaders and infuse a group with enthusiasm, which can be inspiring and motivating. 

2. ENFJs characters 

Protagonists are natural leaders, which explains why so many eminent politicians, coaches, and educators have personalities like these. The empathetic, adoring, and affectionate nature of the ENFJ personality type, also known as The Protagonists , is well known. They are inspiring, vivacious, and fun, and they quickly win the hearts of those around them with their contagious optimism.

Maybe you now have a clear understanding of what the ENFJ type entails. We are going to look at their most recurring traits, as well as potential strengths and weaknesses, to help you better understand The Guide. However, if you're interested in learning more, have a look at our in-depth article about the traits and characteristics of ENFJs. 

Making comparisons between the ENFJ personality type and the other 15 personality types can help you understand what makes it unique. By doing so, you can evaluate their likes and dislikes and determine whether they can get along or clash. We have written a thorough analysis of the subject that can help you learn more about this personality type.

ENFJs are frequently referred to as: 

• Altruistic. 
• Emotional. 
• Sensitive. 
• Gregarious. 
• Enthusiastic. 
• Idealistic. 
• Sociable. 
• Caring
• Peaceful. 
• People-pleasers. 

3. ENFJ Preferences

Let's examine the four primary characteristics of the ENFJ personality type: 

Extroversion (E) preference types are preoccupied with the outside world. Social gatherings give them a boost, and they prefer being around others to being by themselves. They typically enjoy the company of others and are gregarious, bubbly, and amiable. Additionally, extroverted personalities enjoy being the center of attention and are unaffected by small talk and unplanned social encounters. 

Future-oriented is the preferred preference of those with intuition (N). They frequently daydream about impending happenings and try to make the most of their current environment. They see the world in terms of patterns and recurrent occurrences and are quick to come up with original solutions to issues. They are not detail-oriented and are at ease with abstract ideas and concepts.

People who have the Feeling (F) preference follow their feelings. They base their decisions on their personal opinions. They prefer to find a peaceful solution because they don't enjoy conflict or disagreement. They are understanding of other people's emotions and easily grasp what it would be like to live in another person's shoes for a day. Their primary source of motivation is emotion. 

The word judging (J) describes how people engage with the world beyond themselves. It would be incorrect to interpret this preference as being judgmental. Instead, it suggests that those who share this preference are more methodical and organized in their daily lives. They value organization and order, making lengthy lists, making schedules, and maintaining routines.

II - Strengths and Weaknesses of the ENFJ

Like all personality types, ENFJs have their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The following traits are believed to be shared most frequently by those who share the type, though some representatives of the type may exhibit them to a greater or lesser extent:

1. ENFJ Strengths

• Protagonists have strong opinions, but they are not in the least bit narrow-minded. They understand how crucial it is to let people express themselves completely. Even when protagonists don't share that person's opinions, they respect their right to speak the truth. 
• Reliable – Few things bother protagonists more than the thought of disappointing someone or something they are passionate about. Even when it's challenging, people with this personality type can be relied upon to follow through on their commitments and obligations. 
• Passionate - The protagonists are rarely dreary benevolents. These people are bursting with interests, and they enjoy engaging in their hobbies, whether they involve gardening, dancing, hiking, or something else entirely.
• Altruistic: People with this personality type are known to have a strong desire to effect positive change. The protagonists genuinely think that by uniting people, they can accomplish great things. 
• Protagonists are charismatic because they are driven and inspiring and frequently take on leadership positions. They rarely lose sight of their primary objective, which is to be of service to others, whether they are the captain of their softball team or a leader on the international stage.

2. ENFJ Weakness

• Unrealistic – A lot of protagonists put themselves under pressure to right every wrong they come across. But despite their best efforts, it is simply unachievable for these individuals to find solutions to every issue facing the globe. They risk spreading themselves too thin and becoming unable to assist anyone if they don't exercise caution. 
• Overly idealistic - Protagonists frequently hold strong beliefs about what is good and bad. They frequently believe that everyone adheres to these fundamental principles, or at the very least, that everyone ought to. Therefore, when people transgress their core values, such as truth or justice, it can come as a real shock to protagonists. 
• Condescending - Individuals with this personality style take pleasure in educating others, especially about the issues and principles that are so important to them. Unfortunately, the Protagonists' attempts to "enlighten" others occasionally come off as patronizing; this is not the most effective method of persuasion. 
• Intense - Protagonists rarely lack energy or tenacity when it comes to self-improvement. However, they might be unaware that not everyone possesses these traits. Sometimes protagonists will try to force others into making changes that they aren't ready for or aren't even interested in making. 
• Overly Empathetic - One of this personality type's best traits is compassion. However, protagonists have a propensity to mistakenly believe that other people's issues are their own. But protagonists have a propensity to internalize other people's issues, which can drain them both emotionally and physically.

III - ENFJ Cognitive Processes and ENFJ-A /  ENFJ-T

1. The cognitive function of ENFJ

Each personality type interacts with the world through four distinct Preferences and four distinct Cognitive Functions. These activities can be either introverted or extraverted, which refers to whether they are directed inwardly or externally. Depending on how frequently they are used, the four functions are arranged in a hierarchy. Extroverted Feeling is an ENFJ's primary function, and introverted intuition is their secondary function. The ENFJ personality also employs the other two, Extroverted Sensing and Introverted Thinking, but less frequently. 

Dominant: Introverted Sensing

This is the role that ENFJs perform most frequently. Because they base their decisions on their emotions, ENFJs place a high value on developing strong emotional bonds with others. People's barriers can easily be broken down and people's interests can be piqued by ENFJs. They are compassionate, emotional, and understanding people first and foremost.

• This cognitive function is demonstrated by the engaging social behavior and positive interpersonal relationships of ENFJs. They are sensitive to other people's emotions, frequently to the point where they put others' needs ahead of their own. 
• People with protagonist personalities prioritize subjective, individualized factors over objective standards when making decisions. The main consideration is frequently how a choice will affect other people.

Additional: Extraverted Attitude 

In their hierarchy, introverted intuition comes in second. ENFJs interpret information based on first impressions, possibilities, and meanings. Instead of concrete facts, they prefer metaphorical explanations. They can unconsciously recall patterns and have a sense of what lies ahead. The Guide handles challenges and processes information that is somewhat difficult to understand better than other personality types.

• ENFJs prefer to focus on the future over the present. They may frequently lose sight of the immediate details as they become too preoccupied with the bigger picture. 
• ENFJs' introverted intuition processes the information they gather about the outside world to form impressions, ideas, and thoughts. This enables them to recognize patterns and interpret complicated or ambiguous data.

Tertiary: Introverted Thinking

This function is used to a lesser extent by ENFJs. Extroverted Sensing refers to the way people with this personality type perceive the world using their five senses. Living "in the moment" is what it's called. It is categorized as being in the moment and taking in the world through the senses of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste.

• ENFJs are more aware of the present moment thanks to extraverted sensing, absorbing the surroundings' tangible details and sensory data. As a result, they frequently look for novel or intriguing sensations and experiences. 
• Protagonist personality types are more likely to be acutely aware of their immediate surroundings. This may inspire a strong sense of aesthetic appreciation and a desire to design a beautiful environment.

Inferior: Extraverted Intuition

The ENFJ personality type's least prominent trait, introverted thinking, is only occasionally or in extremely dire circumstances used. This cognitive ability has something to do with using reason and logic to solve problems. When exercising this function, ENFJs would examine the data they were given and look for contradictions in an effort to come up with new ideas.

• ENFJs are meticulous planners and enjoy structure. ENFJs benefit from routine because it gives them a sense of control over their environment. 
• People with this personality type can feel more balanced and in control of their decision-making process by developing this function. When making decisions, relying solely on personal values can result from ignoring this aspect of personality.

2. Assertive Protagonist  (ENFJ-A) vs. Turbulent Protagonist (ENFJ-T)

Even when a type doesn't have those particular characteristics, their core personality traits can sometimes help them mimic what it means to be Assertive or Turbulent. Their identity differences can be muted by this imitation. Outgoing Turbulent Protagonists may behave more audaciously than the typical Turbulent personality type. They value predictability and seek it out because of their Judging trait, which gives them assurance as they look for a sure thing. Turbulent Protagonists might not always come across as being as turbulent as other turbulent types as a result. 

This does not, however, negate the existence of significant differences between Assertive Protagonists (ENFJ-A) and Turbulent Protagonists (ENFJ-T). These individuals still have the following diverse worldviews.

The differences between ENFJ-A and ENFJ-T:

• While turbulent protagonists may be more perceptive of others' problems, assertive protagonists are more self-assured and can act boldly and independently. 
• Assertive Protagonists are less likely to be self-conscious than turbulent protagonists. 
• Turbulent protagonists have a harder time handling emotions and stress than Assertive protagonists do. However, this can aid Turbulent Protagonists in developing a deeper sense of empathy for people who are struggling with comparable issues. 
• Independent and less likely to seek out other people's opinions are characteristics of assertive protagonists. Protagonists who experience turmoil are more likely to seek advice from others and engage in frank discussions with those around them. 

IV - ENFJs in Relationships 

People are attracted to the comfort and charm of ENFJ people. It is not surprising that people with this personality type are easy to talk to and get along with because they place a high value on relationships. There are always some exceptions to the rule, of course. 

As the SJ Temperament is so far removed from the ideal ENFJ lifestyle, conflict between The Guide and the four Protector types—ESTJ, ESFJ, ISTJ, and ISFJ—can be expected. We're not saying it's impossible to connect with these types; every relationship takes effort on both ends. In order to balance themselves out, ENFJs should actually look for a partner who has a strong introverted feeling. The potential for relationship compatibility between an ENFJ and another extrovert type is also very high, but there is also a high likelihood of competitive behavior. 

Whatever the case, ENFJs are quick to establish a good impression, dependable, and approachable. Let's examine the various interactions they have with various personality types. 

1. Personal Relationships

ENFJs have a high regard for other people and are hospitable, nurturing, and encouraging in interpersonal relationships. They occasionally have a tendency to get caught up in other people's issues. 

They are benevolent and eager to assist others, which can occasionally come across as being a little obtrusive. Despite this, they are frequently well-liked and appreciated for their sincere care and concern. 

Despite occasionally being accused of being "helicopter parents," ENFJs are nurturing and warm as parents. Despite occasionally being quite strict and even rigid, they are actively involved in their children's lives. ENFJs need to remember to give their children room to explore and express their individuality, particularly as children age into adolescence.

ENFJs have an outgoing personality and enjoy spending time with other people. Being in social settings helps them feel energized.

In friendships and other relationships, people typically describe people with a protagonist personality as supportive and fun to be around. They are particularly good at relating to others and are known to help bring out the best in the people with whom they spend their time. 

2. Romantic Relationships

When seeking a romantic partner, ENFJs exercise caution. Since this personality type belongs to the NF Empaths temperament, it is likely that they will choose partners taking the future of the relationship into account. They typically avoid flings and one-night stands because they want a serious, committed, and strong partner by their side. Even though they may have enjoyed a few fleeting spontaneous experiences when they were younger, they gradually come to realize it is not for them as they get older. They are romantics who have a propensity to daydream, which is another reason they seek out committed relationships. They feel most at ease with a strong partner who can contribute to the stability of the relationship and who is, above all, their friend. 

An ENFJ doesn't require much to be happy, and they sincerely believe that communication and understanding between partners are the real secrets to a happy marriage. A few personality types blend particularly well with ENFJs, offering material for both parties' personal growth and development as well as fostering positive relationships. As follows:

ENFJ and INFJ

Most people agree that this pairing is the most harmonious option. The INFJ personality type is The Sage among the 16 types, and because they think similarly and see the world from similar perspectives, it is simple for them to understand the priorities and worldviews of an ENFJ. Not to mention that both types have the NF Empath temperament, which makes them adept at perceiving each other's feelings intuitively. They complement each other well in social settings and have excellent communication skills. Additionally, they are completely cognizant of one another's aversion to conflict and are able to work out amicable, reasonable solutions to problems. 

ENFJ and INFP

INFPs are hopeless romantics who are only interested in finding the "right" partner. They interpret the phrase "my other half" literally because they believe that their partner is the final piece of the puzzle that will complete them. ENFJs are very aware of this idea and have similar ideas about the ideal relationship. In their search for the "real thing," INFPs are motivated by their preference for Introverted Intuition. They occasionally feel discouraged by their search for their one true love. ENFJs are very adept at demonstrating the possibility of such love, but perhaps it is not some fanciful and magical occurrence, but rather a partnership built on frank and direct communication. Relationships between ENFJs and INFPs can last a very long time and flourish.

3. Friendship 

ENFJs are gregarious individuals who have no trouble making friends. They are well-liked, friendly, gregarious, and devoted to their friends. Their best quality is that they are always willing to assist a friend. People frequently ask ENFJs for advice because they believe them to be the keepers of sacred knowledge and truth. ENFJs occasionally prioritize their friends to the point where it drains them, highlighting their propensity to disregard their own needs. They also genuinely want to be liked by everyone they meet, which is obviously not always possible. As a result, they often place the blame on themselves rather than accepting the fact that people don't always get along.In either case, ENFJs can develop genuine friendships with many of the personality types if they choose to concentrate on what they already have rather than what they lack. The first three are:

ENFJ and ENFP

ENFJs and ENFPs enjoy deep discussions and theorizing. They enjoy delving into the depths of the human psyche and unraveling enigmatic relationships. When they're feeling down, ENFJs can be a real support for ENFPs because they love being the best. They are much more compatible as friends than as romantic partners because ENFJs typically demand marriage while ENFPs prefer relationships with freedom and little control. They can learn a lot about where they fall short and determine the best way to help each other improve as a result, which makes their friendship potentially very advantageous. They make the ideal hangout companions because they share similar opinions on a wide range of topics, including TV, media, art, and general interests. They are also capable of providing one another with novel solutions to issues. 

ENFJ and INTJ

When meeting someone for the first time, ENFJs and INTJs have some noticeable difficulties because they frequently come across as cold or emotionless. And the truth is that INTJs simply don't care what other people think of them. After all, they are The Strategists, and they are fully aware that showing emotion can be an effective communication tool. They simply don't like to be treated like an open book in general. They are very intelligent, and an ENFJ would be curious to learn more about their inner lives. If INTJs and ENFJs believe they can trust each other, they can open up and share some of their most vulnerable feelings in private. The ENFJs are even more intrigued by this because they believe they have found a very complex and unique friend who doesn't mind confining in them. Despite their apparent differences, INTJs and ENFJs can develop a remarkable connection. 

ENFJ and ESFJ

Their similar desire to arrange, schedule, and participate in new adventures ties these two types together in large part. They are regarded as great traveling companions and would undoubtedly meet a ton of new people during their numerous trips abroad. Sincere and exhibiting exceptional social intelligence, ESFJs are always willing to stand up for their friends. They enjoy outdoor social gatherings and participating in big groups. ESFJs are motivated by mutual admiration and adoration when ENFJs support them in return. 

4. Parenthood Relationship

ENFJs have the potential to make excellent parents because they are innate teachers and mentors. They could learn how to balance parental responsibility with the appropriate amount of encouragement. They would go above and beyond to give their kids a top-notch upbringing and education because they only want the best for them. They set very high expectations for their kids, which can occasionally feel overwhelming to teenagers. Overall, ENFJs are strong in their ability to convey the idea that their children were created for greatness without resorting to helicopter parenting. ENFJs should strive to steer their kids toward mastering a profession, rather than focusing on what that profession actually entails, and should hope that their children will be appreciative of their support. 

The visionary ENFJ can manage their high expectations by partnering with someone who has a different personality type, and the relationship should be balanced by their shared love and appreciation for the child. ENFJs will eventually come to realize that they need to let go of their idealistic viewpoints and allow their kids to develop in their own unique ways. Parents of ENFJs should try to give their children the flexibility and freedom to make mistakes in order to learn a few things from them. After all, only when one is permitted to make mistakes can one truly learn. 

V - ENFJs at work

1. ENFJ in Workplace Customs

As we have repeatedly discussed, ENFJs leave a great first impression on their employers. It is easy to see why any boss would want to hire someone of this responsible, committed, and punctual type. ENFJs are adept at keeping a workplace productive because they uplift their coworkers with their charm and positivity. They are skilled at seducing others with their lofty ideals and are very good at following step-by-step instructions on how to accomplish objectives. They frequently receive assignments to train new staff members or conduct hiring interviews as aspiring teachers. They can quickly discern a person's character and motivations thanks to their exceptional intuition. They have a keen sense for identifying people's personalities, so they would know exactly who to hire in order to create a powerful and motivated team. Their propensity for lists, schedules, and the need to finish tasks is also very advantageous for their chosen profession. 

Given that this personality type isn't known for paying attention to details, they shouldn't work in an industry that requires a lot of calculations and paperwork. Additionally, they struggle with jobs that involve emergencies, difficult situations, and executive decisions that could drastically change someone's life. For an ENFJ, the stress of working as a doctor, police officer, or judge would cause them to become anxious. If something went wrong, they would put the blame on themselves, which could haunt them for a very long time. 

ENFJs should look for occupations that encourage their creativity and benefit society. We've chosen a few viable career options that ENFJs might find interesting and fulfilling. 

2. ENFJ Career Matches

Anyone can find it challenging to choose a career, much less the gifted and inquisitive ENFJ. Sometimes the stress of this extremely important career search can make things even more difficult for an ENFJ. It's important for ENFJs to try out as many different hobbies as they can while they are still young because they don't like to waste their valuable time on the wrong things. This will give them a wealth of experience and give them a solid understanding of what they are good at and what they enjoy by the time they want to start specializing in their desired field. An ENFJ needs passion in their work because boring, routine jobs would sap their creativity. They must enjoy what they do, use their calling to benefit others or society, and follow some sort of weekly schedule. It's easy to say but challenging to do. 

We've done our best to provide a few useful examples of careers in various fields of employment where these crucial components are present and offer the essential professional fulfillment for ENFJs. 

Education

What better way to make a positive impact on society and the individual than to impart knowledge? Natural teachers, ENFJs are able to communicate effectively with people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. They don't mind speaking in front of large crowds and, by sharing their infectious passion, can motivate their students to study even the most dull subjects. ENFJs make great psychologists and would feel most fulfilled if they were able to improve the lives of others. Their excellent interpersonal, diplomatic, and empathic abilities can be shaped to fit a variety of careers in human resources and politics, as long as the emphasis is still on serving the community.

Art and Culture

A career in the arts is the best way for someone with an ENFJ personality type to satisfy their need for creativity. ENFJs are extremely aesthetic and are skilled at learning new things. They make excellent actors and stage performers thanks to their extraordinary empathy, intuition, and courage. Writing as a career is aided by their planned and orderly approach to work performance. When they are managing staff, planning events, and seeing projects through to completion, they are at their best. Following are a few of the most intriguing career options: 

• A movie director. 
• Actor/Actress.
• Curator.
• Musician
• Photographer.
• Designer.
• Illustrator.

Advertising Media 

Similar to jobs in the Art and Culture sector, careers in Commercial Media can provide ENFJs with the ideal balance of flexibility, creativity, and interpersonal communication. As we've already established, ENFJs don't do well with criticism, so jobs that allow them to be their own boss are especially appealing. The following occupations seem to be a perfect fit for the ENFJ's strong interpersonal skills and natural communication abilities.

VI - Famous ENFJs you might know

Celebrities with this personality make for some of the most mysterious and motivational figures. An ENFJ can be identified by their sincere and charitable nature. They frequently start their own charities or are social justice activists. Every ENFJ in the world wants to improve society. Because of their artistic talent and Intuitive (I) preference, a large portion of ENFJs are actors, well-known critics, and journalists. 

Characters with this personality type tend to be the most complex and cunning ones in movies and television. The ENFJ personality type has frequently been identified as the brains and masterminds of countless TV shows. Despite the fact that this type excels as leaders and protagonists, their commitment to the growth of others typically places them in the role of the guide archetype. ENFJs frequently appear as teachers, headmasters, the right hands of kings and queens, or as parents to some protagonists in TV pop culture. Naturally, some of the most likable antagonists are ENFJ personalities. 

Check out our article on Famous ENFJs for a comprehensive list of well-known ENFJ actors, musicians, and characters. Let's examine some of our preferred ENFJs in the following areas:

1. ENFJ Musicians

Music is a language unto itself. ENFJs have produced some of the most memorable musicians in history. Music gives ENFJ the freedom to express their emotions without being constrained by language, much like writing does. Along with giving them access to the benefits of acting without being in the spotlight, it can also help them communicate abstract thoughts and ideas. The top five ENFJ musicians are listed below: 

• Freddie Mercury, British singer and songwriter.
• Bono, Irish singer, and songwriter, U2.
• Demi Lovato, American singer.
• Katy Perry, American singer and songwriter. 

2. ENFJ Actors

Due to their preferences for being outgoing, feeling, and intuitive, ENFJs make talented actors. Great emotional capacity results from the intersection of all these qualities. As empaths, ENFJs can easily adopt different personas and comprehend what it's like to completely embody someone else. Additionally, ENFJs enjoy being the center of attention and frequently have little to no trouble performing on stage. Additionally, their Judging (J) thinking preferences support them in memorizing lengthy scripts because it's crucial to think sequentially. Some of our preferred ENFJ actors are listed below: 

• Morgan Freeman, American actor  
• Reese Witherspoon, American actress  
• Sean Connery, Scottish actor 
• Helena Bonham Carter, British actress 
• Matthew McConaughey, American actor 

3. ENFJ Writers

Both in writing and speaking, ENFJs have a natural ability to communicate. They effortlessly captivate anyone who wants to listen, guided by the Extroverted Feeling function. They are skilled manipulators who thrive as writers because they know that words are just another potent tool for influencing a reader's mindset and imagination and putting them in an entirely different setting. By taking their time and paying attention to their surroundings, ENFJs can also express their creativity through writing. Several well-known ENFJ authors include: 

• Matthieu Ricard 
• Erich Fromm 
• Maya Angelou 
• William Cullen Bryant 
• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe 

4. ENFJ Fictional Characters

If we didn't include some of the best representations of ENFJs in popular culture, the list wouldn't be complete. The Guides are the masterminds responsible for influencing the behavior of many of our favorite protagonists. It just goes to show how adept they are at serving as the guardians and mentors of our favorite heroes. The ENFJs prefer to be in the background of the action rather than in the center of attention due to their altruistic and slightly manipulative behavior. However, there is no doubt that a hero's journey would not even exist without these cunning characters. The most impressive fictional ENFJs are listed below:

•  Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter Franchise;
• Morpheus, The Matrix;
• The Oracle, The Matrix;
• Clara Oswald, Doctor Who;
• Margaery Tyrell, Game of Thrones;
• Varys, Game of Thrones;
• Anna Karenina, Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy.