ESFJ Introduction

ESFJ MBTI type: The Provider

I - ESFJ definition and how to determine who is The Consul

1. What is “ ESFJ “ ? 

One of the 16 personality types recognized by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is the ESFJ, also referred to as "The Caregiver" or "The Consul" (MBTI). ESFJ personality types are frequently extroverted, dependable, organized, and compassionate. Interacting with other people gives ESFJs energy. 

It's a good idea to get a second opinion before making any decisions. They have a way of inspiring others to do their best work, and they frequently find it difficult to accept criticism of those close to them. Around 9% to 13% of people, according to psychologist David Keirsey, have the ESFJ personality type.

ESFJs have a charismatic presence that draws people in and are warm and nurturing. They like order because they want to uphold the laws and traditions that have stood the test of time. They consistently offer support and lend a helping hand because they are considerate helpers who frequently feel a sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of others. Ultimately, ESFJs want to be liked and have a great capacity for compassion. One of the characteristics of a Consul is their pragmatic yet caring nature.

Extroversion (E), Sensing (S), Feeling (F), and Judging (ESFJ) are the four personality preferences that this type possesses (J). Preferences are the distinctive characteristics that define a personality type, according to Carl Jung, whose psychological theories serve as the basis of our personality test.

Primary ESFJ Characteristics 

• Be understanding of other people's needs and feelings. 
• Instead of internal, ethical, or moral principles, they derive their sense of values from outside sources, such as the community at large. 
• adore assisting others 
• Expect others to notice and appreciate their kind and giving nature. 
• Get easily offended by cruelty or disregard 
• a desire for approval 
• Take care of others. 
• desire for favor with others 

2. ESFJs characters - Who is The Consul 

An individual who possesses the Extraverted, Observant, Feeling, and Judging personality traits is known as a Consul (ESFJ). They enjoy participating in their social community and are perceptive, people-focused, and attentive. Decisive values serve as the foundation for their accomplishments, and they are willing to mentor others. 

For Consuls, life is sweetest when it's shared with others. Many communities are built on the backs of people with this personality type who welcome friends, family, and neighbors into their homes and hearts. 

This does not imply that Consuls are saints or that they are tolerant of all people. However, consuls have a tendency to feel a sense of obligation to those around them and do believe in the power of hospitality and politeness. Generous and trustworthy, those who fit this personality type frequently take it upon themselves to keep their families and communities together in both big and small ways.

Consuls have a strong moral code, so when others act in a way that doesn't follow it, it can be nothing short of perplexing to them. Consuls almost never forget a birthday or a holiday. They are devoted to their relationships and commit to memory even the smallest details of the lives of their friends and loved ones. 

3. ESFJ Preferences 

3.1 Extroversion 

Extroversion is characterized as a preference for the external environment. Social events, parties, and group activities all energize ESFJs. Additionally, extroverts are frequently vivacious, sociable, and animated. ESFJs have a strong verbal and assertive communication style and frequently feel the need to talk. The spotlight is also enjoyable to them.  

3.2 Sensing

People who use the Sensing preference frequently are present-oriented. They are "here and now" individuals who gather information using their five senses. They have a literal, concrete way of thinking, and they take things as they are. ESFJs value reality, common sense, and facts because they are Sensing types. Ideas with immediate applications particularly appeal to them. 

3.3 Feeling

ESFJs prioritize their subjective feelings over "objective" facts because they are Feeling people. They base their choices on their values and guiding principles. They don't listen to their head; they listen to their heart. Based on their emotions and extenuating circumstances, consuls evaluate situations and other people. They want to be liked and to please other people. They place a high value on harmony and social order and take care to interact with others in an empathic way.   

3.4 Judging

ESFJs, for example, have a structured way of interacting with the world. ESFJs are quick to adjust routines and make plans because they strive to maintain order and organization. They efficiently finish tasks because they are at ease with closure. They consistently prioritize work over leisure, and they almost always meet deadlines. 

II - Strengths and Weaknesses of the ESFJ

Below, we've provided a list of some typical ESFJ personality strengths and weaknesses. Of course, these can manifest in various ways depending on the individual. One ESFJ may struggle more than another with particular flaws, while a different ESFJ may mature into the healthy expression of a certain trait. Whatever the case, the following traits are among the most prevalent in ESFJs: 

1. ESFJ Strengths

• Strong Practical Skills - Consuls take great pride in making sure that those who are close to them are taken care of, making them excellent managers of daily tasks and routine maintenance. 
• Strong Sense of Duty - People with the Consul personality type have a strong sense of duty and work hard to fulfill their commitments, even though this drive occasionally stems more from social expectations than from an innate need. 
• Very Loyal - Consuls place a high value on stability and security and are eager to maintain the status quo, which makes them very dependable as business partners and employees. People with this personality type are true pillars in any group they are a part of, whether it be their family or a local club. They can always be counted on. 
• Warm and Sensitive - Contributing to the stability, Consul personalities seek harmony and have a strong regard for other people's feelings, taking care not to hurt or offend anyone. Consuls are excellent team members, and they thrive in win-win circumstances. 
• Strong Interpersonal Skills - These traits combine to make consuls friendly, at ease, and well-liked. Consul personalities have a strong desire to "belong," and they are not shy about making small talk or paying attention to social cues in order to participate fully in their communities. 

2. ESFJ Weakness

•  Consuls are preoccupied with social status and influence, which influences many of their decisions and may limit their creativity and open-mindedness. These Strengths are related to a major Weakness: Consuls' preoccupation with these issues. 
• Consuls are rigid and give a lot of weight to socially acceptable behavior. They can be very wary of anything unusual or out of the ordinary and may even be critical of it. Additionally, individuals with this personality type occasionally push their personal beliefs too far in an effort to make them accepted. 
• Consuls can be critical of other people's "unusual" behavior, but they can also be hesitant to innovate or improvise, typically out of a fear of being (or just appearing to be) different. 
• Vulnerable to Criticism - Due to consuls' extreme conflict aversion, it can be difficult to change these tendencies. If someone, especially someone close to them, criticizes their customs, beliefs, or habits, consul personalities may become very hurt and defensive. 
• Often Too Dependent – Consuls need to see and hear a lot of gratitude. People with the Consul personality type may start fishing for compliments if their efforts go unappreciated in an effort to feel appreciated. 
• Too Selfless - The flip side of this is that consuls occasionally try to prove their worth by showing undivided attention, which can easily overwhelm those who don't need it and ultimately make it unwelcome. Consuls frequently overlook their own needs in the process as well.

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

1. The cognitive function of ESFJ

Every person interacts with the world in four different ways, as we've already mentioned. There are two types of functions: extroverted and introverted, respectively (the energy is directed outwards). Extroverted Feeling is the ESFJ's primary function, and introverted sensing is their secondary function.

Dominant: Introverted Sensing

Most ESFJs use this function. Consuls who choose the Feeling (F) preference rely on their emotions and instincts when making decisions. Extroverted Feeling, however, may lead them to put other people's feelings ahead of their own. Because of their ability to adapt their behavior to meet the needs of others, ESFJs make an effort to behave in a friendly and considerate manner.

• ESFJs frequently base their choices on their feelings and empathy for others. As a result, rather than taking into account objective criteria, they frequently consider how a decision will affect them personally. 
• In some ways, this tendency is great because it enables them to make decisions quickly. On the downside, though, it can occasionally result in unfair assessments of other people.

Additional: Extraverted Attitude 

This function is utilized to some extent by ESFJs. ESFJs who have the Sensing (S) preference primarily use their five senses to process new information. They can recall information in detail and contrast it with current knowledge thanks to the Introverted Sensing function. It is the capacity to draw parallels between the present and the past in an effort to find connections.

Future thinking is less important to ESFJs than the present. Instead of abstract or theoretical information, they are more interested in immediate, concrete information.

Tertiary: Introverted Thinking

This function is used to a lesser extent by ESFJs. ESFJs occasionally process information through impressions, possibilities, and meanings due to their preference for intuition (N). Extroverted intuition, when developed, enables them to see the various options. They may be more willing to accept uncertainty and give consideration to ideas that differ from their own thanks to this function.

This mental ability aids ESFJs in making connections and coming up with original solutions to issues. ESFJs are known to explore the possibilities when looking at a situation. They frequently discover patterns that give them new perspectives on people and events.

Inferior: Extraverted Intuition

An ESFJ personality type is organized and enjoys making plans in advance. ESFJs who plan tend to feel more in control of their surroundings. 

This personality trait aids the ESFJ in the analysis of complex information, but it is frequently a weakness, particularly when trying to understand abstract or theoretical concepts.

2. Assertive Mediator  (ESFJ-A) vs. Turbulent Mediator (ESFJ-T)

The MBTI typology's consul is represented by ESFJs. They make great friends and companions because of their focus on others. There are two types of ESFJs: ESFJ-T and ESFJ-A. 

You should be aware that the cognitive function shared by the ESFJ-A and ESFJ-T is identical. The only distinction is how they approach problems and make choices.

Consuls strengthen the idea that people of all kinds have value when they embrace the distinctive characteristics that define their Identities. Consuls who are assertive have a mindset that makes it possible for them to streamline their practical efforts. They move more fluidly and with less emotional weight on their shoulders. When quick reactions are required, their style can be very useful. However, turbulent Consuls may benefit from their propensity to access their emotions in unique, useful ways. Both have strong interpersonal relationships, but Turbulent Consuls might have a slight but important advantage. They might have a stronger emotional bond with others. But it's beneficial to mix the two personality types together.

The differences between ESFJ-A and ESFJ-T:

•  Consuls who are assertive are more likely to regret decisions they have made and to use those regrets as motivation. Consuls who experience turbulence frequently reflect on their actions and regret them. 
• Consuls who are experiencing turmoil typically struggle to let go of negative emotions. 
• Assertive Consuls frequently want to quickly end unpleasant feelings and even move past difficult ones like grief. 
• Both Consul personality types require self-discipline, but Assertive Consuls are more likely to think of themselves as successful at it than Turbulent Consuls are. However, this might be more a result of Turbulent Consuls' propensity to view themselves negatively rather than impartially evaluating themselves. 
• As opposed to Assertive Consuls, Turbulent Consuls are more likely to need other people and may even remain in a relationship after it has become successful. 
• When Turbulent Consuls are wronged, they might be so hurt that it's difficult for the perpetrator to win their forgiveness. The "last straw" must, however, have been reached for Turbulent Consuls to react in such a strong manner.

IV - ESFJs in Compatibility

ESFJs have a high level of social intelligence and a strong desire to include everyone, making them good at connecting with most people. However, they often get along better with people who have personalities similar to their own. and may have difficulties relating to personality types whose worldviews are very dissimilar from their own, though these relationships can offer more chances for personal development. 

ESFJs in particular may find it challenging to communicate with NT temperament types (ENTJ, ENTP, INTJ, INTP). This is due to the fact that NT types must adopt a different life philosophy than ESFJs because their primary preferences—Intuition and Thinking—force them to do so. NT personalities place a premium on logic, and they tend to form intellectual rather than emotional bonds with others. Additionally, they can be very direct and objective, which can make ESFJs feel judged. 

However, consuls have the capacity to develop satisfying relationships with people of any type with enough compromise. Let's examine how they act in various relationships:

1. Personal Relationships

ESFJs are extroverts who enjoy socializing with others. They not only get energy from social interaction, but they also genuinely care about other people's well-being. They are frequently characterized as kind and sympathetic, and they frequently prioritize the needs of others over their own. 

They frequently experience anxiety in chaotic or uncertain environments. In spite of the fact that this makes ESFJs excellent candidates for jobs involving management or supervision of others, it can also cause problems when they attempt to exert control over people who do not appreciate such direction. 

ESFJs tend to form solid, enduring friendships because they are so trustworthy and loyal.

2. Romantic Relationships

Relationships take center stage in the lives of ESFJs, and they are incredibly devoted to their partners, generously providing both affection and material support. Romantics at heart, ESFJs are. They seek a committed, long-term partner with whom they can share their highs and lows. Although ESFJs are known for their playful flirting, this is more of a first-date phase for them. When choosing a partner, ESFJs adopt the same attitude as they do when making major decisions. 

They frequently adhere to the traditional dating conventions, such as dressing more formally on the first few dates. However, once they make a commitment, ESFJs stick with it. They can make thoughtful, affirming partners, so being able to express their emotions is crucial for them. They expect a certain level of affirmation in return from their partners. ESFJs want to feel cherished and loved, so people dating an ESFJ should make an effort to show their affection frequently. They might anticipate their partner to interact with the other people in their lives and go out with them. 

Two of the remaining 15 personality types are likely to offer ESFJs a good balance of romantic relationship development and comfort. 

2.1 ESFJs and ISFPs

The fact that they are each other's shadow type makes this pairing intriguing. They have the same cognitive abilities, but their dominant modes are reversed; for instance, ESFJs are more dominant in extroverted feeling and introverted sensing, whereas ISFPs are more dominant in introverted feeling and extroverted sensing. They might instantly find each other intriguing as a result. Because of their artistic perspective on the world, ESFJs can be drawn to gentle, carefree ISFPs. The ESFJs' optimism and genuine concern also reassure ISFPs. ESFJs may be able to help ISFPs feel more structured while ISFPs may be able to encourage ESFJs to be more adventurous. Due to the sense of balance that both types provide for one another, this pairing can be very advantageous. 

2.2 ESFJs and INFPs

ESFJs and INFPs may appear to be an odd couple because they only share one preference, but once they start dating, they can work well together. Importantly, both of these types' main purposes involve Feeling. Because both ESFJs and INFPs will be sensitive to each other's moods and sensitivities, this is a good point of similarity. By providing each other with a safe haven, they can establish a solid bond. The differences they do have can then either be stimulating or grating. ESFJs can make INFPs feel more accepted and encourage them to open up because they have a strong desire to fit in. Conversely, INFPs offer whimsical, imaginative insights that broaden the ESFJs' perspective. 

These two pairings stand the best chance of fostering an amicable relationship with an ESFJ. But it's not like they can't get along with anyone else; in this ESFJ Relationships article, you can read a thorough analysis of their compatibility with the other personality types (including themselves).

3. Friendship

Making friends with those around them comes naturally to ESFJs. In addition to being outgoing and approachable, they also work hard to put others at ease. They are acutely aware of other people's reactions, whether they are used to lighten the mood with a joke or to check in on someone they are worried about.  

The Consul can switch fluidly from having intimate, private conversations to chatting about the latest trends. They may enjoy talking about lighthearted subjects, but they can also offer close friends a shoulder to cry on. Because they listen well, people often open up to them. On the other hand, they occasionally have a tendency to become overly involved in their friends' lives and can get into arguments with friends when they disagree with them on fundamental principles. 

Even though ESFJs are incredibly loyal and caring as friends, getting along with some personality types may require much more adjustment on their part: 

3.1 ESFJ and ENTP

It's uncommon for these two personality types to become friends, despite the fact that they can both be charismatic and high-energy. ENTPs frequently engage in lengthy philosophical discussions and generate ideas that they don't always act upon because their Intuition (N) preference is so strong. For ESFJs, whose thinking is more direct and concrete, this can be frustrating. In particular, ESFJs might not share ENTPs' enthusiasm for debating. ENTPs enjoy challenging other people's viewpoints in argumentative situations and occasionally switching allegiances. This could accidentally spark a fight if taken too far. These analyses may seem unnecessary to ESFJs and may even be disruptive. 

3.2 INTJ and ESFJ 

Another personality pair that may feel at odds with one another is ESFJ and INTJ. Since they only share the Judging (J) preference, there may be conflict between the two of them because neither of them finds it easy to comprehend the perspectives of the other. Mainly, INTJs are excellent problem-solvers. They can be ruthlessly analytical in their evaluations, which makes it possible that they won't understand the purpose of certain social norms and that they won't want to deal with other people's emotions. ESFJs, on the other hand, value a variety of social customs and traditions. Their specialty is dealing with people and feelings. As a result, they may perceive INTJs as being cold and judgmental. 

3.3 ESFJ and INTP

These personality types don't have any shared preferences at all; in fact, INTPs and ESFJs couldn't be further apart. Although the two personalities may at first seem to complement each other, there are significant gaps in their shared interests and values that would need to be filled before they could become friends. Because they are introverted, INTPs are fascinated by abstract concepts and purposefully seek out extended periods of solitude to explore them. ESFJs spend a lot of their time engaging in social interactions and new experiences, unlike INTPs who are rarely social. It's a good idea to have a backup plan in place if you're going to be traveling to a foreign country.

4. Parenthood Relationship

Because they are aware of others' needs and frequently look out for others, many ESFJs have been referred to as the mom or dad in their friendship group. They may find it easy to adjust to raising their own children when they do become parents in the traditional sense. Regardless of their other responsibilities, ESFJs prioritize their family and devote a lot of their time, love, and energy to their kids. ESFJs might plan frequent family outings with the goal of staying actively involved in their kids' lives. 

Consul parents are typically dependable and compassionate, raising their kids in a structured environment where their physical needs are met. Additionally, they'll make an effort to get to know their kids and fill the role of emotional supporter. However, ESFJs aren't afraid to impose order when it's required. As their kids get older, they'll make an effort to teach them about obligations and societal expectations. They want their kids to be ready for life outside of their home, after all. 

ESFJs have a reputation for nurturing individuals, but they also respect power. They can be strict when it comes to following the rules, and they don't take well to rebellion. Even if the child disagrees, they believe that their children must respect them. Unhealthy ESFJ parents may find it difficult to discuss problems in a detached, logical manner, turning to passivity or even emotional manipulation. But when they are at their best, ESFJs can be the parents who stand up for their kids the most, having a deep faith in their abilities and giving them a strong sense of being loved. 

V - ESFJs at work

ESFJs enjoy helping others, so they frequently perform well in real-world situations where they must act as caregivers. ESFJs may excel in careers in social services and healthcare because of their tendency to help others and their need for structure. 

Due to their many characteristics, ESFJs are best suited for a variety of occupations. For instance, they frequently excel in careers that require supporting and caring for people, like nursing or teaching, because of their dependability and innate need to look out for others.

1. ESFJ in Workplace Customs

ESFJs prioritize their responsibilities over their own needs because they take their work seriously and are trustworthy in everything they do. They rarely procrastinate because they are motivated and action-oriented, and they complete the items on their to-do lists as quickly as they can. For them, getting their hands dirty with a task is much less unsettling than leaving it open for too long. Even if they don't write them down in notebooks or planners, ESFJs frequently have running checklists in their heads. 

Go-getters who despise disappointing others and who are motivated by their objectives are ESFJs. Additionally, they often have a knack for planning, managing small details, and leading projects. They flourish in an organized workplace where they are given a defined role, and they are conscious of hierarchy and appropriate behavior in various work settings. 

In addition to their commitment, ESFJs are frequently well-liked at work because of their adaptability and the warmth they bring to their daily interactions. ESFJs are most compatible with careers that allow them to connect with people on an emotional level and significantly improve the lives of others. 

We have provided a brief overview of some career paths ESFJs are likely to find enjoyable and particularly adept at because taking one's personality type, preferences, and characteristics into consideration can be instructive for a job search. 

2. ESFJ Career Matches

ESFJs value persistence and patience above all else. Typically, they succeed professionally and rise to become respected members of their community. ESFJs frequently take the initiative in their work, but they also value having a sense of belonging to a larger group. It is a good idea to have a backup plan in case the backup plan fails. Consuls will be inspired to perform at their highest level as long as their workplace is harmonious, reflects their values, and values their contributions. 

Several ESFJ careers that this type could excel in and likely find long-term interest are listed below.

2.1 Healthcare

The healthcare industry is well-represented by ESFJs, who can express their compassion and give patients practical care. For ESFJs, whose upbeat, assertive attitude can be very uplifting for patients, working in healthcare is likely to be very meaningful. They can quickly anticipate patients' needs thanks to their sharp observational and listening skills, which also enable them to make thorough assessments and diagnoses. Healthcare jobs also involve following procedures meticulously, with little room for error. Because they have a strong understanding of physical details, ESFJs can handle these difficulties. They don't mind performing the same tasks over and over again with extreme accuracy and focus. Many healthcare-related tasks, from monitoring patients to creating treatment plans, fit the ESFJ personality type.  

2.2 Education 

Another area where ESFJs excel is in education. ESFJs are actually among the most popular personality types among middle school and elementary school teachers. For ESFJs, working in education can be a calling rather than just a job. Due to students' extroverted personalities, interacting with them all day long usually stimulates them rather than drains them. They will probably work well with other faculty members and maintain good communication with parents. ESFJs make a point of paying attention to every student in their class.Consuls will act as a mentor and guardian for their students rather than merely providing them with information, instilling values in addition to useful skills. ESFJs tend to have approachable teaching styles that are complemented by practical examples because they are themselves concrete learners. 

2.3 Management

For ESFJs employed by corporations, a possible career path entails beginning in entry-level positions and eventually progressing to management positions. In addition to being service-oriented, ESFJs are also driven to establish structure and order. Along with keeping their physical surroundings tidy and uncluttered, ESFJs may create routines and systems to make work flow more smoothly. In management positions, it is highly valued to have this propensity for organization and control. When promoted to management positions, ESFJs maintain their cooperative and diplomatic nature by considering everyone's opinions and providing helpful criticism to their subordinates. They are adept at delegating tasks and make motivating leaders because they are able to recognize the strengths that each person brings.  

VI - Famous ESFJs you might know

Of the 16 personality types, ESFJs have the strongest propensity for popularity. Because of their outgoing personalities, they tend to make friends easily and typically have large social networks. It's not surprising that The Consul personality type is prevalent among celebrities and well-known leaders because they can easily seize the limelight. They can stand out in their chosen field thanks to their inherent charm and strong work ethic. 

The ESFJ personality type frequently appears in fiction, just as it does in real life. There are numerous examples of ESFJs, particularly as protagonists, in TV shows, films, anime, and books. Their engaging and emotionally expressive personalities, which translate well on screen, are one factor in this. 

1. ESFJ Actors 

For ESFJs, acting can be a fantastic career option. For starters, they are acutely aware of the image they are conveying and are skilled at changing their body language and voice tone depending on the audience. They actually have no trouble expressing a range of emotions because they wear their hearts on their sleeves, which is an essential talent for any actor. They can put themselves in a character's shoes thanks to their highly developed empathy. ESFJ actors might be drawn to the fame that comes with the industry on another level. 

•  Anne Hathaway 
• Chris Evans 
• Jennifer Garner 
• Jessica Alba 
• Hugh Jackman

2. ESFJ Musicians

Some of the most memorable musicians, including prominent figures in the modern pop scene and vintage icons who have been writing hit songs for decades, are ESFJs. The musician from Consul almost always succeeds in creating a community because they are kind and devoted to their followers. They enjoy live performances and events because they love to bring people together and are not the type to avoid them. They know how to work a stage and put on a performance, aside from the occasional case of stage fright. 

• Alicia Keys 
• Jennifer Lopez 
• Jon Bon Jovi 
• Michael Buble 
• Taylor Swift

3. ESFJ  Talented Leaders

Due to their innate desire to allocate tasks and organize resources, ESFJs frequently find themselves in positions of leadership. They take a servant-leadership stance. They are willing to put in long hours to complete their tasks because they genuinely care about how their decisions affect other people. The Consul can be a very effective leader who works quickly to plan logistics and complete projects. Their morals are more conventional, and they favor gradual advancement over sudden, drastic change. 

•  Andrzej Duda, Polish President
• Harry Truman, U.S. President
• Joe Biden, U.S. President
• King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands
• Prince William, Duke of Cambridge

4. ESFJ Characters in Fiction

ESFJs frequently end up playing either the main character or the supporting role in the vivid world of fiction. They are frequently sassy, supportive, and strong-willed, which makes them interesting characters. ESFJ characters frequently express their emotions loudly and are the inspiration for countless clever one-liners. They frequently confront their fears and step outside of their comfort zone as part of the development of their character. Learning to validate oneself rather than seeking approval from others is another recurring theme. 

•  Dorothy Gale, Wizard of Oz
• Hercules, Hercules 
• Margaret “Meg” March, Little Women
• Sansa Stark, Game of Thrones
• Will Schuester, Glee