Quotes That Epitomize Every Myers-Briggs Type
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is a personality test designed to help people understand how they and others perceive and judge the world. It is one of the most widely used and studied psychological tools today. Once a person completes the test, they are categorized as one of 16 types, each named with four letters, such as “ESTJ” or “INFP.” Millions of people have taken the survey to find out which “type” best describes themselves.
Carl Gustav Jung, a 20th-century Swiss psychiatrist, came up with the theory of personality types in the 1920s. Isabel Briggs Myers, a student of political science, and her mother, Katharine Cook Briggs, sought to make Jung’s complex theories more accessible and useful to the public.
In the 1940s, they developed the first Myers-Briggs personality inventories, and began to test and refine them, publishing the first version of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in 1962. Today, this assessment has been used as a self-reflection tool and interpersonal guide across many realms, from work and relationships to creative pursuits and more.
Drawing on Jung’s work, the Myers-Briggs system proposes that the way in which people’s different worldviews guide their behavior can be systematically identified and described. The approach uses four categories:“Favorite world,” or how one focuses their attention (introversion [I] or extroversion [E])“Information,” or how one takes in and/or interprets information (sensing [S] or intuition [N])“Decisions,” or how one makes decisions (thinking [T] or feeling [F])“Structure,” or how one deals with the outside world and external input (judging [J] or perceiving [P])
Many people use psychological tests to gain a new perspective on how they and others perceive and respond to the world. This kind of self-knowledge can help us appreciate our strengths and also identify areas for possible experimentation and growth. And learning how others approach life can help us better understand their preferences and behaviors so we can forge deeper connections.
The Myers-Briggs Foundation shares several resources that explain how to take the assessment. It also states that all types are equal, pointing out that “there is no best type.” Below are 16 quotes that epitomize every Myers-Briggs type.
ISTJ
According to the Myers-Briggs Foundation, ISTJs tend to be logical, responsible, and steady-working. They value order, tradition, loyalty, and realism.
ISFJ
An ISFJ, at times known as “the protector,” is considerate, detail-oriented, reliable, and empathetic. They value balance and harmony in their relationships and environment.
INFJ
INFJs are clear about their own values, organized, and passionate. They are insightful about human motivations and decisive in how to serve the common good.
INTJ
INTJs are said to be ambitious free-thinkers with high standards for themselves and other people. They are independent by nature and excel in seeing the big picture and executing their visions.
ISTP
ISTPs are flexible and logical. They are interested in how things work, and patterns of cause and effect. They are motivated to solve problems efficiently, and value practical resolutions.
ISFP
ISFPs are sensitive, free-spirited, and tuned into the present moment. They work best with organic parameters, are loyal and kind, and prefer to avoid conflicts.
INFP
A person with an INFP personality type is idealistic, curious, and motivated to help themselves and others live fulfilling, meaningful lives. They are fiercely loyal to their values and loved ones, and desire external experiences that align with their beliefs.
INTP
An INTP is a thinker; they value logic and focused analysis, and tend to have a quiet temperament. They are abstract and skeptical philosophers and problem-solvers.
ESTP
ESTPs are pragmatic, high-energy, and action-oriented. They shy away from theory, learn by doing, and often excel at persuasion. They enjoy comfort, style, and connecting with others in the here and now.
ESFP
ESFPs are spontaneous, exuberant, and loving. They enjoy group projects, meeting and connecting with people, and trying new things. They tend to rely on common sense, inspire others to action, and excel at having fun.
ENFP
A person who is an ENFP is imaginative, enthusiastic, and warm, and generally has an open mind and positive outlook. They like to give and receive affirmation. They are flexible, creative thinkers, and natural innovators.
ENTP
ENTPs are quick-witted, resourceful, and outspoken. They enjoy conceptual analysis and debates, are able to come up with novel approaches and solutions to dilemmas, and are easily bored by repetitive experiences.
ESTJ
ESTJs are frank, organized, and efficient in planning and directing projects. They value logic, expediency, realism, and productivity.
ESFJ
An ESFJ type is often drawn to caregiving roles; they like to work with others and to help people meet their needs. They are warm, peace-building, and loyal, and they desire to be appreciated.
ENFJ
ENFJs are giving, inspiring, dedicated leaders. They are sociable, loyal, and sensitive to others’ needs. They can see the potential for good in everyone.
ENTJ
A person with an ENTJ personality type has a commanding presence and easily leads. They are confident planners and problem-solvers.
