Key Takeaways


  • ESFP personality stands for Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Perceiving type.
  • They are social, outgoing, spontaneous, and prefer to live with the flow of life.
  • ESFPs are extroverts, so they have good communication and networking skills.
  • People with ESFP personality types lack planning. They are often disorganized and messy in their work.
  • ESFPs hate future planning. They prefer not being micro-managed.

Are you the one who wants to experience all the joy and happiness that life has to offer? Do you think that you can accept surprises and unexpected changes easily? Are you spontaneous, fun-loving, bubbly, and brim with positivity? 

Do you believe that ‘life is wonderful and vibrant and you need to make the best use of what it offers to you? Hence, you could be an ESFP.

People know you as a flamboyant and pleasure-seeking individual. Your charming, sociable, and lively nature makes you the life of the party. You are artistic, a natural performer, and can take on the dance floor quite unexpectedly.

Being a flexible and uninhibited personality type, you will always move with the flow of life. For you, adaptability is the essence of successful living and as change is constant, you embrace every small change with ease and grace.

You never complain about what is not there, rather believe in making the best use of available resources for accomplishing your life goals.

It’s your malleable, easy-going, and vibrant nature that makes you popular and likable. In this article, we will unleash the deepest secrets of these highly energetic performers who live life with lightness and joy in their hearts.

ESFP Personality Infographics

ESFP Personality Meaning & Signs
ESFP Personality Meaning & Signs
ESFP Personality Strengths, Weaknesses & Hobbies
ESFP Personality Strengths, Weaknesses & Hobbies

ESFP – Meaning and personality type (Entertainer personality type)

SUMMARY
ESFP stands for Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Perceiving personality type. Being extroverts, they are social, outgoing, and spontaneous. Their cordial and affable nature makes them delightful and lively in social circles. They live in the moment and never think much about the future.

For an ESFP, life is a mere stage and they are the actors who are here to perform, entertain, and execute their talents and expertise. People with this personality type live the excitement thoroughly. They never feel bored and want others to be like them also.

Entertainers always seek new and vibrant experiences that help them to live life in its finest ways. These people usually prefer an engaging life where pleasure and exhilaration meet one another. They live life every second with joy and happiness.

Being easy-going personalities, they are relaxed, spontaneous, and generous. Even encouraging others to become a part of their vibrant life comes in style and finesse. 

ESFPs are born performers and as such many of them are renowned actors, politicians, theatre personalities, authors who feel good to be in the public spotlight.

For them, life is just a stage show where they are expected to showcase their irresistible style with dignity and elegance. 

People with ESFP personalities are utterly talkative, cheerful, and nothing can give them as much joy as interacting with good friends and a few like-minded people.

Simple pleasures and tiny joys of life are their favorites. These people also possess aesthetic qualities and you may find their home well decorated; with a neat look that soothes the eye. Moreover, their sense of beauty and personal style is incredible.

They choose the finest things because they are creative and have an eye for beauty and elegance. Being well-groomed themselves, their attire speaks about their artistic nudge and luxurious living.

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ESFP typology description

The acronym ESFP stands for the four cognitive functions that make up the crux of this personality type.

1. Extraverted – ESFPs are social beings. They are talkative, enthusiastic, friendly, and can mingle with just anyone and everyone. Usually, they are the people who never like to stay alone. Sometimes they seek public attention and love to remain in the center of attention wherever they go. 

ESFPs are true extroverts. Their action-oriented mindset, affable nature makes them people’s personality. People with ESFP personalities thrive in social setups and derive their mental energy by being with others.

Socialization and mingling with many different personalities make them open-minded and flexible. It also helps them to think out loud and make decisions based on shared knowledge.

2. Sensing – People with a sensing function as a dominant one are usually detail-oriented. They believe in concrete facts and abstract ideas. They use their sense organs to receive information and perceive the world around them. 

ESFPs pay attention to their immediate environment closely. They prefer to approach life in a step-by-step manner. Sensor personalities are realistic and practical.

3. Feeling – ESFPs are emotional and sensitive beings. They always care for the well-being of others around them. Compassion and altruism come naturally to these people. Moreover, ESFPs are ruled by their heart. They are soft-spoken, humble, and filled with gratitude and love. 

4. Perceiving – People with perceiving qualities are relaxed, easy-going, and flexible. They do not prefer to follow strict rules and traditions rather readily accept those changes that can bring a new wave of growth in the community. 

ESFPs are free-willed and thus they are tolerant of others’ differences. Their flexible and adaptable nature makes them accept situations easily. ESFPs can change themselves according to the situation without complaints and regrets. 

They are random thinkers who prefer spontaneity and novelty. Being open-minded people, ESFPs prefer to keep their options open. 

Since they are not ardent followers of pointless rules and conventions, they prefer to thrive in surprises and unexpected changes.

You can further study in detail the ESFP Myers Briggs Type here.

ESFP personality traits

Some of the notable personality traits of ESFPs are:

  • Fun-loving
  • Warm
  • Energetic
  • Moves with the flow of life
  • Practical 
  • Spontaneous
  • caring
  • flexible
  • easily gets distracted
  • seeks public attention
  • creative
  • independent
  • quick decision maker
  • lives in the moment
  • resourceful
  • optimistic
  • impulsive
  • gregarious

What if you are an ESFP?

If you are an ESFP personality type, you would probably be like this – 

Being an ESFP, you are energetic and full of optimism and joy. There is no gloom to be seen around you. Your boisterous and jolly nature can make others happy in no time. 

You’re a source of hope for many depressed souls. They may look up to you for some novelty in life. Being a helpful and compassionate person, you will win over many hearts much more easily than any other personality type.

ESFPs love being noticed. You will prefer being in the center of the stage always and earning praise and appreciation from others.

You are an understanding, perceptive, and relaxed person. As such, you will notice even slight changes in your surroundings. 

Even if you are quite good at understanding how others are feeling in a situation. Others find you sympathetic and easy to approach the person.

ESFPs are practical and prefer hands-on learning. You also believe in doing rather than only thinking about ideas and concepts. 

However, you may get engrossed in the momentary pleasures of life and ignore your long-term goals and aspirations.

Sometimes this habit of yours can prove to be dangerous. You may fall into an inappropriate situation from which a comeback may become difficult.

Thus, you feel life is a pleasurable journey with lots of twists and turns and new surprises all around. For this, you will also take others with you on a joy ride of pure laughter and happiness.

You can talk over hours, share others’ emotions, and can turn bad moments into good times of joy and happiness.

Even, you are just ready to dive into everything the environment offers you. You are not the one to be boxed in, rather allowed to take flight high up in the sky.


10 telltale signs of ESFP personality types

If anyone is to be found talking excessively with just anyone, trying to make new friends wherever they go, it must be the ESFP personality type. These individuals are known for their outgoing, enthusiastic, and superb interpersonal skills.

Being in the middle of every initiative, you love to take on the center stage and get noticed by everyone in the room. Your contagious positivity and zest for life are just irresistible. Your playful nature, quick wit, sense of humor draws public attention quite easily.

The mannerisms, dressing style that you possess make you a style icon and others follow you blindly. ESFPs are great at enjoying each and every moment of life as if it’s their last one. 

This makes them crave adventure and novelty in everything they may be doing, otherwise, monotony may set in quite easily.

Some of the admirable characteristics that set you apart from all Myers Briggs extrovert types are as follows:

1. Resourceful

ESFPs are resourceful and have the ability to make use of whatever they have in real life. You can say that they are a manager who is creative and has the innate quality of delivering the best thing possible. 

These individuals can overcome any crisis in life by mere hard work and dedication. You can grab any opportunity that you may find exciting and new. 

Moreover, you are great at solving problems and fixing things that may have gone wrong. Ultimately, you just want enjoyment and laughter to stay with you forever.

2. You crave excitement and adventure all the time

Extraverted sensing is your dominant cognitive function. This makes you an adventurous type. You move with the flow of time and seek excitement and exuberance in anything and everything that crosses your path. 

As you are a wandering soul, new places, people, and experiences will fascinate you always. You would love to explore the unknown, try out new cuisines, learn new languages, and visit unknown countries.

ESFPs believe that life is one and one should enjoy every moment of it, otherwise everything is futile and doomed.

3. Practical 

ESFPs are realistic and practical. They are not guided by abstract concepts and hypothetical scenarios. Again the dominant function of extraverted sensing makes them pay attention to their immediate surroundings with a lot of details. 

People with this personality type are level-headed, patient, and believe in whatever they see, hear, smell, and touch. This means they use their five senses to understand the reality of life around them.

4. Quick to see things that others may miss out

ESFPs are quite good at analyzing things closely. Being a detail-oriented personality, they can notice even the minor changes around them that others may ignore or don’t even see. 

They will quickly notice changes in someone’s body language, or alterations in mood, or change in the work setup. 

These people are sharp and agile, thus grabbing new opportunities whenever it comes in, is quite easy for them.

5. Tactful yet honest and dedicated

ESFPs are sincere and honest people. Though they know the art of handling challenges with tact and wit, yet they like honesty and dedication to the fullest. 

People who display dishonest behavior or are phony and deceitful in some way are not in their good books at all.

These individuals will immediately avoid being in touch with deceitful and malicious people. Moreover, ESFPs do not like pretensions. 

They hate being misguided by someone. Honesty and authenticity are always on their priority list whenever they meet and relate with new people in various social setups.

6. Values and morality are important for honest living

ESFPs live their life with values and they expect the same kind of ethics and morality from others as well. They prefer to do good things that can bring a positive impact on the community. 

These individuals never work for name and fame alone but they believe in doing rightful things that can be learned and followed by others. 

In one way, they lead by example. Others may follow them and do the same in the community.

7. ESFPs are fun-loving and humorous

You have the ability to lighten up the mood of the room by cracking jokes or doing some funny act. At the same time, you will also take care of the feelings of others and would never say anything that may hurt them. 

ESFPs are sensitive and empathetic. They can easily understand if someone is not doing fine otherwise. People with this personality type can make others feel happy and comfortable intense times. 

Sometimes, they may use humor to keep in check the overly critical people who seem to be unsafe and immoral.

8. Empathy through actions and deeds

ESFPs show their empathy to others through their good deeds and helpful behaviors. These individuals can inspire others with their kind affirmations and motivational talks. They make others feel comfortable even during the hardest times. 

If they see someone suffering and unhappy, ESFPs never prefer to give advice, rather they try their best to lighten the mood of the person. They will help the person to divert their minds to something else.

9. Experience teaches an ESFP important life lessons

ESFPs are active learners. They learn through hands-on experiences. If you want an ESTP to sit in one place and learn what is being fed to them, they will become frustrated in no time.

These people prefer to learn things only by experiencing them. For them, every learning has a practical application and they just love to experiment with things they see and experience around them. 

Being sensing and perceiving personalities, ESFPs are open-minded and they can handle sensory stimulations very well. They can understand things in detail only because they are active learners and participate wholeheartedly in the learning process.

10. ESFPs are good storytellers

Some of the best storytellers are ESFPs simply because of their creative mindset. These individuals can tell stories with humor and adventure that can keep the listeners guessing on what the plot unfolds next in line. 

ESFPs are good communicators and they make things interesting for others. Usually, they get an idea when people are feeling bored and when they need to strike the right cord to keep things exciting for their listeners.

To know more about the personality traits of ESFPs, click here.


Cognitive dynamics of ESFP personality type (The Functional stacking)

All the 16 personality types in MBTI are based on four cognitive functions, sensing, thinking, feeling, the intuition that is either manifested outwardly (Extraversion) or focused inward (introversion). 

Some of these functions are dominant and others act as supporting influences in building up the individual’s overall personality. 

These functions are arranged in a hierarchical order depending upon the degree of influence it has on a person’s behavior. This hierarchical structure is referred to as functional stacking.

The relative strength of influence of these cognitive functions is determined in a specific order, such as dominant, auxiliary, tertiary, and inferior functions. The functional stack of an ESFP personality type looks like this:

1. Dominant function – Extraverted Sensing (Se)

  • Extraverted sensing makes them focus on the present moment. These individuals do not think much about their future as they cannot plan ahead of the present time.
  • These individuals like to work with concrete facts and not with abstract ideas.
  • This function makes an ESFP remain open to new options and opportunities and move with the flow of life.

2. Auxiliary function – Introverted feeling (Fi)

  • While making decisions, ESFPs give much importance to personal feelings.
  • This function makes them compassionate and helpful. They can understand the finer emotions of others and are quick to notice changes in someone’s emotional health.
  • ESFPs decide on an internal set of values that are pragmatic and focused in reality. 

3. Tertiary function – Extraverted thinking (Te)

  • ESFPs display poor skills when it comes to maintaining order and structure in the world they live in. This function is not so well developed in them. Thus they act in haste and are disorganized and spontaneous.
  • They are logical and rational beings. Armed with practicality, ESFPs always try to improve the system they work in. They believe in utmost productivity and efficiency as far as their work is concerned.

4. Inferior function – Introverted intuition (Ni)

  • This is not a well-developed cognitive function in an ESFPs personality profile. However, this function helps them to form patterns by connecting the dots of what they observe and experience around them. 
  • Sometimes this least developed function makes them sort through abstract and unknown concepts.
  • This function gives them insight to scan through the details of a situation and come up with the best decision.

Know more about the cognitive functions of ESFPs.


ESFP VS ENFP

ENFP and ESFP may look very similar to each other from the outside because they share common traits. 

Both these feeling-perceiving personality types are energetic and spontaneous decision-makers. They respect their values to the fullest and live life according to their own terms and conditions. 

Moreover, both ESFP and ENFP are extroverts. Thus they are outgoing, energetic, and enthusiastic about everything. Their people skills are just excellent. 

Both these personalities use introverted feeling and extroverted thinking to perceive the surroundings around them and reach appropriate decisions. However, their mental processes differ significantly.

The comparison between these two highly mistyped personalities would become clearer if we analyze both the similarities and differences between the two types.

The similarities

ENFP and ESFP shares many similar features and some of them are as follows:

  • Both are social butterflies and derive their mental energy from networking and socializing with others.
  • Both would hate to see others smothering their core values and beliefs.
  • ENFPs and ESFPs are compassionate and has a clear understanding of others’ emotions
  • Both prefer freedom and independence in thought and action.
  • People with these two personality types are energetic and this enthusiasm is just contagious.
  • Others cannot ignore them easily because they are socially present and always remain in the center of attention.
  • Both these personality types are adventurous and prefer new things. They hate repetitive tasks and get bored easily.

The differences- 

ESFPENFP
ESFPs can analyze their own and others’ feelings in detail.ENFPs are intuitive. Thus they try to analyze the nature of life in general.
ESFP knows others by listening to their life stories, the various happenings of their past and present life.ENFP knows others through social interaction, sharing ideas and perceptions with them. They believe more in shared experiences and learning and growing together.
Being a sensor personality, ESFPs have sharp senses that allow them to remain aware of what’s happening in their immediate surroundings. They believe in concrete things that can be seen, heard, and experienced in detail.ENFPs are not keen observers. Most of the time, they do not relate to their immediate environment. They cannot focus on the details of anything that may see, hear, or experience around them.
ESFPs analyze things by contrasting and comparing facts, relating past information with the present one to find patterns and connections between the events.ENFPs question the nature of facts. They may explore new ways and get deeper into various other opportunities to make the ideal decision.
ESFPs like to be appreciated and praised for their good work.ENFP wants others to recognize their creative thoughts and ideas.
ESFPs can explore, talk, and discuss present events. They live in their moments and dislike thinking too much about past events.ENFPs talk about future possibilities. 
ESFPs can help even unknown people with their practical suggestions. ENFPs are more likely to help people who know them well. These individuals cannot focus on unknown individuals that they come across in their daily lives.
ESFP Vs ENFP

If you wish to know more about The differences between ESFP and ENFP personality types, click here.


ESFP compatibility

Relationship compatibility refers to the degree of matching between two individuals in terms of their understanding and acceptance of each other’s life goals, weaknesses, strengths, etc. it also shows whether two people genuinely feel happy by being with each other.

A compatible relationship looks healthy because two partners contribute their share to building up a trustworthy relationship. 

Thus the ideal compatible partners for ESFPs are ISTJ and ISFJ who will be able to appreciate their eye for detail and live in the moment perspective. Moreover, the extroversion qualities of ESFP can blend well with the introverted nature of the ISTJ and ISFJ

It has been seen that ESFP may have compatibility problems with thinking-intuitive types such as INFP, INFJ, and ENFJ. These types clash because of their different perspectives.

The compatibility chart shown below shows how ESFPs excel in their compatibility match with other personality types.

Personality typeMatching when paired with ESFP
ENFPThe innovative and open-minded nature of ENFPs can match with the detailed and practical nature of ESFP. Both have something to offer each other in their respective growth endeavors.
ENTPESFP and ENTP can relate well with each other if they learn to adjust to each other’s weak areas and fulfill their innate needs.
INFPThough a relationship between INFP and ESFP is possible, INFPs will want to have their space as an introvert. Moreover, ESFP will want INFP to listen to whatever they want to say. The extrovert and introvert traits of these two types can complement each other well.
INFJThese two types may struggle with communication. The abstract concepts of INFJ may not be well understood by the entertainer. Moreover, The organizational skills of INFJ may also contradict the spontaneous and easy-going mindset of ESFP.
ENFJENFJ and ESFP are a good match. The organized and planned actions of ENFJ can help ESFP to restructure its haphazard world.
INTJINTJs are intellectual and they can bring logic and reasoning into the relationship. Their inexpressive and cold emotional nature may not be a liking for an overly expressive ESFP. This relationship may struggle to continue for a long time.
ENTJESFPs will struggle to maintain harmony with the planned and intuitive mindset of ENTJ. Balance can be maintained with a lot of adjustment from both sides.
INTPThe introverted nature of INTPs may not match well with the lively and outgoing ESFP. ESFPs may find them boring and intellectual nerds.
ISFPISFP and ESFP are good matches. They possess the same wavelength. The extroverted qualities of ESFP can complement very well the quiet and reserved nature of ISFP.
ESFPWhen two ESFP meet one another, it can be called a kindred spirit. They can fulfill each other’s need for attention. Sometimes, they may get involved in too much fun and neglect their responsibilities. In the long run, such a relationship may lose track of reality. Without future planning and proper life goals, this relationship may struggle to maintain harmony with each other.
ISTPESFPs can match well with ISTP. Both these types prefer to live in the moment. They are spontaneous and easygoing. The thoughtful ISTP can guide the energetic and lively ESFP in the right direction.
ESTPBoth these types have a similar approach towards life. Since they are extroverts and sensor personalities, they have many similarities that can lead to long-term relationships. However, ESTPs may not always understand the subtle emotions of ESFPs.
ISFJBoth this type prefers to live in the moment. However, ISFJs are introverts and stay away from too much social interaction. This can be challenging to them as they will have to adjust to the energetic, enthusiastic, and lively nature of ESFP. However, if they reconcile their values and needs with each other, they may become perfect partners also.
ESFJESFJs can bring structure and organization into the relationship. These two types are compatible as they share many similar traits.
ISTJISTJs can get annoyed and frustrated with the relaxed and easy-going attitude of ESFP. However, they are compatible if they complement each other’s weaknesses in a healthy way. As both these types are practical-minded, they can share responsibilities easily.
ESTJThis relationship is highly magnetic, lively, and energetic. Romance and passion will always remain high in the relationship. Sometimes the easy-going ESFP may feel constricted by the commanding and dominating rules of ESTJ.
ESFP compatibility

ESFP relationships

In relationships, ESFPs approach their companions with a light-hearted enthusiasm. Since these people are optimistic and fun-loving, they bring in a lot of innovation and excitement in their close bonding. 

In this section of the article, we will closely analyze how these people fulfill their roles as romantic partners, friends, and parents.

Romantic partner/spouse

For the entertainer personality type, romantic relationships are not about long-term future planning and lifelong commitments alone, but it’s about fun, merriment, excitement, and joy.

These people are caring partners who always try to make life beautiful for them as well as their partners. ESFPs in love show energy and freshness while they date and when they get into family life. They show the utmost care and can support their partners wholeheartedly.

People with an ESFP personality type always want excitement under their sleeves when they interact with their partners. If they find boring spots setting it early in the relationship, they may not second thought to review their relationship status again.

Sometimes, if they find that the relationship is not worth considering, they may break off all ties much sooner than expected. 

ESFPs also like physical intimacy, touching, cuddling, and sex. If any of this exciting stuff is not there or wears off in the relationship, they may soon lose interest and can become aversive towards their partner.

As romantic partners, ESFPs are loving, compassionate, and warm-hearted. At the same time, they are curious to know every small detail of their partner’s life. They would love to connect with their partners at a deeper emotional level.

These people can connect with someone who is deeply passionate, loving, flexible, and inquisitive. They do not like partners who are too organized and planned and prefer to follow a rule book in love. 

ESFP as parent

Being an ESFP parent, you are loving, relaxed, and enthusiastic. You are the one who will always spend quality time with your children. 

From playing to sitting with them to follow their artwork, or helping them finish their school assignments, you will always support them in all their endeavors.

An entertainer parent encourages their children and exposes them to various new experiences. They help their children to learn new things through hands-on experiences. 

These parents are real nurturers. They do not set pointless rules and rigid home environments for their little ones. Rather the home environment is filled with warmth and happiness where children get to learn new things in a flexible and easy-going way.

Entertainer parents often protect their children from failures and setbacks by teaching them the appropriate strategy for dealing with various life issues. They share their life lessons with their kids.

ESFP as friends

As friends, they are easygoing and immensely entertaining. With friends, entertainers believe in living life to the fullest. They seek cheer, happiness, joy, and merriment in this relationship.

ESFPs are helpful and compassionate friends. They can support their friends in trying times, no matter what problems they may have to face in the process. These people usually have a large group of friends. 

As these people prefer action, they can take their friends on adventurous journeys and engage them in all sorts of exciting experiences. However, ESFPs may take up risky behaviors at times and may want their friends to join them in the ride. 

This way they may actually put their friend’s life in danger. This immature nature of ESFPs may put them in big trouble unknowingly.

To know more about the details of ESFP relationships and Compatibility, click here.


ESFP in workplace

ESFPs’ workplace habits are nothing different from what they actually love to do and desire the most in their lives. 

It means that in a formal setup also, they prefer to remain friendly, relaxed, and spontaneous. Innovation and creativity are their strengths and they bring a lot of these things in their work setup.

They believe in creating and maintaining a psychologically safe workplace that nurtures innovation and where they can have absolute freedom to work independently.

The entertainers work well in free work setups where traditions can be challenged, pointless rules can be broken, and interferences are minimal. These people are open-minded and prefer the same from their colleagues and subordinates.

As colleagues

ESFP colleagues are helpful, fun-loving, and energetic. They can motivate their teammates to come out with their best talents. Being adaptable, friendly people, they can get along well with almost everyone in the team.

There will never be anyone in the office who would have disagreed or been disappointed by an ESFPs saying and behavior because these individuals hardly get into conflict. They are peace-loving and prefer to maintain harmony inside the team.

People with this personality type are good team players. They can put their best foot forward to work hand-in-hand with other members of the team. 

As these individuals are humorous and lighthearted, they can turn tense work situations into moments of fun and enjoyment. 

As subordinates

Being an ESFP subordinate, you will always crave new things to be placed on the table. You would love to challenge ideas and change them if needed. Moreover, you will consider rules as an additional burden and would prefer to get rid of them.

You will fulfill your tasks diligently and on time. Your manager will appreciate your efforts wholeheartedly. 

Sometimes, if the manager criticizes you for some reason or tries to fault you for your work, you may become jittery and stressed out. This is because you are not at all comfortable with bad mouth and criticisms. It may hit you hard. 

As managers

ESFP managers can have no equality. They are highly skilled in organizing and managing people under the same roof and delegate the finest work outcome. In this role, they will do everything to bring innovation, fun, and energy to the team.

ESFP managers are able leaders. Their cheerful and flexible nature makes psychologically safe workspaces where team members get a chance to come up with new ideas and put them in the right place. 

More details about ESFP workplace habits are given here.


ESFP and career choices

The entertainers are always high on energy. They seek innovation and novelty in every aspect of life. Thus, they choose careers that are creative, easy-going, and can blend well with their lively and spontaneous nature. 

Since ESFPS thrive well in varied social situations, they are always a good fit to work with others. They are the born performers who know how to earn a living just by doing what they like the most. 

ESFPs are resourceful, talented, and emotionally sensitive. They have tons of creative energy to build up lively work environments. 

At the same time, they choose a profession that is service-oriented and can bring desirable changes in the lives of many. This is the reason ESFPs choose career paths such as 

  • actors
  • doctors 
  • psychologists 
  • nurses
  • therapist
  • elementary teacher
  • social worker
  • receptionist
  • fashion designer
  • corporate trainer

The detailed career opportunities for an ESFP personality type is given here.


ESFP – strengths 

Each of the personality types described in the Myers Briggs Type Inventory comes with a set of strengths and shortcomings. 

The strengths are the areas of expertise or things one can do. The weaknesses are the flaws or loopholes that need to be improved and developed well for overall personality growth.

1. Bold and courageous

Being an ESFP personality, you will prefer to experience new things as always. You are bold enough to come out of your comfort zone and explore the world around you. 

Holding on to a safe space is not always your priority. Thus you will take bold steps towards various new endeavors and write success stories for yourself.

2. Showy and artistic

ESFPs love putting on a show always. For them, human beings are actors and life is a mere stage to showcase one’s talents. These people are creative and talented. 

Their words and actions showcase their articulate nature. ESFPs never give up and try to put up the best performance possible.

People with ESFP personalities are lively, cheerful, and ever-smiling types. They radiate warmth and positivity in their outlook towards life. 

Their dressing style, communication are awesome and naturally attract others towards them.

3. Keen observer

ESFPs are keen observers because they are focused on the moments of life. This helps them to notice changes in situations and people alike. They are usually quick to find faults in a system. 

Moreover, it’s easy for them to notice even minor changes in someone’s behavior. ESFPs have sharp senses that help them to perceive and comprehend their immediate environment much earlier than others.

4. Excellent people’s skills

Being an extrovert personality, ESFPs are good at handling diverse groups of people. They usually have a very large group of friends. 

These individuals are socially dynamic, talkative, humorous, and intelligent. They can even engage in good conversations very easily. They never run out of ideas and words to entertain people in a social setup.


ESFP – shortcomings

Some of the major weaknesses of ESFPs are:

1. Too emotional and sensitive

ESFPs are too sensitive people. They take criticisms personally and may feel badly hurt from within. Sometimes they may feel pushed to the edge, their self-worth and dignity may feel broken forever.

2. ESFPs averse conflicts at all costs

People with this personality type avoid conflict at all costs. They say or do something to just come out of the situation. Conflicts are emotionally charged situations for them that these people cannot control well. Thus they try to ignore it consciously.

3. Poor planning skills

ESFPs cannot plan for their future. They prefer to stay connected in ‘here’ and ‘now’ only. These people keep themselves away from future planning because they feel that it is always worthy to move with the flow of life. It is futile to lay out steps for the future or set future goals that may change with time.

4. Easily gets bored

People with an ESFP personality type may easily get bored. They need constant excitement to thrive well in life. These people are highly energetic and love to indulge themselves in the tiny pleasures of life.

5. Lacks good focus

ESFPs lack focus and dedication in tasks that take time to accomplish or those that require constant planning and dedication. They dislike doing the same thing over and over again and as such, they lose interest and focus much earlier than others.

You can learn more about the ESFP strengths and weaknesses here.


How to relate with ESFP personality (dating tips for you)

If you are dating an ESFP and want to know the tricks that may help you relate well with these lively and energetic people, probably you are in the right place.

ESFP looks for someone with the same level of energy and enthusiasm as themselves. Thus, relating with them may not be a cakewalk for you always. They hate dull moments in their life. You will have to be spontaneous, lively, and exuberant always, otherwise they may not have a second thought to leave you and move on with their life gracefully.

  • If you are in a relationship with an ESFP, make sure that you bring in a lot of new things into the relationship. Try to make each day a new one with a lot of excitement and optimism all around.
  • Prefer not to remain dull and unexciting with them.
  • ESFPs love to be noticed and praised by their partners. Thus, whenever possible, appreciate their good deeds, kind acts, stage performances, etc.
  • Be sincere and faithful with them. They can easily identify phony behavior.
  • Go for an exciting and memorable date night with good food, fun, excitement, recreation, music, dance, etc.
  • ESFP personalities prefer honest communication and clear cut relationship goals. They like their partners to share their likes, dislikes, life experiences with them. These individuals will relate well with partners who believe in ‘sharing is caring’.
  • Avoid pressuring them for making any long term commitments until they are ready.
  • Be empathetic with them always. They may not handle criticisms constructively. Thus, you need to choose your words wisely.
  • Try not to complain much about anything because they despise it from the bottom of their hearts.
  • Never try to impose pointless rules and traditional stuff on them. They just hate it.
  • ESFPs love shared decisions. Thus, you need to involve them in your decision making process. They fear being left out and may do it personally.

Famous ESFPs you may be knowing

If you’re an ESFP, you would be interested to know some of the celebrity personalities who must be sharing this type with you. Right?

Let’s know who they are-

Know more about the ESFP famous personalities here.

Do you know that there are many famous ESFP characters who are portrayed on-screen or through literary works? 

These characters played various positive as well as negative roles that inspired our life and living.  They entertained us, made us cry, or annoyed us, but it was worth seeing them or learning about them.

The list of such ESFP characters are as follows:

  • Simba from The Lion King
  • Fozzie Bear from The Muppets
  • Joey Tribbiani from friends
  • Jack Dawson From Titanic
  • Finnick From The Hunger Games
  • Poe Dameron from Star Wars
  • Baloo from The Jungle Book

Are you eager to know the names of more ESFP Characters? then, see here.


What do ESFPs hate?

Each personality type described in the MBTI avoids doing certain things in their lives at all costs. There is nothing wrong with it. 

When things are not in tune with your inner world and you are not comfortable doing it, it is better either to ignore or avoid it fully.

Sometimes, you may hate it totally and may become very skeptical if forcefully put in such a situation. 

  • ESFP hates future planning. If you are told to think and plan for next five years down the line, you would just hate to do it
  • You may not like those people who take a long time saying what they really want to say. It means you prefer the point conversations. Speaking too slowly or taking a pause in between the conversation irritates them a lot.
  • ESFPs care less about theoretical constructs. Neither do they prefer discussing more or long term goals. These individuals love to live in the present time, thus long haul discussions about something abstract or unknown are not for them.
  • These individuals thrive well in free work setups. They hate being watched, guided, or micro-managed.
  • As they prefer to remain happy and stay positive always, they hate to see the dark side of life. They despise pessimism, sadness, or gloomy atmospheres completely.
  • They hate judgments and criticisms that were meant to hurt others.
  • ESFPs hate bossy, haughty, and overbearing people.
  • If someone tries to put them down or interfere with whatever they may intend to do, ESFP may become extremely irritated and restless.
  • They hate limits and restrictions that were meant to put down their self-confidence and creativity.
  • These individuals hate being rushed to make vital decisions. Naturally they are quick decision makers. Despite this, if someone gives over the top suggestions to decide on something very quickly without thoughtful consideration, they may not like it at all.
  • ESFPs hate those who are excessively complaining without doing anything.
  • They hate being ignored and avoided. This happens because of their intrinsic need to be appreciated, praised, and get noticed in social setups.
  • ESFPs love to socialize. If they are not allowed to spend a good amount of time around others, it may get into their nerves soon.
  • They hate being alone and unhappy.
  • Monotonous and routine tasks can make them feel irritable and restless in no time.

Being a hardcore extrovert, you will have many things to do while being alone. In your leisure hours, you will never feel bored because there are many hobbies and fun-filled activities that you may like doing. Some of your favorite pastimes include the following:

  • listening to music
  • shopping
  • night out with friends
  • conversation and game nights
  • cooking 
  • musical performance
  • theatre
  • team sports
  • home décor

If you still wish to know more about specific ESFP hobbies, Click here.


ESFP and Myers Briggs personality test

MBTI or Myers Briggs Type Indicator is a very popular and widely used personality test most commonly used to determine the16 personality types. 

This psychological test is based on the work of Carl Jung where he described cognitive functions as the primary determinant that shapes an individual’s innate nature. The details of this theory are to be found in the Analytical theory of Carl Jung.

This Myers Briggs personality type indicator was developed by Isabel Myers and her mother Katharine Briggs in the 1940s. Years later, the test has undergone various revisions.

This self-report personality inventory test consists of nearly 100 items. The test has two statements that require the respondent to make a choice between the two based on their innate nature.

As the test has no right or wrong answer, the report gives an overall assessment of the person’s personality dynamics based on the four cognitive functions (sensing, intuition, thinking, and feeling). 

These four cognitive functions can either be directed inwards (introversion) or manifested outwardly (extraversion). 

MBTI uses Carl Jung’s typology concept to decide the personality profile of the person. The four different categories are:

While describing the person, one letter from each category is used to describe the four-letter personality type of the person; such as INFJ, ISFP, ISTJ, ISFJ, and ENFP, etc. 

If you wish to know your personality type, you can take the test here.


How rare is the ESFP personality type?

No one can match themselves with the lively and irresistible style of an ESFP. They are charismatic and vibrant. They live life with zest and vigor and prefer to remain relaxed and easygoing in whatever they may be doing.

People with this personality type prefer to approach life with optimism, fun, and spontaneity. Probably, they are the most vibrant of all the Myers Briggs types.

This personality type is the third most common among women. On average, women comprise 10% of the population. However, men are a little less on this and comprise about 7% of the population.

Overall, ESFPs are quite a common personality type and constitute 9% of the general population.


ESFP personalities – major stress triggers

Stress is a state of emotional upheaval and overwhelming negativity that may make you emotionally restless and anxious. You may find your resources, both physical and psychological, getting depleted over time. 

ESFP personalities may feel stressed out by certain circumstances or people in their lives when they may find their coping skills dooming down fast. The various stress triggers for ESFP personality type could be enumerated as the following:

  • When some rigid rules and pointless conventions are forcefully put onto them.
  • If someone tells them to think ahead of time. Long term planning or future possibilities that might happen. In most cases, ESFP would struggle to plan ahead because they find it too boring and uncertain. 
  • They may also face stress if asked to make commitments when they are not ready mentally.
  • The 9 to 5 desk job, mundane, tasks, or following a strict schedule may irk them fully.
  • ESFPs may get stressed out if someone criticizes them badly in front of others. This can make them feel insulted and anxious.

How do they cope with stress?

Stress can have lingering reactions if left untreated for a long time. When your innate resources start to deplete faster than you expected, you may just behave like a worrywart. This confused state of mind can take away your mental peace and agonize you psychologically for a long time.

Few coping strategies may help you to relax and feel better. You may feel like having some kind of control over the situation.

  • Have patience and spend time only with yourself in a quiet place, away from others. ‘Me time’ is the best way to unwind, connect, and get back your lost ‘self’.
  • Practice meditation or go for a brisk nature walk to revive your lost spirits.
  • You can talk to a friend or a close confidant and get their valuable suggestions to deal with the issue.
  • Spending time outdoors and moving away from the source of your stress. It will surely give you more clarity about your thought processes and feelings.

Know more about ESFP stress triggers and how they deal with it by clicking the link.


The video link shared below shows the signs of ESFP personality type. Do check out.


Key takeaway from ‘ThePleasantPersonality’

The most bright, energetic, and charming person who can take on the dance floor or pick up a microphone to sing and entertain others has to be an ESFP.

Your down-to-earth, yet charismatic aura makes you a popular person very easily. Being an ESFP, your free spirit, buoyancy, and zest for life can lighten up the gloomy lives of many around you.

Armed with a realistic view of life, others may see you in a fun mood always but they are highly mistaken. You too have a serious side that no one can see but everyone can feel deeply whenever they interact with you on a one-to-one deeper level.

For you, life will be a sweet and sour journey. You would love to experience this journey with hope in your heart and happiness in your eyes. There should not be any dull moments in your life as you want to live every second of it in excitement, joy, and serenity.

“If you can do what you do best and be happy, you’re further along in life than most people.”

 – Leonardo Dicaprio

Article Sources


1. https://www.psychologyjunkie.com/2015/08/02/how-each-mbti-type-reacts-to-stress-and-how-to-help/#h-esfp-stress
2. https://www.truity.com/personality-type/ESFP
3. https://www.crystalknows.com/personality-type/esfp
4. https://www.mbtionline.com/en-US/MBTI-Types/ESFP

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Disclaimer – “The opinions and information given in this article have been researched and put to use from the various web sources on the topic. The names of the celebrities / fictional characters given under the particular personality type do not reflect the opinions of ‘ThePleasantPersonality’. We recommend that readers use the names with discretion if required. The company doesn’t make any claims regarding the authenticity or accuracy of the source content on the web.”