We all have our own definition of happiness. But how does it vary amongst the MBTI Personality Types?
Before we talk about the definition of happiness, let’s have a brief overlook of the Myers-Briggs classification. There are a total of 16 different personality types. Each type is decided by a series of choices:
- Extraversion/Introversion
- Sensing/Intuition
- Thinking/Feeling
- Judging/Perceiving
But nowhere in these tests are any reference to what makes us happy. Of course, you can make some inference by the choices. For instance, it is likely that extraverts will enjoy being with people whereas introverts would need more alone time.
So how exactly does the definition of happiness vary amongst each type?
Let’s have a look:
ISTJ
ISTJ’s are renowned for their hard work, so nothing makes them happier when they are acknowledged for it. They are sticklers for routine and order, so no surprise birthday parties for them, they’ll feel terribly uncomfortable.
Instead, plan and organise celebrations that include their family, and keep it traditional. The occasional bunch of flowers out of the blue will also delight them.
ISFJ
ISFJ personality type is one of the most dedicated and loyal, often found in caring careers. They can get burnt out because they focus on others and neglect themselves. Their happiness is so often tied up with others, so if their nearest and dearest are provided for, they are truly happy.
Cosy nights in with their loved one, simple pleasures like good food and wine, enjoying nature give them happiness.
INFJ
Ideas and values are important to INFJ’s, so finding someone that shares their values is what makes them happy. They are happiest with someone that they can be themselves around. They also feel a duty to others less fortunate.
Despite being introverted, these are the most likely types to go off abroad and work for charities. What makes them happy is helping others.
INTJ
INTJ personality type won’t settle for second best. It’s not that they want perfection, it’s simply being the best makes them happiest. This isn’t in a bragging way either, they have their own high standards and goals. When they reach them, they’re happy. If they can find someone who shares similar ones, all the better. Intellect is their path to happiness. Solving a tricky puzzle or getting top grades makes them happy.
ISTP
Flexibility keeps ISTP’s happy. Stick them to a rigid plan and pressurise them and you’ll wear them out. This is another type that values intellect.
Absorbing the greatest amount of knowledge is this type’s definition of happiness. Surround them with textbooks of their favourite topic and no timescale and they’re in literal heaven. These are the ones that go out of their way to find new things to do.
ISFP
Don’t force an ISFP into your arguments, this is their idea of a nightmare. These are carefree types who tend to live in the moment. Family and loyalty are important and they love spoiling the closest to them. You won’t have to reciprocate, however, as it is the little things that make this type the happiest. They certainly know how to count their blessings.
INFP
INFP’s need their alone time, perhaps more than any other type. They are content with their own company. They do, however, love to spend time with the few precious loved ones they’ve cultivated over the years. And these types have taken years to form.
They’ll be the ones in a corner of a party, having an in-depth conversation about the planet. They may be introvert but love PDA’s.
INTP
INTP’s like to be appreciated for their actions. The love sharing ideas with others but won’t feel happy in a crowd.
They fear being judged, so they need to find a like-minded soul that gives them the freedom to express themselves. Another personality that requires alone time but will spend this time challenging themselves. They may be an avid crossword solver or play mentally stimulating games.
ESTP
These are an energetic bunch who love to explore exciting new things. They love being spontaneous and are the first to suggest an adventure. They are happier doing rather than talking about things and get easily bored sitting around chatting. No in-depth convos required here! Luxury and material comforts also make them happy.
ESFP
This particular type is a lover of life itself. The term ‘joie de vivre’ was coined for this personality. They love to have fun and always see the bright side. Quite often, these are the jokers of the group, and making others laugh is their definition of happiness. Don’t load them up with a whole pile of responsibilities, however. They don’t handle stress well.
ENFP
Warm and loving, ENFP’s are the types that inspire others as their enthusiasm is really infectious. They are truly happy when they’ve connected on a deep and meaningful level with others. True optimists, they spread happiness wherever they go. They do need validation from others but once they have it, they are ready to dish out the love and support.
ENTP
ENTP’s are outspoken personalities that love nothing than a good debate to make them happy. They are quick, witty and can banter like no other. Some might think their humour is too dry, but these types can usually win them around. When they do, they feel as if they’ve won and this makes them happiest. They get bored easily, so they hate routine. Their definition of happiness is having a new interest every day.
ESTJ
ESTJ’s are sticklers for the rules. So only when everything is running correctly and smoothly, then they can relax and enjoy themselves.
Some may find these types difficult to understand, as they can seem quite rigid. Delve under the surface and you’ll find a practical person who would help anyone in distress and feel most happy doing so.
ESFJ
A harmonious environment is the key to happiness for these types. They are happiest finding out what others need and providing it for them.
What makes this type really happy is when they are loved unconditionally and appreciated for what they do. They find it easy to express their feelings and are genuinely happy when they are trusted and confided in.
ENFJ
Many ENFJ’s have empathic qualities. They feel the emotions and needs of others keenly and are happiest when they can help. They will typically respond with warmth and affection but are unhappy when others can’t move on or grow from their experiences. Their definition of happiness would be spending quality time with their loved ones and feeling validated for what they do.
ENTJ
Often the person with ENTJ qualities is a leader in their field. Their happiness revolves around their accomplishments and achieving their goals. They like to voice their opinions and are happy if others admire them for the way they talk or their intelligence. Intellect is important and they are happiest in a library surrounded by books and knowledge. Like-minded friends bring them happiness.
Do you agree with my definition of happiness for your MBTI Personality Type? I’d love to know!
References:
Well I think I can’t be identified with an only one kind of personality but I could find out the necessity that I have of getting a new like minded fiend. I’m living in a savage and piny place with some summer villages in front of the mediterranean sea, I have 27 years old and I like tranquility night meditation but I’m also kean on meeting friends, girls… although I don’t do It too much cause of the volatility of the seasons. I’m leaving far of citied and I tried to work in a city but It puts me worse. I’m creating a furniture and concept store to be really free and enjoy myself because I am unfocused and a little lost. This post helped me to understand the must of having a like minded friend because I’m living alone and sometimes I feel as It. Thank You!