Personality is a unique aspect of each individual that allows us to differentiate ourselves from others. Not only does it contribute to how we emotionally respond to things in our environment, but it also influences our behaviors and motivations. Over the years, many scholars have studied personality and developed tools. These tools divide personalities into groups depending on different factors. A famous personality test is the Myer’s Briggs tool. This tool groups personalities into 16 groups –each with its own identifiable acronym. Today, we are going to go over the ESFJ personality, also known as the provider.
Overview of the ESFJ Personality Type
ESFJ stands for extroversion, sensing, feeling, and judging. As the provider, the ESFJ personality is someone empathetic, supportive, and energetic. As extroverts, they enjoy being around large groups of people and prefer not to spend too much time alone. Furthermore, ESFJs are highly intuitive to the needs of others and are always looking to help. Additionally, these individuals prefer to prioritize their emotions rather than seeking logic to make decisions in their life. Asa result, they are very in tune with themselves and highly observant in their environment. Moreover, compared to other personality types globally, the ESFJ is the second most common personality, with approximately 12% of the population identifying as such.
Strengths
Moreover, like all individuals, this personality type has many strengths. Let’s take a look at some of them below:
Gentle: These individuals are naturally gentle souls. They enjoy forming deep connections with others. As a result, you can count on this personality type to provide guidance when you need help.
Brave: Regardless of the challenges they face, ESFJs combat adversity with bravery. They are not easily intimidated and will not wait for opportunities to come to them –they seek them out and achieve success.
Observant: Because they are good at observing their environment, they use this quality to ensure those around them are safe and happy.
Optimistic: The ESFJ personality is full of life and enthusiasm when it comes to what they are passionate about. You can also always count on them to lighten the mood and leave a positive impression on others.
Weaknesses
Furthermore, while the ESFJ has many strengths, they are no strangers to weaknesses. Let’s take a look at some of these in more detail below:
Avoid Conflict: Rather than address problems in their life, ESFJs will avoid conflict at all costs. This can lead to them being unable to voice their emotions and opinions at times. It also prevents them from giving constructive feedback to others when needed.
Struggle with Change: These individuals thrive with structure and organization. As a result, they can be hesitant to improvise and adapt to last-minute changes. Additionally, this can also prevent them from thinking outside of the box.
Neediness: ESFJs enjoy being the center of attention. As a result, they can become overly needy. Additionally, they can often tie their worth to the praise of others which is unhealthy.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy ESFJ
Moreover, while the majority of ESFJs live positive lifestyles, others struggle to find a healthy balance. This can lead to unhealthy choices and consequences from their actions. Let’s take a look at what a healthy vs. an unhealthy ESFJ looks like.
Healthy
- Understand the importance of self-care
- Respect the boundaries of others
- Strong work-ethic
- Do not place their self-worth on the opinions of other people
- Accepting other people’s perspectives
- Warm and affectionate towards others
Unhealthy
- Overly clingy and suspicious towards those they do not know outside of their social circle
- Highly sensitive and unable to accept feedback
- Can start drama in their environments
- Neglectful and impatient towards their needs
- Tend to jump to conclusions before knowing all the facts
ESFJ-A vs. ESFJ-T
Furthermore, let’s compare what the ESFJ-A vs. the ESFJ-T is. The ESFJ-A is also known as the Assertive Provider, while the ESFJ-T is the Turbulent Provider. The turbulent personality is more likely to regret their behavior compared to their assertive counterpart. Furthermore, the assertive ESFJ has more self-discipline than the turbulent ESFJ. Additionally, while the turbulent personality may find it more challenging to let go of negative feelings, the assertive personality tends to rush through painful thoughts. As a result, this can lead to them not healthily dealing with negativity and loss as they should. Lastly, the assertive ESFJs are more likely to remove themselves from a negative situation, while turbulent ESFJs remain in toxic situations for longer.
ESFJ’s in Relationships
Moreover, in a relationship, ESFJs are highly attentive and loving towards their partner. They have no trouble expressing themselves and being loyal. Furthermore, the ESFJ is naturally trusting and committed. However, they can rely on their partners too much at times. This can come off as clinginess which can cause their partner to need space. As a result, the ESFJ will keep negative emotions to themselves to avoid conflict. Nonetheless, this personality type makes a fabulous and loving partner when in a relationship.
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Best Careers for ESFJ Personality Type
Furthermore, ESFJ individuals thrive in environments with structure and organization. They also thrive in roles where they can help others. Here are some of the best careers for ESFJs.
- Professor
- Counselor
- Account Manager
- Social Worker
- Caretaker
- Physician
- Paralegal
- Court Reporter
- Child Care Provider
- Elementary Teacher
- Police Officer
- Cosmetologist
- Nurse
- Dental Hygienist
- Pediatrician
- Receptionist
- HR Manager
- Real Estate Agent
- Public Relations Manager
- Dietitian
- Physical Therapist
Famous ESFJ’s
Lastly, there have been many famous ESFJ individuals who have risen to fame for various reasons. Take a look at some of the names on our list below. Do you recognize any?
- Martha Steward
- Beyonce
- Dave Thomas
- Oprah Winfrey
- Dolly Parton
- Sam Walton
- Barbara Walters
- Ellen Degeneres
- Ariana Grande
- William Howard Taft
- Bill Clinton
- JC Penny
- Nora Ephron
- High Jackman
- Larry King
- Steve Harvey
- Sally Field
- Mary Tyler Moore
- Ray Kroc
- Susan Lucci
- Joe Biden
