In Part One, we introduced the Myers-Briggs® Personality Typing model, and how the cognitive functions of the brain form the framework for our ‘Personality Type’.

Then, in Part Two, we identified which two cognitive functions relate to which ‘Personality Type’. You may have even identified which cognitive functions your mind uses, and therefore which Personality Type you may be.

I highly recommend starting at Part One and Part Two if you are new to these concepts, as they lay the foundation for what we will expand on here.

 

The Tree Analogy

As explained previously, the Cognitive Functions form the foundation for the Personality Type.

I would liken this to a tree.

A tree has a trunk, branches, leaves and fruit. These are the parts that are visibly displayed by the tree.

This is the ‘Personality Type’.

They are not the whole substance of the tree, however.

The tree also has roots, which grow deep underground, and form the foundational framework of the tree.

The roots are the ‘Cognitive Functions’.

These cognitive functions are the wiring patterns of the brain, ultimately displayed as Personality Type.

 

The 16 Personality Types –  Overview

From Part Two, you may have already identified which cognitive functions you predominantly use, and therefore which Personality Type you may be.

Here is a general overview of the features or characteristics of each of the 16 Personality Types:

INTP Logical and critical thinker Intellectually inquisitive Seeks mental exploration and knowledge Quiet and reserved	ISTP Strong spatial awareness and kinesthesia Seeks exploration, freedom and practical action Resourceful and quick thinkers Very independent and observant
ENTP Enjoys logical debates and arguments Creative thinkers and inventors Excel at ideation and highly innovative Outgoing and direct	ESTP High-energy logical thinkers Observant and objective realists Sociable, spontaneous and quick thinkers Straightforward and confident
INFP Values authenticity and individuality Dreamer and creator Excellent and deep listeners Deeply idealistic and passionate	ISFP Values authenticity and honesty Highly observant of surroundings Artistic and sensitive Seeks freedom of expression
ENFP Creative and spontaneous Enthusiastic, playful and optimistic Idealistic big-picture dreamers Strongly empathetic and individualistic	ESFP Outgoing, energetic and spontaneous Strong spatial awareness and kinesthesia Warm, sociable and sensitive Lives in the moment
INTJ Extremely independent Future-oriented and visionary Deeply perceptive and strategic thinkers Excellent planners and problem-solvers	ISTJ Very dutiful and traditional Organized, stable and reliable Quietly determined and responsible Loyal and hardworking
ENTJ Strategists and visionary planners Extremely goal oriented Commanding and direct Seeks competency and independence	ESTJ Values order, structure and efficiency Organized and traditional Goal oriented and driven Authoritative and direct
INFJ Deeply perceptive and insightful Seeks meaning and understanding Seeks harmonious, deep and authentic connection Idealistic and visionary	ISFJ Service-minded and traditional Focuses on practical care for others Quietly diligent and loyal Seeks sincere community and connection
ENFJ Charismatic and persuasive leaders Seeks harmonious and thoughtful connection Seeks to understand human emotions and dynamics Observant and insightful about people	ESFJ Loves community and people Sociable, hospitable and tactful Traditional, dutiful and loyal Practical and altruistic care takers

 

These descriptive characteristics are meant to be a general overview.

Reading these features and characteristics, you may find that they either confirm or question which Personality Type you may be.

If they don’t line up with what you think to be consistent with yourself, it may be that another inspection of the cognitive functions is required (found in Part Two), to correctly determine your personality type.