ENTJs are energetic problem-solvers who love to have fun. They are spontaneous and expressive, finding joy in connections with others. Curious and clever, they seek to understand the people and systems around them.
They are quick to spot flaws and brainstorm ideas. They love banter and a good debate. They explore challenges creatively, however feel stifled following a set way of doing things. Their spontaneity keeps them from following through on ideas or sticking to commitments.
Debater
Quick-Witted, Charismatic, Creative, Argumentative, Chaotic
Motivations: To overcome challenges and solve impossible problems
Values: Ingenuity, debates, creativity, and originality
Fears: To be stifled and disconnected from others
3% of General Population; 4% of Men; 2% of Women
Extrovert (E):
Energized by being around others
Intuition (N):
Focused more on ideas, abstracts, and patterns
Thinking (T):
Decisions are made with logic
Perceiving (P):
Perceived by others as flexible, spontaneous, and adaptable
Strengths & Weaknesses
Healthy personality types will often relate more to the strengths, while unhealthy types relate more to the weaknesses. However, most people are a combination of both.
Strengths:
ENTPs are great at considering multiple perspectives and quickly forming connections with others. They are flexible and can easily adapt to new situations. They have the ability to think outside of the box and constantly have new ideas to explore.
- Knowledgable
- Quick Thinkers
- Original
- Excellent brainstormers
- Charismatic
- Energetic
Weaknesses:
ENTPs struggle with following through plans and ideas. They love their ideas and creativity, but to practically execute them takes the fun out of it. They have difficulty staying focused on one task and dislike following rules, schedules, and authority.
- Argumentative
- Insensitive
- Intolerant
- Difficulty focusing
- Flighty and flaky
- Impracticality
Development
Like any personality type, ENTPs can be healthy, unhealthy, or anywhere in between. Here is what they look like at their best and at their worst.
At Their Best
At their best, ENTPs are innovative thinkers who creatively and enthusiastically solve problems. Their lively way of communicating draws others to them. They have clear values and beliefs, but lead by example instead of commanding others. They are resourceful and inspiring.
At Their Worst
At their worst, ENTPs are provocative debaters, who are harsh to anyone they see as incompetent or unmotivated. They take on immense stress from problems they can’t solve. They are scattered, unfocused, and cannot commit to anything. They create conflict wherever they go.
Personal Growth
Though ENTPs have many great qualities, there are always areas for any type to grow in. Here are some tips for growth.
- Stick to decisions: ENTPs are full of ideas and always want to pick up new hobbies or projects. However, the most productive thing they can do is to decide on one project or path and follow through with that one.
- Learn to stop a debate: ENTPs are called debaters for a reason. They will challenge and question everything for the fun of it. They should learn to be aware that not everyone appreciates such vigorous debates and that it can cause a lot of tension for those who are uncomfortable with such forceful disagreements.
- Do the practical things: Day-to-day routines and necessary things like chores are not fun. ENTPs do not enjoy doing them. They want to be creative and engage in new things often. ENTPs can benefit from finding a way to get the practical stuff done. Whether it’s chores or studying, get creative with how to do the mundane.
Managing Conflict
When ENTPs find themselves in conflict with others, it’s important for them to learn to listen before jumping to solutions. When communicating with others, ENTPs are direct and rational. They stay objective and are great problem solvers, but can be too pushy with their solutions. They naturally challenge others and don’t like to focus on nuanced details.
It will be hardest for ENTPs to communicate with those they find highly emotional or illogical. Their direct and rational approach will not always be appreciated. When under stress, ENTPs tend to pressure others and dictate their enviornment. However with those closer to them, they may withdraw and avoid conflict. Here are some tips for ENTPs to manage conflict:
- Stop and listen to both sides before coming up with a solution
- Others can find your way of communication stressful and overwhelming, so there are times when it’s best to take a step back and slow down
- Sometimes it’s better to find the root of the problem rather than a quick solution
- Talk less and listen more
Types they may struggle to communicate with:
Nurturing ENTPs
To take care of an ENTP, it’s important to know what stresses them out and what they need to fill at ease. Below are some stressors for ENTPs, and also what others can do to help them feel cared for.
Stressors
- Being alone or in silence
- Highly structured schedules and routines
- Having highly emotional conversations
- Being stuck in a place or situation where creative thinking is unnecessary
Nurture
- Spend time with them and engage in conversation
- Support them in exploring new hobbies or creative endeavors
- Don’t push too much emotion when their not ready
- Help them find ways to make the mundane creative
The Human Connection 