How to Give Back, Based on Your Personality Type ~ Jamie C. Martin
In my previous post I shared how I realized that the way in which I was called to give back to others should (typically) flow from my strengths and personality. I found freedom when I embraced interest and passion instead of guilt and compulsion as my main motivators to serve.
But this only really helps us if we understand ourselves, our gifts, and our talents.
If you don’t feel you have a good grasp of this already, don’t worry. One of the most popular methods of discovering how you’re wired is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
If you’ve never taken a Myers-Briggs personality test, you can find a free one here, and this page has an excellent, concise overview of all the types.
Once you know your personality type, look below to see the category you fit into and you’ll find two phrases that describe your unique abilities. Then begin to brainstorm how you can use (or are already using!) those gifts to influence those you care about in your own family, the community, and/or the world at large.
A lighthearted disclaimer: These tests definitely have their limitations. I remember taking my first personality/career test in high school, which assured me that I should go into horse training. I had no experience with or love for horses, and therefore felt quite puzzled by the results!
Like anything in life, take the ideas below with a grain of salt. Go along with any that intrigue you and use them to springboard your own thoughts. Don’t think of these as a box to shut you in, but as a platform to launch you off.
Also note that I did not invent any of the below, but compiled the information here using several online Myers-Briggs resources. Enjoy!
How to Give Back, Based on Your Personality Type
Pragmatists
Pragmatists are gifted in the realm of the practical: organizing, producing, and improving existing systems and structures. The types within this category may want to serve in ways that allow them to produce tangible results using their skills.
ESTJ – The Supervisor; The Practical Manager
ISTJ – The Inspector; The Productive Realist
ESTP – The Promoter; The Agile Troubleshooter
ISTP – The Crafter; The Adaptable Technician
Caretakers
Caretakers find themselves naturally drawn to meeting the needs of others, but the way in which they do so will be influenced by the uniqueness of their personality–whether introverted or extroverted.
ESFJ – The Giver; The Caring Provider
ISFJ – The Protector; The Sensible Helper
ESFP – The Performer; The Outgoing Entertainer
ISFP – The Composer; The Attentive Artisan
Theorists
Theorists are always coming up with innovative ways to approach new and existing aspects of life. Expressing and implementing these ideas will be a natural extension of how they reach out others.
ENTJ – The Fieldmarshal; The Driven Director
INTJ – The Chief; The Strategic Mastermind
ENTP – The Innovator; The Inspired Inventor
INTP – The Architect; The Independent Scientist
Empaths
Empaths are determined to improve the world and influence the lives of others, so these drives naturally lead them to get involved in specific causes.
(As an INFJ myself, I have to say that the phrases below fit me to a tee! They also explain why the chance to create this online community has been such a gift, allowing me to mentor and counsel/support others.)
ENFJ – The Teacher; The Inspiring Guide
INFJ – The Mentor; The Compassionate Counselor
ENFP – The Champion; The Expressive Advocate
INFP – The Healer; The Creative Individualist
If the descriptions of your personality above ring true, consider making a list of all the ways you currently serve your family and others outside your immediate circle.
Which of these fit deeply with who you are and which don’t? Is it possible to transition some of those that don’t to others who may truly be gifted and passionate in the areas that are weaknesses for you?
Ready for more calm, less guilt, and quiet joy as a mother? Check out my Introverted Moms’ community, and add your name to the waiting list!
Do you ever feel guilty about how you serve others?