Understanding the MBTI Personality Types and Core Emotions

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a widely recognized psychological framework that categorizes individuals into 16 distinct personality types based on their preferences in four key areas: Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I), Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N), Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F), and Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P). Each combination of these preferences results in a unique personality type with its own characteristics and behaviors.

To deepen the understanding of these personality types, we can explore the core emotions defined by optimizeyourcapabilities.com. These core emotions—Visualize, Calculate, Recognize, Broaden, Constrain, Perform, Manage, Enjoy, Boost, and Surrender—play a crucial role in shaping how individuals experience and manage their emotions.

The MBTI system presents a more intricate challenge when it comes to linking it directly to core emotions compared to the Enneagram. The MBTI primarily focuses on the outward expression of personality traits, which are multifaceted and complex, whereas the Enneagram centers around one or two core interests. However, by identifying the four most prominent core emotions that underpin each personality type, we can achieve a more nuanced understanding. This, in turn, allows us to relate to each personality type in a much more effective and empathetic manner.

Please note that we will describe how the person uses "Deciding" in relation to the other core emotions. However, we will not categorize it as either prominent or quiet. This is because "Deciding" is not strictly an emotion that can independently trigger a person's behavior (and therefore it is not presented by a personality type in Enneagram). Instead, it serves as an anchor of clarity, whose effectiveness is contingent upon how the accompanying emotions interact with it.

Now, here are the MBTI personality types with their core emotions:

 

1. ISTJ - The Inspector

• Initials: Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging.
• Description: Logical, detail-oriented, and responsible. ISTJs value tradition and prefer structured, orderly environments.

• Core emotions: An introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained, with little ability to expand. The core emotions Sensing and Calculating are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Managing and Exactness.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Exactness, Sensing, Calculating and Managing, while Expand, Enjoy and Boost are rather quiet. Surrendering and Performing (usually in form of respect) is an option by such a personality.

2. ISFJ - The Protector

• Initials: Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging.
• Description: Warm, caring, and dedicated. ISFJs are attentive to the needs of others and seek to create a harmonious environment.
• Core emotions: An introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained. The core emotions Sensing and Managing are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Exactness. This person would rather "feel" than "think", hence using more "Performing" and even a little "expansion" rather than calculating.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Sensing, Managing, Exactness and Performing, while Calculate, Enjoy, Boost and Expand are rather quiet. Surrendering is probably an option by such a personality.

3. INFJ - The Advocate

• Initials: Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging.
• Description: Insightful, creative, and altruistic. INFJs are idealistic and driven by a deep sense of purpose.
• Core emotions: An introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained. Being intuitive means that the Deciding ability is rather accompanied by Sensing, Managing and Calculating.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Managing, Sensing, Calculating and Exactness, while Expand, Enjoy, and Perform are rather quiet. Surrendering or Boost is probably an option by such a personality.

4. INTJ - The Architect

• Initials: Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging.
• Description: Analytical, strategic, and independent. INTJs are visionary thinkers who thrive on developing complex systems and plans.
• Core emotions: An introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained. Being intuitive means that the Deciding ability is rather accompanied by Sensing, Managing and Calculating.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Sensing, Managing, Calculating and Exactness, while Expand, Enjoy, and Perform are rather quiet. Surrendering or Boost is probably an option by such a personality.

5. ISTP - The Virtuoso

• Initials: Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving.
• Description: Practical, observant, and adventurous. ISTPs are skilled problem solvers who enjoy hands-on activities and exploration.
• Core emotions: An introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained. Sensing, Calculating and Surrendering are commonly visible on such a person.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Sensing, Calculating Surrendering and Exactness, while Expand, Manage, and Perform are rather quiet. Enjoy or Boost is probably an option by such a personality.

6. ISFP - The Adventurer

• Initials: Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving.
• Description: Sensitive, artistic, and spontaneous. ISFPs appreciate beauty and are often driven by their values and emotions.
• Core emotions: Although person is rather introverted, the spontaneous factor shows on ability to expand. So this introversion is not from exactness-constrain, but from being in Surrender-Passive mode rather than in Active/Boost. The core emotions Sensing, Expanding and Surrendering are commonly lit, and those are the core emotions that are accompanying the Deciding ability.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Sensing, Expanding and Surrendering, while Exactness, Boost, and Manage are rather quiet. Calculating, Performing and Enjoying are rather an option for such a personality.

7. INFP - The Mediator

• Initials: Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving.
• Description: Idealistic, empathetic, and introspective. INFPs are deeply in tune with their values and seek meaning in their lives and relationships.

• Core emotions: Usually an introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained, but being empathetic and a mediator shows that the quietness doesn't stem from fear, but from being sensitive and passive/submissive. The core emotions Sensing, Expanding and Surrendering are commonly lit, and those are the core emotions that accompany the Deciding ability.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Sensing, Expanding, Surrendering and Manage, while Exactness and Boost are rather quiet. Calculating, Performing and Enjoying are rather an option for such a personality.

8. INTP - The Thinker

• Initials: Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving.
• Description: Innovative, logical, and curious. INTPs love exploring abstract concepts and theories, often thinking outside the box.
• Core emotions: An introverted person has a heart which is rather constrained. The core emotions Calculating and Sensing are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Performing and Exactness.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Calculating, Sensing, Perform, and Exactness, while Expand, Enjoy, Manage and Boost are rather quiet. Surrendering might be an option for such a personality.

9. ESTP - The Entrepreneur

• Initials: Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving.
• Description: Energetic, outgoing, and perceptive. ESTPs are action-oriented and thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Expand and Boost are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Calculating and Enjoyment.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Expand, Boost, Enjoy, Calculate and Perform, while Exactness and Surrendering are rather quiet. Managing might be an option for such a personality.

10. ESFP - The Entertainer

• Initials: Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving.
• Description: Enthusiastic, sociable, and playful. ESFPs enjoy living in the moment and are often the life of the party.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Enjoy and Boost are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Performing and Sensing.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Enjoy, Boost, Performing, and Sensing, while, Calculating and Exactness are rather quiet. Expanding, Surrendering and Managing might be an option for such a personality.

11. ENFP - The Campaigner

• Initials: Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving.
• Description: Charismatic, imaginative, and open-minded. ENFPs are passionate and driven by their values and ideas.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Enjoy and Boost are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Performing and Sensing.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Enjoy, Boost, Expand, Performing, and Sensing, while Managing and Exactness are rather quiet. Calculate and Surrendering might be an option for such a personality.

12. ENFJ - The Protagonist

• Initials: Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging.
• Description: Charismatic, empathetic, and organized. ENFJs are natural leaders who are driven by a desire to help others achieve their potential.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Enjoy and Boost are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Managing and Sensing.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Boost, Managing, Enjoy, Performing and Sensing, while Expand, Calculate, Surrendering and Exactness are rather optional.

13. ESTJ - The Executive

• Initials: Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging.
• Description: Practical, organized, and assertive. ESTJs excel at managing tasks and people, often taking on leadership roles.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Boost, Expand and Manage are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Calculating and Performing.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Boost, Expand, Manage, Calculate and Perform, while Sensing and Surrendering are rather quiet. Enjoying and Exactness might be an option for such a personality.

14. ESFJ - The Consul

• Initials: Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging.
• Description: Warm, supportive, and sociable. ESFJs are dedicated to their communities and seek to maintain harmony and stability.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Expand, Sensing, Boost and Surrender are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Managing and Exactness.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Expand, Sensing, Boosting, Managing, Surrender and Exactness, while Performing and Enjoying might be an option for such a personality.

15. ENTP - The Debater

• Initials: Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving.
• Description: Quick-witted, enthusiastic, and resourceful. ENTPs love challenges and are skilled at thinking on their feet and debating ideas.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Expand, Calculate, Boost and Enjoy are commonly lit, while Performing, Sensing, Managing, Exactness and Surrendering are rather optional.

16. ENTJ - The Commander

• Initials: Extraverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging.
• Description: Confident, strategic, and efficient. ENTJs are natural leaders who excel at organizing and implementing long-term plans.
• Core emotions: An extraverted person has a heart that is rather broad. The core emotions Manage, Boost, Calculate and Perform are commonly lit, while the Deciding ability is accompanied by Sensing and Exactness.

In total, the prominent core emotions are: Manage, Boost, Calculate, Expand and Perform, while Exactness, Sensing, Enjoying and Surrendering are rather optional.

Conclusion:

The Core Emotion system offers a clear insight into the inner workings of individuals, regardless of their personality traits. By connecting to each core emotion individually, we can enhance and develop our inherent capabilities. Alternatively, we can appreciate the diverse characters and perspectives represented by different personalities and incorporate these qualities into our own lives.

However, it's important to note that the intensity of each core emotion varies between individuals. Moreover, people are not strictly defined by a single classification, as human personality is fluid and multifaceted.

The Enneagram Personality System

The Enneagram is a powerful tool for personal growth and understanding. It identifies nine distinct personality types, each with its own core motivations, desires, and fears. By exploring these types, individuals can gain deeper insights into their behaviors and relationships.

Nine Personality Types

1. The Reformer (Type 1)
   • Desire: To be good and right.
   • Fear: Being corrupt or wrong.
   • Characteristics: Principled, purposeful, and perfectionistic.
   • Core emotion: Exactness.
2. The Helper (Type 2)
   • Desire: To be loved and wanted.
   • Fear: Being unloved or unwanted.
   • Characteristics: Caring, interpersonal, and generous.
   • Core emotion: Expanding.
3. The Achiever (Type 3)
   • Desire: To be valuable and admired.
   • Fear: Being worthless or unaccomplished.
   • Characteristics: Success-oriented, pragmatic, and driven.
   • Core emotion: Performing.
4. The Individualist (Type 4)
   • Desire: To be unique and authentic.
   • Fear: Having no identity or personal significance.
   • Characteristics: Sensitive, expressive, and temperamental.
   • Core emotion: Sensing.
5. The Investigator (Type 5)
   • Desire: To be competent and capable.
   • Fear: Being helpless or incapable.
   • Characteristics: Perceptive, intense, and cerebral.

   • Core emotion: Calculating.

6. The Loyalist (Type 6)
   • Desire: To be secure and supported.
   • Fear: Being without support or guidance.
   • Characteristics: Committed, security-oriented, and engaging.

   • Core emotion: Managing.

7. The Enthusiast (Type 7)
   • Desire: To be satisfied and content.
   • Fear: Being deprived or in pain.
   • Characteristics: Fun-loving, spontaneous, and distractible.
   • Core emotion: Enjoying.
8. The Challenger (Type 8)
   • Desire: To be independent and protect themselves.
   • Fear: Being controlled or harmed.
   • Characteristics: Powerful, dominating, and confrontational.
   • Core emotion: Boosting.
9. The Peacemaker (Type 9)
   • Desire: To be at peace and harmonious.
   • Fear: Conflict and loss of connection.
   • Characteristics: Easygoing, self-effacing, and complacent.
   • Core emotion: Surrendering.

Personality is a fascinating and complex aspect of human beings. It encompasses the unique traits, behaviors, and patterns of thought that make each individual distinct. Various systems, such as the Enneagram, Myers-Briggs, and the Big Five, offer frameworks to better understand these differences. However, while these systems highlight our uniqueness, it’s essential to remember that at the heart of every personality, we all share the same core emotions.

Understanding Core Emotions: The Universal Human Experience

Core emotions are the fundamental feelings that compose all other experiences. As we have already referenced many experiences to the main core emotions, we can understand all of us are composed of those emotions, but the difference in personality is only in which of those are more important and in how we interact one above another. In this article, we will cite much of the known systems and show how it is referenced to the same core emotions. At the end, it will be much easier to reference the core emotions than to all those personality systems.

The Importance of Viewing Personality Through Core Emotions

1. Fostering Empathy and Connection
   • Recognizing that everyone experiences the same core emotions can help us develop empathy. It reminds us that, despite surface-level differences, we all go through similar emotional experiences. This understanding fosters deeper connections and compassion.
2. Reducing Misunderstandings and Judgments
   • When we focus on core emotions, we shift our perspective from seeing others as different to recognizing shared human experiences. This reduces misunderstandings and judgments based on superficial traits, promoting acceptance and unity.
3. Enhancing Personal Growth
   • Understanding that our behaviors and personality traits are expressions of core emotions allows us to work on our personal growth. We can address emotional triggers, develop emotional intelligence, and improve our relationships.
4. Promoting Inclusivity
   • Embracing the idea that everyone shares the same core emotions encourages inclusivity. It helps create environments where individuals feel understood and valued for their true selves, rather than being judged for their temporary differences.

Personality Traits...

 

 

 

 

 

Referencing the Known Personality Systems the Common Core Emotions...