The Mistyped ESTJ – or Who is Not an ENTJ

This is a popular discussion on ENTJ discussion boards – Who is Not Really an ENTJ. As one of the Real ENTJs who was actually tested in college with a Real MBTI II by a Real, Licensed Tester, I find those discussions amusing. Most of the pretenders are Fe-users who are trying to “become more J” and do not share any of the same cognitive functions. The differences are very obvious. An ENTP who uses a day planner is nothing like an ENTJ. My own mother was one such ENTP (not particularly with that motivation) – very organized with her finances, but to the core very fascinated with introverted logical things like astronomy and Napoleonic history and very much the Ne-dominant user in many different ways.

The real witch-hunt, however, is for ESTJs hiding out among the ENTJs. This would seem to be an easy task. ESTJs tend to have short-range plans, no longer than a month in advance, and rely on introverted sensing, not the long range introverted intuition and extraverted sensing that ENTJs use. But then, once in a while, one runs into a rare ESTJ with extremely well developed extraverted intuition, and things become a little more complicated. Te-Ne-Si-Fi shows up on a low quality test as ENTJ and brings with it all the bragging rights.

Petyr Baelish from Game of Thrones, ESTJ or ENTJ? ESTJs with high intuition visualize the picture and then manifest it into reality. ENTJs use patterns to predict trends.

You can watch the full scene from Game of Thrones here.

I must admit I mistyped him as ENTJ as well in a previous blog. When I saw this scene, it jumped out at me as pure ESTJ. This quote is pure Ne/Si ESTJ visionary talk. Petyr Baelish does not really care about winning over the loyalties of the other lordships or fealties he will need to rule the Seven Kingdoms on the show. He only wants the Iron Throne itself, which symbolizes the authority and its position and therefore is to be respected. It is the institution itself that carries the respect. Again, this is an ESTJ sentiment, not an ENTJ sentiment.

Another example of an ESTJ with well-developed Ne would be Mrs. Beauvais on the infamous episode of Wife Swap when they matched a family of Arizona millionaires who literally visualized their dreams into reality with a family of Indiana Welfare recipients.

In both examples, these “ENTJs” used their intuition to visualize outlandish possibilities, i.e., extraverted intuition (sitting on the Iron Throne, building up a multi-million dollar enterprise based on selling empowerment books) that are also built on a traditional family foundation (marrying Sansa Stark despite being lowborn, an infertile couple having two children, respectively). These outlandish dreams were built upon memories (introverted sensation) of deprivation earlier in life. These are actually simply ESTJs with extremely high Ne that allows them to function in the long term like an ENTJ. Their goals are still very narrow and traditional, like an ESTJ.

True ENTJs use Ni (introverted intuition) to project future trends by creating patterns from known data. Because of our high level of Se, or extraverted sensing (use of the five senses), we live in the moment and can be thrill seekers or highly sensitive, although not to the degree that ESxPs or ISxPs are. Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones would be a perfect example of an ENTJ (except for her twincest). She does not hesitate to act when it is necessary to achieve her means and seizes the moment to achieve her goals.

So now you know how to spot the mistypes. In the mean time, however, it is fun to watch the witch-hunts. Speaking of which, I think I smell some popcorn burning in the microwave downstairs.

For more information on the differences between ESTJs and ENTJs, see:
http://www.preludecharacteranalysis.com/types/entj/vs/estj
http://www.personality-central.com/distinguishing-ESTJ-and-ENTJ.html 
ENTJ vs ESTJ (video)

The Game of Thrones and MBTI – Everything You’ve Read is Wrong

Well, not everything. I just wanted to get your attention. But I think a lot of those sites have mistyped a lot of the major characters. Oh, everyone knows  Daenerys Targaryen is an INFJ and  Jaime Lannister is an ESTP. Those are no-brainers. Let’s really dissect the other characters, though, and find out which ones you might actually relate to. No one seems to agree on  Arya Stark’s MBTI type, for example. Enough chit-chat. Let’s get started.

***UPDATED***
I have revamped this particular page so that all the video links open in new tabs, making it much faster loading. 

Since it’s been a little over a year since I did this blog, I realize I made a few errors in typing, especially now that I started reading the books. The biggest changes I made were to Sansa and Ned Stark and Davos Seaworth. You will see some other changes as well. The changes are in red font.

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The Guardians: SJ

ISFJ

ISFJs are detail-oriented introverts who focus on the feelings of others and their need for comfort, being comfortable around the people in their lives and having comfortable surroundings. Since introverted thinking is their third function, they have a good sense of finance and can be quite savvy with their money. They tend to be very family-oriented and very, very devout and religious.

Grey Worm

Grey Worm, the Protector

Tommen Baratheon (Lannister)

Tommen the Family Man

Brienne of Tarth

Brienne, the Protector

Brienne the would-be wife of Renly

ESFJ

ESFJs are extroverts who enjoy a wide circle of acquaintances. They prefer details over the big picture, and focus on immediate realities rather than future possibilities. They like to plan activities and make decisions early. They derive a sense of control through predictability. ESFJs are sometimes blindsided by those they trust because of their tendency to eschew logic in favor of social considerations.

Jon Snow

Upholding the Tradition of the Stark Family

Catelyn Stark*
(*Catelyn is an ENFP in the books.)

Catelyn, guardian of the feelings of her Family

Myrcella Baratheon (Lannister)

Mycella is concerned about her Father/Uncle’s feelings

Benjen Stark

“Is it dead yet?” Benjen greets Jon at the feast

ISTJ

ISTJs value logic and tradition and enjoy keeping their environments highly organized and well-regulated. They are very sensible, reserved and serious individuals. ISTJs are reliable, detail-oriented individuals and can often be found in military, accounting and medical careers. It should come as no surprise that many of the military characters in Game of Thrones are ISTJs. A hidden side of these souls is their fondness for cuisine and cooking.

Jorah Mormont

Jorah, the soldier

Talisa Maegyr-Stark

Talisa, the Perfect ISTJ – a Doctor with a Photographic Memory

Maester Luwin
(*Maester Luwin could be an INTP in the books)

Maester Luwin settles the books

Hot Pie

Detail-oriented Gourmet

Lyanna “The Little Bear” Mormont
The diminutive master of propaganda and inspirational speeches, this pipsqueak promises to be a powerhouse in the next two seasons, if she isn’t killed off like Margaery Tyrell mid-character-arc, like so many GoT characters are.

The Little Bear’s Speech

ESTJ

ESTJs are pragmatic organizers with a head for business and mechanics. They believe in maintaining society’s rules and the status quo and are quick to communicate their expectations to others. They have a tendency, however, to dismiss the feelings of others, although they are fiercely protective of those close to them.

Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish

Petyr Baelish is a very special type of ESTJ, which is why so many people think he is an ENTJ or INTJ. He is not. He is an ESTJ with very highly developed Ne, an oddly typed Te-Ne-Si-Fi ESTJ. Such ESTJs will focus on traditional goals (symbols of power, like the Iron Throne in Game of Thrones, rather than focusing on “breaking the wheel” like Daenerys or defeating the Wights like Jon Snow or destroying all their enemies like Cersei) and wanting someone by their side to do so, rather than focusing on consolidating power in a more advantageous union for the generations, like the Martells and Targaryens did for generations.

Littlefinger: “Will this action help to make that picture a reality?”

Stannis Baratheon

By Right of Succession

Rob Stark

A good military leader

Khal Drogo

The unbeaten Dothraki

Oberyn Martell

The Red Viper

Yara /Asha Greyjoy

Queen of the pirates

Ser Barristan Selmy

Unparalleled swordsmanship

The Artisans: SP

ISFP

ISFPs have a live-and-let-live approach to the world around them. They tend to be very sensitive to their environments and crave a sense of independence in their lives. They have a deep sense of personal values and often enjoy being in touch with nature.

Davos Seaworth

A man of righteous anger

Ned Stark

Beneath the Weir-wood Tree

Theon Greyjoy*
(*Theon is an ESFP in the books.)

What is dead may never die

Lancel Lannister

Peace in the Light of the Seven

Ygritte

Broken-hearted

ESFP

ESFPs enjoy living in the moment. They tend to be creative and enjoy new experiences and having fun. They are often emotionally moved by theatrical or musical performances. They prefer to have harmonious relationships with the people around them. ESFP children can be very physically gifted.

Salladhor Saan

Bawdy humor

Ellaria Sand

Ellaria Sand, Sensing and Feeling Deeply

Lyanna Stark

Lyanna Stark, Equestrienne and Wolf-child

Joffrey Baratheon (Lannister)

Monster

ISTP

Ahh, the ISTP. ISTPs are usually quiet, but known to be masters of the one-liner and humor. As introverts, they prefer to hang around a few close friends and stick with their “pack”. They are good at tinkering and excel at analyzing mechanical systems, which is why they make great engineers and craftsmen or craftswomen, and, surprisingly, pharmacists. ISTPs are wizards at economizing time and resources. They enjoy exploring new things, and can become bored with repetitiveness and routine and are highly adaptable, making them open to new information and approaches. ISTPs are known to pursue hobbies that involve taking risks and are notorious daredevils. In summary, the ISTP loves to cheat Death.

Arya Stark

Her pack

Maybe not the neatest housekeeper

Defying death

Gendry

The blacksmith

Gregor “The Mountain” Clegane / Robert Strong

“Gregor is a quiet man, too.”

Tyene Sand

The pharmacist

ESTP

ESTPs are famous for being extremely outgoing, impulsive, and being a little on the outrageous and flashy side. They can be very athletic and competitive, as well as charming and action-oriented.

Jaime Lannister

“The things I do for love.”

Olenna Tyrell

Queen of Thorns

Robert Baratheon

Robert wants booze

Shae

Shae lies in court out of revenge against Tyrion

Roose Bolton

Roose discusses raping Ramsey’s mother

The Rationals: NT

INTJ

INTJs tend to be highly creative, highly logical loners who will step up to leadership positions if the current leadership is viewed as weak or lacking in ability. They are not quick to automatically accept authority figures based on the status quo. They prefer to lead behind the scenes.

Tywin Lannister

Tywin advises Tommen

Melisandre

Melisandre predicts Arya’s future

Ramsay Snow/Bolton

Ramsay’s master plan of torture pays off

ENTJ

ENTJs focus on the most efficient and organized means of performing a task and are seen as superior leaders as well as visionaries. ENTJs tend to be fiercely independent in their decision making, having a strong will that insulates them against external influence. ENTJs value logic over emotions in the decision-making process, and are known to be highly analytical problem-solvers. ENTJs are outgoing, self-confident, assertive and outspoken. However, an ENTJ can also come across as arrogant, insensitive and confrontational, as well as overwhelming , controlling and intimidating. ENTJs tend to cultivate their personal power, whether for political or financial gain, or for sexual gratification. They often end up taking charge of a situation that seems (to their mind, at least) to be out of control, or that can otherwise be improved upon and strengthened. They strive to learn new things. However, since ENTJs rely on provable facts, they may find subjective issues pointless. ENTJs appear to take a tough approach to emotional or personal issues, and so can be viewed as aloof.

Cersei Lannister

“When you play the Game of Thrones, you win or you die.”

Mance Rayder (Most likely Ser Arthur Dayne)

Delegating by specialty

Viserys Targaryen

“How do we go home? We go home with an army.”

Loras Tyrell

Loras always beats Jaime, whether in a tourney or a debate

Bronn

Bronn’s Master Plan

INTP

INTPs are highly introverted individuals who enjoy studying for the sake of acquiring knowledge and logic.  INTPs have little regard for titles and badges, which they often consider to be unnecessary or unjustified. INTPs usually come to distrust authority as hindering the uptake of novel ideas and the search for knowledge. INTPs accept ideas based on merit, rather than tradition or authority. They have little patience for social customs that seem illogical or that obstruct the pursuit of ideas and knowledge.

Lord Varys

Hater of magic

Maester Aemon

A Targaryen, alone in the world

Samwell Tarly

Samwell, the intellectual

ENTP

ENTPs are quick to see complex interrelationships between people, things, and ideas. They tend to have a rapier wit and love to play the devil’s advocate in order to get a lively debate going. They are skilled problem-solvers and very flexible and innovative in their approach to making changes. Their high linguistic skills make them excellent interpreters.

Tyrion Lannister*
(*Tyrion is an ENTJ in the books.)

The wit of Tyrion Lannister

Missandei

The worst joke ever

Daario Naharis

(WARNING: contains nudity) Daario debates Daenerys to keep the fighting pits open

The Idealists: NF

INFJ

INFJs are very private, intuition-driven empathic individuals. They are complex and mysterious and very goal-oriented. They can be very creative and perfectionist. INFJs are the leaders in driving change in society when they see injustice. It is the most rare of all the personality types.

Daenerys Targaryen

“Valerian is my mother-tongue.”

Jaqen H’ghar (The Faceless Man)

The House of Black and White

The High Sparrow

The High Sparrow

Sandor “The Hound” Clegane

Not all INFJs are religious mystics. Sometimes they can be found in the crowd, defending the bullied kid on the playground, mouthing off about some cause no one else seems to give much thought, but they are there, always seeing, always caring. The Hound is guided by his deep sense of intuition and his extraverted feeling when he protects Loras Tyrell from his brother and later decides to protect and teach Arya Stark long after the promise of a bounty has evaporated.

Update: This has been confirmed by the Gravedigger episode. I won’t go into too many details on that in order to avoid giving spoilers.

True Knight – Brutally Introspective

The Broken Man

The Hound shows concern for Arya’s growth

ENFJ

ENFJs excel at absorbing and sharing the values of those around them and those of the community at large. They are extraverts and are therefore naturally energized by being around others quite a bit. They value such things as justice, logic and scholarly debate if their community values those things because social norms are so important to them. They are natural empaths and teachers as well as excellent propagandists. ENFJs excel at public speaking and musical performance.

Sansa Stark

Sansa and Margaery bonding

Margaery Tyrell

Margaery Tyrell, Queen of Hearts

 

Rhaegar Targaryen

The Musician

Syrio Forel

The Water Dance

INFP

INFPs are creative introverts driven by a strong sense of inner morality. They are often very sensitive to criticism and retreat to an inner world of dreams in order to foster that creativity and intense feeling.

Bran Stark

In case you didn’t figure it out, Bran Stark is George R. R. Martin. There, I laid it out on the table for everyone. Bran is the All-Powerful dreamer who can change anything in the story, just like…

The Three-Eyed Raven

Brynden Rivers / The Old Three-Eyed Raven / Bloodraven

Fan Video explaining the back story behind the Three-Eyed Raven

Jojen Reed

Weir-wood tree visions

Shireen Baratheon

Shireen the bookworm

Pypar

Pyp’s story

ENFP

ENFPs are mildly extraverted empaths who enjoy anticipating the needs of others and helping them. They bring zest, joy, liveliness, and fun to all aspects of their lives. They are at their best in fluid situations that allow them to express their creativity and use their charisma. They are very spontaneous individuals and can become frustrated in a routine. ENFPs can be ruthless when the occasion calls for it, however.

Renly Baratheon

Holding court

Lysa Tully-Arryn

(WARNING: really disturbing breastfeeding scene) Unhealthy, Paranoid and Angry

Meera Reed

Caretaker

Osha

Osha’s intuition kicks in as she talks about Wights

So next time you decide to make a chart from the Game of Thrones, you have a list of just about all the major characters. Let me know if you think I’ve typed them correctly, or if you think some of them should be in other groups and why.

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So I have been listening to your feedback on Facebook and have decided to change The Hound‘s typing based on some things that were pointed out to me. I remain unconvinced that he is an ISTP, but I will explain why I have moved him to his new category with some of the video links that were sent to me on Facebook. Special thanks to the person who sent me the original link!

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Ditto regarding Joffrey Baratheon and Lyanna Mormont.