apparently every so often i need to re-take a personality test to see how/who i am.
and now i am back at being an ISFJ.
ISFJ personality
The ISFJ personality type is perhaps the most altruistic and supportive of all types. ISFJs rarely sit idle – there is always a worthy cause awaiting their attention. Most personalities are quite willing to reciprocate when it comes to good deeds; however, ISFJs take that to a higher level, often going above and beyond what is actually expected of them. People belonging to this type thrive in areas that are both traditional (they are SJs, after all) and involve a lot of activities where their input could make a huge positive difference. Many ISFJs seek careers in the academic sector, medicine, social work or counselling; their personality traits also shine in administrative or clerical roles, or even in somewhat unexpected fields such as interior design.
One of the hurdles that ISFJ personalities are likely to encounter in the professional environment is that it is quite difficult for an ISFJ to “advertise” their achievements. People with this personality type are prone to understating them, which leads to lack of recognition, missed promotions and various misunderstandings. ISFJs should not shy away from revealing how much they have done – not only this would prevent stressful situations, but the ISFJ would become more confident in their abilities and personality traits. It is not sufficient to simply know that you have done a great job – ISFJs also need to feel appreciated in order to remain enthusiastic. The fact that this personality type tends to be less visible than others does not help in such situations either.
ISFJs should also pay more attention to their workload and not hesitate to voice their concerns if it becomes unbearable. ISFJs tend to overload themselves with work, but their kindness is abused just as often as it is respected. As a cynic would say, everyone is secretly an egoist – and the ISFJ personality is the perfect target for those who do not hesitate to use other people for their own gain. ISFJs are extraordinarily loyal, committed and patient – they should make sure that these traits do not expose them to exploitation.
People with the ISFJ personality type often have very good memory and exceptional imagination. These traits can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. For instance, an ISFJ can easily notice discrepancies in someone’s story when the person repeats it again after a long period of time; ISFJs also find it very easy to choose the right gifts for persons they know well; finally, they may have no difficulties whatsoever making and maintaining personal and professional connections simply because they remember so many details about other people’s lives and habits – a very unusual trait for an introvert.
I would like to expand on the last point a bit – even though most ISFJ personalities rarely have any difficulties fitting in and making new friends in the professional environment, they are unlikely to use those connections to advance to managerial roles. ISFJs function best when they work in a close-knit team, when there is no tension between the management and the employees. Some ISFJs even go as far as seeing all their colleagues as semi-personal friends and behaving accordingly. For instance, if an old colleague moves to another department, the ISFJ will definitely consider following their example.
People with this type are known for their meticulousness, patience, reliability and analytical skills. This is quite an unusual combination given that this is a Feeling (F) type, but this is exactly what makes ISFJs so effective. They are unlikely to offer or embrace completely new and radical ideas, or lead a team towards some big goal, but their determination and passion more than make up for it. ISFJs tend to be very traditional and can be expected to defend existing norms and procedures – however, they are not blinded by this and are generally open to change, provided that the new approach does not contradict their inner values and principles.
Despite their effectiveness in the workplace, ISFJs will always put their family first. They will embrace the idea that family members are the most important people in their environment and act accordingly, paying a lot of attention to their needs and desires, surprising them with gifts and offering emotional or practical support when it is needed.
That being said, ISFJ personalities should be aware of their tendency to overdo things, especially in the family environment. As ISFJs always try hard to exceed others’ expectations (especially when they are not sure what those expectations might be), their attention can be somewhat overbearing. Many personality types, especially more independent ones, are likely to get annoyed by this after a while. Furthermore, some personalities are naturally less sensitive compared to ISFJs – their reaction to that care and attention may differ from what the ISFJ would expect. This should not be taken personally – every type is unique and what is pleasant for an ISFJ may not feel natural for someone else.
Some famous ISFJs:
St. Teresa of Avila
Queen Elizabeth II
Robert E. Lee
Queen Mary I (“Bloody Mary”)
Samwise Gamgee from the Lord of the Rings
Bianca from Taming of the Shrew
Ophelia from Hamlet
Dr Watson, the partner of Sherlock Holmes
