ISFJ, is my PT; Whats Yours?

Hello Sunday & Extra Hour! 

I have done some thinking and gathering more ideas for my blog. I found there are some more things I think deserve to be over here on this side of my blog that give you a more in-depth look into who I am or things that can inspire you or was that I think etc. 

I thought adding the personality type to my blog was a good idea, so here it is for you all to read if you haven't already seen it from my previous blog. I did this test on September 9, 2013 of this year, so it's not an old one from a year ago or longer. 

If you're curious about your type take the test and leave your results below if you want or link your post on this subject below in the comments section.

I have taken this test in the past on this site here if curious. The first time I ever did it a while, while, while back I got personality style INFJ. When I did it on September 9, 2013 from this website here I got ISFJ. The site I used for my first time ever had more broad answers to choose, where as the one I did the second time is the typical straight-forward yes or no. I actually like the version I tried for my second time of taking the test. I thought my results were very interesting because it replicates who I am a lot after having read my results and looking more in-depth about my personality type. I had shared mine with a friend when I had did it and she agreed that it sounded like me.

I thought it was super interesting to learn and I honestly think it was dead on about me because really people change, grow and learn new things in life. At first I was like wow when I saw what came up that morning I did it, because even though it wasn't my first time ever doing one of these. Sometimes, things take you by surprise at times, you know? or perhaps not really... but to see it in front of me and to go wowza, so true! ha! I wanted to share some of the things on here for you to read that they talk about for my personality type that made me go this is pretty dead on. It not only is dead on but some things that I have experienced in those past couple of months that I definitely agree with that gets mentioned about my type. 

-"People with ISFJ personality type often have very good memory and exceptional imagination. These traits can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. For instance, in 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." tidbit here (The good memory, is definitely true! I hear it from a lot of people how I remember something they said or said they like and they could have told me ages ago, but I remember! I also definitely notice when things don't add up in a story after hearing it repeated again. When it comes to gifts, I do have an easy time choosing the right gifts for people, because I always get the things they want or have mentioned, whereas the how did you remember that comes into play! I would have to also agree on remembering something someone said a long time ago and I'll bring it up and some people are like whoa, how do you remember that. I just do, ha!)

-"ISFJs tend to overload themselves with work, but their kindness is abused just as often as it is respected." (I would have to say this is definitely true that my kindness does get abused and I know all my friends can vouch for me on this one. It's a funny thing, because I was having a conversation about this with a friend a while back before I moved for school and I will definitely say this is something that does happen.) 

-"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." (I admittedly admit that I will go above and beyond when helping people or not even if they need my help but say for example they're going on a trip I will send a list of different things to check out on their vacation if I have been there before even if they didn't ask me to. The sitting, as all my friends know yeah that is not me at all. I am always on the go or doing something; I am definitely always busy one way or other with different things.) 

-"ISFJ friends stick to their commitments and do their best to fulfill their promises." (I will definitely say that is 100% true. I will stick through a commitment even if I am sick or whatever the case and I know some of my friends are like I don't know how you do it, but also I do it to because I know scheduling wise it may not work out for quite some time, so I rather stick to it and commit even if I am sick.)

-"Very Supportive. ISFJs are always willing to help other people, sharing their knowledge and experience with their colleagues, classmates or friends. People with this personality type strive for win-win situations, choosing empathy over judgement wherever possible." (I am definitely supportive of others and things that happen. It doesn't matter if it something bad, sad, whatever the emotion or situation I am always willing to listen and help anyway I can. I think that is why also a lot of people have told me things that they would never tell others, because I don't judge. I also don't see the point in doing that, especially things that I have gone through number one and number two not everybody walks the same path, so who am I to judge what is right or wrong in your life.)

-"Loyal and hard-working. ISFJs are very loyal and often get emotionally attached to a specific idea or a company. They will work very hard and do everything they can to meet their obligations." (I do work hard for sure, without a doubt. All my friends and people I have worked with always say that about me and I have heard it from every job I have worked. I like to get the job done, so once I do something I make sure it is done even if I have to stay a little bit or a whole lot, it doesn't matter I get it completed.)

-"Too altruistic. ISFJs tend to be very good-natured, warm individuals and they are likely to find it difficult to refuse requests for help. Unfortunately, this often results in the ISFJ getting overloaded with other people's work or problems." (I will admit this is true and is definitely for sure a weakness of mine. I do at times become overwhelmed with so much of other people's problems and such that it's too much for me.)

- ISFJs are often unappreciated, at work, home, and play. Ironically, because they prove over and over that they can be relied on for their loyalty and unstinting, high-quality work, those around them often take them for granted -- even take advantage of them." tidbit here (Again, as I mentioned above this is very true the taking advantage of and it's also because I do put in the work and beyond and am someone that someone can rely on if they need something.)

-"While their work ethic is high on the ISFJs are extremely warm and demonstrative within the family circle -- and often possessive of their loved ones, as well. (I definitely care about my family a lot and will do anything for them. I will always be there any way that I can possible and try hard to be involved and have that connection to family for sure, over these last couple of years.) 

- "ISFJs are learn best by doing, rather than by reading about something in a book, or applying theory. tidbit here (I definitely am someone who has to learn by doing it for sure to learn.) 

a famous person with my same personality type Mother Theresa tidbit here 


This is my personality and thank you so much for taking the time to read it. If you are the same as me, leave me a comment below or leave a link with what your type is for me to check out.

This is my results from the two sites above I mentioned that what to read the whole thing. 

ISFJ descriptions taken from here.

"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.

Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.

Mother Teresa

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.

ISFJs Strengths and Weaknesses taken from here.

ISFJ strengths

• Very supportive. ISFJs are always willing to help other people, sharing their knowledge and experience with their colleagues, classmates or friends. People with this personality type strive for win-win situations, choosing empathy over judgment wherever possible.
• Enthusiastic. ISFJ personalities want to make a difference and are willing to spend a lot of time and effort fighting for or contributing to a worthy cause. It does not really matter if that is a simple task or a global initiative, the ISFJ will jump right in if the idea is aligned with their goals.
• Loyal and hard-working. ISFJs are very loyal and often get emotionally attached to a specific idea or a company. They will work very hard and do everything they can to meet their obligations.
• Imaginative and observant. People with the ISFJ personality type have their feet firmly planted on the ground, but they are also very imaginative, especially if something fascinates and inspires them. Furthermore, ISFJs also tend to be very observant individuals, able to pick up the smallest cues, especially when it comes to someone else’s emotional state.
• Reliable and patient. ISFJs are meticulous and careful individuals, always making sure that their work is completed to the highest standard and sometimes even going beyond what is required.
• Good practical skills. ISFJ personalities have no difficulties handling practical tasks. Their sense of beauty and harmony is unmatched, and they do not shy away from mundane, routine tasks – not surprisingly, ISFJs are great family people, always able and willing to take care of their loved ones.

ISFJ weaknesses

• Humble and shy. ISFJs are often reluctant to say what they truly think or present their achievements, especially in a competitive environment. This can hinder their career progress and cause frustration and disappointment.
• Overload themselves. ISFJs’ perfectionism, combined with their strong sense of duty, often pushes them to take on too much work – and as already discussed above, ISFJs always want to make sure that everything is completed perfectly. Not surprisingly, this can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for an ISFJ, especially if other people abuse their good nature.
• Take many things too personally. ISFJs are very sensitive to conflict and criticism, taking critical comments very personally. They may also have difficulties separating their professional and personal lives, allowing their worries about work affect everything else.
• Reluctant to change. ISFJ personalities value traditions very highly and may be unwilling to try out new things or change their habits, even when that would make sense from the rational perspective.
• Too altruistic. ISFJs tend to be very good-natured, warm individuals and they are likely to find it difficult to refuse requests for help. Unfortunately, this often results in the ISFJ getting overloaded with other people’s work or problems.
• Repress their feelings. People with this personality type are private and even somewhat shy – not surprisingly, they tend to repress their feelings instead of expressing them in a healthy way. This in turn increases their stress levels and can cause a lot of frustration further down the road.

Another description from this website here. (This the description from the website I took the test from a second time around)

ISFJs are characterized above all by their desire to serve others, their "need to be needed." In extreme cases, this need is so strong that standard give-and-take relationships are deeply unsatisfying to them; however, most ISFJs find more than enough with which to occupy themselves within the framework of a normal life. (Since ISFJs, like all SJs, are very much bound by the prevailing social conventions, their form of "service" is likely to exclude any elements of moral or political controversy; they specialize in the local, the personal, and the practical.)

ISFJs are often unappreciated, at work, home, and play. Ironically, because they prove over and over that they can be relied on for their loyalty and unstinting, high-quality work, those around them often take them for granted--even take advantage of them. Admittedly, the problem is sometimes aggravated by the ISFJs themselves; for instance, they are notoriously bad at delegating ("If you want it done right, do it yourself"). And although they're hurt by being treated like doormats, they are often unwilling to toot their own horns about their accomplishments because they feel that although they deserve more credit than they're getting, it's somehow wrong to want any sort of reward for doing work (which is supposed to be a virtue in itself). (And as low-profile Is, their actions don't call attention to themselves as with charismatic Es.) Because of all of this, ISFJs are often overworked, and as a result may suffer from psychosomatic illnesses.

In the workplace, ISFJs are methodical and accurate workers, often with very good memories and unexpected analytic abilities; they are also good with people in small-group or one-on-one situations because of their patient and genuinely sympathetic approach to dealing with others. ISFJs make pleasant and reliable co-workers and exemplary employees, but tend to be harried and uncomfortable in supervisory roles. They are capable of forming strong loyalties, but these are personal rather than institutional loyalties; if someone they've bonded with in this way leaves the company, the ISFJ will leave with them, if given the option. Traditional careers for an ISFJ include: teaching, social work, most religious work, nursing, medicine (general practice only), clerical and and secretarial work of any kind, and some kinds of administrative careers.

While their work ethic is high on the ISFJ priority list, their families are the centers of their lives. ISFJs are extremely warm and demonstrative within the family circle--and often possessive of their loved ones, as well. When these include Es who want to socialize with the rest of the world, or self-contained ITs, the ISFJ must learn to adjust to these behaviors and not interpret them as rejection. Being SJs, they place a strong emphasis on conventional behavior (although, unlike STJs, they are usually as concerned with being "nice" as with strict propriety); if any of their nearest and dearest depart from the straight-and-narrow, it causes the ISFJ major embarrassment: the closer the relationship and the more public the act, the more intense the embarrassment (a fact which many of their teenage children take gleeful advantage of). Over time, however, ISFJs usually mellow, and learn to regard the culprits as harmless eccentrics :-). Needless to say, ISFJs take infinite trouble over meals, gifts, celebrations, etc., for their loved ones--although strong Js may tend to focus more on what the recipient should want rather than what they do want.

Like most Is, ISFJs have a few, close friends. They are extremely loyal to these, and are ready to provide emotional and practical support at a moment's notice. (However, like most Fs they hate confrontation; if you get into a fight, don't expect them to jump in after you. You can count on them, however, run and get the nearest authority figure.) Unlike with EPs, the older the friendship is, the more an ISFJ will value it. One ISFJ trait that is easily misunderstood by those who haven't known them long is that they are often unable to either hide or articulate any distress they may be feeling. For instance, an ISFJ child may be reproved for "sulking," the actual cause of which is a combination of physical illness plus misguided "good manners." An adult ISFJ may drive a (later ashamed) friend or SO into a fit of temper over the ISFJ's unexplained moodiness, only afterwards to explain about a death in the family they "didn't want to burden anyone with." Those close to ISFJs should learn to watch for the warning signs in these situations and take the initiative themselves to uncover the problem.

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Functional Analysis
by Joe Butt

Introverted Sensing

As for ISTJs, the dominant Si is oriented toward the world of forms, essences, generics. Again, "for both of the IS_J types, the sense of propriety comes from the clear definition of these internal forms. ... A 'proper' chair has four legs," etc. (Jung saw IS as something of an oxymoron: sensing, which is a perceiving function, focused inward and thus away from that which is perceived (the "object"). In this light, he described this sensing as something removed from reality, full of archetypes/mythical figures/hobgoblins; sensing of one's own set of forms.)

Extraverted Feeling

A kind of "regression toward the mean" provided by the Fe auxiliary function serves to socialize the expression of these forms. I suppose it's the auxiliary nature of this Feeling, coupled with the balancing effect of {detachment from the internal idiosyncratic view of free-floating data perceptions} that makes ISFJs tentative, conservative, and reticent to boldly state the rights and wrongs in the relational world. (Loosely translated, ISFJs like to keep their perceptions to themselves, and aren't sure enough that what they "see" as Introverted Sensors has any relevance to the outside world. Thus the perception, based on unworldly data, may not be true. The obedient Extraverted Feeling function must therefore refrain from strong statements expressing these opinions.)

Introverted Thinking

Introverted Thinking is turned inward and is largely invisible. It is only with great difficulty, if at all, that the ISFJ could willingly commit anyone to their doom. Perhaps this explains why ISFJs are loyal to the end; there is no sense of purely objective (i.e., impersonal) judgement of anyone but themselves (and that only by their own standards). Here is this type's achilles heel that makes many of them so vulnerable to the scoundrels and ne’er-do-wells who often use and abuse them.

Extraverted iNtuition

ISFJs are easily undone by Extraverted iNtuition, their inferior function. Believing in the fantastic, and disbelieving the technologically extant, are errors that my guide the gullible (or unfoundedly sceptical) ISFJ off a precipice of mis-conclusion. (One of our co-workers' mothers adamantly refused to believe that Dave Letterman's mom was actually at the olympics in Norway talking with the athletes and handing out hams! She suspected technological trickery.)

This childlike Ne is, however, the likely source (coupled with fun-loving Extraverted Feeling) of the practical joking, punning and (usually harmless) impishness of some ISFJs.