ESFP 5w6 (A 7 Point Guide)

This blog provides a brief guide to the ESFP 5w6 personality type. SFP is a personality type derived from the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personality system. And 5w6 is one of the personality types outlined in the Enneagram of Personality. We will be looking at the similarities between these two personality types and at the likelihood of these two types occurring together. We will also examine their primary traits, strengths, weaknesses and other features in detail.

ESFP 5w6:

The MBTI and the Enneagram of Personality are two of the most popular personality classification systems. A number of attempts have been made to correlate the different types outlined in these two systems. These correlations may make it possible to provide individuals with a combined personality result, such as ESFP 5w6.

5w6s are usually dominant in the extraverted thinking function, the most impersonal and objective of all MBTI functions. ESFPs are outgoing and sociable, whereas 5w6s are withdrawn and are easily overwhelmed by the presence of others. Thus, 5w6s are more likely to test as INTJs, who are introverted and have extraverted thinking as their dominant function. However, a focus on practical problems and concrete aspects of the world are something ESFPs and 5w6s have in common. Thus, although 5w6s are less likely to test as ESFPs, the possibility of this happening cannot be completely ruled out.

Another reason preventing us from ruling out 5w6 ESFP as a personality type is an inherent difference in MBTI and the Enneagram that makes them difficult to compare. The Enneagram relies on basic motivations as a way of differentiating between people, whereas MBTI focuses more on their functions i.e. the way they perceive and interact with the world. Thus, although certain Enneagram types are more likely than others to co-occur with a specific MBTI type, this is by no means guaranteed.

ESFP (The Entertainer):

ESFP is an MBTI personality type. The MBTI is a classification of 16 personality types. It is measured by the MBTI indicator and encompasses the different ways in which people perceive and engage with the world. The tool assigns people along 4 dimensions:  introversion vs. extraversion, sensing vs. intuition, thinking vs. feeling, judging vs. perceiving and generates one of 16 possible combinations as the final result. ESFP is one of the possible results you can get on the MBTI.

ESFPs are effervescent and charming and draw people to them. They are spontaneous and energetic and take pleasure in everything around them. ESFPs are outgoing and like to engage in new and vibrant experiences. They have a keen eye for aesthetics and are always open to new experiences. ESFPs are ardently social and love bringing people together through fun and laughter. ESFPs like to be the centre of attention and are usually the individuals who are the ‘life of the party’.

Although they may appear self-absorbed, ESFPs are actually very observant and sensitive to others feelings. They are supportive and always available to talk about someone’s problem. However, if the problem is about them, they prefer to avoid rather than address the issues.

ESFPs can be impulsive and focus on immediate pleasure rather than analysing and planning for the future. They usually rely on luck or a friend to keep them on track. Additionally, because ESFPs are so focused on having fun they go out of their way to avoid situations that interfere with this.

Characteristics:                                                    

·       Extraverted: Energised by spending time with other people.

·       Sensing: Focus on tangible experiences or facts rather than ideas and concepts

·       Feeling: Decisions are guided by feelings and values rather than cognition

·       Perceiving: Avoid planning and organising and adopt a spontaneous approach

Strengths:

·       Bold and open to new experiences

·       Original. Like to stand out

·       Good aesthetic sense

·       Prefer to see, do and experience rather than think

·      Focus on the here and now

·       Observant. Strong awareness of their surroundings and the needs of others

·       Excellent social skills. Witty, talkative and enjoy company.

Weaknesses:

·       Sensitive to criticism and highly emotional

·       Tendency to avoid conflict

·       Impulsivity and difficulty with long-term planning

·       Risky or over-indulgent behaviour

·       Easily bored

·       Difficulties with prolonged focus and persistence on tasks

·       Difficulty dealing in abstractions

If you’re facing this, it may be a good idea to seek the help of a therapist or other mental health professional. You can find a therapist at BetterHelp who can help you learn how to cope and address it.

ESFPs at work:

ESFPs are born entertainers and love engaging with people. They prefer an active and social work environment. Owing to their keen aesthetic sense, ESFPs thrive in careers in music, art, food or fashion. Work that does not produce immediate results and environments that are extremely rule-bound and bureaucratic are not suited to ESFPs. Because they are so tuned to people’s needs, ESFPs thrive in careers where they can serve others.

ESFPs prefer hands-on working experiences and are good at practical problem solving. Jobs that an ESFP would be well suited for include: actor, artist, designer, teacher, psychologist, social worker, real estate agent, public relations manager, corporate trainer etc.

ESFPs in relationships:

ESFPs have a natural interest in forming connections with people. They are warm, friendly and openly affectionate. They often go out of their way to make their loved ones happy. However, they dislike dealing with the complexities of relationships and have a tendency to avoid conflicts. Because of their focus on the here and now, ESFPs often neglect thinking about the future course of their relationship and find it difficult to maintain long term relationships.

5w6 (The Troubleshooter):

5w6 (5 wing 6) is an enneagram type. It indicates Type 5 personality with a 6 wing. This means that this personality primarily has Type 5 traits, but also a few of Type 6. The enneagram is a personality typology system that focuses on the basic fears and motivations that guide the lives of individuals. It has been used widely in business and spiritual settings.

This system is made up of nine primary personality types. A nine point diagram helps to demonstrate how these nine types are connected to each other. In addition to the basic nine types, the system includes 27 different subtypes or wings as well as three primary central factors focusing on thinking, feeling and behaviour. According to the Enneagram, every personality type can be coupled with characteristics from one of its neighbouring personality types. Thus, type 5 is divided into two types: Type 5w4 and 5w6.

5w6s are rational and pragmatic people who value their independence. They like to use their knowledge to solve practical, day-to-day problems. The basic fear of 5w6s is a fear of being incompetent and their basic desire is to feel useful and capable. These fears and desires are reflected in the 5w6’s efforts to learn new things and develop the world around them. 

Like other Type 5s, they have a tendency to withdraw from others which can make them feel lonely. They are unemotional and lacking in introspection. Their focus tends to be on observing the outside world rather than dealing with the inner world and their emotions.

Strengths:

·        Analytical and hard-working

·        Focused and organised

·        Desire to learn and grow

·        Solve complex problems

·        Good at handling crisis situations

·        Cooperative

Weaknesses:

·        Difficulty relating to and understanding other people

·        Defensive

·        Appear detached or aloof

·        Need to be inspired in order to take action

·        Sceptical and anxious

Sources of Motivation:

·        Problem solving

·        Alone time to think things through

·        Being of value to society

·        Learning in their area of interest

Sources of Stress:

·        Too much time around other people

·        Emotional vulnerability

·        Insecurity

5w6s at work:

This personality type is organised and practical. They are driven by a desire to solve problems and make a difference in the world. Workspaces that encourage their analytical and logical approach to tasks and simultaneously stimulate growth and learning are ideal for 5w6s.

Jobs that 5w6s are well suited for include: professor, mathematician, computer programmer, engineer, technician, physicist, biologist, accountant etc.

5w6s in relationships:

5w6s prefer their own company and avoid forming relationships with others. They prefer to control their emotions and stay focused on their intellectual pursuits. They feel relationships are too demanding on their emotional resources. However, they develop relationships with people who have similar interests or who offer intellectual stimulation. Although it is difficult to initiate a relationship with a 5w6, it can progress to a deep connection once trust has been established.

Conclusion:

In this guide, we looked at ESFPs and 5w6s. We focused on the likelihood of these two personality types co-occurring as ESFP 5w6.  Additionally, we explored the traits, strengths, weaknesses and other aspects of these two types in more detail.

If you have any questions or comments, please let us know. 

FAQ on ‘ESFP 5w6 (A 7 Point Guide)’:

Are ESFP manipulative?

ESFPs are not usually manipulative. However, they are very trusting and take most tings at face value. This makes it easier for other people to manipulate them.

Who should an ESFP marry?

ESFPs are compatible with ISTJs and ISFJs which makes these personality types good marital partners. However, two healthy individuals can enjoy a good marital relationship, irrespective of personality compatibility.

What Enneagram is ESFP?

A major chunk of ESFPs identify as Type 7s. They tend to be highly extraverted, energetic and sociable.

Is ESFP rare?

ESFPs constitute 9% of the general population. Additionally, ESFPs are more likely to be women than men.

What is the rarest Enneagram type?

The rarest Enneagram type is said to be Type 4. This is often because Type 4s go unnoticed because they tend to be introverted and withdrawn.

Which Enneagram has the most anxiety?

The Enneagram that is likely to have the most anxiety is Type 6 (The Loyalist).

References:

https://www.crystalknows.com/enneagram/type-5-wing-6

https://personalityjunkie.com/02/enneagram-type-5-5w4-5w6-intp-intj-infj-infp/

https://optimistminds.com/5w6/

https://www.truity.com/personality-type/ESFP

https://www.verywellmind.com/esfp-extraverted-sensing-feeling-perceiving-2795984

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