If you’re reading this post, there’s a high chance that you’re trying to work out if you’re an ENFP vs. ESFP personality type. These two types are often confused because they share many of the same characteristics. Both types are enthusiastic, passionate, and empathetic. They are always looking for their next adventure, and they have an infectious energy.
But there are also some core differences between how these types think and experience the world. In this post, we explore these core differences. If you’re unclear about your type, we hope this helps you.
So here are five differences between the ENFP vs. ESFP personality types:
1. Observing the world.
Despite being similar in a lot of ways, ENFPs and ESFPs view the world differently. ENFPs tend to think about the big picture, while ESFPs are more comfortable dealing with details.
ENFPs have a holistic focus, sometimes at the expense of details. This allows them to use their imagination to see the potential in everything, from people to business ideas.
As a result, ENFPs are very future-focused and could be described as “visionary.” They often have passion projects that they pursue with great enthusiasm.
ESFPs have a knack for paying attention to what’s around them. They are more likely to see the forest for the trees, so to speak. This is evident in the way they notice small things about people and their environment.
ESFPs are a paradoxical mix of being observant yet easily distracted. They place high importance on verifiable facts and information that is proven.
2. Recalling information.
Not only do ENFPs and ESFPs take in information differently, but they also differ in the way they remember things. ENFPs tend to remember overall ideas, while ESFPs retain specific details.
ENFPs remember general impressions. This is because they are most interested in the overall idea, the meaning behind something, and the end result. They often don’t remember specific attributes.
For example, they might have a memory of a man in a shop who was rude to them, but they won’t remember what color jumper he was wearing.
ENFPs store information in their memory in a way that is interconnected and easily accessible. This allows them to make connections between different pieces of information they have gathered.
ESFPs tend to have incredible memories of facts and details. They often remember exactly how things felt, smelled, tasted, etc.
For example, when asked about a restaurant, they might remember a specific item on a menu that they enjoyed rather than the reason they were there.
In fact, ESFPs have exceptionally accurate memories. This is because they tend to recall precise sensory information rather than the overall gist of a situation. Ultimately, they remember how something actually was as opposed to their subjective impression of it.
3. Problem-solving.
When it comes to solving problems, ENFPs and ESFPs take different approaches. ENFPs tackle problems in an abstract way, while ESFPs have a more grounded thought process.
ENFPs are quick to see the potential in a situation, and they’re often able to come up with creative solutions. This is because they’re able to step back and see different perspectives.
They’re particularly adept at understanding people and their motives. Plus, they naturally use their creativity to think outside the box. This allows them to find innovative ways to solve problems.
ESFPs are able to find workable solutions by assessing the realities of the situation and taking action. They have quick minds and tend to be good in a crisis because they are able to think on their feet.
In addition, ESFPs are highly aware of their movements and in touch with what’s going on around them. As a result, they prefer to solve hands-on problems in the real world rather than theoretical questions.
4. Practicality.
When it comes to practicality, ESFPs are one of the most practical personality types, while ENFPs are more likely to be seen as dreamers.
ENFPs are idealistic and can be overwhelmed by their thoughts. This can make them seem impractical at times. They might have a vision for something that is so perfect that it’s unattainable. Or, they might be holding onto something from their past that doesn’t fit with their present reality.
ENFPs can sometimes benefit from having other people around them who keep them grounded in reality because, at times, they can end up getting too caught up in their heads.
ESFPs, on the other hand, are usually very practical. They’re often able to see things as they are, and they aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
Plus, ESFPs are highly realistic, which can be both a good and a bad thing. On the one hand, it means that they manage to stay grounded in the realities of a situation. On the other hand, it can mean that they’re not always as open to new ideas and possibilities.
5. Communication style.
ENFPs and ESFPs are both outspoken and energetic in the way they communicate. However, ENFPs have a more abstract communication style, while ESFPs tend to speak in a more literal way.
ENFPs often communicate in a roundabout manner and often use metaphors or analogies to get their point across. They aim to make sure that whoever they are talking to understands the overall idea behind what they’re trying to say.
ENFPs have unique insights into the underlying meanings behind things, and they love to talk about them with people who are on the same wavelength.
Conversely, ESFPs are more likely to communicate with tangible, concrete facts. They get their point across in a literal way.
In addition, ESFPs often give exact examples of events that have occurred in the past. This helps ESFPs feel like they are being clear.
They are able to keep tabs on multiple conversation threads at the same time and can jump from topic to topic if they wish. Plus, they can read people well and are particularly talented at picking up on body language and tone of voice.
ENFP vs. ESFP frequently asked questions
So now we have explained the key differences between the ENFP vs. ESFP personality types. Even for those who have explored personality types in depth, it can still be hard to tell the difference between these two types.
Let’s now look at some frequently asked questions about the two personality types to help make it clearer for you.
Are ENFPs vs. ESFPs more thoughtful?
There’s no simple answer to the question of whether ENFPs or ESFPs are more thoughtful. Both types are deeply empathetic, and they go out of their way to care for others. That said, there are nuances between the two types when it comes to thoughtfulness.
ENFPs tend to be more future-oriented than ESFPs. They’re often quick to see potential problems and possible solutions, and they love to come up with novel, creative ways of making people happy.
In general, ESFPs are more focused on the present moment and meeting people’s immediate needs. Seeing as they pay close attention to detail and are practical, they can be exceptionally thoughtful about small things, such as making sure someone has enough food and water if they’re going on a hike.
Ultimately, there’s no clear winner when it comes to which type is more thoughtful. It really depends on the individual and what they’re prioritizing at any given moment.
Do ENFPs and ESFPs have a similar energy?
ENFPs and ESFPs both come across as energetic, positive, and talkative. In addition, they both tend to have strong morals. In the big scheme of things, they have a similar energy. After all, both personality types are extroverts, feelers, and perceivers. However, there are also key differences between the two types that can affect how they are viewed by others.
ENFPs are often thought of as quirky and complex. At times, ENFPs can be viewed as intense, particularly if they are with people who don’t particularly enjoy discussing big-picture topics. In general, ENFPs may come across as more individualistic and eccentric.
ESFPs are usually seen as more down-to-earth and practical. They are more likely to engage in lighter topics of conversation. As a result, ESFPs often have a more grounded energy and can come across as more matter-of-fact.
In summary, ENFPs and ESFPs share many qualities that can make them seem similar at first glance. But when you talk to them for a while, you will see they have quite different interests.
Are ENFPs vs. ESFPs more extroverted?
When it comes to personality types, everyone falls somewhere on the spectrum between introverted and extroverted. However, ENFPs are one of the most ‘introverted extroverts.’
Both types are outgoing and people-oriented. They need plenty of social interaction to feel their best and often thrive in large groups. In fact, they are two of the most adventure-seeking personality types. That being said, they need alone time too.
In addition, ENFPs and ESFPs tend to be curious about human psychology, and they are naturally compassionate. This makes them excellent conversationalists.
In terms of differences, ENFPs are likely to spend more time in their heads, while ESFPs have the ability to stay present. This can make ESFPs appear more extroverted in some ways.
Final thoughts on ENFP vs. ESFP differences
If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our individual ESFP and ENFP posts, which delve deeper into each personality type. Last but not least, you might also enjoy our post about INFP vs. ENFP.
