Ever wondered what makes each of us tick? Why some people thrive in social situations while others prefer solitary pursuits?

Personality types help explain these differences, offering insight into how we think, feel, and interact. Here, we’ll take a look at the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types, ranked from the most common to the rarest, and explore what makes each one fascinating!

1. ISFJ – The Protector (Most Common)

Percentage of Population: Approximately 13-14%

ISFJs, known as Protectors, are the most common personality type. They’re dependable, caring, and grounded, often placing others’ needs above their own. ISFJs value stability and tradition, and they’re excellent at creating a welcoming environment, making them the ultimate hosts.

Fun Facts:

• ISFJs are highly observant and often notice details others miss, which makes them fantastic problem-solvers.
• Many ISFJs are drawn to healthcare, teaching, and social work, as they genuinely enjoy helping others.
• They’re known for having an excellent memory, especially when it comes to remembering special dates and personal details about others.

2. ESFJ – The Caregiver

Percentage of Population: Approximately 12%

ESFJs are warm, friendly, and enjoy being around people. Known as Caregivers, they thrive in social situations and are deeply concerned with the welfare of others. ESFJs are often seen as the “glue” that holds social groups together.

Fun Facts:

• They’re known for being highly organised and are often planners in their social circles.
• ESFJs are great at reading social cues, which makes them fantastic mediators and friends.
• This personality type often gravitates toward careers in teaching, administration, and counselling.

3. ISTJ – The Inspector

Percentage of Population: Approximately 11-12%

ISTJs are practical, reliable, and detail-oriented. Often called Inspectors, they value logic and efficiency, excelling in roles that require structure and attention to detail. They’re reserved and prefer to work alone or in small groups.

Fun Facts:

• ISTJs tend to excel in careers like accounting, law, and engineering, where they can apply their analytical skills.
• They’re not usually impulsive, preferring to weigh all options carefully before making decisions.
• ISTJs are known for their loyalty and commitment, both in their work and personal lives.

4. ISFP – The Adventurer

Percentage of Population: Approximately 8-9%

ISFPs are gentle, creative souls who value personal freedom and authenticity. Known as Adventurers, they prefer to experience life rather than plan every detail. ISFPs enjoy exploring new activities and often have a keen sense of aesthetics.

Fun Facts:

• ISFPs often excel in the arts, from painting to music, due to their love for beauty and creativity.
• They’re adaptable and enjoy going with the flow, often finding joy in spontaneous adventures.
• ISFPs are known for their strong moral compass, and they often stand up for causes they believe in.

5. ESTJ – The Executive

Percentage of Population: Approximately 8-9%

Executives, or ESTJs, are natural leaders who value order and tradition. They’re decisive, organised, and highly efficient, making them well-suited to roles of authority. ESTJs are confident and prefer clear rules and routines.

Fun Facts:

• ESTJs thrive in careers like management, law enforcement, and the military, where their organisational skills are valued.
• They’re known for being hardworking and often serve as role models for others.
• Despite their serious side, ESTJs can be surprisingly humorous and enjoy a good laugh with friends and family.

6. ENFP – The Campaigner

Percentage of Population: Approximately 7-8%

ENFPs, also known as Campaigners, are energetic, curious, and social. They’re passionate about causes and are always looking for new experiences. ENFPs are known for their warm, enthusiastic personalities and their ability to inspire others.

Fun Facts:

• ENFPs often have many interests and hobbies, as they’re always keen to explore new ideas.
• They’re known for their creativity and may excel in fields like writing, acting, and teaching.
• ENFPs are spontaneous and tend to dislike routines, which sometimes leads to last-minute adventures.

7. INTJ – The Architect

Percentage of Population: Approximately 2%

INTJs, known as Architects, are strategic, independent thinkers. They enjoy analysing complex problems and coming up with innovative solutions. INTJs are visionaries, always looking for ways to improve systems and structures.

Fun Facts:

• INTJs are often drawn to fields like science, engineering, and technology, where they can exercise their problem-solving skills.
• They value intelligence and are known for their logical, analytical approach to life.
• INTJs are natural planners and tend to set long-term goals with meticulous detail.

8. INFJ – The Advocate (Least Common)

Percentage of Population: Approximately 1-2%

As the rarest personality type, INFJs, or Advocates, are deeply empathetic and idealistic. They’re known for their insight into people and their desire to make a positive impact in the world. INFJs are often described as “old souls” due to their depth of understanding and compassion.

Fun Facts:

• INFJs often feel a strong sense of purpose and are drawn to careers that align with their values, such as counselling, social work, or writing.
• They’re excellent listeners and are often the friend others turn to for advice.
• Despite their introverted nature, INFJs are highly intuitive about others and can form deep, meaningful connections.

Why Personality Types Matter

Understanding personality types can offer valuable insights into ourselves and others. Knowing that someone is an ENFP or ISTJ, for example, can help explain their preferences, strengths, and challenges. Personality types also shed light on how different people contribute to society and interact with one another, whether it’s through leadership, creativity, empathy, or analytical skills.

Exploring personality types can be fun, but it also reminds us of the diversity in human behaviour and the unique qualities each of us brings to the table. Whether you’re an outgoing ENFP or a reflective INFJ, every personality type has its own strengths and ways of viewing the world. Embracing these differences helps us understand others better—and, in turn, ourselves.