ESTP - The Impulsive Competitor

ESTPs are one of the most spontaneous types and are simultaneously exciting and challenging to be around. They have a natural exuberance and find great joy in immersing themselves into situations that pose a level of risk. They tend to shun theory and prefer the frenetic pace of non-stop action. ESTPs display an energetic nature that can inspire others and encourage their participation. They are also willing competitors who find fulfillment in the mere act of besting their opponents. Below, we'll take a closer look at their competitive nature and partiality for living in the moment. Plus, we'll describe a few aspects of their nature that can hamper their success.

In Search Of Victory

People with the ESTP personality type are driven by a sense of competition. They are drawn toward games of skill that offer an opportunity to defeat others. Their inherent charisma can take some by surprise, especially because ESTPs have a highly-refined ability to intuit others' emotions and motivations. This, coupled with their tendency to circumvent traditional rules of civility in order to achieve their goals, makes them formidable strategists. That said, they often have a deeply-held sense of personal integrity that they will not violate.

Living In The Moment

Some types are forward thinkers, planning for every possible contingency. By contrast, ESTP types revel of reacting to the dynamics of the moment. They're unusually quick thinkers who can review immediate circumstances, make fast decisions, and implement them. They have well-honed improvisational skills that allow them to respond to situations more quickly than their peers. Plus, because they consider their intuition to be faulty and unreliable, they're not inclined to spend time analyzing a situation. Instead, their decisions and actions are based upon their understanding of the facts at hand.

ESTP Personality And Strengths

Due to their natural competitiveness and improvisational ability, ESTPs often find success in sales positions. Their charisma and enthusiasm makes them adept public speakers, while their tendency to absorb facts, make decisions, and take action gives them an entrepreneurial flare. Normally observant, always practical, and a motivational force to others, people with the ESTP trait make exciting friends. Plus, their fondness for acting in the presence of risk makes them uniquely qualified for getting projects launched.

Potential Weaknesses

Despite their strengths in taking risks and acting decisively, individuals with the ESTP type often leave unfinished business behind them. Their tendency to live in the moment drives them to find new challenges, while existing projects bore them. Plus, when confronted with theory or complex issues that require focus and concentration, ESTPs falter. Routine tasks, though necessary and integral to a project's success, sap them of energy.

ESTP types are remarkably innovative and effective in situations that require fast thinking and quick action. That said, they're often unaware of the impact their actions and comments have upon the feelings of those around them. If they can find a way to harness their energy and creativity, and work closely with others to bring projects to completion, ESTP personality types can achieve a lasting success.