Just What Kind of Writer is the ISFP?
Intro:
I decided to use MBTI as a system of trying to help new writers find their voice and style. If you don’t know what the MBTI is or you need a quick overview click for my intro article here.
I think that personality has a big influence on writing, understanding your personality will be key to understanding how to come across to others. There are many writers who have become popular based on the personality of their writing style, this is often referred to as voice. A writer’s voice can be incredibly magnetic and engaging.
Think about it like this, if you were stuck on a long bus ride with someone you’d rather them be interesting enough to listen to or boring enough to lull you to sleep. You never want to be in the middle. Writers will die by being lost in the pack. How should you stand out? By understanding what makes you unique, what is your flavor or style. Understanding this as a new writer will help you understand what kind of audience to attract, and what kind of things to write.
I am absolutely not saying that you should base your entire writing career in a multiple choice personality test. In fact there could be incredible value in doing exactly the opposite of what you’re comfortable with. For new writers, however, it’s best to learn to walk before you run.
Please use this as a guide to suggest a direction and don’t take this as gospel.
Note: For the MBTI experts.
I am not breaking type down by cognitive functions, or even the letters. I think these things are nuts and bolts details that are for those interested, not everyone. Type descriptions should be fluid and comprehensive to better understand the whole archetype of character.
Type overview:
The ISFP personality type are sensitive and idealistic individuals who crave freedom to be who they are.
To the ISFP who and what they value are things that are shared only with themselves and those they trust. They value their independence and will not tolerate anyone stepping on their freedom especially when it comes to self expression.
Examples of famous celebrities:
Grimes, The Weeknd , Gal Gadot, Ryan Gosling
What kind of writer are they?
These types thrive on the private revelatory nature of writing, since they do not normally advertise their beliefs as an ENFJ or ESFJ would.
Their writing can vary between all forms. They can make excellent journalists as well as write splendid fiction stories. Their stories tend to be based in the real world and are usually stories about everyday people.
Cormac Mccarthy is an example of an ISFP writer who writes in a very stark and realistic way.
Advice to the writer:
Like the INFP this writer can have a hard time organizing their efforts and can benefit from someone in that area.
Unlike the INFP the ISFP does not get distracted by ideas, more so they get discouraged by the scope of their work. ISFP can underestimate the length of time a project will take and they may be too quick to write off a project for not working out prematurely.
The ISFP will benefit from someone who can help them plan out their efforts and set a time table for their success.
Takeaway:
This personality is a free and wild spirit who values freedom and individuality. Although they are reserved they are deeply emotional and need an outlet to express themselves. There may be moments where the ISFP will need someone to help them plan large projects in the future so that they won’t get discouraged and move on to something else.
