How To Improve Your Relationship Based On Your Myers-Briggs Type

If you've ever dated someone who seems to check off all your boxes, but the chemistry is a bit off, it might be worth taking a personality test to hone in on the qualities you need in your partner. Of course there are several options online, but according to Psychology Today, one of the most popular is the Myers-Briggs personality test. The Myers & Briggs Foundation says that, "When you understand personality preferences, you can more readily appreciate differences between you and people closest to you, such as spouses, partners, children and friends." According to The Belladonna, this test categorizes people based on social interaction, processing of information, decision-making, and organization. Within the four categories, there are two options within a spectrum that people land on.

So you are either rated as an extrovert or an introvert, depending on how you feel about social interaction. If you are more detail-oriented and don't tend to question information that is provided, then you would be a sensor. On the other hand, if you're a big-picture thinker who likes to delve deeper into topics then you would be intuitive. Decision-makers are divided into thinkers versus feelers. And finally, those who are more prepared and punctual are judgers, while those who go with the flow are perceivers.

In total, there are 16 different personality types based on the combinations of personality traits (via 16personalities.com). The website groups various types together in four categories. According to the site, if you are an intuitive thinker, you are an analyst. If you are an intuitive feeler, you are a diplomat. Sensory judgers are sentinels, while sensory perceivers are explorers.

According to an article on 16personalities.com, the introverted analysts (INTJ and INTP) struggle quite a bit in expressing their feelings and letting their guard down. Their approach to relationships are more logical and they seek to build relationships with depth. They may not be known for emotional displays of affection. Nevertheless, when they love someone, that person can rest assured knowing it's sincere. Extraverted analysts (ENTJ and ENTP) don't struggle in expressing their love boldly to a partner as much, but also aren't into romantic subtleties. As a result, they can be a bit rough around the edges in their approach to love.

Introverted diplomats (INFJ and INFP) initially can struggle talking about their deep feelings for someone. However, when they allow themselves to express what they feel, the relationship can blossom into a warm and gentle love. They are generally optimistic and caring partners. Just as caring for their partners, but easily open to expressing their feelings are extraverted diplomats (ENFJ and ENFP). For them, love conquers all and navigating life with a partner by their side is a major aspiration.

Introverted sentinels (ISTJ and ISFJ) are practical and cautious in approaching relationships (via 16Personalities). They aren't usually the types to fall in love at first sight, but value relationships that grow stronger over time. While they are more subtle and private in their romantic relationships, they are loyal lovers in it for the long haul. Extraverted sentinels (ESTJ and ESFJ) also value practical long-term relationships with a strong foundation, typically seeing them as an essential part of life. They are more outgoing though in expressing their love, while not resorting to extravagant displays of affection.

Out of all personality types, explorers approach relationships with fun and excitement. Introverted explorers (ISTP and ISFP) are a little more grounded in their approach, compared to their extraverted counterparts. They value freedom in relationships and love a natural progression of romance where they get to mutually enjoy each other's company. Their extraverted counterparts (ESTP and ESFP) love life and love, and they aren't afraid to express it. These passionate individuals approach love in an unrestrained manner that can either be a turn-on or turn-off. But the intensity of their love shines brightly and they crave a partner who can intertwine with them in their life journey.