How To Successfully Live With Your Roommates According To Your MBTI

Q: What does the MBTI measure?

The , , MBTI ,assessment looks at four aspects of the differences between people:

Aug 01, 2023

In his play “No Exit,” Jean-Paul Sartre wrote, “Hell is other people,” and sometimes sharing a house or apartmentwith others can feel like that. There are some people that we seem get on with and others that, well...we find more difficult. Fortunately, most of the people we'll have as housemates or flatmates don't deliberately set out to make our lives a misery, despite what it might feel like to us sometimes. But they may have a different approach to life, and that can cause conflict, so understanding these differences can be crucial to having a healthy relationship with them. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) model is a useful framework for better understanding this and bettering your relationship with the people in your home.

What does the MBTI measure?

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The MBTIassessment looks at four aspects of the differences between people:

Are we energized by and do we focus our attention on the external world (Extraversion) or our internal world (Introversion)?
Do we prefer and trust information that is solid, practical and bases on the evidence of our senses (Sensing) or do we prefer to look at connections, possibilities, and the big picture (Intuition)?
Do we want to make decisions on the basis of objective logic (Thinking) or would we rather concentrate on our values and on how people will be affected by the decision (Feeling)?
Do we want to live our lives in an organized, structured, planned way (Judging) or in an emergent, spontaneous, unplanned way (Perceiving)?

It’s the last of these preference pairs — Judging or Perceiving — that is often the most important in living harmoniously with the people we live with.

How do Judging types prefer to live?

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People with a Judging preference like things to be structured and organized. That typically means that they like the place where they live to be tidy and organized too.

They also like closure. Once they start on a job, they want to finish it, and often they can’t really switch off and enjoy themselves until they do. There’s a little voice in their ear saying, “You haven’t finished that yet."

How do Perceiving people prefer to live?

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In contrast, people with a Perceiving preference don’t have the same need for organizationand closure. They tend not to get so wound up by things being untidy, and don’t feel the same urgency to finish the cleanup once they start.

If something more interesting comes along, hey they can always finish the housework later. Perceiving people will of course tidy up before a visitor comes around – but will likely do this at the last minute.

How do Judging and Perceiving people live together?

A Judging flatmate may become increasingly worried that the cleanup is never going to happen, end up doing it themselves, and complain to their Perceiving flatmate – who may find this irritating because so far as they were concerned, there was plenty of time for them to do it later.

Judging people can get quite annoyed by untidy environments in a way that Perceiving people tend not to. In a research survey about people’s workplaces, we asked people to what extent they agreed with the statement “It annoys me when people have messy, cluttered desks”.

55% of people with a Judging preference agreed or strongly agreed with this, but only 25% of those with a Perceiving preference.These Judging-Perceiving differences of course play out in other ways too. Judging people like to plan things in advance, and may be irritated if their Perceiving flatmate suddenly says something like “oh, I’ve just decided not to go away this weekend after all,” while the Perceiving person will wonder why their flatmate is making a fuss and what the big deal is.

Perceiving people like to be spontaneous and will feel irritated if they feel they are being pushed into a routine or forced to make decisions well in advance. There is a danger that the relationship may become even more dysfunctional, with the Judging person imposing artificially early deadlines and the Perceiving person deliberately delaying things.

So, can Judging and Perceiving people ever live together in harmony? Well, yes, they can, but they need to work to understand the other person’s point of view.

How can Judging and Perceiving types live together successfully?

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The first step is to realise that when your flatmate does something that seems odd, annoying, different from what you would do, it’s unlikely that they are deliberately trying to annoy you. They are just acting in a way that seems natural to them. And sometimes, their approach might actually be useful.

Next, think about yourself and your flatmate. Do you have a Judging or a Perceiving preference? What about them?

The best way for you to find out is for you to complete a type questionnaire like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment, but if not, the descriptions earlier in this article might help.

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Then, if you can, sit down and have a conversation with them. Talk through how you approach your home environment, tactfully outline how you see them doing things differently (and pay attention if they disagree with any details) and explore how you can both work out ways in which you can complement each other rather than ending up in conflict.

Here are some ideas:

Aim to create a balanced home environment where there is some structure, but where you also allow for flexibility.
Work out a set of ground rules for what has to be planned and agreed up front and what can be more spontaneous and decided in the moment.
Agree on when chores need to be done and who will do what when. Maybe write this down. If you have a Judging preference, don’t press for unrealistic or unnecessarily early deadlines, and try not to worry or drop hints until your flatmate is actually late. If you have a Perceiving preference, make sure that you do stick to any deadlines that have been agreed.
Judging people: your superpower is making quick, decisive decisions. Perceivers: yours is to take in all the information you can and consider all the options before making a decision. Combine your powers to make efficient but thorough decisions about your house or apartment.
If you are organizing a party or other get-together at home, maybe allow the Judging person to organize and plan this, but allow some wriggle room for last-minute ideas and be prepared to be flexible once the party starts.

Judging and Perceiving is not the only aspect of personality that’s important in getting along, but it’s a great place to start. Appreciating each other's strengths and differences is key a harmonious home environment.

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John Hackston is a chartered psychologist and Head of Thought Leadership at The Myers-Briggs Company where he leads the company’s Oxford-based research team. He is a frequent commentator on the effects of personality type on work and life, and has authored numerous studies, published papers in peer-reviewed journals, presented at conferences for organizations such as The British Association for Psychological Type, and has written on various type-related subjects in top outlets such as Harvard Business Review.

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6 Ways To Raise A More Resilient Kid, According To Dr. Becky

If you’re a parent, you may already know Dr. Becky from her popular social posts on parenting advice or perhaps her Good Inside platform, where she helps break down big parenting topics into simple, actionable strategies you can actually use. Brit Morin, founder of Brit + Co, recently chatted with Dr. Becky in a fireside chat in Mill Valley, CA. Here are 6 takeaways from that chat that will help you parent better while raising a more resilient kid (and ultimately, better human).

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Help kids cope with difficult feelings: “Resilience is being able to cope with the widest range of feelings possible. And it's usually the opposite of fixing or denying,” says Dr. Becky.

Let’s say your child comes home and says he’s the only one in class who can’t read or she didn’t make the soccer team. Of course, that’s really hard for a parent to hear. “We either tell them it's not a big deal. Everyone learns to read on their own time or I know you didn't make soccer, but you're the varsity basketball captain. When we do both of those things, we actually make kids far less resilient and actually far less trusting of us.”

Instead: Rather than try to fix or deny the feeling, flip the script to something that makes them feel supported, validated, and less alone, such as 'I'm so glad you're sharing that with me. I'm so glad you're talking to me about this.'

“You're actually sending a really deep message to your kid in that moment that I know the part of you who is going through this, I still like that part. It's literally what you're saying. I still like you even when you're not a good reader," she says.

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Build self-trust with one simple action: “I believe we're inherently good inside,” says Dr. Becky. “I've always thought of control and trust as opposites. When we control someone, we're saying, ‘I don't trust you.’ Trusting your feelings is the essence of making safe decisions and tricky interpersonal situations,” says Dr. Becky.

Instead: The phrase Dr. Becky thinks is the ultimate confidence builder and wants every parent to say to their kids? 'I believe you.' "That is what builds self-trust is when kids learn, my parents believe my feelings, that must mean my feeling is real," she says.

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Think outside the problem mindset: “We should not approach anyone we're having conflict with until we get to a me-and-you-together against a problem mindset. This is so important. The other person will just get defensive,” says Dr. Becky. (This works in all relationships, from your partner to your coworkers).

Instead: Regulate your own emotions and teach your children problem-solving skills from a young age. “Help them understand that setbacks are a natural part of life and that they have the ability to overcome challenges by finding solutions.”

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Foster independence: Allow your children to take on age-appropriate responsibilities and make their own decisions. This helps them develop confidence in their abilities and resilience in the face of obstacles.

“I remember I was unloading the dishwasher and I said to my oldest, 'Come help me do the silverware.' He was young enough to do it. I remember him looking at me being like, why do I have to do that?” Her response? “I kind of regulated myself. And then I said, ‘We're going to do this together.’ And he's like, why? And I said something that's become a principle of mine: ‘To be a good person, you just have to do things you don't want to do.’

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Create opportunities for connection. “At the core, kids are oriented by attachment. They need attachment to us, their parents, to survive. It's literally how they get food, shelter, and water. And so kids are always paying attention to what is maximizing connection,” she says. They're looking at what is taking away that connection too. That's where sibling spats can come in. Before playing referee, manage your own emotions and get to a me-and-you-together mindset.

Instead: Find one-on-one time with your child without your phone. “It's literally the most important parenting strategy there is for any behavioral problems. That is the first intervention after understanding [the why]. They were seeking your connection the whole time. They were looking for connection, They were looking to be believed. Spending more time actually removes the aloneness in whatever your kid was struggling with, which is often the foundation for so much positive change.”

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Experience the power of repair. There is no perfect parent. We all lose it sometimes and act in ways we’re not proud of. It’s ok, if you have the trust and connection, you have the power to repair. “Repair is the act of going back to a moment that didn't feel good and reconnecting.”

That could look like saying ‘Hey, I was on my phone and you were trying to talk to me and I'm sure that felt really annoying and I'm going to try not to do that.’ Or maybe it's saying, ‘Hey, I yelled at you last night and I'm sure that felt really scary and it's never your fault when I yell and I'm working on managing my feelings.’

“We think events are what impact our kid. I yelled at my kid, I messed up my kid forever. Events are not what impact a kid. It's the aloneness after the event that impacts a kid," Dr. Becky reminds us.

Watch The Full Interview For Even More Parenting Advice with Dr. Becky

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Interview with Renowned Parenting Expert, Dr. Becky

Find more parenting advice on Dr. Becky's Good Inside and our Parenting page!

5 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Friendships, According To Experts

Loud budgeting may be popular on TikTok, but conversations about money can still be awkward. I've been in romantic relationship for a little over a decade and we're just at a point where we've become aligned on finances. So imagine having random conversations with your family or friends that begin with, "I know I've never really asked before, but is it okay if I can borrow [insert x amount of $] until I can pay you back?" The nature of your platonic and familial relationships will totally determine whether you receive positive or negative responses.

As helpful as money can be, it can fracture even the closest relationships. Why? Well, psychologist Veronica West of My Thriving Mind, head of advice for Wells Fargo Emily Irwin; and Founder of Her First $100K money expert Tori Dunlap have a few ideas!

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

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It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

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"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

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No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

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It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

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When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

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Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

"Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
"We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
"We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

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Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

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Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

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Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."

If you set clear financial boundaries and still find that your platonic relationships are weird, we have tips to help you navigate a potential friendship breakup.

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Here's Your Holiday Vacation Style According To Your MBTI

Many of us go on vacation with family or friends, and when we do it can be a bit of a shock to discover that our ideal vacation is something that other people seem to think is...uh, well...the definition of hell on Earth. Of course, there are many things that influence how we choose and plan a vacation (our past experiences, our budget, and so on), but our personality type is an important factor.

As measured by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment, there are four important aspects to our personality:

Whether we prefer to focus our attention on the external world (Extraversion, E), or on our inner world of thoughts and feelings (Introversion, I)
Whether we rely on information that is solid, practical and based on the evidence of our senses (Sensing, S) or prefer to look at possibilities and the big picture (Intuition, N)
Whether we prefer to make decisions on the basis of objective logic (Thinking, T) or on the basis of our values and how people will be affected (Feeling, F)
Whether we prefer to live in an organized, planned way (Judging, J) or in a more spontaneous, emergent way (Perceiving, P)

Each of us has a preference for either E or I, for either S or N, for either T or F, and for either J or P. The combination of these, your whole type, describes your personality. For example, if someone had preferences for Introversion, Sensing, Thinking and Judging then their overall type would be ISTJ.

Knowing your own type may help you to choose your ideal vacation. Do you wanna have every element planned out? Are you heading somewhere just for the fabulous food? Is picking up memorabilia important to you? All this plays into your personality type, AND knowing the type of your fellow travelers as well means that you can craft a vacation that suits all of you. Here’s the typical vacation style for each MBTI type.

ISTJ

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You are likely to be organized, with an eye for detail, planning every aspect of your vacation carefully. This may include a detailed itinerary of what to do and where to go when you arrive. Returning to a favorite destination that’s worked for you in the past will appeal to you.

🔥Tip: If someone suggests going somewhere new, don’t dismiss this. Do a little research and then go along unless there is a good reason not to.

ISFJ

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Your natural tendency will be to plan things carefully, to ensure that everyone enjoys their vacation. This might include choosing a destination that’s worked well for everyone before, and activities that allow you to spend quality time with others.

🔥Tip: Try not to organize activities for others all the time. Many people will enjoy the vacation more if there is an element of spontaneity.

INTJ

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You’ll enjoy planning your vacation; the difficult part may be deciding which of the many options you’ve considered you should go with. Once you’re there, you’ll enjoy having some new experiences that give you some intellectual stimulation; just doing the same thing every year probably won’t appeal to you.

🔥Tip: You may have some great vacation ideas, but if you want to sell them to friends and family, think through how you’re going to tell them how great your ideas are – with some evidence.

INFJ

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Your ideal vacation will have a meaning and a purpose that aligns with your values; a thrill-seeking, hedonistic holiday is probably not what you are looking for.

🔥Tip: Not everyone will share your values or be looking for a vacation with some cultural or spiritual significance. Many people may just be looking for a fun time.

ISTP

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An active, outdoor vacation will likely appeal to you. Some planning and organization might be needed here, but not too much; you’ll want a degree of flexibility and spontaneity.

🔥Tip: Remember to consult others when planning and choosing your vacation; don’t just decide what you are doing and expect everyone to agree!

ISFP

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It’s important that a vacation taps into your values, the things that are special to you. Think back to vacations that you have enjoyed in the past. What has made them special? How could your next vacation incorporate some of these features?

🔥Tip: Planning may not be your favorite activity, but to have your close friends or family enjoy the vacation too, involve them from an early stage.

INFP

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Busy, crowded vacations with lots of people and a packed itinerary probably aren’t for you. Instead, look to spend time somewhere new and different with one or two close friends who share your ideals and your outlook on life.

🔥Tip: Choose the people you vacation with carefully. Sometimes, after a big family holiday, you may need another vacation!

INTP

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You’ll enjoy thinking about all the things that you could do on your vacation, but not planning them in detail. New experiences and doing something different and unusual will appeal to INTPs — vacations are for intellectual stimulation, not just about relaxing!

🔥Tip: You might not enjoy planning, but this may be needed if you are to get to experience those unique and unusual places.

ESTP

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You will enjoy exciting, action-packed vacations in dynamic, busy, buzzy destinations. Adventurous, thrilling, even risky activities might appeal, coupled with vibrant nightlife. Though you don’t want to plan too much – spontaneity is important – remember that some of the most exciting experiences may have to be booked in advance.

🔥Tip: Not everyone enjoys excitement as much as you. Go on vacation with like-minded people, or with a crowd so that others aren’t left alone if you go off and do your own thing.

ESFP

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You’ll enjoy vacations where you can have fun and excitement with like-minded people. Places with a lively atmosphere where you can socialize, attend festivals, and party hard are going to appeal.

🔥Tip: Some of the most exciting events get filled up early, so, even though you probably don’t enjoy planning, book in plenty of time. You can then leave (almost) everything else till the last minute! Before you book, though, try to do a little research. An event that attracts people with very different values to yours may end up leaving you cold.

ENFP

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You’ll enjoy thinking about all the things that you could do on holiday – without necessarily making any detailed plans. New and different places will appeal, and you may want to ensure that, as far as possible, your vacation is environmentally friendly.

🔥Tip: Your idea of ‘planning’ may be quite different, and nowhere near as detailed, as other people’s. Check out your plans with the other people you are vacationing with, and make sure that nothing essential gets left for no-one to do – like booking flights.

ENTP

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A vacation that involves new ideas and experiences will appeal to you, with nothing too fixed or tied down; a flexible itinerary, or no itinerary at all, will allow you to relax and enjoy your vacation. And do try and relax; you don’t need to beat the record for the most sights visited in one day.

🔥Tip: For you, it’s fun being flexible, but not everyone feels the same. When travelling with friends or family, compromise on an itinerary that gives you some freedom, and them some fixed points of reference.

ESTJ

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You’re a planner. You like to plan your vacations so that everything runs smoothly, and you likely prefer destinations that you know are organized and efficient, perhaps because you have visited them before.

🔥Tip: Not everyone wants to be organized! Give others space to do their own thing. And if someone suggests a new place to go, or a new activity, why not try it?

ESFJ

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You want everyone to enjoy their vacation and have a wonderful time, and it’s likely that you plan the holiday with this in mind. You’ll look to choose a location that you know makes everyone feel welcome, perhaps because you’ve been there before. Don’t be afraid to try a new destination however (perhaps after a little research) — some of your friends and family may enjoy change and variety.

🔥Tip: Don’t forget to look after yourself as well as everyone else.

ENFJ

Photo by Christina Petsos/Pexels

A vacation can be more than just a break — it can be an opportunity for people to have meaningful, enriching experiences. You may be drawn to retreats or sanctuaries that offer you and others these moments, or vacations that allow you to immerse yourself in local communities or cultures. And it will be important that those who come with you enjoy these, too.

🔥Tip: Not everyone will appreciate this style of vacation; some people do just want to chill, or to see the sights. Be careful not to organize other people too much, even if you feel they would benefit from this.

ENTJ

Photo by Alexander Suhorucov/Pexels

Not everyone will ask themselves what their goals are for a vacation...but you might! It’s likely that you plan your vacation with the bigger picture in mind. You may even look to combine your time away with networking opportunities or other activities that might help with your career or other long-term goals.

🔥Tip: Make time for other people on vacation and try not to organize them too much. Although they may not have explicit goals, they may not be keen on your suggestions and may just want to chill out now and then.

What does your MBTI say about your holiday vacation style? Let us know in the comments & be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

Lead image via olia danilevich/Pexels

myers-briggs type indicator typical vacation style travel vacation personality type mbti

25 Anthropologie Gifts That Are Perfect For The Cool Girl In Your Life

If you’re one of those people that prides themselves on delivering the perfect present and finds joy in seeing the giftee's face light up, Anthropologie is going to be your BFF for finding gifts this holiday season! From home decor to apparel and everything in between, Anthropologie delivers unique and eclectic finds that are fun and fashion-forward. It can be challenging sifting through the endless online racks of their treasures, though, so I’ve broken down the best gifts from Anthropologie so all you have to do is press *add to cart*!

Our 25 favorite Anthropologie gifts for 2024 gifting:

Let's jump into the best gifts from Anthropologie for the season! These are perfect for teen girls, Gen-Z-ers, fashion lovers, and those who can't help but hop on the latest trends.

Anthropologie

For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

Is there ever a better gift than something that'll help them keep their life in order? 2025, we're coming for you.

Anthropologie

For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

These mini UGG boots are so on-trend right now, any cool fashion gal will adore them as a gift.

Anthropologie

Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

This bag fits everything your giftee could possibly need in the day-to-day – and then some.

Anthropologie

For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

This slightly-bougie skincare device tones and lifts your face while targeting signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. It'll be such a luxe upgrade to your giftee's current routine!

Anthropologie

For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

These fashion-forward sneakers work well across a variety of outfits and occasions, like hitting the gym, going on a hot girl walk, or running weekend errands. The cool girl in your life will love pairing them with her favorite matching workout set and a sleek trench coat when it's cold out.

Anthropologie

Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

Bag charms are all the rage right now, so help them hop on the trend with this adorably eye-catching keychain.

Anthropologie

To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Trucker hats are the perfect head gear for a casual-get up. Styles that make a statement like this one are perfect for the Western fashion lover!

Anthropologie

Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Anthropologie's candle selection is bomb – you're bound to find a scent your giftee will approve of. We recommend this seasonal woody scent encased in a festive, tree-dotted glass!

Anthropologie

Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Pick up this electric lighter to coordinate with any candle gift. We promise they've never owned a lighter like this!

Anthropologie

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Whether she's working through her current TBR list or starting off the workweek, these chic readers will help her see clearly. You can snag 'em in a handful of colors and different strengths based on her vision.

Anthropologie

Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

All the cool girls are rocking pointed flats for winter. Bonus points for this pair being metallic!

Looking for more gift recommendations for 2024? Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

gift ideas gift giving anthropologie shopping holidays gifts

Cheeky Gift Ideas That Suit Anyone and Everyone

Surprise your loved ones with these cheeky gift ideas that are perfect for anyone and everyone! From quirky gadgets to fun, useful finds and playful accessories, these picks are designed to bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether you're shopping for a close friend or that hard-to-please relative, these unique finds add a dash of humor and charm to your holiday gifting. Explore these playful gifts and make this season memorable with presents that everyone will enjoy.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This calming toy to Help Reduce Anxiety

Amazon

This Purrble calming toy has been awarded Amazon’s choice, and will be both fun and soothing for children. It is a high-tech tool and a soft, furry toy that is a cuddly interactive companion that can help children stay calm in moment of stress and anxiety!

How To Successfully Live With Your Roommates According To Your MBTI

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How do Judging types prefer to live?

How do Perceiving people prefer to live?

How do Judging and Perceiving people live together?

How can Judging and Perceiving types live together successfully?

4 Habits Women With Tons Of Friends All Have In Common

6 Ways To Raise A More Resilient Kid, According To Dr. Becky

Watch The Full Interview For Even More Parenting Advice with Dr. Becky

5 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Friendships, According To Experts

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

The Final Verdict:

Here's Your Holiday Vacation Style According To Your MBTI

ISTJ

ISFJ

INTJ

INFJ

ISTP

ISFP

INFP

INTP

ESTP

ESFP

ENFP

ENTP

ESTJ

ESFJ

ENFJ

ENTJ

25 Anthropologie Gifts That Are Perfect For The Cool Girl In Your Life

Let's jump into the best gifts from Anthropologie for the season! These are perfect for teen girls, Gen-Z-ers, fashion lovers, and those who can't help but hop on the latest trends.

For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

Cheeky Gift Ideas That Suit Anyone and Everyone

This calming toy to Help Reduce Anxiety

This Puffer Bomber Is So Chic

Blow Off Some Steam With A Dammit Doll

A Form of Shart

Fidget Putty Is Perfect For Concentration

Advent Calendar But Make It Makeup

Mini Karaoke Machine

These Slippers Are Perfect for Cold Weather

Remove Sebum and Blackheads With This Tool

The Not-So Piggy Bank

Put Your Phone on DND and Enjoy Some Quiet Time

The Top Selling Pillows On Amazon

Shoe Spray to Spray the Stink Away

This Organizer Bin With a Genius Design

A Portable Photo Printer To Make Prints Anywhere

This Desk Lamp For Lighting But in the Cutest Way

Cowboy Hat-Wearing Duck Lamp

This Comfortable Bath Pillow Takes Relaxation to Bliss

The Stanley Stainless Steel Tumbler Is a Fan Favorite

Go Solo

Wrap Up In Warm in These Essentials

Comfy Couch Blanket

Nostalgic Glow From This Tetris Lamp

They'll Feel Pampered With This Laneige Holiday Gift Set

Astronaut Galaxy Night Light

Handprint Kit

This Heated Neck Stretcher For the Whole Body

This Camera Bundle for Pro-Level Shots

Give Their Plants a Personality with these Magnets

This Book Nook for DIY Enthusiasts

Relieve Tension With an Infrared Heat Mat