What do Oprah, Ellen and Carlin all have in common? They all have been listed as introverts according to their Myers-Briggs personality type or MBTI. Sites like MBTITypes.com list Ellen as an INFP and TypeTango.com lists Oprah as an INFJ. Other sites like PersonalityDesk.com have listed Oprah as an ENFJ. If that is the case, she may be an extrovert or close to the middle of the two. Without seeing her actual results, one can only guess.
Many people assume that people who talk for a living are extroverts. That is not necessarily true. Here are two famous examples of possible introverts. As interviewers, they would have the luxury of having their questions prepared ahead of time. This is helpful to the introvert because they wouldn’t have to spend as much time thinking about what they want to say. It would be prepared for them.
According to Myers-Briggs official site, Ellen’s INFP personality would be someone who likes to, “Seek to develop logical explanations for everything that interests them. Theoretical and abstract, interested more in ideas than in social interaction. Quiet, contained, flexible, and adaptable. Have unusual ability to focus in depth to solve problems in their area of interest. Skeptical, sometimes critical, always analytical.”
Oprah’s INFJ personality would be someone who likes to, “Seek meaning and connection in ideas, relationships, and material possessions. Want to understand what motivates people and are insightful about others. Conscientious and committed to their firm values. Develop a clear vision about how best to serve the common good. Organized and decisive in implementing their vision.”
If Oprah is in fact an ENFJ she would be, “Warmhearted, conscientious, and cooperative. Want harmony in their environment, work with determination to establish it. Like to work with others to complete tasks accurately and on time. Loyal, follow through even in small matters. Notice what others need in their day-by-day lives and try to provide it. Want to be appreciated for who they are and for what they contribute.”
When analyzing someone like Ellen, one may not usually think of comedians as being quiet or analytical. However, great comedians can be very introspective. A great example of this was George Carlin. Several sites have listed Carlin as an INTJ which would describe him as one to, “Have original minds and great drive for implementing their ideas and achieving their goals. Quickly see patterns in external events and develop long-range explanatory perspectives. When committed, organize a job and carry it through. Skeptical and independent, have high standards of competence and performance – for themselves and others.”
For more information on celebrity personalities, check out It’s Not You It’s Your Personality.
- What is Your Favorite Celebrity’s Personality Type? See How Your Personality Compares to Theirs (drdianehamilton.wordpress.com)