Homestly, I used to have trouble with the functions too. I have always shown ENFP on my tests when I first started out, but then when I started reading other type descriptions, I knew that ESTP fit me well too, so I used to consider myself a hybrid between the two. As I got into it more though and started asking others what they thought of my type, nearly every mbti geek, pyschologist, and close family member said I was a blatant Se-Dom. As I did further research though I foumd that my fitting the letters for ENFP could be explained, but relating to almost every ESTP character and description could not be explained. Basically if I was actually ENFP, other people's perceptions, my past, and other things would contradict it, however, I can easily fit into the ESTP description by using my Ti and my inferior Ni to explain the sudden bursts I have of what is called intuition. They teacg you later on that not everything can be explained through just the letters. The intuitive nature of the ISTP, the independence of the INTJ, the commitment displayed often by IFPs, none of which can be explained just by analyzing the 4 letters. Once you go deeper into the functions, it explains a lot more. I would never think that INFJ would be my opposite based just on the letters, but the functions definitely explain something. Also, I used to think ISTJ was my opposite because I didn't relate to them at all and I thought that the description sounded conforming and boring. Turns out, they are my opposite, it just doesn't show in the letters. Si is the polar opposite of Se. Same function, but used in a way detestable by the opposite user. I know this will sound crazy since you say you don't understand anything beyond the letters, but read the other type descriptions. After a while of studying the other types you will become somewhat familiar with the functions. Who would've known the inventive nature of Ti or the adrenaline rush seeking nature of Se without studying beyond the letters. What I can say to help you though is that Ne is a function that always looks for new ideas to stimulate the mind, this does not necessarily mean it is innovative or creative, it just means they bounce between several different intangible possibilities and use them as stimulation. Basically Ne enjoys activities involving new ideas instead of new sensations like Se does. Fi is a decision making function. It has very deep values and seeks to understsnd people, rather than understanding ideas, and how things work like Ti does. That's all I can say about the your functions. If you don't relate to whatI just said, you should reconsider your typing.
[ QUOTE=pluviophile;2490158]Over the span of several years, and even before knowing what it all meant, my test results have always shown INFP. It fits better than anything else. My problem has been with determining my Enneagram type.
I have observed on this site that using functions to determine type seems to often make it trickier. I think maybe that is because we can all use all of the functions, and maybe at different times it will seem like one is more dominant when, overall, that may not really be the case. Also, I think it might be because your four main functions and how they are stacked will put a different spin on how each is used a little bit. I don't know though, I'm pretty new to this stuff, so correct me if I'm wrong.
Good luck![/QUOTE]
. Long ago I can see how I would mistake myself for an introvert. Now though the idea is ludicrous.
