What do you think about relationships between ENFPs and ENFJs?
When it’s working – What are the joys and positive aspects of these relationships?
Lots of positives! A very warm and passionate couple.
-How compatible do you think these two types are in general?
Quite compatible in many ways. Due to sharing 3 of the 4 functions, these 2 people can have a very deep connection and at times understand each other completely intuitively and almost effortlessly.
-Why are they attracted to each other?
Both the ENFJ and the ENFP are full of dreams and creativity. They both have a desire to change the world for the better and they both tend to be looking for a "soul mate" for their romantic partner. They get on like a house on fire, especially in the early stages of the relationship.
-How to they compliment each other?
For the most part they compliment each other well. The ENFJ makes sure the bills are paid and that they eat 3 meals a day, while the ENFP is always ready with an exciting idea or adventure to pursue. The ENFJ usually ends up in a slightly more supportive role than the ENFP in the relationship, which can be a good thing. Overall ENFJ's enjoy this role. They are both talkers and love people. When they are at their best, these two are very affectionate with each other and have a deep connection.
-How well do they understand each other and why?
I think the 3 out of 4 functions comes into play again here. They understand each other well for the most part. With these two, you will never hear that one doesn't understand why the other is so emotional. They both "get" emotions and they both want to have a close connection. This is a good and bad thing... The ENFJ will likely be puzzled by the ENFP's need to "dazzle"others at times, and why they are not more organized. The ENFP may not understand why the ENFJ is worried about boring stuff like the dirty dishes in the sink and why the ENFJ doesn't want people at their house all of the time, having fun. The shared N is a wonderful asset for this pair. They both like to talk (and think) in metaphors and about abstract ideas. They often "know" what the other means (almost as if by magic or telepathy) even when other people are clueless.
-What are they like together raising children?
They are warm and loving parents.
The ENFJ will likely find themselves in the disciplinary role more than the ENFP.
This is largely because the ENFJ has a much lower threshold for chaos in the environment than the ENFP. Both are great with playing with the kids and nurturing them. The ENFP is often a big kid themselves, so they can easily loose themselves in their child's imaginary world's and bring them to life through acting out stories, building pillow forts, etc. The ENFJ also loves to do these fun things with the kids, but if the basics (food, shelter, homework done) are not covered, than they often go into "parental mode" to get these things done and are only able to relax and play afterwards.
When it’s not working – What are the challenges when two people of this type are in a relationship?
The ENFJ finds order much more important in their environment, than does the ENFP (J vs P). This can give rise to misunderstandings, frustration, and hurt feelings for both individuals. The ENFJ can be put in a parent-child dynamic with the ENFP when the relationship is poorly functioning and this is draining and upsetting to both. Due to both being F's, there are times when arguments are likely to get heated. Two people fighting with their hearts on their sleeves are likely to result in some broken hearts. Both need to be sure they are respectful of each other, no matter how emotional things get. Also, stonewalling is something that can deeply hurt both of these types. The E and F together mean that they really need to talk things out when upset and if unable to do so, their emotions can bubble up out of control (especially if not mentally mature).
-What are some of the communication challenges they can have?
Both share N. The communication challenges are mainly that they may be puzzled by the other's motivations. ENFP's may want to just "do stuff" while ENFJ's want to have at least a rough plan in place before taking action. An amusing and probably isolated issue to an extent with this couple is that if they are together for a long time communication may break down because each person thinks they know what the other thinks and feels on things. They stop asking the other for opinions and input, and assume they know because they do know each other quite well. However, people do grow and change over time and it is important for both of these individuals to keep that in mind about the other. This may be an issue with all long-time couples...not sure.
-What are the biggest frustrations between these two types?
I have already to a large degree gone over this above, but I will try to expound a bit. The classic issue of messy house vs clean house. The ENFP doesn't care and the ENFJ does. Also, late vs on time, and irresponsible vs dependable. The ENFP is forgetful and unorganized at times and means well, but does not always come through on things in a timely or organized manner. This can be annoying to the ENFJ, but for the most part, I think ENFJ's still love the ENFP for their quirkiness and dynamic nature. (This was never a huge issue for me, anyway.)
Not sure if this next part was just me and my ENFP, or all, so take with a grain of salt:
The ENFP is naturally full of charisma and people are drawn to them. They love to be surrounded by people. Sometimes the ENFP does not have the firmest and most healthy personal boundaries. The ENFJ may see all of this and be worried about the relationship's security. It is important that the ENFP provides the ENFJ with reassurance during these times and takes them seriously. Breaking trust for an ENFJ can mean the end of a relationship.
-How can they take each other for granted?
The ENFJ can come to think the fun and gregarious nature of the ENFP is unlimited. It is important to support and give openings to the ENFP to express their darker side at times. Also, ENFP's need to express their creativity in some way. If it is bottled up for too long then they can become despondent.
The ENFP can take advantage of the ENFJ's giving nature (usually without meaning to). The ENFJ has a difficult time asking for things for themself and (depending on maturity) even realizing that they need help or are at their limit of giving. Taking time to pamper the ENFJ a bit from time to time is very important. Life's responsibilities are not fun for the ENFJ, but they will take them on if no one else does to the point of burnout.
-What happens when things “go wrong†between these two types?*
One or both can get overly emotional and hurt the other. Another possible result is that one becomes very depressed because their needs are not being met and this will continue either to their breaking point, or until the two are able to work on and fix the issue.
Advice for couples – What recommendations do you have?
I have already written a book (sorry, peeps!)....The main thing is to respect each other and make sure that you continue to communicate and are receptive to communication. These two can TALK.
-What things should each type do to facilitate better communication?
See above and let me know if you want more detail.
-What advice do you have for each of the two types?*
ENFJ - lighten up and make your needs clear to the ENFP. Then, hold then accountable. Also, give lots of hugs and kisses to the ENFP!
ENFP - get your crap together and spoil that ENFJ! Also, you do an awesome job of initiating things. Keep doing that.
-If you are an ENFJ, what advice would you have for the ENFPs?
Already said.
