Unveiling the Literary Worlds: What Type of Book Each MBTI Type Would Write

The Psychology Behind MBTI and Writing Preferences

Understanding the psychology behind the MBTI and writing preferences can reveal why we gravitate towards specific genres. This insight isn’t just about pigeonholing people into categories; it’s about recognizing that our inherent traits shape our creative outputs.

For instance, consider Anna, an INFP Peacemaker. She’s empathetic, cherishes harmony, and feels deeply. When Anna sits down to write, she often finds herself drawn to emotional poetry or heart-wrenching narratives that explore human connections. On the other hand, Mark, an INTJ Mastermind, loves strategic thinking and complex theories. Naturally, Mark’s ideal writing may involve intricate plots and dystopian worlds where strategy and long-term planning are central themes.

MBTI helps us acknowledge these preferences at a deeper level. If you understand why a Guardian INFJ might write a book seeped in morality and future visions, or a Rebel ESTP might pen an adrenaline-packed adventure, it not only fuels better self-awareness but also improves your chances of crafting authentic, compelling stories.

Matching Your MBTI Type with the Perfect Book Genre

Identifying which genre aligns with your MBTI type can be exhilarating. Your personality traits influence the themes and narratives that naturally emerge from your writing.

ENFJ - The Hero: Motivational Self-Help Books

Heroes are natural inspirers, making motivational self-help books their perfect genre. Their empathetic leadership and ability to connect with others allow them to craft uplifting narratives that guide readers toward personal growth and transformation. Whether writing about leadership, relationships, or emotional resilience, ENFJs excel at delivering compelling, heart-centered advice.

Their writing is often infused with real-life experiences, making their messages deeply relatable. They enjoy storytelling, so personal anecdotes and case studies enrich their work. A well-structured, step-by-step approach to empowerment ensures that readers not only feel inspired but also equipped with actionable insights.

• Writing style is warm, engaging, and emotionally driven.
• Stories of personal transformation resonate deeply with readers.
• A structured approach to motivation ensures practicality.

INFJ - The Guardian: Speculative Fiction

Guardians see the world through a unique and insightful lens, making speculative fiction their ideal genre. They enjoy weaving deep, thought-provoking narratives that explore futuristic societies, philosophical dilemmas, and moral complexities. Their ability to foresee long-term consequences allows them to craft layered, immersive worlds.

INFJs thrive on storytelling that challenges conventional thinking. They gravitate toward narratives with profound messages about humanity, ethics, or destiny. Their books often explore themes of social change, existential reflection, and emotional depth, making them compelling and introspective reads.

• Rich world-building and deeply philosophical themes.
• Character-driven stories with emotionally complex protagonists.
• Exploration of moral dilemmas and societal transformations.

INTJ - The Mastermind: Dystopian Fiction

Masterminds are strategic thinkers with a strong sense of structure, making dystopian fiction a perfect genre for them. They excel at creating intricate, well-planned worlds that challenge societal structures and question the status quo. Their writing is methodical, intelligent, and filled with thought-provoking twists.

INTJs are drawn to themes of power, control, and resilience. They create protagonists who must outthink oppressive regimes or navigate complex political landscapes. Their stories often reflect their belief in efficiency, planning, and the importance of calculated decision-making.

• Strong emphasis on political and societal structures.
• Complex plots with meticulously designed world-building.
• Thought-provoking narratives about power, survival, and human nature.

ENTJ - The Commander: Political Thrillers

Commanders thrive in high-stakes environments, making political thrillers their ideal genre. They are skilled at weaving intricate plots filled with power struggles, strategic maneuvering, and intense conflict. Their writing is fast-paced, authoritative, and filled with sharp dialogue.

Their books often feature ambitious protagonists who take charge, navigate leadership dilemmas, and outsmart their opponents. ENTJs enjoy crafting stories where intelligence, dominance, and calculated risks lead to success.

• Action-packed, plot-driven narratives filled with tension.
• High-powered characters navigating power struggles and conflicts.
• Strong emphasis on leadership, ambition, and strategic thinking.

ENFP - The Crusader: Mystical Fantasy Novels

Crusaders are brimming with creativity and imagination, making mystical fantasy their perfect genre. They love crafting magical worlds, weaving in whimsical elements, and exploring grand adventures. Their stories are filled with vibrant characters, unexpected twists, and a sense of wonder.

ENFPs often incorporate themes of destiny, self-discovery, and the battle between good and evil. Their narratives are immersive, filled with compelling mythology and deep symbolism. They enjoy storytelling that allows them to explore infinite possibilities and push creative boundaries.

• Dynamic, ever-expanding world-building with rich lore.
• Stories filled with adventure, exploration, and personal growth.
• Vivid characters that challenge societal norms.

INFP - The Peacemaker: Heartfelt Romance or Sentimental Novels

Peacemakers write with deep emotional resonance, making heartfelt romance or sentimental novels their ideal genre. They excel at crafting tender, introspective stories that explore themes of love, personal growth, and emotional healing.

INFPs often create characters with rich inner lives who struggle with identity, longing, or self-acceptance. Their writing is poetic, lyrical, and filled with deep sentimentality. They prefer character-driven plots that evoke raw, heartfelt emotions.

• Emotionally complex characters and relationships.
• Poetic, introspective, and deeply touching prose.
• Stories that emphasize emotional healing and personal discovery.

INTP - The Genius: Scientific Papers or Non-Fiction

Geniuses are naturally analytical and intellectual, making scientific papers or non-fiction their forte. They thrive on deconstructing complex ideas and presenting them in a way that challenges conventional thinking. Whether exploring technology, philosophy, or theoretical physics, INTPs write to satisfy curiosity.

They often dive deep into research, ensuring that their writing is accurate, well-supported, and thought-provoking. Their books appeal to readers who enjoy intellectual stimulation, problem-solving, and deep analysis.

• Logical, well-researched, and theory-driven writing.
• Abstract concepts presented with clarity and depth.
• Exploration of knowledge, discovery, and innovative ideas.

ENTP - The Challenger: Satirical Fiction

Challengers excel at writing satirical fiction, using humor and sharp wit to critique societal norms. They enjoy challenging authority, pushing boundaries, and crafting stories filled with irony and thought-provoking commentary.

Their books often feature fast-paced dialogue, clever twists, and unconventional protagonists. They love exploring themes of deception, politics, and absurdity, ensuring that their readers are both entertained and intellectually engaged.

• Witty, sharp, and fast-paced writing.
• Themes of social critique, rebellion, and satire.
• Engaging, unpredictable plots with unconventional protagonists.

ESFP - The Performer: Dramatic Novels Inspired by Real-Life Events

Performers are drawn to storytelling that mirrors real-life drama, making dramatic novels based on true events their perfect genre. They excel at creating engaging, emotional narratives filled with vibrant characters and compelling relationships.

Their books capture the highs and lows of life with authenticity and flair. ESFPs are natural entertainers, ensuring that their stories are fast-moving, filled with passion, and emotionally impactful.

• Dynamic storytelling with high-energy characters.
• Engaging, dramatic plots based on real-life experiences.
• A mix of humor, tragedy, and romance for full emotional impact.

ISFP - The Artist: Poignant Poetry

Artists are deeply emotional and introspective, making poetry their ideal literary form. They excel at capturing fleeting emotions, sensory experiences, and personal reflections in beautifully crafted verses.

Their writing is often rich with imagery, symbolism, and deep personal meaning. ISFPs write poetry that resonates on a soul level, exploring love, nature, pain, and beauty with artistic elegance.

• Lyrical, emotional, and visually rich writing.
• Themes of beauty, love, and personal expression.
• Poetic storytelling that evokes deep emotions.

ISTP - The Artisan: Adventure or Survival Novels

Artisans are resourceful and hands-on, making adventure or survival novels their best genre. They enjoy writing action-driven stories where characters must rely on ingenuity, skill, and adaptability to overcome obstacles.

Their books are fast-paced, realistic, and filled with suspense. ISTPs excel at crafting detailed, action-oriented sequences and practical survival tactics.

• Realistic, high-stakes storytelling with intense action.
• Themes of resilience, problem-solving, and survival.
• Well-detailed, immersive descriptions of challenges and landscapes.

ESTP - The Rebel: Action-Packed Thrillers

Rebels thrive on excitement and adrenaline, making action-packed thrillers their ideal genre. They write fast-paced stories filled with twists, danger, and high-stakes drama.

Their writing is direct, cinematic, and engaging, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. ESTPs enjoy crafting charismatic protagonists who live on the edge, constantly outsmarting their enemies.

• High-energy, suspenseful narratives with intense action.
• Strong-willed, risk-taking protagonists.
• Unexpected twists and thrilling pacing.

ESFJ - The Ambassador: Historical Fiction

Ambassadors love tradition and storytelling, making historical fiction their ideal genre. They have a deep appreciation for culture, heritage, and storytelling that preserves history.

Their books often feature rich period details, heartfelt relationships, and immersive settings that transport readers to another era.

• Authentic, well-researched historical settings.
• Strong emotional connections between characters.
• A balance of drama, romance, and historical accuracy.

ISTJ - The Realist: Autobiographies and Memoirs

Realists are methodical and detail-oriented, making autobiographies and memoirs their ideal genre. They have a strong appreciation for factual accuracy and structured storytelling, which allows them to document life stories with clarity and precision.

ISTJs excel at compiling real-life experiences into well-organized, engaging narratives. Whether writing their own memoirs or helping others tell their stories, they ensure accuracy and thorough research. Their writing reflects their value for tradition, hard work, and perseverance.

• Well-researched, factual storytelling with clear chronological structure.
• A focus on discipline, resilience, and personal achievement.
• Detailed accounts of historical and personal experiences that educate and inspire.

ESTJ - The Executive: Business Guides and Manuals

Executives are highly organized and results-driven, making business guides and instructional manuals their best genre. They excel at breaking down complex processes into clear, actionable steps that others can follow to achieve success.

ESTJs write with authority and confidence, providing readers with structured strategies for productivity, leadership, and efficiency. Whether they’re writing about entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, or time management, their books are practical, no-nonsense, and filled with proven strategies.

• Step-by-step instructional writing that offers clear takeaways.
• Emphasis on efficiency, leadership, and achieving measurable goals.
• A structured, direct writing style that prioritizes clarity and effectiveness.

While matching your MBTI type to a book genre is enlightening, it’s vital to recognize and navigate potential pitfalls during your writing journey. Here are some common ones and strategies to avoid them.

Over-identification with Your MBTI Type

Some writers may overly conform to their MBTI traits, stifling creative freedom. Remember, while the MBTI provides a guide, you are not limited to it. Allow room for exploration.

Balancing Creativity and Structure

Different MBTI types balance creativity and structure uniquely. For example, creative ENFP Crusaders might struggle with deadlines. Create a flexible but firm writing schedule to keep you on track.

Facing Criticism

Personal writing style may vary widely between MBTI types, influencing how criticism is perceived. An emotionally sensitive INFP Peacemaker might find criticism daunting. Learn to differentiate between constructive feedback and mere opinion to grow as a writer.

Writer’s Block

Certain MBTI types, such as INTP Geniuses, might face analysis paralysis. Combat writer's block by setting small, manageable goals and taking regular breaks.

Authenticity vs. Trend

Chasing trends can dilute your authentic voice, especially if it's not aligned with your MBTI type. Stay true to your natural inclinations; authenticity resonates more deeply with readers.

Latest Research: Neural Alignment and Its Role in Friendship Perception

Parkinson et al.'s study on similar neural responses among friends offers intriguing insights into the subconscious elements of friendship formation and compatibility. This research suggests that friends often share a neural basis for how they perceive and react to the world, which may contribute to the ease and depth of their connection. For adults, this highlights the fascinating idea that our friendships may be influenced by underlying neural mechanisms, offering a scientific explanation for the phenomenon of "clicking" with certain individuals on a profound level.

The study invites adults to consider the importance of neural alignment in their friendships, suggesting that this subconscious compatibility plays a role in the strength and quality of their relationships. Parkinson et al.'s findings on neural similarities in friendship formation enrich our understanding of the complex factors that contribute to the formation of deep, meaningful adult friendships, highlighting the unseen yet powerful connections that bind us.

FAQs

How does knowing my MBTI type help improve my writing?

Understanding your MBTI type can help you identify the genres and narratives where you naturally excel. By aligning your work with your inherent traits, your writing becomes more fluid and engaging.

Can my book style change over time?

Absolutely. As you grow and evolve, your interests might shift, and this can affect your writing style. Stay open to these changes and allow your writing to transform with you.

What if my ideal genre doesn't sell well?

While commercial success is important, writing in a genre that resonates with you ensures authenticity and satisfaction. Moreover, niche genres often have a dedicated audience, which can be more rewarding.

How do I handle writer's block according to my MBTI type?

Different tactics work for different types. ENFP Crusaders might find it helpful to change their environment, while ISTJ Realists may need structured breaks. Discover what methods alleviate your block based on your personality.

Can I write outside my MBTI-based genre?

Certainly! Your MBTI type is a guide but not a boundary. Exploring different genres can broaden your skills and experience as a writer.

The Final Chapter: Embarking on Your Literary Journey

In conclusion, aligning your writing with your MBTI type can offer a roadmap to realizing your creative potential. This insight brings a harmonious blend of your innate personality traits and your storytelling style, producing works that are not only unique but also deeply authentic. By acknowledging your strengths and navigating potential pitfalls, you’re well on your way to crafting stories that resonate—both with you and your readers. So, grab that pen, open a fresh page, and let your personality lead the way into your own literary universe.