10 Worst, Most Draining Jobs for ENFPs

They say, “follow your passion,” and as an ENFP, passion is rarely something you’re short on. But what happens when a job draws more energy out of you than it gives back? For ENFPs, the "Champions" of the Myers-Briggs system, the right career is one that lights them up rather than burns them out. 

Your best career options are people-oriented jobs that give you lots of creative freedom. You're an enthusiastic and expressive individual who cannot bear routine, so careers in music, fundraising, animal care, human services, counseling, marketing and digital media are all great fits. In this article, we're looking at the other side of the coin - careers that don't play to your strengths, and which may not bring you the same level of satisfaction and fulfillment.

Why Certain Jobs Drain ENFPs 

The most draining workplace environment for you is a repetitive, slow-moving one. Nothing frustrates an ENFP more than having their wings clipped. You’re at your best when your ideas and independence are trusted, not when you have to follow strict rules or have an overly controlling manager looking over your shoulder.

You are also a social butterfly who draws energy from connection. In a role that limits human contact, or where conversations are purely transactional, you’ll see your zest for life begin to dim. 

Another core ENFP quality? You are an idealist. You want your work to mean something—not just to you but to others. If a job feels hollow or devoid of a greater purpose, it can leave you questioning, “What’s the point?” 

With that in mind, here are 10 jobs that ENFPs may want to avoid—not because you can’t do them, but because they may go against your natural instincts and drain your energy over time. 

1. Data Entry Specialist 

Imagine spending eight hours a day entering numbers or copying data from one spreadsheet to another. For an ENFP, this monotony might feel like torture. There’s no room for creativity, no opportunity to connect with others meaningfully, and zero big-picture thinking. 

A better fit: Roles in marketing, event planning, fundraising or community engagement offer the variety and connection that ENFPs crave. 

2. Accountant 

While accountants and auditors are essential for keeping the financial world running smoothly, this career might cause ENFPs to run out of steam. The work often revolves around high levels of structure, attention to detail and repetitive tasks, leaving little room for spontaneity or imaginative thinking. 

A better fit: If numbers and data are your thing, consider careers in financial coaching or advisory roles where you can teach others how to manage their money in a creative and engaging way.

3. Factory Worker 

If there’s one thing that feels completely foreign to an ENFP, it’s endless physical repetition in a controlled, confined space. Factory work tends to lack the creative input and interpersonal connection you thrive on. 

A better fit: Hands-on jobs that involve creativity and interaction, like artisan crafting or event production, might fuel your energy instead. 

4. Security Guard 

Standing in one spot, watching monitors or patrolling the same area on repeat? This is the kind of slow-paced, structured role that may leave an ENFP feeling restless and unfulfilled. Where's the creativity? Where's the human interaction? 

A better fit: ENFPs may enjoy roles in public relations, event security management, or volunteer coordination, where variety and meaningful interaction come into play. 

5. Technical Support Representative 

While helping people is something ENFPs excel at, the highly scripted, transactional nature of tech support can make their heads spin. You might find the lack of big-picture problem-solving or meaningful interaction draining over time, and it's unlikely that your creative insights and solutions will be welcomed by most companies. 

A better fit: Consider roles in customer success or user experience, where you can use your people skills to help customers feel valued and heard while also using your intuition and creativity to improve processes and product interfaces.

6. Truck Driver 

Sitting behind the wheel for long hours with little social interaction and a repetitive commute? Not exactly an ENFP’s dream job. You thrive on connection and excitement, both of which are lacking in this role. 

A better fit: Careers in travel coordination or destination marketing might satisfy your love for adventure and human interaction. Logistics and supply chain management also offer the opportunity to collaborate with a team while problem-solving and strategizing. 

7. Compliance Officer 

Imagine enforcing rules and regulations all day long, often with little room for personal discretion. While some may excel in this role, ENFPs might find the lack of creative problem-solving and emotional connection frustrating. 

A better fit: ENFPs are well-suited for advocacy work or roles in organizational change management, where they can inspire others while working toward meaningful progress. 

8. Dentist 

Picture yourself in a room filled with the hum of dental equipment, performing repetitive and precise procedures day in, day out. For an ENFP, this structured and detail-oriented work environment may feel limiting and uninspiring. The profession's focus on routine tasks leaves little space for the spontaneity and interpersonal connection ENFPs thrive on. 

A better fit: Roles that focus on people-centered care, like counseling or holistic health practices, might allow ENFPs to channel their energy and empathy more effectively. 

9. Police Officer 

At first glance, a career in law enforcement might seem like a thrilling option for an ENFP. After all, the role involves working with people and solving major problems like serious crime. However, it also demands discipline, rule enforcement and the ability to stay calm and collected in tense situations—qualities that might not come naturally to the impulsive and free-spirited ENFP.  The rigid structure and need for quick, calculated decisions may feel stifling to you.

A better fit: Consider a career in community outreach or social work instead. These roles allow you to use your natural people skills and empathy to make a positive impact on the community, while also giving you more flexibility and creativity in your approach.

10. Civil Engineer 

Civil engineering requires a keen eye for structural details, strong mathematical skills and a meticulous approach to problem-solving. For freewheeling ENFPs, this career might present a challenge as it often involves strict guidelines, long-term projects and less interpersonal engagement than you might thrive on.

A better fit: Explore fields like urban planning or environmental consulting instead. These careers can allow you to focus on creative problem-solving and a broader vision while still contributing to building a sustainable future.

Finding the Right Fit 

The key to ENFP career happiness is to find work that sparks your creativity, aligns with your values, and provides plenty of variety and human connection. While some jobs on this list may work for other personality types, they may leave you feeling drained and unfulfilled.  Knowing what doesn’t work for you is just as important as knowing what does.

Still unsure of the right direction for you? Our free career personality test can help you narrow down your options and find a career that truly speaks to your ENFP spirit. There are plenty of non-constrictive careers out there for you, so don't be afraid to explore and experiment until you find the perfect fit.