"I Have a Business Idea": Here's Your Next Step, By Myers and Briggs Personality Type

As we edge into the new year, many of us are thinking about our goals and aspirations for the future. For some, this may include taking the leap into entrepreneurship and starting their own business. But where do you begin? How do you know if your business idea is a good one? And what steps should you take to ensure its success?

While you may feel the urge to drop everything and start working on your idea immediately, it's important to take a step back and evaluate your business idea before diving in head first. And guess what? Your Myers and Briggs personality type can provide valuable insights that can guide you in this process.

INFJ: Give Your Idea the "Values" Check

INFJs, the world's rarest personality type, have a strong sense of values and a desire to make a positive impact in the world. Your business won't get very far unless it aligns with your personal values and mission, because you'll struggle to commit to a project that doesn't make your heart sing. Ask yourself:

• Is it aligned with what you believe in and want to achieve?
• Will it bring about positive change or help others in some way?
• Is it worth putting in the time and effort to make it successful?

If your answers are yes, then it's likely that your INFJ personality is on board with this business idea.

ENFP: Visualize Your Idea's Impact

As an ENFP, you're full of creative ideas and always looking for ways to connect with others. When it comes to your business idea, think about how it can make a positive impact on the people and communities around you. Imagine the ripple effect of your idea and how it can transform lives for the better. This will not only motivate you to pursue your idea, but also help you communicate its potential to others.

Some questions to consider:

• Who will benefit from your business?
• How will it improve their lives or solve a problem they are facing?
• What kind of community can you build around your idea?

ENFJ:  Get Feedback from Others

ENFJs are natural-born leaders and have a knack for bringing people together. Use this to your advantage when evaluating your business idea. Seek feedback from family, friends and other trusted individuals in your network. They can offer valuable insights and perspectives that you may not have considered.

Some things to ask for feedback on:

• The viability of your idea.
• Potential challenges or roadblocks.
• Your target audience and their needs.
• Ways to improve or expand upon your idea.

INFP: Think About the Bigger Picture

As an INFP, you have a strong sense of purpose and are driven by your values. Before committing to your business idea, take the time to think about how it fits into your long-term goals and aspirations. Will it bring you closer to achieving your personal or professional dreams? Will it allow you to express your creativity and make a meaningful impact in the world?

Think about:

• Your long-term vision for yourself.
• How this business idea can contribute to that vision.
• Potential opportunities for growth and development.

INTJ: Value the Opportunity

Let's be honest, there are very few business ideas that involve something brand new that hasn't been invented yet. And that's okay—especially if you can spot where the gaps and opportunities lie! Luckily, spotting inefficiencies is something INTJs excel at. So, grab all the data you can about competitors, market trends and consumer needs. Analyze it all with your analytical mind to identify the unique opportunity that your business idea will fulfill.

Consider:

• The current market landscape for your idea.
• Potential demand and competition.
• How your idea can offer something new or better.

ENTP: Challenge the Status Quo

As an ENTP, you have a natural curiosity and love to explore new ideas and concepts. Use this to challenge the status quo with your business idea. Is there a problem that needs solving? A service that can be improved upon? Don't be afraid to shake things up and think outside of the box.

Some ways to do this:

• Brainstorm different approaches or solutions.
• Consider alternative methods or strategies.
• Run SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).
• Write cost-benefit analyses and scenario plans for each idea.

ENTJ: Create a Strategic Plan

As an ENTJ, you love strategizing and taking charge of projects. When it comes to your business idea, create a strategic plan that outlines all the necessary steps for turning it into a successful venture. This will not only serve as a roadmap for your journey, but also help you anticipate and prepare for potential challenges along the way.

A few things to include in your plan:

• Specific goals and objectives.
• Detailed action steps.
• Timelines and deadlines.
• Resources, funding and people.

INTP: Lock Down the Details

Details are not always your thing, INTP, but when it comes to your business idea, they can make all the difference. Take the time to thoroughly research and plan out the logistics of your idea. This will not only help you identify any potential problems, but also give you a better understanding of the resources and support needed for success.

Some important details to consider:

• Finances and budgeting.
• Legal requirements and regulations.
• Market analysis and competition.

ISTJ: Assess the Risks

ISTJs are known for being practical, responsible and risk-averse. While taking risks is often necessary in entrepreneurship, it's important for you to carefully assess and mitigate potential risks associated with your business idea. This will help you make informed decisions and minimize any negative impacts on yourself or others.

Some common risks to consider:

• Financial: Will you be able to sustain yourself financially while starting this business?
• Time: How much time and effort will be required to make this idea work?
• Personal: How will pursuing this business affect your personal life?

ESTJ: Make a Detailed Plan

As an ESTJ, you're a natural planner and thrive in structured environments. Use this to your advantage when developing your business idea. Create a detailed plan that outlines all the necessary steps, resources, and timelines for success. This will help you stay focused and on track as you work towards making your idea a reality.

Some things to include in your plan:

• Clear goals and objectives.
• Action steps with deadlines.
• Defined roles and responsibilities for team members.

ISFJ: Consider Your Impact on Others

Being an ISFJ, you have a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards others. When evaluating your business idea, consider the potential impact it will have on not only yourself, but also those around you. Will it align with your values and beliefs? Will it positively contribute to your community?

Think about:

• How your idea can benefit others.
• Ethical considerations in relation to your business.
• Sustainability and social responsibility.
• Will you be taking on more than you can handle?

ESFJ: Leverage Your Networking Skills

ESFJs are known for their strong interpersonal skills and ability to connect with others. Use this to your advantage when developing and promoting your business idea. Network with individuals in different industries who may be able to offer valuable insights or resources. This can also help you build a strong support system for your idea.

Some networking tips:

• Attend industry events and conferences.
• Join professional organizations or online communities.
• Reach out to individuals with similar interests or experiences.

ESTJ: Run a Pilot Test

ESTJs are known for their practicality and efficiency. Use these traits to your advantage by running a pilot test of your business idea before fully committing to it. This will allow you to gather feedback, make necessary adjustments, and ensure that your idea is viable before investing significant time and resources into it.

Some things to consider during the pilot test:

• Target market response.
• Operational processes and systems.
• Financial viability.

ISTP: Prepare for the Unexpected

As an ISTP, you are adaptable and thrive in unpredictable situations. However, when it comes to your business idea, it's important to prepare for the unexpected. Identify potential challenges or roadblocks that may arise and have contingency plans in place. This will help you stay calm and focused if things don't go as planned.

Some potential challenges to consider:

• Changes in the market or industry.
• Unexpected expenses or setbacks.
• Personal factors, such as health or family issues.

ESTP: Seek Out Expert Advice

ESTPs are natural risk-takers and thrive in fast-paced environments. However, when it comes to your business idea, it's important to seek out expert advice from individuals who have experience or knowledge in the industry you're entering. This can help you make more informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

Some ways to find expert advice:

• Attend workshops or seminars.
• Utilize online resources and forums.
• Connect with mentors or advisors in your desired field.

ISFP:  Stay True to Your Vision

As an ISFP, you have a strong sense of creativity and often pursue passions that align with your values. When it comes to your business idea, it's important to stay true to your vision and not let others' opinions sway you. However, also be open to constructive feedback and make adjustments as needed.

Some ways to stay true to your vision:

• Create a mission statement for your business.
• Regularly revisit and evaluate your goals.
• Trust your instincts and follow your passion.

ESFP: Trial Your Idea on Social Media

ESFPs are known for their outgoing personality and sociability. Use this to your advantage when it comes to promoting and growing your business idea. Social media is a powerful tool for marketing and connecting with potential customers. Share your ideas, engage with others and use social media to build a strong brand presence.

Some tips for utilizing social media:

• Choose the right platforms for your target market.
• Post regularly and stay engaged with followers.
• Collaborate with influencers or other businesses in your industry.

It's amazing how much your personality can influence your decision-making and planning, and the way you approach entrepreneurship is not different. If you haven't already taken a 16-types personality test, make this your first step. Your individual skills and characteristics can help you focus on your business idea and goals in a way that works best for you, so you'll be more likely to succeed in the long run.