How to Write an ESTJ Character

Series: The Psychology of Character Creation

Creating well-rounded and relatable characters is a cornerstone of engaging storytelling. One personality type that offers a plethora of opportunities for dynamic character development is the ESTJ (Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging). Known for their strong leadership skills, logical thinking, and organizational prowess, ESTJs can add depth and authenticity to your narrative. In this guide, we’ll delve into the key characteristics of ESTJs and explore how to craft a compelling ESTJ character that resonates with readers.

Understand the ESTJ Personality Type

This personality is often misjudged as a tyrant, but truthfully they aspire for fairness and sensibility. With dedication and strong fortitude, this personality hungers to impact their communities in positive and beneficial ways. Action-oriented, the characters can almost always be found leading the change.

ESTJs are individuals who thrive on structure, order, and practicality. They are often described as traditionalists who value stability, authority, and rules. Here’s a breakdown of the core traits that define an ESTJ:

Extraverted (E): ESTJs gain energy from interacting with their external environment. They enjoy socializing, leading groups, and being in the center of activities.

Sensing (S): ESTJs are detail-oriented and grounded in reality. They rely on their senses and observation to gather information and make decisions.

Thinking (T): Logical and objective, ESTJs prioritize making decisions based on rational analysis rather than emotions.

Judging (J): ESTJs prefer structure and order, often making decisions promptly and seeking closure. They’re planners who appreciate predictability.

Establish Clear Goals and Ambitions:

ESTJs are driven by goals and thrive when they have a purpose. Whether it’s climbing the corporate ladder, leading a community project, or excelling in a specific field, make sure your ESTJ character has well-defined ambitions. Develop a backstory that aligns with the key traits of an ESTJ. Perhaps they grew up in an environment that valued discipline and structure, shaping their personality. Their motivations might include professional success, maintaining tradition, and contributing to their community.

Highlight ESTJ’s Leadership Qualities

ESTJs are natural leaders who take charge and organize efficiently. Portray your character in roles where they can exercise their leadership skills, such as team captains, managers, or mentors. Explore how your ESTJ character interacts with others. Their desire to lead could lead to mentorship roles or conflicts with those who challenge their authority. Show their commitment to family and friends through their actions, even if they struggle to express their emotions.

Interactions and Relationships

ISTJs may struggle with expressing emotions, but they form strong bonds with those they care about. Explore how your character navigates relationships, showing their loyalty and willingness to support loved ones in practical ways. You use the relationships with friends and family to thicken conflict. When conflicts arise, depict how your ISTJ character approaches resolution logically and methodically. This might upset fellow characters who lean more into their feelings to make important decisions and create delicious plot complications.

Showcase the ISTJ’s Practicality and Factual Approach

One of the key characteristics of an ISTJ is their practicality. They are known for their ability to get things done efficiently and effectively. ISTJs rely on facts and evidence in their communication. They may struggle with abstract concepts, so use dialogue to showcase their preference for practicality. To showcase this trait in your ISTJ character, highlight their problem-solving skills and their ability to come up with practical solutions to challenges.

Embrace Routine and Tradition

ESTJs find comfort in routines and established traditions. Incorporate rituals or habits that highlight their appreciation for stability and predictability.

Explore Relationships and Interactions

Show how your ESTJ character interacts with others, both in leadership roles and personal relationships. They might struggle with empathy at times, but their loyalty and dedication make them reliable friends and partners. Introduce conflicts that stem from clashes between their structured worldview and unexpected disruptions. Use these moments to showcase their problem-solving abilities and growth.

Here are some attributes to add to your ESTJ Characters:

Promise Keeper
Stubborn
Organized
Direct
Inflexible
Assertive
Strong convictions
Committed and Practical
Overly critical
Relies primarily on their own opinion

Here are some ESTJ Characters

Nancy Wheeler
Cersei Lannister
Kim Wexler (Better Call Saul)
Boromir (Lord of the Rings)
Sabran Berethnet IX (The Priory of the Orange Tree)
Anthony Bridgerton
Zoya Nazyalensky (Shadow and Bone)
Charles Fairchild (The Last Hours)
Ianthe (A Court of Thorns and Roses)

Conclusion on How to write an ESTJ Character

Crafting an ESTJ character offers a captivating opportunity to explore a personality type deeply rooted in tradition, logic, and leadership. By understanding their core traits and integrating them into various aspects of your story, you can create a character that resonates with readers and adds depth to your narrative. Remember, the key lies in balancing their strengths and weaknesses to create a character that evolves throughout the story, making them relatable and engaging to your audience.

Up Next: How to write an INTP Character

Want to learn more about the Meyers-Brigg 16 Personalities? Click Here