Today we will look at the fourth of the naturally organized “SJ” types, ESTJ.

ESTJ stands for Extraverted – Sensing – Thinking – Judging. If these terms are new to you, you’ll find it helpful to read How does the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® work? before continuing with this post.

ESTJ Organizing Strengths

Similar to others who have SJ type preferences, organizing comes naturally to ESTJs.

In terms of time management, they tend to have clear goals and priorities and use a calendar system effectively. They also like to use “to do” lists. As a result, they rarely forget about meetings, special occasions, or tasks to be completed. In addition, they’re not easily distracted.

Their bookshelves and storage areas are organized in a way that other people can easily access needed information when they’re not around. They rarely struggle with finding places to put things, getting rid of things, finding what they need, or constantly rearranging things.

One ESTJ summarized her organizing style as follows:

“The best way to manage our time is to be well organized in what we do. Get rid of unnecessary stuff and concentrate on important things. I manage to place/store whatever I’m working with the minute I’m finished using it.”

ESTJ Organizing Challenges

The ESTJ preference for a set schedule can lead to frustration when something interferes with their plans.

Many ESTJs also report the following challenges:

• Procrastination, when they don’t want to do something
• Holding on to items that may be useful “some day”
• Keep items with sentimental value

ESTJ Time Management Systems

ESTJs like to-do lists and use a calendar or planner to keep track of what they’ve done and what still needs to be addressed. ESTJs typically plan thoroughly, scheduling preparation time for meetings as well as for the meeting itself.

Learn More

For more insight into the ESTJ organizing style, read about Classic Structure on Pixies Did It.

For a broader view of the ESTJ personality type, check out the following resources:

• Portrait of an ESTJ: The Guardian
• ESTJ Personality (“The Executive”)
• The ESTJ
• ESTJ in a Nutshell

Keep in mind that we are all unique, and even people sharing the same type preferences will not be the same in every way. Personality type is only one factor to consider when developing organizing solutions for your clients.

Are you an ESTJ?

Help others understand your personality type and organizing style by answering one or more of the following questions in the Comments:

1. What are your organizing strengths?
2. What are your organizing challenges or weaknesses?
3. What organizing strategies work well for you?
4. What are your time management strengths?
5. What are your time management challenges or weaknesses?
6. What time management strategies work well for you?
7. What type of calendar(s) do you use?

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