Independence Day is a popular holiday here in the U.S. (from whence I write). In fact, it’s our national day. For some Americans, the Fourth of July is about history, but for many others, it’s more like an excuse for a backyard summer party. Does personality type relate to how Americans celebrate this holiday? Let’s check out some of the responses from our “Independence Day” survey to find out.
One thing that sticks out to me is the difference between the personality types who are most or least likely to agree with various questions. I can’t help picturing those groups as people (because they are) and imagining what they might say about how they celebrate Independence Day. Just for fun, I took a few guesses along the way (and you can add your take in the comments below).
Yea or Nay?
Extraverted (77%) and Introverted (64%) personality types. That may relate more to the nature of celebrations than to the holiday itself. Independence Day observances tend to be group affairs, anything from large, organized public gatherings and parades to private backyard parties. Group-based social activity tends to appeal to Extraverts a bit more than it does to Introverts.
Executives (ESTJs) and Consuls (ESFJs) are on top of the chart, here. I can imagine them saying, “It’s community! What could be better than getting together with friends and family as an annual tradition? The more the merrier – I love bringing people together.”
Meanwhile, the lukewarm Architects (INTJs) and Virtuosos (ISTPs) are like, “What could be better, you ask? How about not getting sunburned and damaging your hearing with fireworks? Wait, there’ll be mountains of free food? Okay, I’ll come… But I won’t play any silly lawn games.”
To Host, Attend, or Both?
Entrepreneurs (ESTPs) is relatively meaningful, and overall, it’s notable that Extraverts are more likely to say they host Independence Day parties.
All the personality types look around: “Okay, who’s going to host this year’s Independence Day barbecue?” Everyone’s gaze falls on the Consul, who smiles in resignation but also gets a little thrill from being the center of attention – and at the chance to plan a party. (Plus, they know the Entrepreneur has their back.)
“Thank goodness they didn’t ask us!” the Mediator (INFP) and Adventurer (ISFP) say quietly to themselves.
Logicians (INTPs), and Architects. Yet despite some notable relative differences, even the personality type most likely to agree, Executives, only agree in a modest majority.
“Sure,” the Executive says, looking around at the moderate nodding among the other Extraverts. “A parade might be fun, but we have to be at the Consul’s party by three o’clock.” Meanwhile, the Virtuoso and Logician are looking at each other with wide eyes, trying to think of excuses not to attend. “A parade…?” they groan to each other.
“Actually, I won’t be at the parade because I’ve set that time aside to buy snacks for the Consul’s party,” interjects the Architect.
“Oh, don’t worry about that,” replies the Consul. “We’ve got plenty of – ”
“I insist,” interrupts the Architect, with narrowed eyes. “And I need some Virtuoso and Logician help, as well.”
Feeling and Thinking types, with the former being more likely to agree. Yet in real terms, the only personality types likely to bedeck themselves in patriotic colors for this holiday are Consuls and Executives.
“Our party has a red, white, and blue theme this year!” the Consul announces on social media.
“Oh no,” the Virtuoso and Logician mutter. “They don’t expect us to wear those colors, do they?”
“Nah,” says the Protagonist. “It probably just means that the paper napkins will have stars and stripes, and maybe there’ll be some other decorations.”
“Flag or color-themed dress encouraged!” says the Consul in a follow-up post.
“I stand corrected,” says the Protagonist, dryly.
Entertainer (ESFP) excitedly. “We brought plenty of fireworks to set off right here in the backyard!”
“In…my backyard?” asks the Consul host, looking a little worried.
Personality Independence
Not all personality types like the same thing when it comes to Independence Day celebrations (or anything else), and that’s okay. Those Extraverts who are more tradition-minded may enjoy the cultural ritual of a Fourth of July party more than most, while many Introverts are less attracted to celebrating this holiday for their own reasons. We didn’t examine every single item in our “Independence Day” survey here, but you can see the full results – and how your answers compare – by taking it yourself. And if you do celebrate this holiday, may it be safe, fun, and joyful!