CHAT INTJ Personality type - Understanding who you are (and why we can't get along)

iboya

Veteran Member
Fair Use Cited
This is more for the fun of it...more information at the link

A while ago someone posted a link to http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp
Since so many of us tested out as INTJ personality type on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator - I think it would be helpful to understand how we think (especially our strengths and weaknesses)

http://www.16personalities.com/intj-personality
Take the test here:http://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test or here:http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

INTJ personality The INTJ personality type is one of the rarest and most interesting types. Comprising only about 2 percent of the U.S. population (INTJ females are especially rare—just 0.8%), INTJs are often seen as highly intelligent and perplexingly mysterious. INTJ personalities radiate self-confidence, relying on their huge archive of knowledge spanning many different topics and areas. INTJs usually begin to develop that knowledge in early childhood (the “bookworm” nickname is quite common among INTJs) and keep on doing that later on in life.

When someone with the INTJ personality has mastered their chosen area of knowledge (INTJs can find their strengths in several fields), they can quickly and honestly say whether they know the answer to a specific question. INTJs know what they know, and more importantly, they are confident in that knowledge. Unsurprisingly, this personality type can be labeled as the most independent of all types.

INTJs are very decisive, original and insightful – these traits push other people to accept the INTJ’s ideas simply because of that sheer willpower and self-confidence. However, INTJ personalities do not seek nor enjoy the spotlight and may often decide to keep their opinions to themselves if the topic of discussion does not interest them that much.

Vladimir-Putin-INTJ-300x187.jpg

Vladimir-Putin

INTJ personalities are perfectionists, and they enjoy improving ideas and systems they come in contact with. As INTJs are naturally curious, this tends to happen quite frequently. However, they always try to remain in the rational territory no matter how attractive the end goal is. Every idea that is generated by the INTJ’s mind or reaches it from the outside needs to pass the cold-blooded filter called “Is this going to work?” This is the INTJ’s coping mechanism, and they are notorious for applying it all the time, questioning everything and everyone.

INTJ personalities also have an unusual combination of both decisiveness and vivid imagination. What this means in practice is that they can both design a brilliant plan and execute it. Imagine a giant chess board where the pieces are constantly moving, trying out new tactics, always directed by an unseen hand. This is what the INTJ’s imagination is like. An INTJ would assess all possible situations, calculate strategic and tactical moves, and more often than not develop a contingency plan or two as well. If someone with the INTJ personality type starts working with a new system, they will regard the task as a moral obligation, merging their perfectionism and drive into one formidable force. An INTJ will likely immediately and permanently lose respect for anyone who does not have enough talent or simply does not see the point, including the higher ranks of management.

INTJ personalities also often shoulder the burden of making important decisions without consulting their peers. They are natural leaders and excellent strategists, but they willingly give way to others vying for a leadership position, usually people with Extraverted (E) personality types. However, such action can be deceptive and maybe even calculated. An INTJ will retreat into the shadows, maintaining their grip on the most important decisions, and as soon as the leader fails and there is a need to take the steering wheel, the INTJ will not hesitate to act, maybe even while staying in the background. The INTJ personality is the ultimate “man behind the curtain.”

INTJs dislike rules and artificial limitations; everything should be questionable and open to reevaluation. They may be idealists (impossible is nothing) and cynics (everybody lies) at the same time. Whatever the circumstances, you can always rely on the INTJ to “fill in” the gaps in the idea. They are most likely to come up with an unorthodox solution.

Generally speaking, INTJs usually prefer to work in the area they know very well. Their typical career is related to science or engineering, but they can be found anywhere there is a need for intelligence, a restless mind, and insight (e.g. law, data analysis or some academic fields). INTJ personalities rarely seek managerial positions; if they do, this is probably because they need more power and freedom of action, not because they enjoy managing people.

Every personality type has many weak spots and INTJs are not an exception. There is one area where their brilliant mind often becomes completely useless and may even hinder their efforts: INTJs find it very difficult to handle romantic relationships, especially in their earliest stages. People with this personality type are more than capable of loving and taking care of the people close to them, but they are likely to be completely clueless when it comes to attracting a partner.

“You are not entitled to your opinion. You are entitled to your informed opinion. No one is entitled to be ignorant.

The main reason behind this is that INTJ personalities are both private and incredibly rational. They find it very difficult to understand the complex social rituals that are considered part of the dating game, especially in Western societies. Things like flirting or small talk are unnatural to them; furthermore, INTJs (especially females) tend to see typical attraction tactics (such as feigning disinterest) as incredibly stupid and irrational.

Ironically, INTJs are most likely to attract a partner when they stop looking for them; this is when their self-confidence starts shining again. There are few things that are more attractive than the unrelenting self-confidence that INTJs are known for.

***

INTJ strengths and weaknesses
INTJ strengths
High self-confidence. INTJ personalities rarely doubt themselves or care much about their perceived social roles, expectations, etc. Consequently, they are not afraid to voice their own opinions. This exudes confidence and reinforces the INTJ’s self-esteem even further.

Quick and versatile mind. INTJs are very good at improving their knowledge of (often diverse) topics and fields that interest them. People with this personality type take pleasure in tackling intellectual challenges, and their natural curiosity pushes them forward as well.

Jacks-of-all-trades. The most important strength of any INTJ is their mind. Other personality types pride themselves on being artistic, intuitive, convincing, athletic, etc. In contrast, INTJs excel at being able to analyze anything that life throws at them, uncovering the underlying methodology and then applying it in practice. Consequently, INTJ personalities are usually able to become what they want to become—be it an IT architect or a high-flying politician.

Independent and decisive. People with the INTJ personality type are ruthless when it comes to analyzing the usefulness of methods or ideas. They could not care less if that idea is popular or supported by an authority figure. If the INTJ believes that it does not make sense, only overwhelming rational arguments will convince them otherwise. This strength makes them efficient and impartial decision-makers, often at a very young age. INTJs also tend to be quite resistant to conflicts, usually remaining rational and calm in an emotionally charged situation.

Hard-working and determined. INTJ personalities can be very patient and dedicated if something excites or intrigues them. They will work hard to achieve their goals, often ignoring everything else. That being said, INTJs may also appear lazy in situations that do not require them to flex their mental muscles. For instance, they may take risks and not study that hard at school, knowing that in all likelihood, they will be able to tackle the tests anyway.
Imaginative and strategic. INTJs are very good strategic thinkers, often using this strength to devise multiple contingency plans in both professional and personal situations. They like to plan ahead and be prepared, imagining all the potential scenarios and consequences.

Honest and direct. People with this personality type hate playing social games and putting comfort or social expectations above honesty and facts. INTJs tend to see these activities as pointless and irrational, preferring inconvenient truth over a comforting lie.

Open-minded. INTJ personalities do not mind being proven wrong and enjoy being exposed to something they were not familiar with. They will embrace a competing theory if it makes more sense, regardless of the existing traditions or expectations. Not surprisingly, INTJs also tend to be fairly liberal in a social sense, believing that many social norms are outdated and unnecessarily restrictive.

INTJ weaknesses
Arrogant. There is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Some less mature INTJs may overestimate the importance of their knowledge or analytical skills, seeing most other people as irrational or intellectually inferior, often making their opinion known.

Perfectionists. INTJ personalities loathe inefficiency and imperfection, trying very hard to iron out all the flaws and analyze all possibilities. If left unchecked, this trait can easily become a weakness, slowing down their work quite significantly and frustrating people around the INTJ.

Likely to overanalyze everything. INTJs tend to believe that everything can be analyzed, even things that are not necessarily rational, e.g., human relationships. They may seek logical explanations and solutions in every situation, refusing to rely on improvisation or their own emotions.

Judgmental. INTJs reach their conclusions very quickly and stick to them. Even though people with this personality type tend to be open-minded, they have little patience for things they consider illogical, e.g., decisions based on feelings, irrational stubbornness, emotional outbursts, etc. An INTJ is likely to believe that someone who behaves in this way is either very immature or irrational; consequently, they will have little respect for them.

May be insensitive. INTJ personalities often pride themselves on being brutally honest and logical. However, while their statements may be rational and completely correct, they may not take into account another person’s emotional state, background, individual circumstances, etc. Consequently, the INTJ’s directness and honesty may easily hurt other people, thus becoming a major weakness in social situations.

Often clueless when it comes to romantic relationships. Many INTJs are likely to have difficulties dealing with anything that does not require logical reasoning, and this weakness is especially visible in interpersonal relationships. They may overanalyze everything, get frustrated trying to understand how the other person thinks, try to use a nearly scientific approach to dating, or just give up altogether.

Loathe highly structured environments. INTJ personalities do not respect rules or regulations just because they are there; they need to be confident that those restrictions make sense. Consequently, INTJs strongly dislike environments that are built on blind obedience, traditions, or respect for authority. They are likely to challenge the status quo and clash with people who prefer stability and safety.
Do you agree or disagree with these points? Please share your opinion in the comments!

***
INTJ personality and emotions
emotions-300x300.jpg

The INTJ personality type is perhaps the most enigmatic and controversial of all. Idealistic visionaries, unemotional robots, brilliant strategists, socially awkward geeks, fearsome debaters – these are just a few examples of the numerous labels that INTJs seem to be able to get.

There is usually little middle ground with strong expressed INTJ personalities – other types either find their quirkiness mysterious and attractive, or feel uncomfortable and get offended. The INTJs themselves are either proud of their traits and wear them like a badge, or see themselves as eccentrics and do their best to mimic the behavior of other people, trying to blend in. These attitudes soften as people grow and develop, but they tend to be very black-and-white at a younger age.

One of the most significant sticking points is the INTJs’ handling of emotions. Most INTJ personalities pride themselves in remaining rational and logical at all times, seeing most emotional displays as a sign of weakness and irrationality. As people with this personality type also tend to be very honest and straightforward, it is no surprise that they are often seen as insensitive. Some INTJs may go even further, claiming that they have no feelings or emotions at all, and that anyone who does is weak and irrational.

Ironically, INTJs can be just as emotional, if not more so, than any other personality type. Everything depends on how we define and handle emotions – for instance, there is a world of difference between breaking down in public and simply being thoughtful or amused. For most INTJs, public displays of emotion are outside of their comfort zone and consequently they will do their best to restrain themselves. However, this does not mean that INTJs have no feelings – rather, they tend to be good at channeling their emotions and using logic to keep them in check.

One of the reasons behind the cold exterior is that people with the INTJ personality type tend to be very proud of their knowledge and abilities – revealing emotions or even acknowledging that they exist may be a frightening prospect, especially if the INTJ in question is younger and secretly not as confident as they would like to be. In such cases, the INTJ will shield themselves with coldness and rational arguments, allowing their Thinking trait to act like a protective big brother to the weaker, less developed Feeling trait.

Second, logic and rationality play a dominant role in the INTJ decision-making process – feelings usually only come into play when their Thinking trait cannot come up with a rational solution to a difficult problem. To give an example, if an INTJ is upset, they will not need to tell everyone around them that they are upset – on the contrary, they will focus on identifying why they are upset and then coming up with a logical solution to their problems. Alternatively, they will channel that energy into something productive.

That being said, emotions will always influence the decisions that the INTJ is making, at least to some extent – it is impossible to separate the two, even though most people with the INTJ personality type try hard to make decisions and solve problems without involving their feelings. How we process is also how we feel, and how we feel is also how we process – this applies to INTJs as well. However, people with this personality type find it quite easy to deal with those emotions internally, without exposing them to the outside world, and this is why they may radiate that aura of logic and detachment.

So, to summarize – INTJ personalities can be very sensitive and have very deep feelings. Even though these emotions will be shielded from the public view by their Thinking trait and will (usually) not be the deciding factor in the INTJ decision-making process, this does not mean that INTJs should be seen as, or should aspire to be, cold-blooded and insensitive geniuses living by the mantra that emotions are for the weak. This is not the case and is not going to happen.
***
Some famous INTJs:
Vladimir Putin, President of Russia
Augustus Caesar, Roman emperor
Paul Krugman, famous American economist
Rudy Giuliani, former New York mayor
Donald Rumsfeld, former U.S. Secretary of Defense
Colin Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State
Lance Armstrong, bicyclist
Richard Gere, actor
Hannibal, military leader of Carthage
Arnold Schwarzenegger, actor and former California governor
Thomas Jefferson, former U.S. president
John F. Kennedy, former U.S. president
Woodrow Wilson, former U.S. president
“Walter White” (“Heisenberg”) from Breaking Bad
“Gandalf the Grey” from The Lord of the Rings
“Hannibal” and “Clarice Starling” from Silence of the Lambs
“Professor Moriarty,” Sherlock Holmes’ enemy
“Gregory House” from House M.D.
 

Cardinal

Chickministrator
_______________
INTJ, and that description was so spot on, it was scary. However, how in the world can anyone possibly know what Hannibal (Of Carthage) was.
 

Zahra

Veteran Member
INTJ all the way here --- understands now why class mates in HS voted me most likely to rule the world! Muhaaaahhaaaa!
 

Dennis Olson

Chief Curmudgeon
_______________
Your personality type: INTJ.

Breakdown of preferences: Mind - Introverted (10%), Energy - Intuitive (17%), Nature - Thinking (39%), Tactics - Judging (13%), Identity - Assertive (20%).
 

Flippper

Time Traveler
Interesting. I'm ISFJ. How did I end up here??? :lol:
ESTP here, I'm deep into the darkest Congo and nearly all alone on this forum. I think there are 2 others of my type (ISTP/ESTP-ARTISAN) here. And we are supposed to make up 40% of all personality types. It would seem my fellow Artisans have discovered the hive.
 

mudlogger

Veteran Member
Guilty, guilty, guilty!

In real life I recently met a woman JUST LIKE ME! She was the first in my 54 years. It was like talking to myself.
 

iboya

Veteran Member
ENFJ on both tests.
barack-obama-speech-300x200.jpg

Barack Obama
http://www.16personalities.com/enfj-personality

ENFJ personality Representing approximately 2 percent of all people, the ENFJ personality type tends to be very influential, often without making any conscious effort to increase their influence. As part of the Diplomats (NF) group, ENFJs are genuinely interested in other people and radiate authenticity, concern, and altruism. Not surprisingly, those who surround ENFJs usually find them very inspiring and likeable.

ENFJs are usually very charismatic and eloquent and find it natural and easy to communicate their ideas and opinions, especially in person. It does not really matter whether they are presenting cold facts or expressing raging emotions; the ENFJ will not be afraid to stand up and speak, regardless of the audience.

“Everything you do right now ripples outward and affects everyone. Your posture can shine your heart or transmit anxiety. Your breath can radiate love or muddy the room in depression. Your glance can awaken joy. Your words can inspire freedom. Your every act can open hearts and minds.

This is one of the reasons why ENFJs can be so convincing and mesmerizing when they speak: they instinctively know how to combine passion and rational arguments, drawing the audience’s attention and reaching every mind. People with this personality type can be great leaders, and they do not necessarily have to get into politics to make a difference. An ENFJ teacher or coach can have a strong positive effect on many people’s lives as well.

ENFJ personalities are very intuitive. They find it easy to sense other people’s motives and find connections between seemingly unrelated events. ENFJs also tend to be quite good at analyzing their own feelings and questioning them if necessary.

On the other hand, such intuitiveness and sensitivity can also cause significant difficulties for people with this personality type. They may be too altruistic and empathic, getting too involved in other people’s problems. They may then find it difficult to detach and stop worrying. In extreme cases, this can even affect the ENFJs’ perception of themselves.

ENFJs are optimistic idealists, often trusting other people more than they should—although this usually turns out to be a self-fulfilling prophecy. As already mentioned above, ENFJs can be very convincing and inspiring. People are drawn toward strong personalities, and the ENFJ’s charisma can often be a uniting and motivating factor.
 
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iboya

Veteran Member
I'm a clear INTP, which is essentially an INTJ without the ego and judgmentalism. I'm very proud of that fact.

http://www.16personalities.com/INTP-personality

Albert-Einstein-INTP2.png

Albert Einstein

INTP personality “Philosophers,” “architects,” “dreamy professors”… These epithets are most often used to describe the INTP personality type. Forming around 3% of the population, INTPs love theories and believe that everything can be analyzed and improved. They are not that concerned with the real world and practical things; from the INTP’s perspective, it is often less exciting than ideas and intellectual pursuits. People with this personality type have no difficulties noticing patterns where others cannot, which makes them brilliant theorists and analysts.

Accumulated knowledge is the most valued asset of any INTP. Imagine an immensely complicated clockwork that is constantly absorbing, processing and generating all kinds of theories—this is how the INTP mind works. People with the INTP personality type possess the most logically precise mind of all personality types. They can easily notice even the tiniest discrepancies between two statements, no matter how much time has passed in between. It is a bad idea to lie to an INTP. They may appear dreamy sometimes, but this is not because their mind is resting—quite the opposite.

INTPs are enthusiastic and impartial when it comes to dealing with problems; they drill through the details and then develop a unique approach and ultimately a viable solution. INTPs are usually very intelligent and insightful people, able to remain unbiased in any situation. They absolutely love new ideas and theories and would never miss an opportunity to discuss them with other people. However, this never-ending thinking process also makes them look somewhat pensive and detached as INTPs are perfectly able to conduct full-fledged debates in their own heads.

People with this personality type may also find it quite difficult to explain their thoughts to others, even when it becomes obvious that their theories are not easily graspable. INTPs may also move on to another topic before their coworkers or partners have figured out what the INTP wanted to say.

INTPs cannot stand routine work; they would much rather tackle a difficult theoretical problem. INTP personalities really have no limits when it comes to theoretical riddles. If there is no easy solution and the topic is interesting enough, an INTP can spend ages trying to come up with a solution.

INTP personalities are usually very shy and reluctant when it comes to meeting other people. However, INTPs can also be very friendly and confident when they interact with people they know well or talk about things that interest them. INTPs are flexible and relaxed in nearly all situations, except when their beliefs or logical conclusions are being criticized. In those cases, the INTP is likely to become very defensive and argue tirelessly.

Sharing many personality traits with other Thinking (T) types, INTPs do not really understand or value decisions based on feelings or subjective opinions. In their opinion, the only good solution is the logical solution—INTPs do not see a point in using emotional arguments. Such an approach preserves the “sanctity” of their intellectual method; however, this also makes it difficult for INTP personalities to understand other people’s feelings or satisfy their emotional needs.

“Whether the chicken crossed the road or the road crossed the chicken depends on your frame of reference.

Albert Einstein

Individuals with the INTP personality type are likely to be very open-minded and even eccentric. These traits, combined with their capacity for inventiveness and original thought, make up a very powerful mix. It is not surprising that INTPs are responsible for many scientific discoveries. An INTP is unlikely to care much about social expectations and the “usual” goals such as job security; however, they will do their best to find an environment where their creative genius and potential can be expressed.

One of the few bottlenecks that INTPs impose upon themselves is their restless fear of possible failure. No other personality type worries that much about missing a piece of the mental puzzle or overlooking some crucial fact that might lead to a better solution. Unlike their more confident INTJ or ENTJ cousins, INTPs could spend ages reflecting on their actions. Even when an INTP is arguing with someone, this should be taken with a grain of salt—they might as well be arguing with their own mind.
 

iboya

Veteran Member
ESTP here, I'm deep into the darkest Congo and nearly all alone on this forum. I think there are 2 others of my type (ISTP/ESTP-ARTISAN) here. And we are supposed to make up 40% of all personality types. It would seem my fellow Artisans have discovered the hive.

http://www.16personalities.com/ESTP-personality

Madonna-ESTP1-197x300.jpg



ESTP personality Forming around 4% of the population, people with the ESTP personality type are very social, spontaneous, and direct. Some may even see them as rude or reckless, but ESTPs truly love action and always dive right into the heart of the storm. ESTPs dislike theoretical debates or thinking about the future. They are interested only in the present moment and focus all their efforts on enjoying what is rather than thinking about what could be.

ESTPs would rather do something quickly than prepare a detailed action plan, figure out all its flaws, and—only then—act. They do not mind stepping back and fixing their mistakes, if necessary. People with this personality type also have an innate ability to pick up on other people’s thoughts and motives. Being extraordinarily perceptive, ESTPs can easily detect the slightest change in someone’s facial expression, clothing, behavior, etc. No other personality type has this mysterious ability.

People with the ESTP personality type also tend to see laws, rules, and obligations as recommendations or instructions rather than as unbreakable principles. If ESTPs believe that something must be done and the cause is just and worthy, they will go ahead and do it, despite what the law or social rules say. This is not meant to say that ESTPs are lawbreakers—they usually have a very clear understanding of good and evil. Rather, they tend to put personal values, opinions, and principles above what other people or the society thinks.

ESTPs enjoy drama, passion, and physical pleasures. However, people with this personality type should be aware that their passion may manifest itself in many different ways, with some of them being quite risky or unhealthy. For instance, many gamblers are ESTPs. ESTP personality traits may also push them toward inadvertently hurting other people. Because ESTPs are very direct and rely on facts and logic (the Thinking (T) trait) rather than emotions (the Feeling (F) trait), their words can easily hurt the more sensitive personality types.

“Better to live one year as a tiger than a hundred as a sheep.

Madonna

As ESTPs dislike theory and abstract thinking, they often have problems in school, especially in later years. People with this personality type see theoretical discussions as boring and pointless. In contrast, their energy and passion are virtually unlimited when it comes to activities they see as practical and exciting. ESTPs can be very inspiring and convincing. This makes them excellent sales representatives, consultants, and entrepreneurs. This personality type is truly very colorful. It is crucial that every ESTP recognizes their own talents, as well as strengths and weaknesses.
 

Hacker

Computer Hacking Pirate
barack-obama-speech-300x200.jpg

Barack Obama
http://www.16personalities.com/enfj-personality

ENFJ personality Representing approximately 2 percent of all people, the ENFJ personality type tends to be very influential, often without making any conscious effort to increase their influence. As part of the Diplomats (NF) group, ENFJs are genuinely interested in other people and radiate authenticity, concern, and altruism. Not surprisingly, those who surround ENFJs usually find them very inspiring and likeable.

ENFJs are usually very charismatic and eloquent and find it natural and easy to communicate their ideas and opinions, especially in person. It does not really matter whether they are presenting cold facts or expressing raging emotions; the ENFJ will not be afraid to stand up and speak, regardless of the audience.

“Everything you do right now ripples outward and affects everyone. Your posture can shine your heart or transmit anxiety. Your breath can radiate love or muddy the room in depression. Your glance can awaken joy. Your words can inspire freedom. Your every act can open hearts and minds.

This is one of the reasons why ENFJs can be so convincing and mesmerizing when they speak: they instinctively know how to combine passion and rational arguments, drawing the audience’s attention and reaching every mind. People with this personality type can be great leaders, and they do not necessarily have to get into politics to make a difference. An ENFJ teacher or coach can have a strong positive effect on many people’s lives as well.

ENFJ personalities are very intuitive. They find it easy to sense other people’s motives and find connections between seemingly unrelated events. ENFJs also tend to be quite good at analyzing their own feelings and questioning them if necessary.

On the other hand, such intuitiveness and sensitivity can also cause significant difficulties for people with this personality type. They may be too altruistic and empathic, getting too involved in other people’s problems. They may then find it difficult to detach and stop worrying. In extreme cases, this can even affect the ENFJs’ perception of themselves.

ENFJs are optimistic idealists, often trusting other people more than they should—although this usually turns out to be a self-fulfilling prophecy. As already mentioned above, ENFJs can be very convincing and inspiring. People are drawn toward strong personalities, and the ENFJ’s charisma can often be a uniting and motivating factor.

If you would like to learn more about the ENFJ personality type and its traits, download the ENFJ In-Depth Profile – a 60+ page guide covering a number of diverse topics. Otherwise, please keep reading:

And they compare my type to Obama ? How incredibly insulting !!!!

Frankly, I don't think Obama is an ENFJ - if for no other reason than that he doesn't care about people.
 

iboya

Veteran Member
Interesting. I'm ISFJ. How did I end up here??? :lol:

http://www.16personalities.com/ISFJ-personality

Kirsten-Dunst-ISFJ.jpg


ISFJ personality The ISFJ personality type is perhaps the most altruistic and supportive of all types. Forming around 12.5% of the population, ISFJs rarely sit idle—there is always a worthy cause awaiting their attention. Most personalities are quite willing to reciprocate when it comes to good deeds; however, ISFJs take that to a higher level, often going above and beyond what is actually expected of them. People belonging to this type thrive in areas that are both traditional [they are Sentinels (SJs), after all] and involve a lot of activities where their input could make a huge positive difference. Many ISFJs seek careers in the academic sector, medicine, social work, or counseling; their personality traits also shine in administrative or clerical roles, or even in somewhat unexpected fields such as interior design.

One of the hurdles that ISFJ personalities are likely to encounter in the professional environment is that it is quite difficult for an ISFJ to “advertise” their achievements. People with this personality type are prone to understating them, which leads to lack of recognition, missed promotions, and various misunderstandings. ISFJs should not shy away from revealing how much they have done; not only this would prevent stressful situations, but the ISFJ would become more confident in their abilities and personality traits. It is not sufficient to simply know that you have done a great job—ISFJs also need to feel appreciated in order to remain enthusiastic. The fact that this personality type tends to be less visible than others does not help in such situations either.

ISFJs should also pay more attention to their workload and not hesitate to voice their concerns if it becomes unbearable. ISFJs tend to overload themselves with work, but their kindness is abused just as often as it is respected. As a cynic would say, everyone is secretly an egoist, and the ISFJ personality is the perfect target for those who do not hesitate to use other people for their own gain. ISFJs are extraordinarily loyal, committed, and patient—they should make sure that these traits do not expose them to exploitation.

People with the ISFJ personality type often have a very good memory and exceptional imagination. These traits can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. For instance, an ISFJ can easily notice discrepancies in someone’s story when the person repeats it again after a long period of time; ISFJs also find it very easy to choose the right gifts for persons they know well; finally, they may have no difficulties whatsoever making and maintaining personal and professional connections simply because they remember so many details about other people’s lives and habits—a very unusual trait for someone who is Introverted (I).

We would like to expand on the last point a bit: even though most ISFJ personalities rarely have any difficulties fitting in and making new friends in the professional environment, they are unlikely to use those connections to advance to managerial roles. ISFJs function best when they work in a close-knit team, when there is no tension between the management and the employees. Some ISFJs even go so far as to see all their colleagues as semi-personal friends and behave accordingly. For instance, if an old colleague moves to another department, the ISFJ will definitely consider following their example.

People with this type are known for their meticulousness, patience, reliability, and analytical skills. This is quite an unusual combination given that this is a Feeling (F) type, but this is exactly what makes ISFJs so effective. They are unlikely to offer or embrace completely new and radical ideas or lead a team toward some big goal, but their determination and passion more than make up for it. ISFJs tend to be very traditional and can be expected to defend existing norms and procedures. However, they are not blinded by this and are generally open to change, provided that the new approach does not contradict their inner values and principles.

Despite their effectiveness in the workplace, ISFJs will always put their family first. They will embrace the idea that family members are the most important people in their environment and act accordingly, paying a lot of attention to their needs and desires, surprising them with gifts, and offering emotional or practical support when it is needed.

“Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.

Mother Teresa

That being said, ISFJ personalities should be aware of their tendency to overdo things, especially in the family environment. As ISFJs always try hard to exceed others’ expectations (especially when they are not sure what those expectations might be), their attention can be somewhat overbearing. Many personality types, especially more independent ones, are likely to get annoyed by this after a while. Furthermore, some personalities are naturally less sensitive compared with ISFJs, and their reaction to that care and attention may differ from what the ISFJ would expect. This should not be taken personally—every type is unique and what is pleasant for an ISFJ may not feel natural for someone else.
 

iboya

Veteran Member
And they compare my type to Obama ? How incredibly insulting !!!!

Frankly, I don't think Obama is an ENFJ - if for no other reason than that he doesn't care about people.

I was going to qualify my post with an apology
I'm sorry
Wait-this is better
Some famous ENFJs:
Barack Obama, U.S. president
David, King of Israel
Abraham Lincoln, former U.S. president
Ronald Reagan, former U.S. president
William Cullen Bryant, poet
Abraham Maslow, psychologist
Sean Connery, actor
Francois Mitterrand, former French president
Tommy Lee Jones, actor
Oprah Winfrey, talk show host
Michael Jordan, basketball player
Matthew McConaughey, actor
Ben Affleck, actor
John Cusack, actor
“Daenerys” from Game of Thrones
 

NoName

Veteran Member
So, over the last 4 years I have changed from ISTJ to INTJ...funny, must be the change in my meds :)
 

WalknTrot

Veteran Member
Yup, there's a TON of INTJ's here, including me.

I doubt that the typical INTJ would be pestering Dennis with butthurt PM's.

Fess up you weak, emotional types.....


;)
 

iboya

Veteran Member
Yup, there's a TON of INTJ's here, including me.

I doubt that the typical INTJ would be pestering Dennis with butthurt PM's.

Fess up you weak, emotional types.....


;)
Quite frankly I believe we NEED to correct any errors or inadequacies we see in others or their posts or their thought processes.
:smkd:
Now to work on my feeling side :hugs: to ALL
Did everyone get that straight now!!
;)
 

iboya

Veteran Member
So, over the last 4 years I have changed from ISTJ to INTJ...funny, must be the change in my meds :)

So you went from Dana Scully

Dana-Scully-ISTJ-197x300.jpg

to

Vladimir Putin
Vladimir-Putin-INTJ-300x187.jpg

Interesting

http://www.16personalities.com/ISTJ-personality

ISTJ personality The ISTJ personality type is likely to be the most popular one (around 13% of the population). “Only the facts, please” is their motto. ISTJ personalities respect facts greatly and tend to accumulate a lot of information in their own memory. One of the key contributing factors is their Observant (S) trait, which allows ISTJs to analyse the surroundings quite effortlessly.

Due to their straightforward approach, ISTJs may encounter difficulties when it becomes necessary to comprehend a competing theory or idea. However, people with this personality type are nearly unstoppable if they believe that a specific idea is valuable and can be implemented; they will consider it their duty to establish and maintain a smooth operation. As soon as the new procedure proves its usefulness (i.e., it becomes apparent that the new approach actually works), ISTJs will put in a lot of effort to enable its successful implementation, even at the expense of their own health.

ISTJs tend to be extremely thorough, always checking the facts and not assuming anything. ISTJs are also respected for their exceptional loyalty to their duty. Their accuracy, patience, and ability to concentrate make them ideal employees in many professions. Not surprisingly, people with this personality type gravitate toward traditional, hierarchical institutions—public service, law, military, etc.

ISTJ personalities spend an enormous amount of time and energy performing every task they see as important, especially if it contributes to the achievement of a specific goal. However, such a commitment also has a negative side: an ISTJ will refuse to budge and spend at least some of their time doing things that they do not see as meaningful or practical, e.g., some social rituals. ISTJ personalities prefer to do things alone, but they can also work as part of a team if necessary.

ISTJs enjoy being responsible for their actions and love the power that stems from this. They are usually jacks-of-all-trades, which can potentially lead to many significant achievements in diverse areas. ISTJs tend to be bright, logical, and wise individuals, characterized by their desire to seek a secure and stable life.

Like other Introverted (I) and Thinking (T) personalities, ISTJs are often (mistakenly) seen as indifferent and cold. Of course, it is understandably difficult for an ISTJ to reveal their emotions or express affection, but that does not mean that they have no feelings or are insensitive.

ISTJs are easily irritated by other people’s shortcomings. They see their own promises as sacred and cannot understand how someone could consciously fail to meet their obligations. This can be a significant disadvantage at times, as some people can abuse the ISTJ’s strong sense of duty by overloading them with work.

“My observation is that whenever one person is found adequate to the discharge of a duty… it is worse executed by two persons, and scarcely done at all if three or more are employed therein.

George Washington

ISTJ personalities tend to keep their opinions to themselves unless someone asks them directly. People with this personality type are very direct; for them, the truth is always far more important than sensitivity. This ruthless judgment is irreplaceable in refereeing or legal work. Where other people might waver, the ISTJ will make the difficult decision while ignoring the emotional background.

ISTJs respect traditions and do their best to adhere to the existing rules and guidelines. In some cases, this trait can be so strong that the ISTJ will not break the rules, even when the consequences for breaking them pale in comparison to what would happen if those rules were followed.

ISTJs are not particularly good at listening to their own (and especially other people’s) feelings. Consequently, they may face difficulties when it is necessary to understand other people’s emotional needs. On the other hand, ISTJs rarely have any difficulties coping with emotionally charged situations. They can always keep a cool head and act rationally.

Some famous ISTJs:
George Washington, former U.S. president
Andrew Johnson, former U.S. president
Benjamin Harrison, former U.S. president
Herbert Hoover, former U.S. president
George H.W. Bush, former U.S. president
Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany
Natalie Portman, actress
“Hermione Granger” from Harry Potter series
“Adrian Monk” from Monk
“Dana Scully” from X-Files
 

shinerbock

Innocent Bystander
Some famous INTJs:

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia
Augustus Caesar, Roman emperor
Paul Krugman, famous American economist
Rudy Giuliani, former New York mayor
Donald Rumsfeld, former U.S. Secretary of Defense
Colin Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State
Lance Armstrong, bicyclist
Richard Gere, actor
Hannibal, military leader of Carthage
Arnold Schwarzenegger, actor and former California governor
Thomas Jefferson, former U.S. president
John F. Kennedy, former U.S. president
Woodrow Wilson, former U.S. president
“Walter White” (“Heisenberg”) from Breaking Bad
“Gandalf the Grey” from The Lord of the Rings
“Hannibal” and “Clarice Starling” from Silence of the Lambs
“Professor Moriarty,” Sherlock Holmes’ enemy
“Gregory House” from House M.D.

Like the thousand lawyers on the ocean floor, this list is a good start. You can add Thomas Friedman (NYT Op-Ed contributor, economist and of late geopolitical expert on nearly everything) and perhaps 50% or more of the guests on The Charlie Rose Show @ PBS. A gaggle of self-righteous, unapologetic world thinkers which includes a few names already listed above.
 

Creeper

Creeper
And I am another quintessential INTJ.

Interesting that a group that is no more than 2% of the population has gravitated here.
 

iboya

Veteran Member
Like the thousand lawyers on the ocean floor, this list is a good start. You can add Thomas Friedman (NYT Op-Ed contributor, economist and of late geopolitical expert on nearly everything) and perhaps 50% or more of the guests on The Charlie Rose Show @ PBS. A gaggle of self-righteous, unapologetic world thinkers which includes a few names already listed above.

and will you be joining the group this afternoon?
:p
:D
 

shinerbock

Innocent Bystander
and will you be joining the group this afternoon?
:p
:D

Cute :bhrt: - judgmental in this case I suppose. :groucho: But seriously, I do strive for balance and I'm assuming that there's a huge middle ground between the group(s) discussed.

Or were you referring to the group on the ocean floor? :confused:
 

Kathy in FL

Administrator
_______________
Well ... ISTJ. Or maybe I should just say ROFL!!

Some famous ISTJs:
George Washington, former U.S. president
Andrew Johnson, former U.S. president
Benjamin Harrison, former U.S. president
Herbert Hoover, former U.S. president
George H.W. Bush, former U.S. president
Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany
Natalie Portman, actress
“Hermione Granger” from Harry Potter series
“Adrian Monk” from Monk
“Dana Scully” from X-Files

I don't know whether to be insulted or flattered. LOL
 

iboya

Veteran Member
Cute :bhrt: - judgmental in this case I suppose. :groucho: But seriously, I do strive for balance and I'm assuming that there's a huge middle ground between the group(s) discussed.

Or were you referring to the group on the ocean floor? :confused:
but, but, but I meant no offense, really I was just making an observation, analyzing or...ok I was judging your judgementalism but of course I am not being judgemental or harsh myself and clearly there is no military buildup on the borders of the Ukraine.
Vladimir-Putin-INTJ-300x187.jpg
 

Dennis Olson

Chief Curmudgeon
_______________
Evidently the entire 2% of the US population who are INTJ's are on TB. No wonder everyone gets so butt-hurt all the time....


:bhrt:
 
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