INTJs are independent, analytical individuals who process data internally and logically approach situations. Their primary function is Introverted Intuition with an auxiliary of Extraverted Thinking; both contribute to their constant search for new understandings and solutions based on inspiration. This amalgamation of functions enables them to be highly self-motivated in the pursuit of unusual insights into life’s mysteries. INTJs are unparalleled creators of ideas, and continually strive to make their thoughts a reality. Their own standards for excellence far exceed those set for others; some may even deem them as perfectionists! Additionally, INTJs possess an uncanny capability in refining anything that especially interests them (Heiss “INTJ”).
INTJ Traits
- Able to absorb extremely complex theoretical and complex material
- Driven to create order and structure from theoretical abstractions
- Supreme strategists
- Future-oriented
- See the global, “big picture”
- Strong insights and intuitions, which they trust implicitly
- Value their own opinions over others
- Love difficult theoretical challenges
- Bored when dealing with mundane routine
- Value knowledge and efficiency
- Have no patience with inefficiency and confusion
- Have very high standards for performance, which they apply to themselves most
strongly - Reserved and detached from others
- Calm, collected and analytical
- Extremely logical and rational
- Original and independent
- Natural leaders, but will follow those they can fully support
- Creative, ingenious, innovative, and resourceful
- Work best alone, and prefer to work alone
INTJ Strengths & Weakness
INTJs are often characterized by their pragmatism as well as their knack for building theoretical systems. They prioritize intelligence, knowledge and competence above all else, preferring to absorb the subject at hand rather than memorize routes. According to BSM Consulting, INTJs learn best when they can develop a personal system of learning that is optimized to their needs.
Strengths
Enjoys theoretical and abstract concepts
High expectations
Good at listening
Takes criticism well
Self-confident and hard-working
Weakness
Can be overly analytical and judgmental
Very perfectionistic
Dislikes talking about emotions
Sometimes seems callous or insensitive
INTJ Career Paths
INTJs are highly-driven and take pride in their ambition to learn whatever sparks their interest. With strong commitment and lofty expectations, they continuously push themselves to become experts in the fields that energize them most. With their propensity for analytical and logical thinking, INTJs excel at gleaning insights from external data. By applying their renowned capacity to analyze information, people with this personality type are able to form valuable new perspectives on the world around them.
- Scientist
- Engineer
- Computer Scientist
- Professor / Teacher
- Curator
- Corporate Strategist
- Psychologist
- Researcher
- Entrepreneur
- Medical Doctor
- Philosopher
- Book Editor
Dealing With INTJ's
Friendships: Intellectual, independent and private individuals that identify as INTJs often find it difficult to form connections with their peers. This is due in part to the logical approach such people take when looking ahead; believing potential friendships may not lead anywhere long term, they are apt to shy away from getting close with others.
Parenting: INTJ parents may not be as affectionate and outward in their displays of empathy, however they are highly attentive and reflective. These parents expect much from their children while also offering them a platform to think through decisions independently and logically. They strive for self-directed critical thinking in which problems can be solved without the need of assistance or guidance – gearing kids towards success even before adulthood is reached!
Relationships: Developing a romantic bond with an INTJ can be tricky, but if your partner has this personality type it is essential to understand that security and appreciation are key. Demonstrate that you are devoted to your INTJ beloved without pressuring them into wearing their emotions on their sleeve. This will help build trust in the relationship and encourage a more meaningful connection between both of you.
Working with INTJ's
- Do be direct with the INTJ and expect the truth from them.
- Do offer constructive feedback, INTJs love to improve ideas.
- Do not express an opinion unless you are ready to back it up with sound evidence.
- Do not engage the INTJ in small talk and repetition of statements.
- Do ask for clarification of ideas.
Famous people with INTJ
Famous INTJs include
- Hillary Clinton
- Al Gore
- Jane Austen
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg
- Bill Gates
- Dwight Eisenhower
- Alan Greenspan
- Ulysses S. Grant
- Stephen Hawking
- John Maynard Keynes
- Ayn Rand
- Isaac Asimov
- Lewis Carroll
- Cormac McCarthy
- Sir Isaac Newton.