Tag: Cognitive functions

Mechanic (ISTP) – Type Description

ISTP is one of the 16 personality types defined by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), characterized by introversion, sensing, thinking, and perception. ISTPs, also called the “mechanics”, are practical thinkers, valuing their freedom and autonomy. They are known for their insatiable curiosity and exploratory nature, and enjoy moving from project to project. They are fascinated by how things work and enjoy taking things apart and putting them back together again, whether it’s a machine, a computer, or sometimes even a relationship.

ISTPs value direct communication and prefer to cut through any unnecessary pleasantries to get to the heart of the matter. They are quick thinkers who excel in crisis situations by staying calm and composed in the face of adversity. Their ability to find humor in challenging situations can help to diffuse tension and create a more relaxed work environment. They are able to handle whatever life throws their way with a practical, no-nonsense attitude and are often seen as problem-solvers, coming up with creative and unconventional solutions to challenges that others may find overwhelming.

Cognitive Functions of ISTPs:

To gain insight into the characteristics of ISTP personalities, it is helpful to understand the dominant and auxiliary cognitive functions that drive them. According to the MBTI system, each personality type has a set of cognitive functions that they use most frequently, which leads to consistent patterns and characteristics. For ISTPs, 

Dominant Ti: An Introverted Thinking (Ti) function allows individuals to analyze and process the world around them internally through logical and objective thinking. These individuals use their naturally technical mind to identify the inner workings and mechanics of systems. They tend to look at the principles, underlying factors and their context rather than just the surface level of things.

ISTPs tend to use their Ti function to rely on their own logic and analysis rather than external sources of information. This makes them very skilled at identifying patterns and the root causes of problems. In social situations, ISTPs use their Ti to analyze people and understand their motivations and thought processes. This can help them develop a better understanding of how to interact with others, as well as make more informed decisions about who they choose to spend time with.

Auxiliary Se: Extraverted Sensing (Se) focuses on the external world and immediate physical experiences. This function is concerned with taking in sensory information from the environment, focusing on the present moment, and being aware of concrete details. People who have an auxiliary Se are often energetic and action-oriented, and have the ability to quickly respond to changing circumstances.

Their auxiliary Se function complements the dominant Ti function by providing them with the sensory data they need to make logical decisions. Ti allows ISTPs to analyze and understand this information, while Se helps them to gather it in the first place. This combination of functions can make ISTPs very effective problem solvers who are able to quickly gather and analyze information to make decisions.

Due to ISTPs’ focus on these dominant and auxiliary functions, their Intuition and Feeling functions are less developed, which can lead to a lack of intuitive or abstract thinking (intuition), understanding and expressing emotions, empathizing with others, and understanding the impact of their decisions on others (feeling). 

Strengths

Like all personality types, ISTPs also have their own unique set of strengths, some of which are as follows.

  • Practical problem-solving and hands-on skills: ISTPs are skilled at using their dominant Ti function to analyze and solve practical problems. They are able to identify patterns and root causes of problems, making them effective at finding solutions. They are often skilled with their hands and enjoy working on practical projects. They have a knack for understanding how things work and are able to troubleshoot and fix problems.
  • Adaptability and spontaneity: ISTPs are able to quickly adapt to changes in their environment due to their auxiliary Se function. They are able to gather sensory information from their surroundings and take action accordingly, making them flexible and adaptable.
  • Confidence and calmness: ISTPs tend to have a confident and relaxed demeanor, which can be reassuring to those around them. They are often able to stay level-headed and composed in stressful situations, making them effective problem-solvers and leaders.
  • Resilience to criticism: ISTPs are generally not threatened by criticism and are able to handle it well. They tend to view criticism as an opportunity to learn and improve, rather than taking it personally.
  • Optimism and positivity: ISTPs often have an optimistic and light-hearted attitude, which can make them enjoyable to be around. They are able to find humor in difficult situations and can be uplifting to those around them.

Weaknesses

Some potential weaknesses of ISTPs may include:

  • Resistance to commitment: ISTPs may have difficulty setting and achieving long-term goals, as they tend to live in the present moment and enjoy exploring new opportunities as they arise. They also resist making long-term commitments in their personal or professional lives, as they prefer to keep their options open and avoid feeling trapped or restricted. 
  • Blunt and insensitive communication: ISTPs may struggle with tactful communication and can come across as blunt or insensitive. They may prioritize logic over emotions, leading them to dismiss or downplay the feelings of others.
  • Impulsiveness and risk-taking: ISTPs may become bored or restless in situations that lack excitement or novelty. This often leads them to engage in risky behaviors just for the fun of it and make impulsive decisions. While this can lead to exciting experiences, it may also lead to negative consequences if not properly balanced with their Ti function.
  • Low tolerance for boredom: ISTPs are known to have a low tolerance for boredom and may quickly lose interest in tasks or activities that they perceive as mundane or repetitive. They may struggle with maintaining routines or following strict procedures, which can be challenging in certain work or academic settings.

Career choice

ISTPs are known for their practicality, independence, and problem-solving skills. They are often drawn to careers that allow them to work with their hands, see how different pieces of machines, systems, as well as information and facts fit together, and solve real-world problems. Here are some career options that may be a good fit for ISTPs:

  • Skilled Trades: ISTPs are often drawn to careers in skilled trades, such as carpentry, welding, or plumbing. They enjoy working with their hands and finding practical solutions to problems.
  • Engineering: ISTPs have a natural talent for understanding how things work and may excel in engineering fields. They may enjoy careers in architectural, mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering.
  • IT and Technology: ISTPs are often tech-savvy and enjoy exploring new technology. They may excel in careers as software developers, network administrators, or computer technicians.
  • Emergency Services: ISTPs can think on their feet, come up with quick solutions, and thrive in high-pressure situations. They may be well-suited for careers in emergency services such as firefighting or law enforcement.
  • Athletics: ISTPs have a natural athleticism and may excel in careers in sports such as professional athlete, personal trainer, or coach.

ISTPs may struggle in careers that require them to focus on routine tasks, such as data entry or administrative work. They may also find careers that require extensive interpersonal interactions or emotional labor, such as counseling or social work, to be challenging.

Workplace

ISTPs are known to be loyal and productive employees who use their unique perspective and logic to solve hands-on problems at work. They rely on their dominant Ti to think outside the box and find solutions that are not just based on pre-made criteria or protocol. While they may have a laid-back approach to work, ISTPs are still reliable and get things done. However, their spontaneous nature means they can quickly become bored and move on to new projects if they feel they have explored everything there is to explore, or if their boss imposes unnecessary guidelines or deadlines.

ISTPs’ curiosity and desire to explore can also lead them to interfere in other people’s work matters. Although this can be helpful in some situations, it may also be perceived as annoying by colleagues. They also have a tendency to be “cold” and blunt in their communication due to their less developed Feeling function. Despite this, they are generally well-liked in the workplace due to their acceptance of individual differences in opinions and their sense of humor, which can diffuse stressful situations and create a positive atmosphere.

As managers, ISTPs are deliberate in their choice of employees and strive to create a relaxed work environment, giving their employees the autonomy to make their own decisions without micromanaging them. They treat their employees fairly and foster a supportive workplace culture. 

Relationships

People with the ISTP personality type are known for their exciting, calm, and fun-loving nature, making them an exciting partner to be with. They are passionate and sensual, often looking to explore shared interests and hobbies with their partners. Despite their strong feelings for their partners, ISTPs can sometimes struggle to open up emotionally, so they often show their love through physical touch and acts of service, like helping around the house or doing practical things to make their partner’s life easier. 

The present moment is where they thrive, and they generally do not make commitments beyond the immediate foreseeable future. Any attempts by their partners to change them or impose obligations on them can quickly make ISTPs lose interest in the relationship. For ISTPs, their sense of independence is paramount, and they need to feel free to live in the moment without any additional pressures. However, when they truly care about someone, ISTPs will do their part on a daily basis to keep the relationship strong and healthy. They go to great lengths to show their loyalty and commitment to their partners.

ISTP parents tend to be hands-off and let their children explore the world on their own, often encouraging their children to take risks and learn from their experiences. ISTP parents enjoy sharing physical activities with their children, but they struggle with emotional bonding. They may rely on their partner or make a conscious effort to provide emotional support.

In conclusion, the ISTP personality type is a unique and admirable blend of practicality, independence, and curiosity. They are analytical and adaptable problem-solvers who excel under pressure and in hands-on activities. Their spontaneity and love for physical activities make them exciting and fun-loving individuals, always ready for a new adventure. ISTPs are straightforward and action-oriented, with a remarkable ability to make quick, sound decisions. Their logical minds, adventurous spirit, and ability to seize the moment make them valuable contributors to any setting. 

Architect (INTP) – Type Description

INTP is one of the 16 Myers & Briggs personality types, characterized by introversion, intuition, thinking, and perception. INTPs, also known as “architects”, are known for their intellectual curiosity, open-mindedness, and willingness to explore different possibilities. They are quiet and private individuals, who rely on principles and logical reasoning to understand their thoughts and ideas, and pursue knowledge. They enjoy engaging in intellectual conversations and may even get into arguments with others just for the sake of it.

INTPs are often perfectionists and are driven by the desire for personal competence. They have an innate ability to break down complex situations and come up with practical and innovative solutions with precision and accuracy. They have an optimistic outlook and a resourceful attitude, and are able to turn their ideas into reality with their problem-solving skills. However, sometimes their ideas can be so complex that they may have trouble communicating them to others. INTPs are drawn to logical systems and are often interested in science, mathematics, and technology.

Cognitive Functions of INTPs:

To gain insight into the characteristics of INTP personalities, it is helpful to understand the dominant and auxiliary cognitive functions that drive them. According to the MBTI system, each personality type has a set of cognitive functions that they use most frequently, which leads to consistent patterns and characteristics. For INTPs, 

Dominant Ti: An Introverted Thinking (Ti) function allows individuals to analyze and process the world around them internally through logical and objective thinking. These individuals use their naturally technical mind to identify the inner workings and mechanics of systems. Ti allows this type to disregard feeling and sensation to fully immerse in the governing logical frameworks and devise a way to gain leverage based on this understanding. They enjoy devising ingenious solutions to interesting & challenging problems.

Auxiliary Ne: Extraverted Intuition (Ne) allows an individual to generate new ideas, explore possibilities, and see connections between seemingly unrelated things. This function is always looking for ways to bring new elements into a situation, to create new patterns, to relate one thing to another in a new way. 

For introverted thinkers to be productive, they must have a strong auxiliary cognitive function to provide perception and support for their thinking. Auxiliary Ne allows INTPs to consider possibilities and potential outcomes that may not have been immediately apparent through logical thinking alone. INTPs first use their dominant function, Introverted Thinking (Ti), to understand the logical structure of a situation. Then, they use their auxiliary function, Extraverted Intuition (Ne), to consider the potential impacts and outcomes of that situation in the real world, which makes them appear more rational and logical.

Strengths

Like all personality types, INFPs have a combination of strengths and weaknesses. Some of strengths of INTPs include:

  • Creative problem-solving: INTPs are logical and analytical thinkers, which makes them great problem-solvers. Their dominant Ti helps them methodically assess a situation and come up with creative solutions to problems. They have an instinctive feel for what will work and what won’t, hence, they are often good at anticipating potential problems and being prepared for them.
  • Independence and perseverance: INTPs prefer to work independently and don’t need much supervision. Their strong thinking function equips them with mental resources required for completing tasks without being micromanaged. INTPs are also very dedicated and focused, able to concentrate better than most types because they limit their search to only what is relevant to the issue at hand.
  • Intellectual insights: INTPs are probably the most intellectually profound of all the types. Their dominant Ti gives them intellectual curiosity and creative brilliance, while their auxiliary Ne brings a deeper insight and understanding of situations that cannot be reached by thinking alone. With both of these qualities combined, INTPs are able to think in extremely complex ways.
  • Objectivity: INTPs are committed to seeking truth and objectivity. They strive to eliminate errors and inconsistencies, without being swayed by other people’s ideas. This allows for some truly profound contribution in systems and theories that can be felt a long time after their lifetimes.

Weaknesses

INTPs may have some potential weaknesses that could impact their personal life, relationships, as well as their performance in their workplace. These weaknesses may include the following.

  • Neglecting routine and mundane tasks: Just like other Ne-dominant types, INTPs are weak with sensory and practical details,being so absorbed in their thoughts and ideas that they neglect routine matters such as paying bills, meeting deadlines etc. This can also result in them not conforming to basic societal or workplace expectations which they may think as trivial or boring.
  • Difficulty with reading and using emotions: INTPs may struggle with understanding and expressing their emotions, as well as of others, mainly due to Feeling being their inferior function. They also avoid engaging in small talk and may come across as disinterested or aloof. This can make them appear unapproachable in social situations, and they may have trouble building and maintaining relationships, both personally and professionally. 
  • Perfectionism: INTPs’ perfectionism can lead to high standards and a drive for excellence, but it can also hold them back and prevent them from taking action. Their Ti sometimes pushes them to over-analyze every possible solution while trying to find the perfect one. They become obsessed with getting everything “just right”, and this significantly hinders progress in their endeavors
  • Intellectual Pride: INTPs base their self-image on being ingenious, autonomous, and resolute. However, their pride in their own ingenuity can sometimes generate hostility and defensive responses from others. They may also be a bit snobbish at times, showing impatience with others who are less endowed with intellectual ability or less driven.

Career choice

It is important for INTPs to choose a career that aligns with their interests and allows them to use their strengths and skills. They may also benefit from careers that allow them to work independently and have the freedom to think creatively and come up with new solutions to problems.

  • Scientists and engineers: INTPs may enjoy careers in scientific research, where they can use their logical thinking skills to understand complex systems and processes. They may also use their creativity and ability to generate new ideas, owing to their auxiliary Ne, to come up with innovative hypotheses and projects. INTPs are naturally drawn to technology, so a career in innovative fields like computer engineering is a great fit too. 
  • System Architects and designers: INTPs are interested in understanding the patterns and structures of systems in relation to their immediate context. Their Ti helps them piece individual pieces together to envision how a complex system would work, which may lead them to careers related to architecture or design.
  • Musicians:  INTPs do not restrict their analytical thinking and intuitive skills to science and engineering fields only; they also make excellent musicians. Many INTP musicians say that they can actually “hear” the music in their mind before they have even composed a song. They may use their highly developed analytical and intuitive skills to identify the elements of a song that would make it effective, and then figure out ways to improve or enhance those elements. 
  • Entrepreneurs and business managers: INTPs have a passion for ideas and can excel in a business career by leveraging their analytical instincts and innovative spirit. Their intuition, coupled with their ambition, can drive them to success in the business world.

Some careers that may not be the best fit for INTPs include those that involve a lot of social interaction, public speaking, and emotional intelligence, as they tend to be more logical, reserved and introverted. Some examples include sales, customer service, marketing, and human resources.

Relationships

INTPs approach relationships in a rational and calm manner. They value independence in their relationships, and appreciate when their partner gives them the space they need to pursue their own interests and goals and would be more than happy to do the same for their partners. 

INTPs enjoy engaging in intellectual and meaningful conversations with their partner, but may struggle with understanding and expressing emotional needs. They are even-tempered and easy to get along with, but have a tendency to be preoccupied with their own ideas, leading them to forget important dates or events in their relationships, which can become a source of conflict. With maturity and self-awareness, INTPs can learn to balance their logical and emotional sides in their relationships, and act with consideration while showing emotional needs and appreciation more skillfully.

As parents, INTPs do not impose their own expectations on their children, and treat each child as a rational individual with their own rights and privileges. They encourage their children to take responsibility for their own lives and to make their own decisions. 

In conclusion, INTPs are individuals who are not just curious, but are driven to uncover the wisdom of the world and share it with others. They possess a unique blend of analytical and logical thinking paired with an innate drive to uncover the deeper truths and principles of the world around them. Independent and self-motivated, INTPs are driven to push beyond the surface level of understanding, bring next-level performance and innovation to the workplace or even mankind with their ingenuity!

Advocate (INFJ) – Type Description

INFJ is one of the 16 Myers-Briggs personality types, characterized by introversion, intuition, feeling, and judging. People with this type are known for their creativity, insight, and idealism, and are often described as “the Counselor” or “the advocate”. INFJs make up approximately 1-2% of the population. INFJs are sensitive, compassionate, and highly attuned to the emotions of others, making them excellent counselors and confidantes. They are often seen as the “mystical” types, who are deeply in tune with the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of life.

INFJs are deep thinkers, and are often seen as wise beyond their years. They are also known for their ability to see the big picture and to develop meaningful long-term plans and goals. Despite their introverted nature, they are highly skilled at reading people and situations, and they are able to use this insight to bring about positive change. INFJs are idealistic individuals and are able to see potential in situations that others may not be able to see. 

Cognitive Functions of INFJs:

To gain insight into the characteristics of INFJ personalities, it is helpful to understand the dominant and auxiliary cognitive functions that drive them. According to the MBTI system, each personality type has a set of cognitive functions that they use most frequently, which leads to consistent patterns and characteristics. For INFJs, 

Dominant Ni: People with a dominant Introverted Intuition (Ni) tend to be highly intuitive and imaginative. They are known for their ability to see patterns and connections that others may not, and they often have a strong sense of the future and the potential outcomes of different actions. They may also have a tendency to get lost in their own thoughts and ideas and may need time alone to reflect and process information. 

Their dominant Ni is the source of many of INFJs’ greatest gifts. This function allows them to delve into psychological areas that others may avoid. It gives them flashes of inspiration, imagination, originality, access to their unconscious mind, ingenuity, and visions of what could be. 

Auxiliary Fe: People with an auxiliary Extraverted Feeling (Fe) function tend to be empathetic and sensitive to the needs and emotions of others. They are skilled at interpreting and responding to social cues, but may struggle with confrontation or expressing their own needs. They pay attention to the impact their actions and words have on others and may seek to create a sense of connection and community.

This function makes INFJs deeply concerned with the well-being and feelings of others, which can make them appear extraverted.

INFJs’ dominant Ni provides them insight to see reality as subjective and relative, giving them the ability to acknowledge someone’s viewpoint as valid without requiring logical justification or factual accuracy. This, paired with their Fe makes INFJs highly receptive listeners and gives them the ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level.

However, due to these dominant functions, INFJs may have less conscious energy to develop their weaker functions in Thinking and Sensing. This can lead to certain challenges in areas such as logical analysis, objective decision making (Thinking), staying in the present moment or picking up & adapting to sensory information in their environment (Sensing). 

Strengths

Like all personality types, INFJs have a combination of strengths and weaknesses. Some of strengths of INFJs include: 

  • Idealism: INFJs are often very idealistic and have a strong sense of purpose. They are deeply committed to living in accordance with their values and are highly motivated to work towards a greater cause to make the world a better place. 
  • Empathy: Their auxiliary Fe allows them to be empathetic and sensitive to the feelings and emotions of others. They are great at understanding others’ needs and motivations, which makes them good team players and helps them build strong relationships with colleagues. 
  • Conflict resolution: INFJs are skilled at facilitating harmony and consensus in groups and excel at resolving conflicts, owing to their auxiliary Fe. They are also excellent negotiators, and are great at finding common ground with different parties. 
  • Problem-solving: INFJs have the ability to see the big picture, develop long-term goals, and anticipate potential challenges or limitations in their plans, thanks to their dominant Ni. This intuitive insight into situations makes them skilled at identifying and solving complex problems.

Weaknesses

Some weaknesses of INFJs include:

  • Sensitivity and struggle with confrontation: INFJs’ sensitivity to the emotions of others and desire to maintain harmony, due to their auxiliary Fe, can make them easily overwhelmed by negative emotions, unable to confront others or express their own needs and boundaries, affecting their relationships and work performance. 
  • Perfectionism: INFJs may struggle with perfectionism due to their tendency to hold themselves and others to high standards. This can lead to overthinking and being overly critical, as they ruminate on ways to improve perceived flaws. Their dominant Ni may cause them to get lost in thought patterns and grand visions, rather than taking a realistic approach. 
  • Struggle with expressing themselves: INFJs may have difficulty expressing themselves in a straightforward way, which makes it difficult for them to assert themselves in group situations. This may be due to their dominant Ni, which encourages them to process information internally and can make it difficult for them to communicate their insights in a way that others can easily understand.
  • Knowing others but not themselves: INFJs excel at understanding others but may struggle with understanding and expressing their own emotions. This can lead them to prioritize the needs of others over their own and to sometimes say or do things that others want to hear, even if they do not align with their true emotions.

Career choice

INFJs excel in abstract and symbolic concepts and can pursue careers in research-driven fields, but they seek work with both intellectual challenge and meaning. They are drawn to careers that have a positive impact on the world, such as:

  • Counselor or therapist: INFJs excel as therapists or psychologists, as their Fe gives them the unique ability to connect with their patients’ inner lives and they can use their personal warmth, insight, and interpretive skills to help their patients. 
  • Writer or journalist: INFJs’ creativity and ability to see the deeper meaning or purpose behind events and experiences may make them well-suited to careers in writing or journalism. They may excel in roles where they can express their ideas and insights through the written word.
  • Educator: INFJs may also enjoy careers in education, where they can inspire and guide others to reach their full potential. They excel in roles where they can connect with their students and help them understand complex concepts.
  • Nonprofit or humanitarian work: INFJs’ idealism and desire to make a positive impact on the world may lead them to careers in the nonprofit or humanitarian sector. 
  • Artist: INFJs make great artists, as their creativity and originality allow them to express themselves and share their vision with others. This is often due to their dominant Ni which allows them to see patterns, visions, and symbolism in things. INFJs may struggle to communicate these ideas verbally, and instead resort to expressing themselves through abstract artwork that holds deeper symbolic meaning.

INFJs are not suited for careers in politics, sales, or marketing due to their introverted nature and unwillingness to compromise on their beliefs, which conflicts with the need for social interaction and stretching the truth in such careers. 

Workplace

INFJs have a natural ability to work well with others. They enjoy helping people with their problems in the workplace, value staff harmony and strive to create a pleasant work environment. 

INFJs’ need for innovation and alternative perspectives (due to their dominant Ni) combined with their ability to form strong connections with people (due to their auxiliary Fe), may also often lead them to positions of authority. They are appreciated for their ability to listen and consider the feelings and values of the group, and as a result, they may be elected to serve on boards and committees by others, even if they do not actively seek out leadership roles.

INFJs are known for their strong commitment to integrity in their work. Their inner vision and conviction for what is best for the greater good earns them respect and honor from others. Due to their natural inclination towards harmony, they often try to persuade others of the validity of their points to avoid conflict. However, when subjected to hostile working conditions or constant criticism, INFJs expend a lot of energy trying to bring everyone on the same page. As a result, INFJs may become exhausted, and struggle to maintain their effectiveness in the workplace.

INFJs, being perfectionists, may struggle to balance their career demands with the needs of their families. If their jobs involve working closely with others in personal development, such as teaching or counseling, they can become so wrapped up in the needs of their students or clients that they neglect the needs of their loved ones. They may need to learn how to prioritize and set boundaries in order to ensure that their loved ones are given the time and attention they need.

Relationships

INFJs seek more than just a life partner in their relationships – they want a “soul partner” with whom they can connect on a deep, spiritual level. They value intimacy and honesty in their relationships and want to be able to share their complex inner lives and communicate openly about their feelings, causes, fantasies, and ethical dilemmas. Their auxiliary Fe makes them the master of intimacy. It gives them a strong ability to understand and relate to the thoughts and feelings of others, which allows them to completely take on another person’s mental state. This makes their partners feel completely understood and accepted, and allows INFJs to build close, loving relationships naturally. 

However, INFJs may often struggle with emotional dependence in their relationships. While they are often sensitive and caring, they may become resentful if their partners become too reliant on them for emotional support and validation. They may feel pressure to provide their partners with the ideal love, understanding, and acceptance that they desire. This can be a challenge for INFJs, as they struggle to balance their own emotional needs with those of their loved ones

In conclusion, INFJs are deeply introspective and empathetic individuals who strive to find harmony in their environment. They are natural nurturers and have a strong sense of purpose in their lives. They are creative, sensitive, and complex individuals who can struggle with self-doubt and feeling misunderstood. However, when they are able to tap into their strengths and use their intuition and empathy to make meaningful connections with others, they can achieve great success and make the world a better place.