INTJ

INTJs have a thirst for knowledge and a passion for improvement. Constantly working to better themselves, they are often perfectionists. INTJs are also focused on finding ways to improve processes, always open to possibilities and new ideas. They enjoy taking the time to truly understand ideas or systems, and using their analytical skills to solve complex problems. INTJs often have a broad vision for what is best for an organization, and are driven to implement these ideas.

Although quite creative and open to new ideas, INTJs often process information internally, sharing their inner thoughts only with those they trust. Without being able to observe the INTJs consideration of different ideas and theories, some may view their clearly stated opinions and decisive action as stubbornness. The typical INTJ, however, is always willing to consider other points of view and information and change their mind, when warranted.

INTJs prefer structure and order, and expect others to follow the rules and procedures. Once committed, INTJs go to great lengths to fulfill their responsibilities and typically can be trusted to get the job done. Independent and forward-thinking, INTJs tend to be visionaries and are often found in leadership positions where they can apply their well-developed organizational skills to systems and people. Typically confident in their abilities and their insights, INTJs often have a unique ability to clearly and concisely express their vision and goals.

INTJ Type Dynamics

The core of the INTJ personality type [4] is Introverted Intuition. This dominant function guides the way INTJs make sense of things and explore information in their own minds. Using Intoverted Intuition, the INTJ contemplates connections and make sense of patterns. The reflect on their intepretations to develop insight and understanding and to create a clear vision for the future.

The auxiliary function for INTJs is Extraverted Thinking. This mental function supports their dominant Introverted Intuition to help them evaluate information and options in the world around them. When using Extraverted Thinking, the INTJ seeks to order their environment to bring logic to systems and processes. They analyze the options objectively and communicate ideas clearly.

The tertiary Feeling function is less developed for most INTJs, especially early in life. When this function is not well developed, INTJs may have trouble tuning into values and considering the impact of decisions on people.

The inferior function for INTJs, or that function which is least likely to be conscious and well developed, is Extraverted Sensing. When this function is not developed, INTJs may ignore the importance of details in their environment, and may overlook aspects of current reality which conflict with their vision.

INTJ in the Population

INTJ is the third rarest type in the population, and the rarest type among women (with ENTJ [5]). INTJs make up:

2% of the general population
3% of men
1% of women

Popular Hobbies

Popular hobbies for the INTJ include reading, cultural events, taking classes, appreciating art, computers and video games, and independent sports such as swimming, backpacking, or running marathons.

Famous INTJs

Famous INTJs [4] include Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, Bill Gates, Dwight Eisenhower, Alan Greenspan, Ulysses S. Grant, Stephen Hawking, John Maynard Keynes, Ayn Rand, Isaac Asimov, Lewis Carroll, Cormac McCarthy, and Sir Isaac Newton.

For more information: Famous INTJs [6]

Research on INTJ

Interesting facts about the INTJ [4]:

On personality trait measures, score as Discreet, Industrious, Logical, Deliberate, Self-Confident, and Methodical
Among types least likely to suffer heart disease and cardiac problems
Least likely of all the types to believe in a higher spiritual power
One of two types with highest college GPA
Among types with highest income
Personal values include Achievement
Of all types, least likely to state that they value Home/family, Financial security, Relationships & friendships, and Community service
Overrepresented among MBA students and female small business owners
Commonly found in scientific or technical fields, computer occupations, and legal professions

Work & Careers

INTJ at Work

At work, the INTJ [7] excels at creating and implementing innovative solutions to analytical problems. They naturally see possibilities for improvement within complex systems and are organized and determined in implementing their ideas for change.

INTJs are comfortable with abstraction and theory but gain the most satisfaction from turning their ideas into reality. They often enjoy working independently or with a small team, taking measured, strategic steps to implement change.

INTJs enjoy working with logical systems that they can understand in depth. They enjoy the challenge of comprehending complex ideas, and want to understand how they can improve the way things work.

The ideal work environment for an INTJ is logical, efficient, structured, and analytical, with colleagues that are competent, intelligent, and productive. The ideal job for a Mastermind allows them to use their analytical skills to problem-solve in a challenging environment, and to take responsibility for implementing their ideas to create efficient, innovative systems.

Popular Careers for the INTJ

Top careers for the INTJ [4] include:

Attorney [16]
Judge
News Analyst [17]
Architect [18]
Financial Planner [19]

Relationships

INTJ Communication Style

INTJs are direct and detached in their communication. They often naturally see how something could be done better and usually communicate their criticism in a straightforward, logical manner. They are typically independent and calm; they are not so much concerned about being liked or appreciated as they are with being competent and thoughtful. Their communications are typically well thought-out, insightful, and strategic. They often plan well into the future and offer big-picture analysis for improving systems.

INTJs as Partners

In relationships, the INTJ [4] is loyal but independent. INTJs can be almost scientific in choosing a mate and make devoted partners once they have found a match that fits their rigorous list of requirements. They often have clear ideas about what makes for a solid relationship and are unwavering in their pursuit of this ideal.

INTJs often have a passion for self-improvement and are encouraging of their partners' goals and intellectual pursuits. However, they do not usually see the need for frivolous affection or romance, feeling that their devotion should be evident. They are more focused on serving their partners with hard work and resourceful problem-solving than they are on showering them with attention.

INTJs' partners often find them difficult to read, and indeed they do not show emotion easily; they find the process of discussing emotions much too messy and disorganized. They enjoy solving difficult problems, but are often out of their depth when it comes to illogical, unpredictable personal issues.

INTJs value a partner that allows them the independence to achieve their goals, and one who appreciates their efficacy, insight, and ability to offer creative solutions to problems.

INTJs as Parents

As parents, INTJs are devoted and supportive. They set firm limits and provide consistent reinforcement, but within that structure allow a lot of latitude for their children to explore their own interests and potential. They are encouraging of their childrens' intellectual pursuits and enthusiastic about sharing knowledge.

INTJs enjoy the process of developing a young mind, and get a lot of satisfaction from parenting. They want to develop productive, competent, and self-sufficient children who think for themselves.

For more information: Please Understand Me II [20]

Dynamics

INTJ Under Stress

INTJs often become stressed when working with large amounts of detailed information. Activities such as bookkeeping or tedious, detail-oriented household tasks often bring on a stress response in INTJs. INTJs need plenty of private time and space to analyze and process thoughts. Being constantly surrounded by people, especially those they can’t share ideas with, can cause the INTJ stress. INTJs may be stressed by situations that restrict their creativity. They want to have freedom to solve problems innovatively, and being limited by rigid structure often brings stress.

A stress response in the INTJ often manifests as an uncomfortable focus on the external environment. Because the INTJ’s inferior function is Sensing, they are unaccustomed to attending to the details in the world around them. When their focus turns to external sensory experience, this attention often feels stressful and overstimulating. The INTJ may worry that the physical environment will fail them: that objects will break or go missing, or that resources will be inadequate. They may obsessively organize in an attempt to control their environments. Stress can also show itself through a tendency to overindulge in sensual pleasures: eating, drinking, or watching television.

For more information: Was That Really Me? [21]

To read more about the INTJ, visit the INTJ page at Truity.com [22].