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OrientedDis.. Disoriented. |
Thursday, November 13, 2003 Tedious but insightful still. From the Keirsey test : ------ INTJs are strong individualists who seek new angles or novel ways of looking at things. They enjoy coming to new understandings. They are insightful and mentally quick; however, this mental quickness may not always be outwardly apparent to others since they keep a great deal to themselves. They are very determined people who trust their vision of the possibilities, regardless of what others think. They may even be considered the most independent of all of the sixteen personality types. INTJs are at their best in quietly and firmly developing their ideas, theories, and principles. Living The independent and individualistic INTJ manner appears early in life. As children, INTJs are often inwardly focused on their thoughts of the way the world is or ought to be; they enjoy day dreaming. They can be quite stubborn when information relayed to them by authorities, such as parents and teachers, contradicts what they believe. They are sure of their own belief system. INTJs are compelled to establish their own rules, boundaries, standards, and style. I did write in my younger grade-school-years (and won) several essays about how I would ‘Change the World’ if I were in charge. I recall using a rose as a metaphor in one of the essays in 2nd grade : What I don’t exactly recall is what the metaphor was.. heh. :P I have always challenged my parents.. growing-up… thankfully they allowed me to have a good amount of autonomy while still guiding me throughout my childhood. Maybe they were just lucky that I always (mostly) made good decisions without them having to lecture me on what was right and wrong to do (religion at an early age probably influenced me in this aspect). Often at an early age, INTJs make a commitment to furthering their education. The life of the mind is very important to them. Examples abound of INTJs from economically or intellectually impoverished circumstances setting goals for themselves to continue in education, often earning the highest degree possible. Education (doing WELL) has always an absolute priority of mine, It’s not something I have worked at out of a fear of my parent’s expectations but more out of my own will (in-fact I think their expectations have always been rather low compared to my own). Um, yeah, hadn’t received a B in my life until college. Middle school killed me with the overload in work academically, high school I had already adjusted and decided my freshman year that I was going to graduate as valedictorian (and did.. yay.. though.. really, once I achieved it.. it’s not something major I like to go around telling people..). INTJ teenagers may be seen as serious and reserved young people who are labeled as bookworms by others. They set internal standards of achievement for themselves and often do well academically. Being sociable is a standard that they rarely think is worth their time and energy. Um I think I just said this; however, when it comes to being sociable, I’m much more apt to think it is worth my time (though I may not really find THAT much joy or fulfillment in the majority of ‘social’-group things I take part in. This seems contradictory, but I guess it’s my way of fitting-in somehow.. and it allows me to go toward what I do enjoy.. and that’s mostly one-on-one time with people… but I’ve found you don’t usually get toward that without first interacting in a group of some sort. As adults, INTJs are focused on attaining their inner goals and standards. They set a particular course based on their theory of what ought to be. They work extremely diligently to accomplish what they feel is important. They enjoy what they do and see it as a challenge. They are not easily dissuaded and may regard others' needs and wants as an impediment to attaining their objectives. Hm. Not sure about this. Should I consider myself an ‘adult’ now? I suppose I should at 19 years of age. Setting a course really hasn’t been that much of an issue as-of-late, but in the big picture, it has been that way. I set a course and everything falls into place as-planned. My viewpoint isn’t that this is necessarily the right way to do things though, and I’ve been working on trying to be ok with having less of some sort of ‘set course.’ For example, currently not having any idea of what I should major in college, and trying to be ok with that.. allowing more room for insight into what my true passions might be. Learning and Working INTJs learn best when they can design their won approach and when they are able to absorb themselves in an area that interests them. They tend to focus on systems, theories, and constructs relating to universal truths and principles. They prefer challenging teachers, ones who meet their standards. High grade-point averages and test scores tend to characterize INTJs, who like rigorous academic work. Learning needs to be a creative process. Rote memory can be dull and boring for the INTJ. Haha. Um. Yes. High grade-point averages and test scores .. I’m trying to be less obsessed by it, but, what can I say.. this is my character. I enjoy systems/theories/especially things which come down to Universal Truths (because that means there may be several other faulty/good conclusions accepted by society simply due to one bad/good widely-accepted Universal Truth). Computers and technology interest me – webdesign (design = keyword) is what I enjoy most – where I have the room to apply and uniquely manipulate what I have taught myself about web design. I also enjoy composing music moreover learning a piece that has already been composed. INTJs are diligent in pursuing new ideas and thoughts, and they exert effort to master a given subject. This makes INTJs particularly adept in most school situations. Because of their resourcefulness, thirst for knowledge, and inner needs, INTJs tend to find ways of acquiring knowledge. They gravitate toward libraries, public lectures, courses, and other learners and teachers - sources that offer them information and direction. I’m just not comfortable or happy in what I know unless I feel I have thoroughly perfected it. In that case, that means, if a test comes down to understanding a particular text – I want to thoroughly understand the text where I can manipulate questions of my own in my own mind as a result of what I have read. I’m either feeling Completely Stupid about something (if I don’t feel I understand the concepts completely) or satisfied-enough in what I know, but not usually ever in-between those two extremes. That’s why I’ll sometimes say, “I don’t know anything!”, when in-reality I have the gist-of-it.. lI might have theories memorized, but if I can’t tell you exactly how those theories help in the big-picture.. it’s no-good-logic to me. Actually, it’s enough for me to not be able to explain to someone else but understand it all completely in my own head. :P (story of my life) At work, INTJs use their conceptual strengths to analyze situations and then develop models to understand and anticipate through relentlessly to reach their goals. They will continue on with their plans, even in the face of adversity and data that might suggest to other more practical types that their goals are no longer feasible. By nature, INTJs are independent individualists. They see their visions so clearly that they are often surprised when others do not see things the same way. INTJs are strong at critiquing and as a result tend to notice the negatives. To them, a job well done should be reward enough in itself. They may neglect to comment favorably on others' contributions. This makes me laugh… reminds me of my past-summer-job… I think, typically, someone-else may have just told me to give up with this goal I started to (literally) work at relentlessly to achieve. When all hope really-was lost…. lol….. I went to the next step to pretty-much-demand (from several people in administration at the top of this huge corporation) there be some sort of understanding of the adversity I faced and how it seemed unfair (because it was unfair… I wasn’t just trying to get around the system or something)… I did reach my goal, but it was TECHNIALLY late by one day… and that was due to a technical difficulty of a last-minute-fax that failed to go through…. Anyway…. I am relentless… that’s a good word. Very independent. Very big visions, and it does tend to bother me (mostly from my mom) when people don’t seem to understand to the extent I’d like them to… or it just bothers me more that she can’t understand why I feel some way about things.. …. A ‘job well done’ … I think I just typed about this in a separate post somewhere… how all I really did like in high school was the recognition and feeling of a “job well done”. I think I probably do neglect to give people more recognition for how they have helped me (especially my mom), whereas maybe I take it more as an expectation that they should willingly (but I don’t think I have absurd expectations either and usually depend mostly on myself to get things done.. because unfortunately that’s all I trust when it comes to things that are really important to me). INTJs tend to seek occupations that allow them to change the status quo and to design models to express their vision creatively. They desire autonomy and room for growth. They prefer to work in a place in which the future can be planned and where they can work for change in an organized manner. Yeah. Already talked about this to some extent. Some occupations seem to be especially attractive to INTJs: computer systems analyst, electrical engineer, judge, lawyer, photographer, psychologist, research department manager, researcher, scientist, university instructor, and other occupations in which long-range vision is essential. :P Computer systems, yep. Other occupations I have considered : lawyer, psychologist, research/professor for cognitive science, most recently : photography (I’ve found great joy in).. yeah, long-range vision things are what I thrive on. Loving For INTJs, love means including someone in their vision of the world. INTJ men tend to be attracted to partners who enjoy living their lives with and outward vitality and zest. Perhaps it is to compensate for their internal, visionary focus that they often find partners who are more outgoing and may even run interference to help the INTJ deal with the day-to-day world. INTJ women, however, may seek someone more like themselves. I took a match-test (I think posted on this journal), and the conclusion was that I do tend to be drawn to people who are more like myself … or at least with an eagerness to think deeper about things (or be able to follow and be genuinely interested when I want to talk about something I’m passionate/curious about). INTJs tend to have a model in mind of how their relationship ought to be. This is less a romantic vision than it is and idea that relates to how the relationship functions in a unique or special way. They tend to withhold their deep feelings and affections from the public and sometimes even from the object of their affections. They can be intensely loyal and caring, even though this is not always expressed in words. INTJs can be generous with their gifts if the gift fits their vision of what ought to be appreciated by their partner. Yes. Definitely everything of the above is right-on and I’m not sure I could word it more accurately than that. Withholding can be a big problem though, in the long run, emotionally straining I think.. but maybe things like that make me stronger.. give me time to analyze the true intentions of what my attraction consists of (hey, if Aristotle thinks I’m ok – if not better this way, virtuously – then I’m ok with it :P). I have expectations for a relationship. I definitely withhold any deep feelings/affection, though I can still be considered “intensely loyal and caring” (though I may never tell these people, directly, the extent I do feel). Generous with gifts.. haha.. well.. I don’t know… I usually put good thought and work into gifts I am quite-purposeful about… only if I think they’ll genuinely appreciate it… which does remind me of a friend I have given intentional well-thought-out gifts to, and I remember telling my mother (“I enjoy working on gifts like this because he’s the type of guy who will really appreciate it to the extent I would hope.”) … not that I’m saying I need someone to appreciate my gifts, but if I’m going to actually work on a gift that has good thought put into it from every aspect, it’s going to be one which I think will be appreciated for the finer details. When scorned, INTJs retreat to their own world and may share none of their feelings with others. They may assume that there is a right way for a relationship to end and look for that. They act on the outside as if nothing has happened to them when indeed much has. They may lash out with criticisms of their former loved ones. It may take them a while to recover. Definitely true. Relates to my dad especially – as well as a couple other fallouts I’ve had (though these have been.. rare?). And it does take me (more than) ‘a while’ to recover. I’m not sure I ever fully recover after a point.. but I can come close to being ok/’recovered’ if the damage was only done once (whereas my dad couldn’t be avoided.. and I don’t exactly plan to ever ‘end my relationship’ with him.. not matter what hurt is there). Profile by David Keirsey INTJs are the most self-confident of all types, having "self-power" awareness. Found in about 1 percent of the general population, the INTJs live in an introspective reality, focusing on possibilities, using thinking in the form of empirical logic, and preferring that events and people serve some positive use. Decisions come naturally to INTJs' once a decision is made, INTJs are at rest. INTJs look to the future rather than the past, and a word which captures the essence of INTJs is builder-a builder of systems and the applier of theoretical models. To INTJs authority based on position, rank, title, or publication has absolutely no force. This type is not likely to succumb to the magic of slogans, watchwords, or shibboleths. If an idea or position makes sense to an INTJ, it will be adopted, if it doesn't, it won't, regardless of who took the position or generated the idea. As with the INTP, authority per se does not impress the INTJ. INTJs do, however, tend to conform to rules if they are useful, not because they believe in them, or because they make sense, but because of their unique view of reality. They are the supreme pragmatists, who see reality as something which is quite arbitrary and made up. Thus it can be used as a tool-or ignored. Reality is quite malleable and can be changed, conquered, or brought to heel. Reality is a crucible for the refining of ideas, and in this sense, INTJs are the most theoretical of all the types. Where an ESTP sees ideas as the pawn of reality, an INTJ sees reality as the pawn of ideas: No idea is too far-fetched to be entertained. INTJs are natural brainstormers, always open to new concepts and, in fact, aggressively seeking them. Haha. Yes. I really enjoy using the statement, “It’s all relative..” .. and seek insight/concepts.. INTJs manipulate the world of theory as if on a gigantic chess board, always seeking strategies and tactics that have high payoff. Yes. Looking for the most efficient way to get the biggest ‘bang’ out of the work I do put out (Maybe this is why I’m really good at bartering?.. And finding ways to save money.. always considering opportunity costs into things I put my money/effort into).. In their penchant for logic, the INTJs resemble the INTPs. The logic of an INTJ, however, is not confined to the expressible logical. Unlike INTPs, INTJs need only to have a vague, intuitive impression of the unexpressed logic of a system to continue surely on their way. Things need only seem logical; this is entirely sufficient. See, if I say something that seems silly… or word it oddly.. it’s because I have a different perspective on it probably, but that doesn’t mean it’s a perspective that’s not accurate simply due to an odd way that I express it….. … (like this paragraph?) Moreover, they always have a keen eye for the consequence of the application of new ideas or positions. They can be quite ruthless in the implementation of systems, seldom counting personal cost in terms of time and energy. Theories which cannot be made to work are quickly discarded by the INTJs. To understand INTJs, their way of dealing with ideas should be observed closely. Their conscious thought is extraverted and empirical. Hence, they are better at generalizing, classifying, summarizing, adducing evidence, proving, and demonstrating than are the INTPs. The INTJs are somewhat less at home with pure reason, that is, systemic logic, where principles are explicit. In this respect they resemble the ENTJs. The INTJs, rather than using deductive logic, use their intuition to grasp coherence. I do feel that I have a very good capability of seeing ‘the big picture’ (and then-some) based upon the more minute details (compared to other people who may understand the concepts, but don’t understand how the concepts relate to life in a much more broad perspective).. Career INTJs can be very single-minded at times; this can be either a weakness or a strength in their careers, for they can ignore the points of view and wishes of others. INTJs usually rise to positions of responsibility, for they work long and hard and are steady in their pursuit of goals, sparing neither time nor effort on their part or that of their colleagues and employees. INTJs live to see systems translated into substance; an INTP, by way of contrast, is content to design the system. In both these types, however, coherence is the master. Both internal and external consistency are important, and if an INTJ finds that he or she is in a working situation where overlapping functions, duplication of effort, inefficient paper flow, and waste of human and material resources abound, the INTJ cannot rest until an effort is made to correct the situation. Cost-effectiveness is a concept which has a strong imperative for INTJs, who frequently select occupations in engineering, particularly human engineering. They also can be found in the physical sciences, in roles which require development, such as curriculum building, and, in general, any job which requires the creation and application of technology to complex areas. Fellow workers of INTJs often feel as if the INTJ can see right through them, and often believe that the INTJ finds them wanting. This tendency of people to feel transparent in the presence of the INTJ often result in relationships which have psychological distance. Thus colleagues find the INTJ apparently unemotional and, at times, cold and dispassionate. Because of their tendency to drive others as hard as they do themselves, INTJs often seem demanding and difficult to satisfy. INTJs are high achievers in school and on the job. On the job, they take the goals of an institution seriously and continually strive to respond to these goals. They make dedicated, loyal employees whose loyalties are directed toward the system, rather than toward individuals within the system. So as the people of an institution come and go, the INTJs have little difficulty-unlike the NFs, who have their loyalties involved more with persons than offices. INTJs tend, ordinarily, to verbalize the positive and eschew comments of a negative nature; they are more interested in moving an institution forward than commiserating about mistakes of the past. True that I don’t let the past really bring me down at all.. I’m always working to move forward. I don’t think I drive others as hard as I drive myself though. Home As mates, INTJs want harmony and order in the home and in relationships. They are the most independent of all types. They will trust their intuitions about others when making choices of friends and mates, even in the face of contradictory evidence and pressures applied by others. The emotions of an INTJ are hard to read, and neither male nor female INTJ is apt to express emotional reactions. At times, both will seem cold, reserved, and unresponsive, while in fact INTJs are almost hypersensitive to signals of rejection from those for whom they care. Hypersensitive may be a good word. :P (i.e. maybe almost too paranoid sometimes?) In social situations, INTJs may also be unresponsive and may neglect to observe small rituals designed to put others at their ease. For example, INTJs may communicate that time is wasted if used for idle dialogue, and thus people receive a sense of hurry from an INTJ which is not always intended. In their interpersonal relationships, INTJs are usually better in a working situation than in recreational situations. They do not enjoy physical contact except with a chosen few. I don’t enjoy idle dialogue but still do it. So I don’t know if this is accurate. In-fact, I feel like something is wrong (or I’m worried) if there isn’t idle-dialogue.. I don’t know.. I just like to be talking about something if I’m forced to be sitting with someone I’d probably not like to talk to. :P (that’s terrible to say)… um.. I don’t know… I just feel awkward if people are silent. And definitely don't enjoy unnecessary contact unless I've established some sort of good basis over years with a friend.. and even then.. it's still just a few people. Odd because some people I just have the urge to hug them, and then others I really want to stay more distant - even if they are good friends... though it's nothing against them.. there are just only a few who I don't mind their hand rubbing my back, or a hug.. something simple like that. As parents, INTJs are dedicated and single minded in their devotion: Their children are a major focus in life. They are supportive of their children and tend to allow them to develop in directions of their own choosing. INTJs usually are firm and consistent in their discipline and rarely care to repeat directions given to children...or others. Being the most independent of all the types, they have a strong need for autonomy; indifference or criticism from people in general does not particularly bother INTJs, if they believe that they are right. They also have a strong need for privacy. I can’t say. No children here.. but I definitely do have a strong need for privacy (for example ... a good fiend of mine here at the villa came up behind me and rubbed my back -- and instantly I closed all of the windows that I had up.... and he obviously noticed this and couldn't believe I just did that.. stating.. "What was that?? I can't believe you're so secretive! There's nothing I wouldn't tell you! And how can you write in a journal online but can't let me see what you're writing? " soo.. The most important preference of an INTJ is intuition, but this is seldom seen. Rather, the function of thinking is used to deal with the world and with people. INTJs are vulnerable in the emotional area and may make serious mistakes here. Hm. Midlife At midlife the feeling side of personality should be given much attention by the INTJ, who can work at expanding his or her abilities to respond to wishes and feelings of others. They may also do well to turn more attention to the sensory side of their natures, attempting to get in touch with the joys of good food, good beverages, social rituals, kinesthetic experiences...and play. The "wasting" of time in play is an appropriate target as a midlife task for INTJs who can take lessons from an SP, especially an ESP, in the art of enjoying the pleasures of life. Mates Wishing to control nature, the INTJ "scientist" probably has more difficulty than all other types in making up his or her mind in mate selection. Even mate selection must be done in a scientific way. It may well be that the narratives, plays, and films impugning the "rational and objective" approach to mating have as their target our thorough-going scientist INTJ. Nevertheless, when young, the INTJ is attracted to the free-wheeling, spontaneous, fun-loving "entertainer" ESFP. But the INTJ requires that mating meet certain criteria, else it is not undertaken. So the INTJ doesn't often go through with what is begun by natural attraction. Since he or she proceeds in a rational and methodical way, the selection of a similar temperament is more likely than selection of opposite, following the assumption that those who are similar ought to do well together. The INTJ "scientist" is also attracted to the ENFP "journalist," probably because of the enthusiastic, effervescent, and apparently spontaneous enjoyment and wonderment this type exudes-the very antitheses of the careful, thoughtful exactitude of the INTJ. Haha… that last part is so completely accurate…. Love spontaneous stuff.. free-wheeling.. etc (as I secretly am willing to be :P)… but still hold high expectations.. and then true, I turn from this for those who are more similar to myself before I look to someone’s lifestyle different from myself and expect them to someone still be kind of like myself…. So… yeah I’m always torn in my mind about this.. ha… anyway… The end. . . . babbled Lin |
