Getting Into Character: The INTP (Introvert, iNtuitive, Thinker, Perceiver)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the INTJ's, those visionaries who devise a better way. This week we will change the last letter and how a preference for Perceiving rather than Judging can change a personality. Read on to hear about those INTPs and their contribution in helping the rest of us see truth.

Living Life with an INTP: If you live or work with an INTP you know they are on a one-person quest for truth. INTPs observe the world, looking for the flaws and pointing out errors in the things they see and hear, and in their search for truth can drive others crazy with their endless questions of "why" and "why not". Remember that they are not necessarily challenging you or being difficult--they want to know the answers and won't settle for less than the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Much of the INTPs processing goes on inside and may not be apparent to those on the outside looking in. They are reserved, detached, analytical, and skeptical. INTPs are quick thinkers who can readily point out the long-term consequences in a plan or idea, even when others can't see it. All this internal processing allows them to formulate systems, schedules, models, and frameworks concerning the world around them.
Career/Service Area Choices for an INTP:  INTPs enjoy studying and coming up with solutions for complex problems, reviewing past programs and procedures to make them work efficiently and timely, and creating new programs after researching and developing them. INTPs will enjoy career and service environments that allow the to work alone, guard their privacy, and have the flexibility they need to work things out to their own satisfaction. INTPs enjoy setting goals and designing rewards for meeting them. INTPs will excel at conceptualizing new outreaches, ministries, projects, and programs, but don't expect them to show up voluntarily for meetings--they tend to avoid them if at all possible. Orderly and intellectual, INTPs enjoy working and serving in environments and with people who are like-minded. Some jobs or volunteer positions that appeal to INTPs include: scientists such as chemists and biologists, engineer, artist, consultant, writer, computers--specifically programming and systems analyst, lawyer, photographer, psychologist, researcher, and surveyor.

Free Time for an INTP: INTPs enjoy spending their free time in solitary activities like reading, watching television, thinking, or playing computer games. In fact, INTPs are often very computer savvy, so many of their leisure activities may revolve around a computer. INTPs also enjoy word plays and puns. When INTPs play or engage in free-time activities with others, they may not talk a lot or pay attention to details they don't deem necessary. They enjoy games of risk and strategy like Monopoly, poker, and bridge or sports like golf. They take their risk-taking penchant to new levels in some of their pursuits such as rock climbing where they can combine taking risks with the technical aspects of the sport.Often INTPs have a depth of interest that goes beyond many of the other types.

Warnings for the INTP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things INTPs need to beware of: INTPs easily see the flaws in a theory, program, or concept. However, they need to learn how to point these out and challenge co-workers, family, and friends in a positive way. Others often see the INTP as negative, a critic, and a skeptic and frequently the INTP is unaware of how they are truly perceived by other people. INTPs need to keep in mind that not everyone wants or accepts their critiques. Lighten up and learn to keep some of your opinions to yourself. Their strong leaning toward intellectualism can make them look down on people who show their in intelligence in ways other than "book smarts". Happy to remain alone in their thought world, INTPs need to be conscious of spending too much time alone and make an effort to connect to others in their life. Making the effort to "put yourself out there", particularly with friends and family will help stop small problems from becoming bigger.
Spiritual Helps for the INTP: For INTPs who want to deepen their spiritual life, they will enjoy the more intellectual aspects of their faith. Intellectually demanding Bible studies and time for reflection, prayer, and meditation will help the INTP grow and remain engaged in the nurturing of their faith. INTPs enjoy "working out their faith" in service and worship that allows them logical demonstrations and applications for what they believe. INTPs also enjoy and benefit from spiritual mentor relationship that includes accountability.
What Others Say about the INTP: If you know an INTP, likely you use words like logical, private, original, speculative, and precise to describe them. They often exude a low-key, laid-back personality, but if you challenge what they believe as truth, you will see their "hard as nails" side come out. INTPs enjoy mastering the complex and all their intuition, thinking, and perceiving will turn outward as they seek to apply the ideas and insights they've developed. INTPs are truth-seekers of the best kind--they share their findings with the rest of the world!
Okay, who do you know that is an INTP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, let's change it up by switching every letter and take a look at the ESFJ!

Getting Into Character: The INTJ (Introvert, iNtuitive, Thinker, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the INFP's deep thoughts and strong feelings. This week we will change the last two letters and see what difference that makes between the INFPs and their INTJ friends.

Living Life with an INTJ: INTJs tend to be independent, solitary, insightful, planners and thinkers. In fact, some say the INTJ are the most independent of all sixteen types. Don't let their quiet and sometimes reserved manner fool you into thinking they are shallow. While they sit quietly on the outside, their quick minds are spinning, thinking up strategies and visions for making things better. INTJs want to make the world a better place by coming up with systems that challenge the way things are done, the way people think, and the status quo in general. Boundaries, and rules are important to INTJs, but they will establish them in their own way and with their own style. Visionaries, INTJs formulate possibilities for the future that often meet long-term goals, but don't always do so in traditional means. INTJs come up with novel ideas, new angles, and creative systems for getting things done in what they deem a better way. INTJs are their own person--they value individualism and they are confident in who they are as a person.

Career/Service Area Choices for an INTJ: Intellectual pursuit is important to the INTJ, so they will enjoy working in environments where people value knowledge and make informed decisions and develop strategies for the future. They will also enjoy serving in ministry or volunteer positions that allow them to plan long-range or develop new approaches. They are private people, tending to keep to themselves, so INTJs like to work alone in environments where they can think deeply and work on the big picture. The will likely balk at working with a team unless the team is coming up with a new and novel approach to a problem, situation, or long-held tradition. Outcomes are important to the INTJ, so they will need to keep that in mind when choosing careers or service opportunities. INTJ enjoy projects that involve extensive research and they may enjoy serving by developing spiritual education materials or curriculum for service organizations. Some careers that appeal to INTJs include: project managers, general managers, armed forces, clergy, counselor/spiritual coaching, designer, consultant, human resources, professor/lecturer/teacher/coach, computer systems analyst, judge/lawyer, photographer, researcher.

Free Time for an INTJ: Often INTJs choose their leisure activities by their long-term goals for themselves and what they think they should be doing. INTJs are often disciplined and organized in their pursuit of hobbies and free time activities. INTJs don't typical choose sports or hobbies that are fads. Rather, they often choose something and then stick with it for years. Frequently combining work with play, INTJs will often seek out pursuits that allow them both enjoy free time and further their long-range goals and aspirations.

Warnings for the INTJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things INFPs need to beware of: INTJs like to keep their ideas to themselves, but they will gain the commitment and confidence of others when they open up. They are often seen by co-workers and family members as too harsh or cold. They need to consider how they are viewed by others and foster good relationships. Being quick thinkers causes INTJs to discount other's ideas if they reach them too slowly. Learn to be patient with people and really listen to their ideas. Let others help you instead of plugging away all on your own. Open up and share your thoughts, feelings, and personality with others. People will enjoy your fast thinking and innovative approach but you've got to show it to them. Remember that not all the other types see the future as you do, but that doesn't mean they are wrong. Learn to listen to people who may see things differently and admit when your view of the future is in accurate or out-dated. Share your vision, but cut them some slack if it doesn't excite them and be willing to take a fresh look rather than insist on your way. INTJs tend to view themselves as not being competent. Do your best and let go of what you can't change.

Spiritual Helps for the INTJ: As we've noted, the INTJ is very private and enjoys spending time alone. Therefore, they may benefit from periods of solitude for retreat. They typically enjoy time away in the outdoors or in sanctified settings. For this same reason, INTJs often grow spiritually through prayer, meditation, study, and reflection. Most INTJs will enjoy philosophical pursuits and seeking out their individual purpose in life. You will see the INTJ interact with other believers when they are given the opportunity to dialogue and debate their convictions and possibilities for the future.

What Others Say about the INTJ: Since the INTJ often keeps to themselves, others are often surprised by their deep thoughts and novel ideas when they are shared. They are quick thinkers and delight others when they choose to fore go their typical introversion and share their observations aloud. Logical, original, long-reaching visions, global thinking, demanding, critical, and determined are all words used by others to describe the INTJ.

Okay, who do you know that is an INTJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, let's change it up by switching the last letter. INTP's--you're up!

Getting Into Character: The ESTJ (Extrovert, Sensor, Thinker, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ENTJ's view of the world as one big event to plan or problem to solve. This week we will change just one letter and see if ESTJs are really that different from their ENTJ friends. Since we change the letter that deals in how we take in information, you will see they are similar in many of their characteristics, but they difference comes from how they know what they know. ESTJ's are take charge people who get things done.  

Living Life with an ESTJ: ESTJs are adept at seeing the necessary steps to complete a project or solve a problem. They are masters at leading others in accomplishing set goals, often leading by their own example to dig in and help until it comes to completion. They excel in organization especially to enable themselves and others to meet day-to-day concerns. ESTJs are efficient, consistent, and can easily express themselves in clear, logical, objective ways. The ESTJs in your life will do what they say and are known for having their act together. Not only do they get things done, but ESTJs are able to anticipate problems along the way and can adjust for them. ESTJs also keep you on their toes with their constant need to have hard questions answered. ESTJs are task-focused do-ers who enjoy completing things to mark off their do-to list.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ESTJ: ESTJs will enjoy working or ministering in areas that are task-oriented, structured, organized, and include other hard-working people. They are often promoted to leadership levels because of their logical, practical, and effective use of times and resources. They tolerate changes but only if the change makes sense for the over-all goal and doesn't mess with their master schedule. They are comfortable making decisions and dealing with concrete facts. They get things done, using the policies, procedures, and politics of the workplace/environment to do it. Some occupations/positions that often appeal to ESTJs include: government workers, insurance agents/underwriters, judge, management, military personnel, police officer, sales representative, supervisor, technology teacher, accountant/auditor/banker, teacher, librarian, and consultant.
Free Time for an ESTJ: ESTJs prefer to complete their work before engaging in free time activities. Often they use their free time as a reward they've earned or in working toward a goal. ESTJs enjoy active pursuits so you will see them participating in sports or gregarious leisure activities or as spectators at events with lots going on. When they spend time with friends or family, they often organize the group into some organized game or sport. Male ESTJs frequently engage in hunting, fishing or golf. Women often send their time in pursuits where they can involve their spouse or children.
Warnings for the ESTJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ESTJs need to beware of: ESTJs are often accused to being inflexible. Often they make decisions quickly but then refuse to deviate from the original plan, even in the face of new information. ESTJs will do well to give themselves permission to change their mind. Their quick decision-making also causes them to set themselves up for future problems as they are often so focused on making a decision that they don't think ahead to any fall-out that may occur. ESTJs are skeptical and often look at people for what they can do to accomplish their goals. ESTJs must learn that they aren't always right and seek to discover the opinions of others. They may run over co-workers, friends, or family and need to learn to show appreciation and emotion when appropriate. ESTJs tend to be emotionally reserved, however, when too much builds up they blow their top, often at seemingly inconsequential things.
Spiritual Helps for the ESTJ: Because of their logical and practical approach to life, ESTJs can become legalistic. Their skepticism may lead them to doubt or refusal to believe what cannot be proven. Spending time in mediation and personal reflection may serve to bring wrong attitudes to the surface where they can be dealt with by the ESTJ. Spending time with those less-fortunate and really getting to know them may help ESTJ focus less on the "rules" and more on the "exceptions" and bring more empathy and less legalism. If they pursue answers to the tough questions rather than dismissing anything they don't understand, often ESTJs become people with rock-solid faith.
What Others Say about the ESTJ: Known for their ability to recall facts about reality, decide quickly, and get things done,ESTJs are born leaders. They deal in facts, logic, and practicalities. They are sometimes seen as rigid or inflexible when they set their mind on a course and refuse to change direction. They honor their commitments and want to help others do the same. ESTJs are systematic, structured, responsible, and conscientious.
Okay, who do you know that is an ESTJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, let's change it up by switching every letter. INFP's--you're up!

Getting Into Character: The ENTJ (Extravert, Intuitive, Thinker, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog—I’m just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.

I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ISFPs', inward-energized analytical, logical, fact-based approach to life. This week we will change every letter and see if ENTJs are truly the polar opposite of our friends from last week. ENTJs are planners, visioneers, and problem-solvers who are adept at bringing people along to work out the ideas they have stirring in their minds.

Living Life with an ENTJ: ENTJs are known for their skilled leading, their ability to bring order out of chaos and logic into problems, by stepping into leadership roles when they see a need. Their ideas are oriented toward the future and geared toward meeting a need, achieving a goal, or solving a problem. They are adept at stimulating others to do what's necessary to get the job done. Their Thinking and Judging influences allow them to think both logically and objectively about situations and then express their thoughts and judgements in clear, concise, and creative ways. Often their work becomes their life as they strive toward the goals and achievements they've set for themselves. They don't take "no" for an answer and they are natural skeptics. ENTJs are able to see how the parts of an organization, object, or situation relate to the whole, which enables them to develop strategies for planning, goal-setting, and finding solutions.


Career/Service Area Choices for an ENTJ:   Since ENTJs are so skilled at focusing on the future, they also enjoy ministry/volunteer/career opportunities that allow them to use these gifts. ENTJs are also results-minded people with a global perspective and who excel at leadership, so they should keep that in mind when seeking out service or career options. Some ministries or volunteer positions that might appeal to ENTJs are anything to do with finances such as fund-raising, investing, and finance. Evaluating and developing projects often are a strong-suit, so ENTJs might look for opportunities to serve on committees for building projects or strategy sessions for organizations. Some careers that often include a high percentage of ENTJs include: administrators, attorneys, consultants, credit investors, designers, engineers, managers, mortgage bankers, systems analysts, teachers/professors (especially of adults), and human relations/resources.

Free Time for an ENTJ:  Often for the ENTJ, their work is their play. If they engage in leisure activities, it usually has a purpose toward meeting long-range goals they've set for themselves. ENTJs are busy and don't enjoy not having anything to do. Don't look for them to sit still for long. They also prefer to spend time with others, so most of their free time is spent in a group setting. ENTJs tend to be competitive and they love to debate, so you will likely see this show up in their hobbies and interests. ENTJs prefer to participate in regularly scheduled activities as opposed to spur-of-the-moment endeavors.
Warnings for the ENTJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ENTJs need to beware of: Since much of their time is spent looking toward the future, ENTJs can allow this to interfere with their leadership and personal relationships. They often can't let go of their goals and cringe under anything that they feel lacks purpose. ENTJs tend to demand competency from themselves, but this can spill over into demanding it from everyone around them and sometimes makes them seem like professional critics. Or on the flip-side of that, they may blame themselves when something fails, thinking their own incompetency caused the failure. ENTJs are zealous, but this enthusiasm can lead them to make decisions hastily and to railroad others in the process. They can become so focused that they discount others' needs and appear impatient. ENTJs are often accused of being emotionally cold. They fear losing control of their emotions and are uncomfortable in situations that are too emotionally charged.

Spiritual Helps for the ENTJ: ENTJs will likely enjoy spiritual settings that allow for rigorous study, debate, and discussion. They will want to have clearly defined principles and purposes for their faith and will often pursue scientific means to support their beliefs. Born leaders, ENTJs enjoy taking headship of projects and experiences that allow people to deepen their faith while doing or serving in some capacity. ENTJs also enjoy times of meditation and prayer.

What Others Say about the ENTJ: Known for their logical, controlled, objective, and planned thinking, ENTJs can come across as critical and tough. However, when tempered, ENTJs strong personality may be described as strategic, challenging, and decisive. ENTJs are also heralded as being fair in their dealings with others. Other personality types appreciate the ENTJ for their leadership and visionary qualities.
Okay, who do you know that is an ENTJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, let's change just one letter (the N to an S) and see what difference that crazy little guy makes!

Getting Into Character: The ISTP (Introvert, Sensor, Thinker, Perceiver)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post, which you will find under the April archives (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted the part you need to read  in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ISTJ's, inward-energized analytical, logical, fact-based approach to life. This week we will just tweak one letter, changing the J to a P. ISTPs are inward-energized, logical and fact-based, go-with-the-flow-ers. Let’s see how changing the Judger label to Perceiver changes the personality of the individual.

Living Life with an ISTP: ISTPs are independent thinkers. They are adept at taking in information and then doing something with it. They are problem-solvers, healthy skeptics, and are observers of people who generally make quick and truthful assessments of others. This leads them to often remain in the background, but to come to the rescue or defense quickly if needed. They rely on logic and reasoning in their constant search for truth. ISTPs are realists who aren’t afraid to challenge the rules when they see a better way to proceed. They may not spend much time in the spotlight, but they will step up when they see a way to cut through red tape or to share the wealth of information they possess in regard to interests they feel strongly about.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ISTP: Because of their realistic approach to life, ISTPs enjoy working and serving in areas of practical and pragmatic needs. Things like crisis or disaster relief often appeal to them. They may enjoy working with their hands in artistic or craftsmanship endeavors or using their minds for problem-solving. Since ISTPs don’t live their life by a schedule, they may enjoy jobs or ministries that don’t require much planning but rather allow them to get moving. Hands-on tasks and outdoor activities often are at the top of their lists for work or service projects. ISTPs often flourish in the sciences because of their preference for flexibility with a more impersonal bent. Occupations that might appeal to them include: business analyst scientist/biologist/chemist, engineer, accountant/banker, writer, and computer specialist. However, they may also enjoy jobs that help people with practical needs such as teacher, consultant, manager, sales, human resources, career coach, military forces, or lawyer.

Free Time for an ISTP: ISTPs often enjoy leisure time pursuits that involve risk-taking or adventure. Due to their practice of involving themselves deeply in special areas of interest, they may continue to explore a sport or hobby all the way from childhood through adulthood. ISTPs can also become bored with anything and will often switch from one activity to another. They like having the best technology or equipment in their pursuits, so will often up-grade to have the latest and greatest thing. ISTPs sometimes enjoy being alone, but often they will find someone to share their hobbies and activities, such as a friend or their child. ISTPs are good with facts and often use their free time to gain more knowledge or learn new facts. Reading may appeal to them, as well as learning and memorizing sports statistics

Warnings for the ISTP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ISTPs need to beware of: The propensity of ISTPs to cut through red tape may also come across as laziness or seeking shortcuts just for the sake of getting out of work. ISTPs have a tendency to keep to themselves and not open up or share with others. And often when they do share, they are drawn to share the negative or to point out the flaws, which can turn others off. ISTPs can find themselves alone and lonely. ISTPs enjoy collecting new information and facts, but they may find themselves unable to make a decision or to wonder after the fact if they made the right choice. In collecting their new information, they may put off deciding at all. This is frustrating for anyone waiting on the ISTP's decision. ISTPs sometimes lack perseverance and need to learn to stick out a situation and see it through to completion before moving on to bigger and better things. ISTPs need to learn to focus on long-range plans and goals as well as the short-term practical plan they can see.

Spiritual Helps for the ISTP: ISTPs will likely enjoy the factual and practical side of their faith. Traditional Bible study and prayer may appeal to them, as well as study with a close, trusted friend or mentor. Since traditional worship may feel too “emotional”, they may experience worship more profoundly in nature or an outdoor setting. ISTPs will also likely enjoy spiritual application to things they deem practical like parenting, work-place relations, or service. They will also likely go more willingly to corporate worship if they have a practical, necessary role such as usher, offering accountant, or hospitality.

What Others Say about the ISTP: Known for their reserved manner, ISTPs generally only have a few close friends. However, they are in-depth experts when it comes to the causes or areas of interest that hold a special interest for them. People may refer to the ISTP as “a walking encyclopedia” because of their knowledge on their chosen subject. They are efficient workers, who objectively apply facts and practical thinking to find both the flaws and the solutions. They assess truth and are able to predict and react to immediate needs. While they are known to be logical and practical, they are also spontaneous and adventurous. The ISTJs loved a routine, but ISTPs are adaptable, due to that last little letter. In fact, they will feel frustrated with too much structure and too many rules.

Okay, who do you know that is an ISTP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we change just one letter and look at the ISFP. What difference does one little letter make? Come back and see. It's not too late to send me your personality type if you want to see it here.

Getting Into Character: The ISTJ (Introvert, Sensor, Thinker, Judger)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.


I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of the first week’s post (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted it in green, so you can easily catch up.

Last week we looked at the ENFP, which is an outward energized character who excels at using a sixth-sense, emotions, and perceptions. This week we will completely turn the tables ad look at the label-opposite ISTJ. ISTJs are inward-energized analytical, logical, fact-based approach to life. This is my personality type and also that of my sister. I believe Justice is probably an ISTJ too.

Living Life with an ISTJ: ISTJs are organizer-extraordinaires. Their inward focus and logic, detail, and duty-based personality makes them the turtles in this race of life—they are the steady plodders (or for writers—the steady plotters!). Everyone needs an ISTJ in their life because they are the ones who know (and follow) the rules, they read the directions, and they keep their word. ISTJs are finishers who usually love to-do lists. They are hard-working and will insist upon work before play, unless the play involves a sense of duty they see as greater than the job left undone. This also means that if you give them a job to do, you can be assured it will be done on time and to specifications. ISTJs value commitment and it is that sense of duty that often keeps them from totally withdrawing into themselves. ISTJs are often “word” people and they clearly express thoughts and judgments.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ISTJ: ISTJs are get ‘er done people which makes them great assets in business and service. They are hard workers and value production rather than fun. ISTJs may be “behind the scenes” types since they don’t usually require attention for their work. They often receive affirmation through concrete accomplishments or a tangible output rather than for their effort. They often enjoy hands-on tasks or work/service where they can see the results. In work and service, they enjoy completing a task uninterrupted or on their own. If they are going to work with others, they do best with partners that will pull their own weight. Otherwise, the ISTJ will just do the work themselves. Some occupations that might appeal to ISTJs are administration, finances, record-keeping, management/supervisor, marketing, sales, scientist/chemist/physicist, librarian, entrepreneur, technical specialist, researcher, military forces, teacher-especially in science/math, or dentist/doctor/nurse.

Free Time for an ISTJ: ISTJs might appear not to have as much free time as some other types since they usually insist on completing their work before engaging in entertainment. Their sense of duty may allow them to put work aside for play, but they often go at free time with a set purpose or end result. They prefer to have a set beginning and end and often schedule their play time with careful planning. Their Introversion leads them to seek leisure activities that they can do on their own—reading, solitary games, models, or individual sports such as rock climbing or scuba diving. Tradition is extremely important to most ISTJs, so they often entertain out of a need to keep and pass on family traditions or out of a sense of duty (it’s their turn to host the Sunday school potluck).

Warnings for the ISTJ: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ISTJs need to beware of: Since ISTJs love details and facts, they need to be careful to avoid immersing themselves in details and boring others or missing out by not looking at the bigger picture. Their drive to finish their to-do list can lead to ignoring people or social dictates in place of completing a job. Since ISTJs enjoy routine, they may over-look long range consequences or implications of decisions because they are so focused on the here and now. ISTJs are not usually big-picture people or visionaries, so they should team up with others who are when working on big projects. Their attention to rules can come across as rigid, inflexible, or emotionally cold. They tend to be more legalistic rather than rely on grace, if they are not careful. Allowing for exceptions and striving for flexibility will go a long way in getting along with people. Because of their ability to see all the details, ISTJS may have a tendency to be too aware of the faults in their life and in those of those closest to them. Self-improvement is a valid goal, but should not be the total focus.

Spiritual Helps for the ISTJ: ISTJs value tradition, so the traditions of religion appeal to them as well as the symbols of faith. They will enjoy structured approaches to their faith journey and flourish in traditional Bible studies or classes. They are problem-solvers and resource people who do well as mentors because of their ability to follow through, model responsibility, and commit to long-range endeavors. They will likely enjoy routine spiritual disciplines such as Bible reading and prayer. They enjoy serving the church body in practical ways.

What Others Say about the ISTJ: People quickly learn they can count on the ISTJ for their commitment and responsibility. They are systematic, painstaking, and thorough in their completion of tasks. Delegate to them and you usually won’t regret it. They are stable and persistent and able to stick with something long after others have given up. Their careful attention to detail and ability in handling facts make them assets in a variety of social, business, and service arenas. Their cautious, sensible approach to life makes them calm and collected in a crises or problem.

Okay, who do you know that is an ISTJ? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we change just one letter and look at the ISTP. What difference does one little letter make? Come back and see. It's not too late to send me your personality type if you want to see it here.

Getting Into Character: The ENTP (Extrovert, Intuitive, Thinker, Perceiver)

Today we continue our specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.

I’m not going to repeat my description of the dominant preferences and such, but if you haven’t been following along, go back and read the beginning of last week’s post (The ESTP). I’ve highlighted it in green, so you can easily catch up.

We will change just one of the letters this week—the Sensor goes to the Intuitive—but look at the difference this makes in the personality of these two individuals!

So, because my lovely ENTP friend let me know her type way back at the beginning of this study, that is where we will go for week two.

Living Life with an ENTP: ENTPs possess confidence in themselves and their abilities. You might recognize them as the people who willingly lead others into the unknown. In a nutshell, they are leaders. ENTPs enjoy taking risks, challenges, and developing strategies for getting things done. ENTPs are highly independent and will resist routine and rules that don’t make sense or that are simply for the sake of rules. They push against boundaries and boundary-makers. Many ENTPs are entrepreneurs and they enjoy change and opportunities to try out their ideas.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ENTP: ENTPs enjoy areas of work or service that are not stagnant. They excel at projects or endeavors that employ change, flexibility and challenge. Given their Extroversion, they will want to be around people. Given their tendency for leadership, they will want to be out front. ENTPs prefer to brainstorm and envision a project rather than stick around to see it through the maintenance and up-keep of it. They tolerate only enough structure to keep things moving, but relish freedom to be creative in their problem-solving and planning. Some occupations that interest ENTPs include: actor/artist, chemical engineer, computer analyst, credit investigator, journalist, public relations/human resources, marketing, sales, photographer, psychiatrist, teacher, management, designer, clergy, and counselor.

Free Time for an ENTP: ENTPs enjoy leisure activities that allow for taking risks or give them new avenues for their energy. They often enjoy traveling, competitive sports, and activities that allow them to test themselves in body or in mind. However, they also enjoy reading. ENTPs usually make their plans as they go and prefer to not have all the details set in stone from the beginning of any adventure.

Warnings for the ENTP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ENTPs need to beware of: Because of their highly competitive nature, ENTPs can alienate people with their need to win and be right. ENTPs can also be so focused on their own ideas and concepts that they refuse to see the faults that are clear to others. Competitiveness also rears its head when someone questions their plans or ideas. They feel they have a “corner on the truth”. Strive for cooperation, not competition. ENTPs may not take deadlines seriously because of their ability to plan and brainstorm. Often they underestimate how long something will take in reality, because it was so simple for them to think it through in their head. Sometimes this leads to over-commitment. ENTPs need to learn to work within the boundaries of systems and procedures. They often view them as guidelines and really struggle when they must follow exactly.

Spiritual Helps for the ENTP: ENTPs will likely enjoy corporate worship and in-depth Bible study. They will relish opportunities to debate and discuss spiritual matters and questions with teachers and classmates that can meet their challenges. Travelling to (or extensive study of) the Holy Land will likely have a profound effect on their personal spiritual relationship. ENTPs are busy and so they may need to focus on solitude and rest to connect with God.

What Others Say about the ENTP: If you have family or friends that are ENTPs, they help you enjoy life by leading you to places unknown. They are risk-takers, game-players, and rule-breakers. They are spontaneous, energetic, and fun-loving. Get ready to have an adventure when you are with an ENTP.

Okay, who do you know that is an ENTP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we tweak just one other letter, and see what a difference it makes when we explore the ENFP. Let me know your label and I’ll fit it in the schedule here at the beginning.

Getting Into Character: The ESTP (Extravert, Sensor, Thinker, Perceiver)

Today we start of specific look at the sixteen types in the MBTI line-up. This is going to be so fun, because even if this is not your particular label, more than likely you will recognize someone you know and love revealed on the page. I need to let you know that this is NOT a professional opinion or blog--I am not certified to administer the MBTI. The cost is high when I don't have an employer willing to send me for training. (We're talking like $2000!) I am just teaching you what I've learned over more than ten years of studying personality.

Each of us has a label of four preferences and among those four, we have a "favorite"--one that we've perfected. Let's take pizza for example. For the sake of our discussion, everyone has been given a slice of pizza. Everyone's piece of pizza consists of four parts--the cheese, the toppings, the sauce, and the crust. Some of you will prefer the cheese. Others eat it for the toppings. Still others relish the sauce. And some of you carb-lovers, live for the crust. You all have all the parts, but you also have a favorite--one you return to again and again and if you could only have one part, that's the one you'd choose. It's the same with personality. You have one area that you fall back on time and again--one area you've perfected.


For the sake of this study, we are not going to go into all the logistics of the dominant and other functions. What you need to know is that your dominant function is one of these four: Sensing, Intuition, Thinking, or Feeling. That is why you can have the same four-part label as someone and still not be personality-clones. There are nuances even among people that share a label.

So, because my lovely ESTP friend (who shall remain nameless, Hi!) was the first to send me her type, that is where we will start. We will look at six specific areas.

Living Life with an ESTP:  ESTPs are known for their love of life. They like to have a good time and thanks to their Extravert tendency, they invite others to come along. They are FUN, with a capital F. They like to "do" rather than "be" and are always moving. They are rational thinkers that stay calm in a crisis and have an eye for the practical tasks that need completing. They don't pull any punches--they tell it like they see it, employing the truth in a straightforward manner.  They are practical, out-going, realistic. They see what needs doing and are resourceful and efficient.

Career/Service Area Choices for an ESTP:  ESTPs don't back away from a crisis and will enjoy work or service opportunities that keep them moving and on their toes and using their hands. They enjoy problem-solving and can handle factual information. They require flexibility in their jobs and of course, being Extraverted, they will want contact with the public. Some occupations an ESTP might enjoy and find success in would be: auditor, carpenter/craft worker, farmer, laborer, law enforcement officer, service worker, transportation operator, sales/marketer, administrators, doctor/health care, librarian, entrepreneurs, among others.

Free Time for an ESTP: ESTPs enjoy being active and will probably be interested in sports and other activities. They like to participate in sports as players and spectators. They also may enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and pastimes that involve taking risks. They are also often collectors--especially of things related to their other pursuits.

Warnings for the ESTP: Too much of any good thing can be a bad thing, so here are some things ESTPs need to beware of: Weighing their words before they speak. If they use tact, they will find their foot is less often in their mouth. They will need to pull in the reins and plan before starting out on a new adventure or project. Just because they work well under pressure doesn't mean that they should keep themselves in a constant state of upheaval. They must remember to balance play with work. ESTPs need to be careful that they don't spend too much time "doing" and being busy that they don't spend time reflecting or focusing on other important people/matters.

Spiritual Helps for the ESTP: ESTPs might feel closest to God when they are in nature. Because of their ease with facts, they may enjoy in-depth Bible study, specifically with a group of others. They will likely focus on the practical  or logical aspects of their faith and often enjoy more charismatic churches or expressions of faith. They are the movers and shakers of the church.
What Others Say about the ESTP: If you have an ESTP family member or friends, they keep things lively. They help you have a good time. They are generally easy to be around and keep things fun and interesting, helping other focus on the joy found in life.

Okay, who do you know that is an ESTP? Let me hear from you if you are!

Next week, join us as we tweak just one letter and see what a difference it makes when we explore the ENTP.

Getting Into Character: The Thinker

Okay, I’m back from The Bahamas and ready to tackle character, of course, since it’s Friday. The last two weeks we have studied the second set of “couples” in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator—Sensors and Intuitives.


Hopefully you were able to see yourself, someone you love, or your characters in one of the two descriptions. Now you can assign a second letter to your own or someone else’s personality label. This time you will use either an S for Sensor or an N for Intuitive (since we are ready used I for Introvert). There is an unbalanced representation in the population as a whole between Sensors, who make up roughly 70%, and the Intuitives, who comprise only 30%.

If you are still unsure, you can ask yourself how you approach details. Do you observe what you can see through your senses or do you rely on what would better be described as using your intuition. Let’s take a meeting at the coffee shop with your best friend. Do you notice her earrings, her outfit, and her shoes? Do you focus on the guy behind you who smells like cigar smoke? Does the squeal of the metal door against the frame claw at your nerves? Can you still taste the Pumpkin Pie latte you ordered? If so, you are most likely a Sensor.

Rather do you remember how, even though your friend said she wasn’t hurt by her mother’s remark, you felt the pain radiating off of her? Do you remember how the man ground out his cigar in frustration as he snapped his phone shut before entering the shop? Can you not recall what earrings, outfit, or shoes she wore, but remember the frequent sighs, negative tone, weariness she wore as a testament to her not sleeping well? If so, you are most likely an Intuitive. If you are following along, you should now know you are either ES, EN, IS, or IN. By the time we are done looking at the MBTI you will have one of sixteen labels.

Today we will begin the third pairing of the four—Thinkers and Feelers. This label tells you how you go about making decisions. When you have a choice to make, what do you focus on and how do you decide? Both Thinkers and Feelers go through a rational process when making a choice, but they center their decision on information coming from different places in their being. So let’s take a look at The Thinker.

Thinkers make decisions based on their heads, minds, and intellects. This is not to say that they are free of emotions, that they can’t be caring people or that they are “smart”. We are just looking at what they will continually use when trying to make a decision.

Thinkers use logic, impartial standards, and personal criteria when faced with a choice. They are pro vs. con people who have clear-cut goals and objectives. They analyze facts, ideas and reasons behind the decision. They enjoy clear expectations, rules, and standards when compiling information and make few exceptions. Thinkers can be described as fair but firm, business-first, impartial decision-makers. When a Thinker makes a decision, and it usually happens quickly and they don’t look back. Did anyone watch the most recent Bachelor? Jake, the Bachelor, displayed characteristic Thinker behavior when he chose who would stay and who would go. When he knew a girl was not right for him, away she went—sometimes two at a time. And remember Alli? When the show aired the teaser about the possibility of her coming back the next week, I told my husband there was no way Jake would allow her to come back. She had made her choice and he would abide by that. Yep, I’d guess he’s a Thinker.

Thinkers are usually task/goal oriented and desire fairness and truth over tact and sensitivity. They may live to argue and can fight for either side of an issue. They are quick to poke holes in scenarios and can find the flaw in any argument. If you are a Thinker and your daughter bakes her first cake AND cleans the kitchen, you are more likely to focus on the spot of batter she missed on the counter than all that she did do right.

If you see yourself in this description, rejoice because you can be counted on as being a fair, logical, and objective person. The people in your life probably come to you for advice when making decisions. You often decide and never look back. You are known for having good ideas for facts and things. Resist the urge to argue just for the fun of it and make conscious decisions to praise first (and after) pointing out a flaw to someone else.

Maybe it is not you whom you see in this description, but rather your significant other. If that is so, rejoice because you have an ally in the decision-making process. Two heads are better than one and two personalities are an advantage (unless they are both in the same person, then we have problems). If your honey is a Thinker, you may wonder why s/he always seems so negative—they always point out the flaw in anything you do. But if you have a Thinker, use that to your advantage when your manuscript needs editing, you are planning a vacation, or you are remodeling the house.

If you see your child in the Thinker description, congratulations—school will likely be easier than for his/her Feeler counterparts. Thinkers enjoy being recognized for going above and beyond any job, assignment, or situation. Make sure you praise their efforts beyond just getting a job done. If you asked her to sweep the garage and she did the patio as well, she will appreciate when you noticed the extra work. When you ask him to pick up his coat and hang it up, he will beam when you notice that he also grabbed his brother’s. Steer your little arguer toward speech or debate team and let him/her word-wrestle for a purpose.

I’m a classic Thinker and so is Justice. I mean, that kid will argue with a tree! Don’t mis-speak in front of him or you will never hear the end of it. However, often it is easier to parent him when it comes to spending money or making decisions about friends or school, because you can lay it out for him and he will reason it through. Makes for some interesting discussions in our family riddled with Feelers.

Who do you see in your life that is a Thinker and how can this information help make your relationship better?

Next Friday we will talk about all you Feelers and see what you use to make your decisions.