INTP - The Thinker
Introverted Intuition with Extroverted Thinking
Logical, Skeptical, Detached, Reserved, Speculative, Self-Determined, Precise, Theoretical, Independent, Autonomous, Cognitive
General:
INTPs are known for their quest for logical purity, which motivates them to examine universal truth and principles. They are constantly asking“Why” and “Why not?”. Clear and quick thinkers, they focus with great intensity on their interests. They appreciate elegance and efficiency in thought processes.While often low key in outward appearance and approach, the INTP is “hard as nails” when challenging a truth. INTPs do not like to deal with the obvious. They are at their best in building conceptual models and developing unusual and complex ideas.
Living:
INTP children are inwardly focused, often enjoying their own thoughts more than the company of others. They are full of questions sometimes voiced, most often not. They often challenge their elders and they sense their uniqueness early on. When INTPs are fond of books or games, it is likely that their choices will not be the fad. If an INTP is fond of music, it is likely to be an unusual sort. When INTPs do not like the rules, they are quick to find the flaws. As young adults choosing careers, INTPs either set a course and work toward it quietly yet forcefully or continue to resist and rebel against society’s “irrational rules”. In retirement, INTPs often continue the activities that were important to them in their working life, so It may be difficult for others to see where the working life stopped and retirement has begun.
Learning:
The INTP is a relentless learner in areas that hold his or her interest. They often seem “lost in thought,” and this characteristic appears very early. INTPs enjoy the life of the mind and the learning process. They are often characterized as life-long learners. INTPs focus broadly and conceptually, rather than superficially and emotionally. They can find logical flaws in the thinking of others and analyze these flaws for future study. They go great depths in their analysis. INTPs regard their teachers as equals and as individuals to be challenged. They are more likely to do their best when they see their teaches as competent.
Working:
INTPs like to work with independent thinkers to solve complex problems. The work space of the INTP is generally cluttered with papers, books or prototypes that are important to their interest and thoughts. INTPs contribute a logical, systems-building approach to their work. They like the architect of a plan, because of the scheming and thing involved, far more than being the implementer of that plan. INTPs may ignore standard operating procedures. The hours they spend are not what is important to them, but rather the completion of their thought process. INTP finds it difficult to stay motivated in projects that are not intriguing. They enjoy occupations such as biologist, chemist, computer programmer, system analyst, lawyer, photographer, researcher, psychologist, researcher, writer etc.
Leading:
INTPs focus on logic and principles, leading others by the strength of their ideas. Generally, INTPs do not seek traditional leadership roles, preferring autonomy for themselves and others. They do their best when leading other independent, idea-focused people. INTPs relate to others based on their expertise, not their position or status in the hierarchy. As leaders, INTPs tend to interact intellectually rather than emotionally and appeal to their followers using their logical thinking rather than personal examples.
Leisure:
Leisure tends to have two dimensions for the INTPs. One reflects their depth, concentration, and focus on conceptual matters. The other reflects a need for risk-taking activity in the external world. The INTP likes ample time alone to read, to think, to play with computers, or to watch TV which may be used as background for the internal information processing. Sometimes they find these inner activities more fascinating than the company of people. INTPs may engage in physical challenges, sometimes putting their lives at risk, such as mountain climb, skydive. They like games that require thought, such as bridge, when they play game, they don't want too much small talk, not do they pay attention to details. They often find their mind wandering.
Loving:
For INTP, love has three distinct phases: falling in love, they are likely to be very lively, do not structure or control but simply enjoy. They may bravely ignore the realities of distance, weather, and time to be with the loved one. Staying in love, INTPs begin to evaluate their structure and form. They may withdraw because they are moving toward their more customary inward style. They are serious about their commitment but may not discuss these at length with their partner as they seem so obvious. Getting out of love, often results from an analysis of the real expectations and the needs of the relationship. When the INTPs realize that the line has been crossed, the relationships deteriorates or ends.