[Functianalyst]

You’ll often find ISTPs in a group sitting at the edge of the circle carefully watching everything that is happening. If approached, they are usually cheerful and affable, great at story telling and quick with humor. They entertain with their knowledge of a wide array of action stories. Their primary mode, however, is observation, and they rarely miss anything. When a problem or need arises, they observe carefully and "know the territory."

They've been watching carefully and observing as the situation has unfolded. They know what’s going on and they're ready to spring into action. ISTP dislike excessive rules and regimentation. They enjoy the challenge of complex, concrete problems and immediate crises. They thrive on variety and novelty.

ISTPs see the structure of things, the way things work. They have the ability to organize data and to think about it in a logical, analytical and detached way. They consider themselves to be realists. They often don’t care for theory and theoretical discussions, because it takes away from valuable time to do and to act. They want to understand the situation in order to act decisively rather than speculate on theoretical future possibilities. ISTPs have a cool, unflappable ability to act in almost any situation, and can excel in high risk occupations and high pressure jobs.

ISTPs frequently have an affinity for tools and things mechanical. ISTPs continually scan the environment around them. Because of their ability to observe and stayflexible, as the situation changes, they will immediately make mid-course corrections, changes and adaptations. ISTPs are confident, alert and always oriented toward a concrete objective. They are willing to risk themselves for its completion. They find fun in action. They often love building furniture, houses, or anything that requires skill with tools and action. They often love fast cars and motorcycles, the great outdoors and action sports and sometimes sports with a dangerous bent.

ISTPs as Team Members

ISTPs are especially valuable team members where quick action is needed. They are often found in manufacturing, law enforcement, the military, project management, trouble-shooting and all settings where tools and instrumentation are critical. They are pragmatic in achieving goals and agile where the goal tends to be a moving target.

ISTPs are tolerant of other people with diverse ways of thinking and approaching work and life. They seldom disagree just to make a point and may seem to agree, simply because they are pleasant and don’t express disagreement.

Once a basic part of their logic and principles is violated, however, and they feel backed into a corner, ISTPs can surprise everyone by disagreeing strongly. They work extremely well in action-oriented teams and enjoy the camaraderie of groups where trust and concrete objectives form bonds. As team leaders and managers, they tend to be egalitarian, preferring flat organizations and a spirit of "all for one and one for all." ISTPs in organizations will want to ally themselves with more theoretical types, as well as those who take care of the daily details. In this way they can give their best gifts to the organization.

What Are ISTP Issues and Challenges in Groups/Best Alliances?

ISTPs are one of the most action-oriented of all the types. They have little patience for theory and long-range planning. They want to identify the immediate problem and to solve it. Because they are natural observers of situations, they can be seen as aloof in interpersonal relationships. ISTPs can do well by allying themselves with those with a more global perspective.

ISTPs and the Rest of their Lives

ISTPs thrive on fun and action, and for those who love continuous activities, the ISTP could be an ideal friend, spouse, or life partner. Once the ISTP is committed to a family with children, they will guard the fortress with loyalty and strength. They will never lack for a project or activity that energizes them. Because their chief mode is logical observation, ISTPs can seem detached and aloof, which can confuse people who experience their wit and action.

 

[Functianalyst]

Introvert, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving - ​

ISTPs represent approximately 6% of the population. ISTPs are good at logical analysis and like to use it on practical concerns. They typically have strong powers of reasoning, although they're not interested in theories or concepts unless they can see a practical application. They like to take things apart and see how they work. ISTPs have an adventuresome spirit and they are attracted to motorcycles, airplanes, sky diving, surfing, etc. They thrive on action and are usually fearless. ISTPs are fiercely independent, needing to have the space to make their own decisions about their next step. They do not believe in or follow rules and regulations, as this would prohibit their ability to "do their own thing." Their sense of adventure and desire for constant action makes ISTPs prone to becoming bored rather quickly (1,2,8).

ISTPs are action-oriented people. They like to be up and about, doing things. They are not people to sit behind a desk all day and do long-range planning. Adaptable and spontaneous, they respond to what is immediately before them. They usually have strong technical skills, and can be effective technical leaders. They focus on details and practical things. They have an excellent sense of expediency and grasp of the details which enables them to make quick, effective decisions (1,2,8).

An ISTPs Career Choice Should Probably Include...

1. A profession requiring a tough-minded, analytical, and realistic approach to its work.
2. Work that is clearly defined and specific in nature, where they master and then use their well-developed skills.
3. The opportunity to work at their own pace, independently, without a lot of restrictions on their activities or demands on their time.
4. An environment that is relaxed and informal, where they work along side other skilled people they respect and who respect them.
5. Work involving a craftsman-like approach in which they can utilize their skills in working with tools or instruments.
6. The opportunity to engage in short-term problem solving, trouble shooting activities, and crisis management.
7. Work that is practical and uses their ability to make sense of things logically.
8. Work that applies their technical knowledge of how things work.

An ISTPs Strengths are...

ISTPs are generally quiet and independent people who like, and need, to spend time alone because this is when they can sort things out in their minds most clearly. They like to be busy and involved with projects that are of importance and interest to them and they value skills and quality performance in themselves and others. Rather reserved and private, ISTPs do not usually share their reactions or responses unless urged to do so. They tend to be straightforward, honest, and more interested in action than conversation, unless it is a subject about which they know a lot. Unpretentious and down to earth, ISTPs operate more on curiosity and impulses than organization or plans (1,2,7,8).

ISTPs usually have a good sense of how mechanical things work and are logical in their analysis. They are realistic in their assessments and trust hard facts they have gained through personal experience. They are good observers and enjoy working with real things. ISTPs tend to be spontaneous and easy going, always ready and eager to get involved with fun or physical activities, especially those out-of-doors or containing a level of risk, thrill, or excitement (1,2,7,8).

ISTPs are good at...

• following through with a project and tying up loose ends
• making careful, thorough observations and focusing on details and practical things
• projects requiring detailed logical analysis and technical skill
• working alone with great ability to concentrate on projects they enjoy
• mastering skills, especially those requiring the use of hands or tools, and using those skills with precision
• being exceptional troubleshooters in emergency situations and they handle crisis situations with ease
• working with real things and tangible products

An ISTPs Weaknesses are...

ISTPs rarely share their feelings or express themselves emotionally to others and they tend to be so intensively private individuals. They don't consider their emotional lives to be particularly important and their aloofness may be seen as intentional coldness, especially when they don't bother to explain their behavior. This can be frustrating and hurtful to the people close to them, and may place the ISTP at risk for not developing the emotional side of their lives (1,2,7,8).

ISTPs' need for excitement and fun can lead them to take unnecessary risks and shirk other responsibilities. They may have trouble following through with commitments and find themselves bored. They are especially prone to skipping over the planning or organizing portion of projects, preferring to just get busy with the parts with which they are already proficient. They tend to be skeptical of unusual approaches and can get caught unprepared when they don't anticipate future events (1,2,7,8).

Things to watch out for...

ISTPs value privacy and sometimes keep important issues to themselves. Their concern for the present moment and their inability to recognize the importance of setting goals, often leads them into conflict with authority. Being action-oriented, ISTPs react against restrictions — which typically causes the controls placed on them to increase. In these situations, boredom can quickly set in and the ISTP may experience feelings of internal emptiness. Overly regulated situations cause ISTPs stress. In such situations, ISTPs either attempt to flee or turn to fight their adversary face-to-face (1,2,7,8).

The ISTP's form of retaliation can be characterized as defiling what other people value. The ISTP violates rules and regulations that protect individual rights in retaliation for the lost opportunities and freedom that the ISTP believes they have had to endure. Getting even stimulates them and a renewed sense of excitement emerges from the risks of revenge and the expression of outrage. If stress continues, ISTPs will put what remaining freedom they have left in jeopardy by rebelling further (1,2,7,8). Other concerns to watch for:

• exhibiting rash, emotional outbursts of anger when stressed
• leaving projects unfinished in order to start something more fun
• not following through on commitments and responsibilities
• unknowingly or uncaringly hurting people's feelings
• ignoring or overlooking plans for the future
• being impatient with theoretical discussions or vague instructions
• having difficulty distinguishing between emotional reactions and value judgments
• avoiding working as part of a group, preferring to work alone

Developmental Needs:

ISTPs often get"stuck in a rut" and only do those things that are known and comfortable to them and the ability to take things in stride and branch out into new opportunities needs to be developed. It is okay to be different, but there are rules in society and it would be to your benefit to follow them. Allow others to influence you a little more instead of surrounding yourself with people who support your own way of life, and rejecting people who think or live differently. Don't allow yourself to become paranoid - people are not trying to control you!

Careers ISTPs Might Consider​

Commercial Artist
Corporate Executive
Radiological Technician
Paralegal
Forest Ranger
Police Officer
Economist
Dental Hygienist
Respiratory Therapist
Chiropractor
Mechanical Engineer
Weapons Operator
Carpenter
Automotive Products Retailer
Intelligence Agent
Private Detective
Software Developer
Fire Fighter
Medical Technician
Corrections Officer
Media Specialist
Electrical Engineer
Purchasing Agent
Legal Secretary
Lawyer/Judge
Coach/Trainer
Computer Repair Person
Construction Worker
Optometrist
City Works Technician
Physical Therapist
Public Manager
Craft Worker
Computer Systems Analyst
Race Car Driver
Pilot
Marine Biologist
Surveyor Farmer
Mechanic
Computer Programmer
Banker
Securities Analyst
Cook
Professional Hunter

 

[VenusMisty]

Wow, the first paragraph of this description reminds me of the long drawn-out process I've used to find my personality so far. It was changing by the hour for awhile. This is good for now, and I have a feeling I will stick with it. There's so much to knowing yourself that you don't realize while you're just living, and paradoxically that's when you know yourself best, when you stop questioning who you are and just live, so it's weird like that.

I think there's a misconception that anyone who's very intelligent is an NT. For instance, if a character has a high IQ and people are asked to guess his or her type, most will say NT, even when the person is clearly very hands-on. You would think that most people, characters, smart people, or otherwise would be S's, since they make up 75% of the population. Plus, intelligence is defined as ability to adapt to the environment, so that would be score one for the Ss, I guess.roud:

People also have a huge tendency to infer things I never say from my words. ISTP sounds like one of those types that could be easily read as an extrovert in certain situations.

And, if there is a Thinking type that cries in public, that would be me.:crying:
As far as sexual politics goes, misoginy blows. I'd rather be threatening than insipid:tongue:

 

[Functianalyst]

This description comes from the Personality for Everyday Living page:


ISTP Definition of Personality Equals “Logic + Critical Analysis”

BASICS


I’m going to present ISTP qualities in a list format because I have found reading a paragraph when you are digging for some important, quick information, can be difficult, well it can be irritating! So let us take a look at a list of personality traits for ISTPs. This type:

• Is a natural logical and analytical
• Is quietly and very realistically watching everything
• Is naturally curious
• Is present oriented may struggle with future thinking
• Is active and outgoing for an Introvert, tolerant and easy-going
• Is typically needing autonomy, will become stubborn if denied it
• Is in possession of an acute bodily awareness/intelligence
• Is frequently masterful with physical tools and instruments of all kinds
• Does not have great respect for rules and regulations per se
• Is typically very task oriented
• Usually greatly values possessions and the great outdoors

Now do you see yourself/someone else in the above basic list of personality traits??

What we really begin to see with personality type is emerging patterns of behaving and using our brains. The ISTP way is natural, instinctive, beautiful, created to be this way. Let us continue.

Mottos Are Fun

For the ISTP these motto's or things to put on their battle flag might be:“Adaptable Troubleshooter”, “Pragmatic Problem-Solver”, “Do The Best With What You Have”, to name a few.


Let us make another list of personality traits, ISTPs:

• Are reasoning and making decisions with natural/instinctive logic and analysis
• Admire precision in action
• Will have difficulty (sometimes great difficulty) factoring in other people’s “feelings” in a decision making situation
• Usually enjoy solving problems, can be great in a crisis, natural troubleshooters
• Will be more naturally “object” oriented not “people” oriented when getting things done
• May dislike classroom learning as theory increases and hands-on learning decreases
• Normally, extremely utilitarian, if it can’t be used they will trash it

Now, my friend, the ISTP not only behaves in the above manner…THEY NATURALLY EXPECT EVERYONE ELSE TO DO THE SAME!!

So, what happens when they see that many others do not behave that way?? (only 5-7% of America’s population is this type) Answer: Different levels of stress, confusion, irritation, etc.; typically nothing this type can’t handle. So, this is a NATURAL reaction on the part of this type, they are not doing anything wrong.

More StuffThe ISTP:

• In relationships, are usually quiet, detached and reserved
• In relationships, are very calm, cool, and tough-minded at times
• In relationships, may have difficulty expressing feelings
• In relationships, can neglect to express appreciation for the way others feel
• In relationships, much of their expression is non-verbal, they speak with action
• In relationships, they can frustrate people with their need for independence and freedom
• Will resist the slightest attempt at control thus they can be slow to embrace commitment

Under StressThe ISTP:

• May become even less Introverted and more Extraverted, and verbally “attack”
• May feel suddenly trapped by rules, expectation, obligations, then suddenly move out and away from the trapped reality
• May become very pessimistic and see a mostly negative future
• May become explosively emotional under extreme stress
• May begin to take everything very personally and feel hurt

 

[Functianalyst]

This is a short, but very accurate description (at least for me) from Know Your Type.

Analyzer Operator: ISTP

Relationships

The ISTP is ready to try anything once. Keeping others off-guard is the environment the ISTP is happy with, whether its taking charge to fix a problem or generating a burst of humor that turns into the life of a party. This can be tough for friends.

Being in a relationship with an ISTP can be difficult due to the hands off attitude they often posses. They are loath to change especially if they believe others are attempting to control them. Their spontaneous nature is usually good natured and fun.

Family events are a mixed bag for the ISTP. The ISTP has little need for the social activity such events bring but rather enjoys the procedure. After an event, in the glow of success or failure, is where many ISTP’s will look for social interaction.

Career

Work that is routine like an administrator or open-ended like research is not what the ISTP is looking for. They need a career that will allow for spontaneous energy in problem solving and have a tangible, achievable goal. Other popular ISTP career directions include: Pilot, Police Cfficer, Medical Technician, and Paralegal.

Education

Learning is most enjoyable for the ISTP when it is relevant and experimental. The best way to learn is by doing in the ISTP world. The more abstract a class becomes, the less an ISTP will become, don’t be surprised to hear the phrase "what does this have to do with anything?" come out of the ISTP’s mouth.

 

[Functianalyst]

Paladin Associates offers a description of ISTP in how they may fare in careers:

ISTP Personality Type​

Hallmark Characteristics:

Reserved, Utilitarian, Pragmatic, Expedient, and Autonomous

Leadership Style:

Action oriented, resourceful, and spontaneous, ISTPs provide invaluable leadership when engaged in emergency and crisis situations. They are task oriented and place great value upon independence and individual rights. Non-attentive to interpersonal skills and niceties, they display little regard for organizational hierarchy, adhere to established rules only to the point of leaning how to get around them, provide followers with minimal supervision, and lead by example.

Conflict Resolution:

Pragmatic and logical, ISTPs take a hands-on approach when undertaking any task. They thrive in an environment in which they are given the latitude to solve specific, concrete problems expeditiously. In times of conflict they remain detached, focus on the issue at hand, and function with confidence, optimism, and ease.

Communication Style:

ISTPs dislike excessive dialogue that slows them down or wastes time. They speak in brief succinct sentences; avoid small talk, and present ideas through concrete examples and mental exactness. ISTPs persuade through cool, straightforward, logical analysis that stresses a need for immediate action. They are persuaded by realistic, measurable objectives and benchmarks stated in a step-by-step sequential fashion.

As Entrepreneurs:

Masters of expediency and rational analyses, ISTPs place great value on quality and efficiency of effort. The organizations they create have an adventurous, spontaneous quality, strive to do one thing exceptionally well, and derive great pleasure from the challenge of task accomplishment. They rebel against schedules and ridged structure and have little patience with the ambiguous. ISTPs need to augment their natural abilities with others who focus on long-range strategic planning and provide organizational structure.

Career Satisfaction:

ISTPs are resourceful tacticians, with a knack for taking in and retaining data of a technical nature. They enjoy tasks that involve working with and mastering the use of tools. They excel at on-the-spot troubleshooting and decision-making. In order for work to be meaningful, it must involve setting up, maintaining, and fixing apparatuses and systems. While successful people of all types are found in all occupations, some careers popular with ISTPs include: Engineer: electrical, mechanical, civil; Securities Analyst; Software Developer; Computer Programmer; Pilot; Race Car Driver; Detective; Carpenter; Logistics and Supply Manager; and Emergency Medical Technician.

 

[Functianalyst]

This description is a collection of tidbits when comparing the ISTP to ENFJ, from Discover Your Type newsletters:

Communicating with ISTPs​

What are some good ways to communicate with ISTPs? Well, for one thing, they like people who are logical and direct. Like many others, they like people who are brief and concise, and who are precise or accurate in the details they provide. People who describe problems in an objective manner are preferred over those who take a more emotional approach. Many ISTPs like realistic, achievable goals, but do not want to be dictated to about how to reach them. They usually prefer to see a link between what people are telling them now and what has come before. Likewise, they prefer information to be presented in a sequential manner: first this, then that, etc.

Things to avoid when communicating with ISTPs include presenting information that is illogical or emphasizes the emotional. They often prefer to avoid personal subjects, particularly at work. ISTPs rarely enjoy long, drawn-out meetings with endless discussions. Likewise, they usually do not like to talk about abstract concepts or distant goals. Many ISTPs dislike strict guidelines or rules, particularly if they make no sense to them. Others avoid emotional, excitable, or verbose people. They tend to be suspicious of people who are too excited about a new idea or theory, especially since it’s unproven. Finally, many ISTPs dislike close supervision or people who tell them how something "should" be done.

ISTPs Under Stress

How can you tell when an ISTP is under stress, particularly at work? There are common signs that an ISTP is feeling stress. For example, they might become sarcastic instead of simply critical, they sometimes act in a passive-aggressive manner, they might have explosive outbursts, or have great trouble setting priorities. Others become lost in their own, private inner world, and completely withdraw from interacting with other people. Some ISTPs try to force the facts to fit their logical view of the world, even when they know it's impossible. Finally, some stressed ISTPs will simply become inactive and do nothing.

Some factors that can cause ISTPs to experience stress include people who are take issues too personally, when they feel they are being treated unfairly or illogically, or when common sense and logic are ignored and a problem results. This is even harder if the ISTP has been trying to help others to see the correct way to solve the issue. If ISTPs are pressured into making quick decisions without time to reflect on what’s important or logical, they can feel stressed.

ISTPs in Organizations

For many ISTPs, a good job includes being rewarded for paying attention to what is logical, allows for hands-on experiences, and gives them freedom to do the work as they see fit. They often enjoy work that is project oriented and task focused, particularly if it involves immediate problem solving. Independence and autonomy are likewise important for ISTPs at work. Action is usually more important and interesting to them than long discussions. ISTPs often lead by example, and expect each person to contribute to the group effort. They can be quite expedient, finding the best solution for the moment. They usually dislike both giving and receiving close supervision. Many ISTPs can keep track of all kinds of detailed information and can become the source of "institutional knowledge" for an organization.

Some areas where ISTPs can have difficulties include taking shortcuts to get things done and skipping important steps. They might miss sharing information with others, who then assume the ISTP is uninvolved, unconcerned, and lacks interest. Sometimes, in their hurry to get things done, they can jump to a new task before the previous one is finished. Perseverance can be a problem. Likewise, goal setting can be difficult. The focus on the immediate can make it hard to look at the long term and plan accordingly, or even create a plan in the first place.

Careers for ISTPs

For this type I selected the career of electrical engineer. What makes this career attractive for ISTPs? Some of the factors include practical application of science, the reliance on data and facts versus feelings, technical know-how, use of tools, and hands-on and sensory experience. A focus on details is important, as well as a firm grounding in the necessary skills. While ISTPs can learn theory when needed, they are more often attracted to the application of that knowledge than its pursuit. They tend to be more craftsman-like in their work as opposed to a researcher. ISTPs often enjoy pragmatic problem solving work, particularly if it involves critical analysis of facts. When studying electrical circuits, it matters little how a circuit "feels." More important is the ability to focus on complicated details and follow the pattern to find the error or logical next step. Being realistic is important. Idealism and fantasy are not required. The idea of building or producing a tangible product is often attractive to ISTPs, who can take pride in their achievements. Many are curious folks, who enjoy learning how things work, and how to use them for practical purposes. Many are also keen observers, which is a real advantage in working with highly detailed materials. As you can see, many of these factors are real advantages when working as an electrical engineer.

 

[drjman]

Thanks for all of this. Much appreciated!

 

[firedell]

This is great, did you write some of this yourself?

 

[Functianalyst]

This is great, did you write some of this yourself?

Thank you, no I did not. I wanted to paste the websites, but could not go back and edit them after 24 hours.

 

[coachgabby]

this really is great! It just rings for me. I want to print it out and take it to coaches meetings. THIS is what I'm like! Stop tying my hands with stupid bureaucratic crap and let me do my job! We can work together if we understand how each of us are approaching the job. Tell me, bottom line, what it is I need to accomplish by the end of each month, or by the end of the season, keep me informed of changes to the facts at hand such as dates and times and events and let me work!

You need me to consider your feelings? ok. remind me of that whenever i begin to tread on them. You have needs, emotions, and feelings. I can understand that. i'm not a total jerk, i just see the goal and i get tunnel vision. i will try to be more sensitive to you.

THANKS! If everyone had their MBTI tattooed on their forehead, everyone would be better able to understand each other.

 

[Functianalyst]

Again from this website, an idea of how ISTPs deal with marraiage and/or relationships:

Marriage/Relationship Compatibility ISTP!​

• The ISTP can be “adventuresome” in life, love, hobbies, etc.
• The ISTP may not follow through with household chores as naturally as others
• The ISTP is especially impulsive, doing things in an unplanned way
• ISTP is cool, somewhat laid back at times as they view relationships
• ISTPs can be views as uncommunicative at times by mates and family
• The ISTP is normally very kind, liberal, bighearted with their mate and children
• ISTPs, at times do not choose relationships wisely…impulsive is a better word
• The ISTP desires to be right more often in relationship than wanting to please others
• ISTPs are very good a fixing things
• ISTP will not express emotion in relationship that well and won’t want to be constrained by the emotion of a mate…typically
• ISTP can be good lovers but will not respond to romance, they are practical
• The ISTP range of family activity may be varied and at times involve a bit of risk

ISTP Conflict Resolution Activity & Behavior Personality Traits​

ISTP Conflict Reactions Personality Traits:

• ISTP will not flee the conflict
• Will react to the conflict directly, straightforwardly, impartially, and at first anyway, dispassionately
• Naturally somewhat prone toward inpatients with the conflict, but will be open to “putting it off” if more information is forthcoming
• Take the most logical approach to finding the solution
• Will view “conflict” as a normal, accepted part of life
• Will take a realistic, no-nonsense, in-the-moment approach to it
• ISTP may find conflict initially exciting and adventurous

ISTP Conflict Resolution Activity Personality Traits

• Direct and purposeful action, although in a reserved manner
• ISTP will use logic to solve the problem
• ISTPs usually decide quickly but with flexibility, may be better to wait for more data
• ISTPs can move on the decision quickly

ISTP Likely Positive Solutions Will Be

• Realistic, in-the now
• Logical
• Practical and pragmatic
• Feasible
• Well-organized
• Results-focused
• ISTP may have enjoyed it

ISTP Conflict Resolution Activity-Improvement Opportunities (weaknesses)

• ISTP will probably not affirm someone else’s feelings and emotions in a conflict
• ISTP tendency to direct, order and not listen
• ISTP may not view the alternatives, the options as quickly as others
• May unilaterally decide upon a solution and run the risk of alienating others
• ISTPs may put it off
• ISTP will naturally critique things not meeting their standards
• ISTP will be less likely to indicate thanks and appreciation
• ISTP may have a tendency to fix a problem rather than simply listen

 

[Functianalyst]

Introverted Thinking (Ti)
​

• Are analytical and impersonal

• Are interested primarily in the underlying principles

• Are organized in relation to facts, but not people or situation unless of necessity

• Are perceptive, not dominating, as the decisiveness of the thinking usually shows only in intellectual matters

• Are outwardly quiet, reserved, detached, perhaps even aloof except with intimates

• Are inwardly absorbed in the current analysis or problem

• Are inclined toward shyness, especially when young, as the chief interests of introverted thinking are little help in small talk or social contacts

Introverted thinkers use their thinking to analyze the world, not to run it. Relying on thinking makes them logical, impersonal, objectively critical, not likely to be convinced by anything except reasoning. As introverts they focus their thinking on the principles underlying things rather than on the things themselves. Because it is hard to switch their thinking from ideas to details of daily living, they lead their outer lives mainly with their preferred perceptive process, which makes them detachedly curious and quite adaptable until one of their ruling principles is violated, at which point they stop adapting.

They are likely to be persevering and independent of external circumstances to a marked degree, with a singleness of purpose that subordinates the social and emotional aspects of life to some long-term achievement of the mind. They may have difficulty conveying their conclusions to the rest of the world and getting these accepted or even understood. Jung says the introverted thinker "will hardly never go out of his way to win anyone's appreciation of his ideas.... He merely exposes them, and is often extremely annoyed when they fail to thrive on their own account."

To be effective, the introverted thinkers must have a good auxiliary process to supply perception in support of their thinking. If their sensing is not serviceably developed, they will suffer a general deficit of perception, so that their thinking will not have enough to think about and consequently will be barren and unproductive. The lack of an adequate auxiliary process will leave them short on extraversion too. They will have inadequate relationships to the outside world, even by introverted standards.

The least developed process of the introverted thinkers inevitably is extraverted feeling. They are not apt to know unless told, what matters emotionally to another person, but they can and should act on the principle that people do care about having their merits appreciated and their point of view respectfully considered. Both the working life and the personal life of the introverted thinkers will go better if they take the trouble to do two simple things: Say an appreciative word when praise is honestly due, and mention the points on which they agree with another person before they bring up the points on which they disagree.

With introverted thinkers as with all introverts, the choice of the auxiliary process makes a great difference and colors the outward personality. In the ISTP combination, sensing will lend realism, matter-of-factness, sometimes an unexpected gift of fun for it’s own sake, often an interest in sports and outdoor recreation in general.

Choice of the auxiliary process also affects the use that will be made of the dominant process, because the kind of perception employed determines in large part what elements of the outer world will be brought to the attention of the ruling thinking. If sensing makes the selection, the material presented will be more tangible and concrete, often involving mechanics and statistics but in any case factual.

ISTP​

ISTPs have a vested interest in practical and applied science, especially in the field of mechanics. Of all the processes, sensing provides for the greatest understanding of the visible and tangible properties of a matter, how it behaves, what you can and cannot do with it. People of the is type are likely to be good with their hands, which is a genuine asset in the practical applications of scientific principles. With non-mechanical interests, the ISTPs can use general principles to bring order out of confused data and meaning out of unorganized facts. ISTPs who work in the field of economics, as securities analysis, or as market sales analysts in business and industry – in short, in dealing with statistics in any field.

Some ISTPs especially young ones, are great believers in economy of effort. This belief can contribute to their efficiency if they judge accurately how much effort is needed and proceed promptly to exert that much effort. However if they underestimate or under perform, economy of effort can come perilously close to laziness and little may get done.

Source

 

[RaspyYeti]

The ISTP Writing Personality: Extreme Knowledge

If you’re not failing every now and again, it’s a sign
you’re not doing anything very innovative. —Woody Allen

Can knowing about personality type make you a more effective writer?

ISTP writers are keen observers with a vast store of knowledge on subjects that interest them. They enjoy learning about gadgets, about how they work and what problems they were invented to solve. Independent thinkers, ISTPs tend to be unswayed by other people’s expectations. ISTPs research a topic thoroughly before writing about it and base their conclusions on comprehensive, proven data.

The ISTP personality type is one of 16 identified by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, a popular psychometric instrument used to determine how people prefer to gather information and make decisions. The initials ISTP stand for the following:

I: Introversion preferred to extraversion
ISTPs get their energy from the internal world of thoughts and ideas. They enjoy interacting with small groups of people but find large groups draining. They generally reflect before acting.

S: Sensation preferred to intuition
ISTPs are concrete thinkers, placing more trust in experience than in flashes of insight. They’re more interested in sensory data than in the patterns perceived by the unconscious mind. ISTPs tend to be intellectually content—they want to enjoy the world.

T: Thinking preferred to feeling
ISTPs prefer to use their thinking function when making decisions. They place more emphasis on the rule of logic than on the effect that actions have on people. They tend to be skeptical in evaluating ideas, whether their own or someone else’s.

P: Perception preferred to judgment
ISTPs like to keep their options open. They enjoy beginning new projects and exploring opportunities as they arise. ISTPs think about possibilities rather than likelihoods.

Are you an ISTP writer? If so, the following information may give you some insight into how temperament influences your writing style. Use these insights to help you play to your strengths and compensate for your natural blind spots.

Writing Process of the ISTP

ISTPs may approach a writing project in the following ways:

Want their writing to serve a practical purpose, such as explaining how to solve a problem. ISTPs tend to be good troubleshooters with broad, specific knowledge that they can apply in high-pressure situations. Choose topics that allow you to draw on this ability. Then, jot down your ideas while conducting your research, rather than writing in your head. This will help you focus your ideas early so you don’t waste time gathering extraneous information.
Work independently and prefer a quiet environment. If you must write collaboratively, seek out tasks that will allow you to work alone or with someone whose expertise you value. Unlike most sensing types, ISTPs don’t want detailed instructions or specific feedback. They want general guidelines that allow them flexibility. They aren’t likely to follow rules they regard as useless.
Bring a high level of mental energy to their projects. They enjoy taking risks and may need the pressure of a deadline to complete their tasks. They don’t want to write according to someone else’s schedule.
Focus on known facts rather than original ideas. ISTPs aren’t interested in theory except as a way of exploring what’s tangible and demonstrable. They seek mastery rather than discovery, although this may mean applying a new technique to an old problem. ISTPs don’t want to be the first—they want to be the best.
Potential Blind Spots of the ISTP

ISTPs may experience the following pitfalls:

Focus on the concrete and avoid abstract concepts. As a result, their writing may lack a unifying theme that communicates the author’s purpose. Be sure to incorporate an organizing principle, such as problem–solution, to serve as a roadmap for the reader.
Write to develop their ideas rather than to please an audience. If your goal is to communicate your ideas to others, be sure to organize your work so that the subject unfolds logically. This will likely come easily to you if you invest the time. Also, engage the reader by relating the subject to personal experience. If you don’t feel comfortable writing about your own experience, write about something you’ve observed.
May inject their satirical sense of humor even into a serious subject. This can be engaging if done well. But if you aren’t careful to consider audience reaction, you risk offending the reader. Seek feedback from someone whose judgment you respect. Ask the person to identify any problems but not to offer solutions. ISTPs like to come up with their own solutions and feel constrained by other people’s ideas.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong approach to writing. Each person is unique, so don’t let generalities limit you. Do what works best for you.

The ISTP Writing Personality: Extreme*Knowledge « Andrea J. Wenger: Write*with*Personality

 

[Tenshi_rdk]

Does it make me crazy if I just read all of this in one sitting ... took me nearly 3 hours to read it all... Gosh ISTP overkill .... Thanks Functianalyst !

 

[nordic28]

ISTP Personality Type Profile

By Dr. A.J. Drenth
“ISTP” is one of sixteen personality types. While some estimates suggest ISTPs comprise only 5% of the general population, my research and experience suggests this type to be more common, perhaps even as high as 8%. Male ISTPs are thought to outnumber ISTP females at a clip of three to one.Like INTPs, ISTPs dominant function is Introverted Thinking (Ti), which can be associated with high levels of focus, self-discipline, intentionality, independence, and intensity of thought. ISTPs take life rather seriously and use their inner logic to discern the best ways of navigating it. They may, for instance, use Ti to work out their own personal methods for maximizing performance in a particular sport. They love using their Ti to solve practical problems or to optimize functioning. Because of their independence, self-directedness, and competitiveness, ISTPs may excel at nearly anything they set their mind to.Because ISTPs’ Thinking is introverted in its direction (Ti), it often goes unnoticed by outsiders. What others tend to see is ISTPs’ engaging in action (Se) or mixing with people (Fe). ISTPs’ Extraverted Feeling (Fe) can bring a surprising amount of affability and personableness to their outward presentation. ISTPs often present as sincere, genuine, and approachable. Their Fe confers a certain childlike innocence that others may find refreshing.Since neither Ti nor Se is a highly verbal function, ISTPs can be persons of few words. Their relationships are often built around shared interests or activities rather than extensive conversation. But since status and reputation are important to their Se and Fe, ISTPs may be far more talkative at work or in public settings than they are at home. In public, they may be fun and outgoing. In private, they may seem more aloof or disengaged, sensing that their intimates cannot provide them the same degree of ego boost they find in the public arena (Fe). This ostensible disparity between their private and public persona may lead their intimates to consider them narcissistic or hypocritical.ISTPs commonly display conventional, sometimes stylish, forms of dress. While their Ti is concerned with functionality and practicality, their Se and Fe are attuned to the trendy and popular. Physically, ISTPs may have either a lanky or muscular build. While athletic engagement often keeps them fit throughout their childhood, their love for food (Se) may lead to problems with weight in adulthood.While not to the same extent as their ESTP counterparts, ISTPs are undeterred from investing in high quality and/or high-status goods. Like other Se types, they can appreciate excellent food (some are even foodies) and stylish clothing. Fancy or vintage sports cars, motorcycles, or power tools commonly line the garages of ISTPs.

Kobe Bryant, ISTP
​

Like other SP types, ISTPs often display great kinesthetic intelligence. They are often mechanically-inclined and endowed with excellent hand-eye coordination. In contrast to INTPs, who sport high levels of mental energy, ISTPs may exhibit higher levels of physical energy and stamina. While INTPs use their Ne to explore ideas, ISTPs, likeISFPs, use their hands, body, and other senses to explore and manipulate the concrete world (Se).Because of their preference for hands-on activities, ISTPs may underperform in academic settings. This is typically not due to a lack of ability per se, but a lack of interest or stimulation. As is true for all Sensing types, being forced to deal in abstractions for too long can be draining for ISTPs. Their need for physical activity and impatience with abstractions may also explain why ISTP school children are more likely to be diagnosed with ADD or ADHD than some of the other personality types. ISTP students who can set their focus on a particular career goal or endpoint, such as becoming a surgeon, are apt to fare better.Generally speaking, ISTPs are wise to pursue careers that allow them to use their practical intelligence to solve concrete problems (i.e., Holland “Realistic” careers). They can make excellent artisans, athletes, mechanics, drummers, maintenance workers, chiropractors, surgeons, pilots, chefs, etc.While ISTP differ from ISTJs by only one “preference” (i.e., J-P), these types actually share zero functions in common. This makes them far more different than is sometimes recognized. As TJ types, ISTJs are more direct and firm (even blunt) in their assertions than ISTPs are. ISTPs use Fe rather than Te, which confers a certain social ease, even charm, which ISTJs often lack. Moreover, ISTPs use Se rather than Si, making them less concerned with preserving past precedent than ISTJs are. Finally, ISTPs are more inclined toward “hands-on” and Realistic careers, whereas ISTJs gravitate toward “white collar” sorts of work.
ISTP Personality Type Development & Functional Stack

ISTPs’ functional stack is composed of the following functionsominant: Introverted Thinking (Ti)Auxiliary: Extraverted Sensing (Se)Tertiary: Introverted Intuition (Ni)Inferior: Extraverted Feeling (Fe)ISTPs’ personality type development can be broadly conceived as consisting of three phases:

Phase I (Childhood-20s)​

This phase is characterized by the emergence and differentiation of ISTPs’ dominant function, Introverted Thinking (Ti). Early in life, ISTPs often use their Ti to focus on one or two pursuits. They may for instance, funnel their Ti energies into mastering video games, tinkering with computers, or learning the best way of shooting a basketball. Since they often apply their Ti to hands-on activities—sports, Legos, drumming, video games, and the like—Phase I ISTPs may also show significant development of their auxiliary function, Extraverted Sensing (Se).Since their Ti is a rational Judging function, ISTPs tend to approach life fairly seriously. Even from a relatively young age, they can be self-disciplined and goal-oriented, striving for excellence in whatever they do. They can differ markedly from ESTPs in this regard, whose dominant function (Se) is a Perceiving function, leading Phase I ESTPs to be more open-ended and easygoing. While both types utilize Se and Ti, ESTPs are more concerned with perceiving or experiencing the outside world (Se), while ISTPs are more intentional, focused, and self-directed (Ti).

Phase II (Late Teens-30s)​

Once their dominant Ti reaches a certain threshold of strength and dominance, ISTPs’ inferior function, Extraverted Feeling (Fe), enters the picture and begins to play a more influential role. This can be confusing because Fe is not next in line in their functional stack. Its undue influence can be understood as deriving from its bipolar relationship with ISTPs’ dominant Ti.Phase II ISTPs also show increasing use and development of their auxiliary function, Extraverted Sensing (Se). This may involve exploring new hobbies and interests, such as gourmet cooking. As a Perceiving function, Se also leads to an opening of their Ti judgments to see if they pass the test of lived experience. Since Se is an extraverted and expansive function, Phase II ISTPs may feel it necessary to explore a wide range of experiences before arriving at confident conclusions.Phase II ISTPs may also begin to tap into their tertiary function, Introverted Intuition (Ni), which can subconsciously assist ISTPs in piecing together their Se experiences, furthering clarifying their identity and worldview.

Phase III (30s, 40s, & Beyond)​

If all goes well and they are fortunate enough to enter Phase III, ISTPs become increasingly aware of the insidious ways of their inferior Fe. As they become more aware of their inferior and learn to function more authentically as ISTPs, they can experience greater balance between their Ti and Fe. This will be elaborated later in this profile.
ISTPs’ Dominant Function: Introverted Thinking (Ti)

To understand ISTPs, or other IP types, it is necessary to recognize the full implications of their dominant function being a Judging function. I discuss this issue in my post, Rethinking Judging and Perceiving in IPs & IJs. In short, I suggest that ISTPs are best viewed as predominant Judgers and display many characteristics of EJs, only that these behaviors are directed inwardly or toward themselves.Ti involves the use of logic and reason for the sake of understanding a given problem, situation, or system. ISTPs use Ti to solve problems, to optimize functioning, and to bring structure and order to their inner world. This inner structuring grants them a strong sense of inner control. It allows ISTPs to be inwardly self-disciplined and to independently manage their lives and personal projects.The disciplined nature of Ti may inspire ISTPs to frame their lives in terms of personal challenges or a series of independent projects. While not shying away from competing with others, ISTPs enjoy taking on challenges and projects for the mere pleasure of it. Such challenges may be physical (e.g., trying to achieve an optimal level of fitness), practical (e.g., fixing a car), creative (e.g., craftsmanship), or interpersonal.At times, the inwardly focused and intentional nature of Ti lead can lead ISTPs to mistype themselves as ISTJs. In so doing, they rightly recognize their inner Judging nature, but wrongly conclude that they must be a J-type. They fail to recognize that the J-P label refers only to outward demeanor and behavior. This may partly explain what I see as the underrepresentation of ISTPs in demographic data.Ti might also be viewed in terms of fluid intelligence, whereas Extraverted Thinking (Te) seems more related to crystallized intelligence. Ti is more intuitive, contextual, and right-brained, whereas Te is more procedure-oriented and left-brained. The fluid nature of their Ti, combined with the keen observational powers of their Se, contributes to ISTPs’ acumen as practical problem solvers. ISTPs can analyze a situation, discern how things should work, and then determine how to fix it. While a Te type might feel compelled to use schematics or manuals to diagnose the problem, ISTPs rely on their Ti’s ability to reason their way through concrete problems, even those they’ve never encountered. This contributes to their skill as mechanics, maintenance workers, machinists, surgeons, technicians, etc.ISTPs’ Auxiliary Function: Extraverted Sensing (Se)

Introverted Sensing (Si) is conservative with respect to new sensations and the material world. Extraverted Sensing (Se), by contrast, is more materially liberal and novelty-oriented. Se types (especially ESPs) often exhibit a laissez-faire, “eat, drink, and be merry” approach to life.Unlike Si, Se is not content with routine and familiar experiences. For this reason, ISTPs enjoy physical thrills and new sensations. Their Ti penchant for challenges, combined with the physically active and explorative nature of their Se, makes ISTPs solid candidates for sports and physical challenges. While their inferior Fe may like the camaraderie associated with team sports, ISTPs may also enjoy the individual challenge of activities like cycling or long-distance running.Se also attunes to the concrete details and sensory information of the environment by way of the five senses. SP types scan the environment for interesting sensory novelties, noticing details in the environment that other types might readily gloss over. This is why SPs (especially ESPs) often have strong visual recall, or what is sometimes dubbed a “photographic” memory. ISTPs may utilize their Se’s attention to detail in any number of ways.One of my ISTP friends, for instance, enjoys scavenging fields for arrowheads. As he saunters about, his Se scans the environment in hopes of finding another lost treasure. After locating an arrowhead, he further enlists his Se to explore its shape, texture, and other features.ISTPs also employ their Se in their daily work as mechanics, technicians, chefs, construction workers, etc. They make excellent craftsmen, using their Se to attend to the finest physical details. They love working with their hands and using tools to produce high quality pieces.Unlike the Ne-Si function pair, which encourages makeshift tool use (Ne) in the name of material conservation (Si), the Se-Ni function pair impels ISTPs to acquire the right tools in order to do the job the “right way.” In this vein, ISTPs are not opposed to spending a little extra on high quality tools, parts, etc.Se also differs from Ne in that it is not a highly verbal or abstract function. So while INTPs enjoy sitting around discussing ideas, ISTPs would often prefer to be “doing” something. Even watching sports can be more stimulating than conversation for ISTPs, since it stimulates their Se and allows them to vicariously participate in the action.

ISTPs’ Tertiary Function: Introverted Intuition (Ni)

ISTPs’ tertiary function is Introverted Intuition (Ni). In combination with their dominant Ti, ISTPs may display some degree of interest in abstract or theoretical topics. After all, Ni and Ti are the same two introverted functions employed by INFJs, who are among the most theoretical-minded of all types. However, because ISTPs’ Ni is more unconscious, it is less accessible to them for immediate intuitive perception. Therefore, like other SP types, ISTPs are more likely to gain insight through analyzing a breadth of life experiences (Ti-Se). Ni can also aid in the process, helping ISTPs synthesize and extract meaning from a breadth of Se experiences.ISTPs’ Inferior Function: Extraverted Feeling (Fe)

For those unfamiliar with the workings and powerful influence of the inferior function, as well as strategies for dealing with it, I encourage you to explore some of my posts on the inferior function. Like other types, ISTPs can be easily blinded to the degree to which their inferior function impacts their decisions and behavior. Without sufficiently understanding the inferior function, Extraverted Feeling (Fe), ISTPs will continue to feel incomplete and be prone to unhealthy decision-making in their careers, lifestyle, and relationships.The ISTP’s personality type dynamics can be largely understood as an attempt find a balance between Ti and Fe, independence (Ti) and interdependence (Fe), self (Ti) and others (Fe). Since Ti and Fe comprise a functional whole, ISTPs intuitively realize that they need to better integrate their Fe in order to feel more whole and complete.Obsessiveness/Workaholism“In the grip” of the inferior function, all personality types are prone to acting compulsively and obsessively. Grip experiences can be difficult to escape, since the less conscious self (i.e., the inferior function) takes over as the driver of the personality. While the content of grip experiences may differ across the types, their basic shape is essentially the same.For ISTPs (and INTPs), being in the grip often involves workaholism. As T dominants, work (including personal projects and hobbies), comprises a central component of ISTPs’ identity. In doing what they enjoy, ISTPs are naturally very disciplined and thorough. When they are in the grip, however, they become obsessive, perfectionistic, and unable to let go of whatever they are doing. During such times, ISTPs may alienate themselves from others, insisting they need more and more time to themselves (this is why ISTPs often test as Enneagram Fives). They become trapped, functioning only in Judging mode (Ti-Fe), while forgoing the Perceiving functions (Se-Ni) in the middle of their functional stack.As for all types, the process of slipping into grip experiences is often subtle and insidious. For instance, ISTPs may have a goal in mind for what they want to accomplish that day, only to discover the task much larger than they originally imagined. But because a bigger task poses a greater challenge, they take the bait and see if they can still manage to get it done. The problem, of course, is that this essentially locks them into Judging mode, since any deviation into Se Perceiving will preclude them from accomplishing their goal. This includes closing themselves off to other people, who come to be viewed as intrusions or impediments to their productivity. Consequently, ISTPs who are frequently in the grip may end up ostracizing themselves from other people.What is interesting is that ISTPs, like other types, can be relatively unaware of falling into a grip experience, rationalizing their obsessiveness as being “efficient” or “productive.” Moreover, since grip experiences are fueled by adrenaline, they can feel “good” at some level, allowing for heightened focus and endurance. At the same time, there is a part of ISTPs that knows they are in trouble. When all they can do is compulsively hurl themselves into their work, a part of them realizes this is unsustainable, unbalanced, and potentially destructive.To compensate for the isolation involved with grip behavior, ISTPs may “crutch” their inferior Fe through their relationships, which provides the reassurance that external Fe support is available should they need it. This is why so many ISTPs (and INTPs) struggle when it comes to balancing their work and interpersonal relationships.Slippery & Elusive EmotionsFor ISTPs and INTPs alike, their Fe is rather naive and childlike. They may be easily moved by cheesy romantic comedies or sappy love songs, anything that incites their subconscious Fe emotions. They can also be easy targets for “love at first sight” sorts of infatuation. They may be particularly susceptible to being wooed by Feeling types (especially FJs), who can bypass their typical channels of logic and appeal directly to ISTPs’ less conscious Fe.Because of the inferior position of their Fe, ISTPs struggle to intentionally contact or understand their emotions. It’s not they never experience emotions, but only that their emotions seem to have a mind of their own, coming and going as they please. So even if ISTPs are aware of what emotions are appropriate for a given situation, they often do not “feel” them at the time, engendering a sense of awkwardness or discomfort in emotional situations. They may even experience the desired emotion a few hours later, but it’s almost as though their emotions get “stage fright” when “put on the spot.” To compensate, ISTPs may try to use their Fe to offer the socially-appropriate words. But without experiencing the emotions directly, they often sound clumsy or contrived in their expressions. At times, this can be difficult for their romantic partners, particularly for FJ types, who desire a reciprocation of authentic emotional expression. But because of their Fe stage fright, ISTPs may not experience their feelings “at the right times” or can have trouble expressing them when they are present.While ISTPs can certainly have trouble contacting their emotions, they usually have little difficulty overriding or detaching from them. Consequently, ISTPs are less apt to struggle with guilt, regret, or shame in the way that other types might. Others may even be surprised how quickly ISTPs can resume “business as usual” after what most would consider tragic or traumatic circumstances. This should not necessarily be viewed as a flaw in the ISTP, however, but merely a reflection of the unconscious nature of their Fe.Conflict-Avoidance, Passive-Aggressiveness, & Desire for AffirmationISTPs’ want everyone to feel included and to be treated with fairness and respect (Fe). While not as warm or effusive as FJ types, ISTPs are concerned with others’ feelings and try to avoid hurting or offending them. Like FJ types, they seek to maintain a basic level of harmony in their immediate circumstances.

Fe also contributes to ISTPs’ desire for public affirmation. Fe involves making connections between one’s own emotions and those of others. While ISTPs may not always “feel” what others are feeling, their Fe still desires the sense of social affirmation and validation. Consequently, there are times when ISTPs are helpful or compliant largely for the sake of external approval or to maintain a certain public perception. ISTPs with a strong concern for their image can take social engagements quite seriously. They want others to see them as laudable employees, spouses, parents, or citizens. Their desire for public esteem can also be a motivating force in ISTPs’ desire for achievement (This is why ISTPs may also score high as Enneagram Threes).ISTPs’ propensity for conflict-avoidance and need for affirmation, on the one hand, with their need for independence (Ti), on the other, contributes to no small number of relational difficulties. Especially when in the grip of workaholism, ISTPs may feel they don’t need or want other people around. Eventually, they come to a point of feeling miserably imbalanced, which prompts them to reinitiate contact with others, at least until they fall into the grip again. This cycle of alternating between needing and devaluing others is common among ISTPs and narcissists alike.In the name of conflict-avoidance and preservation of external harmony, ISTPs may do all they can to circumvent directly expressing their frustrations or grievances. Wittingly or not, they view conflict as a potential threat to the relationship they depend on to meet their Fe needs, as well as a threat to the flawless image they seek to preserve. So rather than giving voice (Fe) to their concerns, ISTPs are more apt to analyze (Ti) or act on them (Se), often in passive-aggressive ways. They may, for instance, intentionally start spending more time at the office as a passive form of rebellion against their partner. Or, they may make sudden executive decisions without giving others any say or prior notice. Poor communication can also lead ISTPs to create a convoluted set of assumptions about what their partners think, want, and expect. Unhealthy ISTPs may spin an ever-expanding web of faulty beliefs and assumptions about their partner. In so doing, they often come to resent or otherwise think negatively of their mates, even if largely a product of their own faulty conclusions.Personal Growth for ISTPs

Personal growth for ISTPs involves integrating their Fe through consistent and satisfying use of their Ti and Se. Integrating ISTPs must also must learn to recognize the difference between healthy modes of work versus functioning in the grip of their inferior function. Healthy work for ISTPs includes remaining open to Se experiences and diversions, which can keep them from becoming too one-track minded.In addition to taking a healthier approach to their work, integrating ISTPs must enhance their self-awareness and communication in their relationships. This includes working to unearth all their implicit assumptions about relationships in general and their partner in particular. It means being willing to dialogue about uncomfortable topics that may produce temporary pain or conflict. It is not until they “clear the air,” learning to be more open and honest with themselves and their partners, that ISTPs will experience true satisfaction and wholeness in their relationships.

ISTP Personality Type Profile

 

[vonunov]

I have a problem with people reading between the lines. They hear words I never say, and I select my words carefully.

Yes.

"So what you're saying is [totally not what I just said]."

No, what I'm saying is what I just said. There's no need to rephrase it and try to find more to it. Are you paid by the word?