INTJ Introduction

INTJ MBTI type: The Mastermind
I - INTJ definition and how to determine who is a Strategist

1. What is INTJ? 

Introverted, intuitive, thinking, and judging is abbreviated as INTJ. It is one of the 16 personality types classified by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, a personality test (MBTI). People with an INTJ personality are very analytical, creative, and logical. They are also sometimes referred to as the "Architect" or the "Strategist."

A small percentage of people between 1% and 4%, according to psychologist David Keirsey, creator of the Keirsey Temperament Sorter — have the INTJ personality type.

In this overview, you can discover more about the INTJ personality. This is not, however, intended to be taken as career, psychological, or medical advice.

Primary INTJ Characteristics 

• INTJs typically prefer to work alone and are introverted. They work hard and are self-assured, which is a plus. However, it can also be a weakness because they might come off as callous or insensitive. 

• An INTJ prefers to concentrate on abstract information over specific details and sees the big picture. They have a propensity toward perfection as well. 

• A person with an INTJ personality prioritizes logic and factual information over subjective feelings. They find it awkward when people talk about their emotions. 

• The world of control and order appeals to INTJs. Because of this, they prefer to plan far in advance. Some INTJs may even manipulate situations in order to achieve their goals.

2. INTJs characters 

Since the Strategist is an introvert, they are more interested in their own inner world than their surroundings. They also focus on themselves, as opposed to extroverts who focus on the outside world. This matches the I in INTJ, which stands for their preference for introversion. Due to their preference for intuition, INTJs can see patterns and repeating events and have a strong sense of the future and what is to come. They become more future-focused as a result. They have a propensity to live their lives with a focus on the future rather than the present because they enjoy making plans for the future. In the article that follows, we'll go into greater detail regarding INTJ preferences. 

Perfectionists, with exceptional focus and admirable resolve, describe themselves as INTJs. They occasionally struggle to be understood and valued for who they are. People frequently hold false beliefs about INTJs and their reserved demeanor. The truth is that INTJs don't like to show their affection in front of others, but they can do so if they have found a trustworthy person. This is probably because they seek a truly unique individual to complete them.

Since they pick things up quickly from a young age, INTJs are frequently labeled as nerds or geeks in their classes. They enjoy studying and reading, and they don't mind doing those things in their spare time. They enjoy having well-informed opinions and use knowledge both as a defense mechanism and a tool.

II - Strengths and Weaknesses of the INTJ

The strengths and weaknesses that INTJs most frequently exhibit are listed below. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule, but generally speaking, most INTJ individuals exhibit these characteristics to some degree.

1. INTJ Strengths

• Logic-based – Architects take great pride in their mental prowess. With this mindset, they can come up with creative solutions to even the most challenging issues. They can reframe almost any challenge as an opportunity to improve their capacity for rational thought and increase their knowledge. 

• Few personality types are as committed to forming rational, accurate, and evidence-based opinions as Architects. They rely on research and analysis to support their conclusions rather than gut feelings or naive assumptions. This gives them the conviction they require to defend their opinions in the face of opposition. 

• Independent - For people with this personality type, conformity is essentially a synonym for mediocrity. Architects are independent, creative people who prefer to do things their way. Few things, in their opinion, are more frustrating than having arbitrary laws or customs obstruct their progress. 

• Determined - This personality type is characterized by ambition and a focus on achieving objectives. Architects won't stop working until they've fulfilled their own definition of success, which is typically to become experts in the topics and activities that are important to them. 

• Curious - Architects are open to fresh perspectives as long as they are reasonable and supported by facts. Architects are naturally skeptics and are especially intrigued by unconventional or opposing viewpoints. And they are typically happy to change their minds if the facts show that they were incorrect.

• Original - The world would be much less interesting without architects. Some of history's most outlandish concepts and creations have their roots in the rebellious nature of this personality type. Even in daily life, architects push those around them to consider novel (and occasionally startling) points of view.

2. INTJ Weakness

• Arrogant – Although knowledgeable, architects are not infallible. Their confidence may make them oblivious to advice from others, especially those they perceive as intellectually inferior. Additionally, these personalities may come across as being overly demanding or stubborn in their pursuit of proving others wrong. 

• Negative to Emotions – Rationality is king for architects. But more often than people with this personality type like to admit, emotional context matters. Those who appear to value emotions over facts can irritate architects. Unfortunately, ignoring emotion is a form of bias all on its own, and it can impair an architect's judgment. 

• Overly demanding - People with this personality type typically exercise great self-control, especially when it comes to their thoughts and feelings. Architects have a tendency to come off as scathingly critical when the people in their lives fall short of their standard of restraint. However, this criticism might be unjustified because it is based on arbitrary standards rather than a thorough knowledge of human nature. 

• Combative - Architects dislike doing things blindly without knowing why. This includes limitations and the people in positions of authority who impose them. This personality type is prone to getting caught up in arguments over pointless laws and regulations, but these conflicts can occasionally serve as diversion from more pressing issues. 

• Socially Inept - Architects' unwavering rationality can cause them to become frustrated in their social interactions. They might experience loneliness or a sense of alienation from other people as a result of their efforts to defy expectations. They may occasionally start to doubt the value of love and connection altogether and develop cynicism about the value of relationships in general.

III - INTJ Cognitive Processes and INTJ-A /  INTJ-T

1. The cognitive function of INTJ

The distinctive cognitive processes that characterize each of the 16 personality types are also defined. Each function is either introverted or extroverted because it is either directed inward or outward. Depending on how frequently a personality type uses each of these functions, they are stacked in a specific order. Introverted intuition is the primary cognitive function of INTJs, with extroverted thinking coming in second. 

The entire INTJ function stack is shown below:

1.1 Dominant: Introverted Sensing

Introverted intuition is the one of the four cognitive functions that is most frequently used (Ni). These dominant function personality types are extremely fortunate because they typically process data and difficult-to-understand information with ease. The Ni function enables the ability to develop logical plans, which is another factor that makes The Strategist such a mastermind.

• INTJs use their introverted intuition to consider possibilities, patterns, and deeper meanings. They are more interested in the implications of the facts than they are in simply examining the facts themselves. 

• An INTJ personality type enjoys exploring possibilities and thinking about the future. 

• When recalling past events, an INTJ may focus more on feelings than precise facts. 

• INTJs excel at "reading between the lines" to determine the true meaning of statements.

1.22 Additional: Extraverted Attitude 

Add the aforementioned to the rational application of the Extroverted Thinking function (or Te, for short). Because of this, people with the INTJ personality type are better able to follow directions and keep their attention on the task at hand while remaining organized. This explains how they construct arguments in a methodical and informed manner.

• Extroverted thinking drives people with this personality type to look for structure, order, and control in their surroundings as a secondary function in the INTJ personality. 
• Because of this, INTJs tend to approach problems very deliberately and methodically. 
• INTJ personality types frequently base their decisions on logic. They arrange their ideas to recognize relationships between causes and effects.

1.3 Tertiary: Introverted Thinking

In the INTJ function stack, the Introverted Feeling function (also known as Fi) comes in third, which indicates that it is utilized to a lesser extent than the first two functions. It endows the personality type with the capacity to see past a person's outward actions and gain insightful knowledge about what a person is truly like on the inside. It operates very similarly to an emotional X-ray. It fuels the personality type's desire to forge close bonds with a select group of unique individuals.

• Introverted feeling is used by INTJs, but because it is a tertiary function, it is used less frequently than the dominant and auxiliary functions. 

• When this aspect of their personality is fully developed, an INTJ pays more attention to values and emotions when making decisions. 

• They might consequently be more drawn to individuals and pursuits that share their values.

1.4 Inferior: Extraverted Intuition

Extroverted Sensing is the INTJ personality type's least noticeable characteristic (also abbreviated Se). The type only occasionally uses it, but because it handles data processing, INTJs can base their decisions on their five senses. People with this ability are quick to pick up on details and look for a link between the past and the present.

• Extraverted sensing is often the least developed cognitive function in INTJs, but it still has some impact. 

• An INTJ can process information from their senses thanks to this function. 

• When this function is active, INTJs may experience a sense of being in the present and being energized by their surroundings. 

2. Assertive advocate (INTJ-A) vs. Turbulent advocate (INTJ-T)

2.1 The INTJ personality has two subtypes: INTJ-A and INTJ-T 

• INTJ-A: The "Assertive Architect" is a subtype of this personality type. When dealing with life's ups and downs, an INTJ-A tends to be more self-assured than an INTJ-T. An INTJ-A is also unlikely to regret their first choices if things don't turn out the way they expected. 

• INTJ-T: The "Turbulent Architect" subtype is characterized by a greater concern for potential areas of weakness, whether in reality or perception. They also frequently exert more effort and pay closer attention to detail as a result of this worry.

2.2 The differences between INTJ-A and INTJ-T

• Worries and concerns can be used by turbulent architects to propel them forward and help them make significant advancements. They frequently recognize issues before others do (and occasionally even come up with solutions). 

• Although Assertive Architects are less affected by stress, this does not mean that they are careless. 

• Although both kinds of architects are frequently ambitious, their driving forces are different. 

• Assertive architects are more internally driven, and their inspiration to act is derived from faith in their prudence. 

• Turbulent Architects' worries, concerns, and how other people might perceive them propel them forward in life to a greater extent. 

• Turbulent Architects are more likely to express their emotions and use them to connect with others by being more approachable, even though neither personality type is likely to be very comfortable with their emotions. 

• Architects who are assertive are less likely to be concerned with what other people think. They enjoy being independent and taking charge of their own affairs. 

• Although Assertive Architects are slightly more daring than Turbulent Architects, both personality types require structure and predictability. They favor stability but are not necessarily afraid of it. 

• However, compared to their Assertive cousins, Turbulent Architects are frequently more open to deliberate change.

IV - INTJ Compatibility

There is a persistent misconception that INTJs may experience relationship difficulties. The truth is that INTJs can get along beautifully with some people, much like any other type, while things just don't work out with others. This is typical; it's okay that not everyone gets along. We can dig deep into the data and look for potentials to get along or to clash in order to help people understand why they might find it difficult to get along with people of different types. 

NF and the INTJ An excellent illustration of how opposites attract is the empath temperament. These personalities have a great deal of potential to motivate one another to grow personally even though they operate from entirely different motivations and fundamentally make decisions in different ways. The NF Empaths' warm and compassionate demeanor can smooth over the INTJ's logical and occasionally rigid nature. The NF representatives are also very idealistic, which INTJs find immediately alluring. Almost anyone has the potential to develop a good relationship with an INTJ if they are able to hold their own in a conversation about ideas and have the patience to hear what they have to say. 

Although they may appear difficult to get to know at first, INTJs can also make great friends. Because of their tendency toward perfection, INTJs can be a little selective when selecting friends and partners. However, they value meaningful and deep human connections. For a detailed explanation, see our article on INTJ relationships and their suitability with the other personality types.

1. Personal Relationships

The personality types ENFP, ENTP, and ESTP may work well in a relationship with an INTJ due to their compatibility. It is typical for INTJs to be less compatible with ISFP, ISFJ, or ESFJ personality types.

Individuals with the INTJ personality type are reserved, introverted, and spend a lot of time alone. They function best alone and strongly prefer solitary work to group projects. 

The emotions of the small group of people they are close to are something that INTJs care about, despite their propensity to not be overly interested in the thoughts and feelings of others. INTJs are prepared to put forth the time and effort necessary to make successful personal relationships. 

It is more challenging to get to know people with this personality type because they frequently place little value on social conventions and small talk. Making new friends with INTJs can be difficult because other people might perceive them as being cool, distant, and uninterested.

2. Romantic Relationships

In all facets of their lives, INTJs strive for personal development, and relationships are no different. INTJs wouldn't put up with a dull, repetitive relationship. They would probably be searching for something significant that offers a chance for their mutual growth. They may not be romantics in the traditional sense, but they value meeting someone who can fit almost like a puzzle piece – not quite the same but with enough traits to fill in the gaps in the INTJ personality.

Because of this, INTJs frequently seek out extroverted partners. Someone who is capable of talking, who can handle small talk that is tedious and unnecessary (in the eyes of an INTJ), and who can handle the socializing The personality types that get along best with INTJs are those who have Introverted Intuition as their dominant function but focus their energy outward instead of inward. In other words, personality types with extroverted intuition fit INTJs the best. The Optimist (ENFP) and The Originator (ENTP) are two examples of these types, but INTJs can likely get along with anyone as long as they are willing to put in the effort.

INTJ and ENFP

These two are widely regarded as one of the most compatible couples despite having very different personalities and behavior. These two personalities are likely to pursue their crazy ideas and engage in lengthy philosophical discussions. Additionally, INTJs require personal space because of their strong sense of individuality, and they must spend a significant amount of time alone each day. While the respectful and free-spirited ENFP wouldn't mind giving their partner the space they require, the more needy personalities would have a problem with this behavior. Because they require it themselves, ENFPs can relate to this need for space. In the eyes of others, these two personality types can form a potent OTP (one true pair). They have the power to motivate others to make positive changes; ENFPs can become more organized, and INTJs can experience some emotional development.

INTJ and ENTP

Much of what we've said about the INTJ and ENFP combination also applies here: An INTJ finds appeal in the originality, innovation, and fun-loving qualities of ENTPs. To the liking of INTJs, ENTPs are pleasant, laid-back, and enjoy debating theories and potential outcomes. They are rational, enthusiastic, and generally positive. The Originator is extroverted and constantly comes up with ideas, much like the ENFP. They have excellent communication skills, and a healthy relationship between the two can encourage the growth of these abilities in people with INTJ personality types. INTJs, who can introduce ENFPs to a more organized and systematic work attitude, can teach them quite a bit as well.

3. Friendship 

The friends of INTJs probably have similar stories to tell about how difficult it can be to get along with their Strategist friends. Many INTJs can be challenging to get to know, especially for those who lack patience. INTJs are respected, as anyone who eventually becomes a close friend can attest. Smart and typically serious-minded, INTJs are. They can be relied upon to offer a fair and impartial judgment on any issue. They don't frequently cling or beg for attention and are excellent listeners. 

Drama is useless to them because they think it's childish and immature. Because they share similar perspectives on friendships and enjoyable activities to do with others, many of their closest friends also tend to be introverted. But that doesn't mean INTJs never associate with extroverts. The desire of INTJs to steer clear of meaningless relationships can be misunderstood and may come off as snobbish or arrogant. The truth is that INTJs value their time and prefer to spend it with people they genuinely enjoy being around.

INTJ and ENFJ

The ENFJ (The Mentor), who is bubbly, outgoing, and fun, typically has friends of all personality types. ENFJs were probably drawn to the mysterious exterior of the INTJ personality type, but INTJs are not an exception to this rule. INTJs probably decided to give ENFJs a chance once they learned that they are actually very intelligent and idealistic. This is fantastic because The Mentor personality type is skilled at making others feel valued. They have a strong sense of altruism and are always willing to help their friends. In fact, ENFJs value their friendships highly and experience true joy and fulfillment when they are able to support a loved one.The Strategist's life can be made more enjoyable and spontaneous by the INTJ-ENFJ friendship, which can also make them feel at ease and free to be themselves.

INTJ and ISTJ

It is literal, concrete, logical, and rational to be an ISTJ (The Examiner). Because of these traits, INTJs adore them and see many parallels with their own thought processes. Like The Strategist, ISTJs are spearheads who are equally as passionate about achieving their goals as INTJs. In each of their large chests of drawers-like brains, ISTJs keep information on a wide range of topics. They can easily hold an intellectual discussion and can cause INTJs to doubt their own knowledge. An amazing friendship between The Examiner and The Strategist is possible if it is based on shared understanding, meaningful connections, and intellectual growth.

INTJ and ISTP

In many ways, ISTP (also known as The Craftsman) and INTJ are comparable. One thing they have in common is that they both like to spend time alone conducting experiments and developing theories. Both rarely get lonely in their own company and find dealing with a lot of people emotionally draining. Even though they can converse for hours on end about abstract theories with an INTJ, ISTPs prefer to get their hands dirty, so they would likely grab the latter by the arm and prod them to start putting their theories into practice. ISTPs prefer to be "hands-on" and need to see something in action before they can believe it. The Strategist is "the head," coming up with ideas, and The Craftsman is "the hands," putting them into action. Together, these two personality types can truly work as a magical team.

4. Parenthood Relationship

Parents who identify as INTJs want the best for their kids and see them as unique individuals with a lot of potential. They consider them to be an extension of themselves and occasionally even as side projects. This is typical of parents and has the potential to be both beneficial and detrimental. In general, INTJs prioritize raising independent, intelligent children. They occasionally push their children's thinking in an effort to encourage their reasoned thoughts because they want their children to succeed in life. 

Because they are workaholics, INTJs occasionally have a tendency to view raising their children as a project and may devote a little too much time to it. They could occasionally exhibit a bit too much love and support in their roles as parents. In order to begin balancing their attitude, INTJ parents must become aware of that. Everything, of course, depends on their choice of partner (if they decide to have one), their personality type, and, of course, the personality types of their children. For example, INTJs must express their love and emotion but sometimes find it difficult to do so. If they have a child with a Feeling drive (or a dominant Feeling function), they may also find it difficult to comprehend their motivations. INTJs should make a consistent effort to consider other people's feelings and develop some empathy for them. 

Naturally, INTJ parents eventually learn how to give their children the respect and freedom to be themselves as their offspring eventually grow up to have their own values and perspectives on the world.

VI - INTJs at work

1. INTJ in Workplace Customs

There's a good reason why the INTJ personality type is also known as The Strategist or even The Architect. They want the space to be able to use it for good because they are fully aware of their own potential and the extent of their professional knowledge. Jobs that offer little intellectual challenge, or ones that are routine or repetitive, can drain and irritate INTJS. 

INTJs aim for success over positive evaluation because they want to accomplish great things. Although INTJs don't usually care for titles, labels, or hierarchies, they frequently end up in positions of leadership and management and have the ability to move up the corporate ladder if they so choose. This is mainly because INTJs exhibit commitment and resilience at work, which can be noticed and appreciated by superiors. They are thick-skinned and emotionless, especially in trying circumstances, and they naturally possess leadership qualities. They don't feel threatened by the weight of responsibility, and one of their greatest assets is their obsession with getting what they want.

Positive change, order, structure, and systems can also be inspired by INTJs at work. They are skilled at striking a balance between flexibility and commitment. They don't have much patience for people who don't exhibit comparable levels of productivity and resourcefulness. They are creative, autonomous, composed, and logical beings. We'll discuss occupations that go well with the INTJ personality type in the following section.

2. INTJ Career Matches

Since they are naturally curious, INTJs grow up to be multi-talented. They may even be science nerds with a knack for in-depth learning. They may already be certain of what they want to do when it comes time to choose a career later in life. The INTJ's greatest passion frequently becomes their profession. But you might find it useful to look at the list of suitable INTJ jobs that we have carefully selected for them if you're an INTJ or have an INTJ friend who isn't fully set on a specific profession yet. The careers listed below are a few that work well with INTJ personality types; for a detailed analysis of these careers, see our article on INTJ careers. 

Art and Visual Culture

INTJs approach life in an unusual and abstract way. They think that in order to succeed, one must pursue their true calling. They occasionally have a completely different definition of passion than other people. An occupation in the arts would probably be a good fit for this independent and creative personality type. It doesn't really matter if the INTJ works in the film industry as an actor or actress, screenwriter, or director as long as they believe they have a legacy to leave behind. The pursuit of a career is very important to INTJs because they need to feel like they are changing the world or other people. 

Here are some examples of careers in this area that are appropriate for those with the INTJ personality type:

• Artist;

• Photographer;

• Writer;

• Translator;

• Entrepreneur;

• Filmmaker;

• Playwright;

• Frontend/UI Designer;

• Architect;

• Industrial Designer.

Science and Medicine

Being a scientist is the best way to have an impact on the rest of the world. The INTJ personality type is mature enough to handle such a demanding career. Furthermore, having a lot of homework and studying to do hardly ever sounds dangerous. They are happy to work in a field where they can make a difference in people's lives and, with the right motivation, can succeed. There aren't many other personality types that are as well suited for a career in science or healthcare, and INTJs undoubtedly have the focus and commitment necessary to pursue it. 

Here are some examples of careers in this area that are appropriate for those with the INTJ personality type:

• Surgeon;

• Environmental Scientist;

• Forensic Scientist;

• Dentist;

• Biochemist;

• Physician.

IT and Programming

Above all, INTJs are introverts, and even in their ideal profession, they prefer working alone to working in a group. This is why The Strategist type may be well-suited for a career in this field, such as IT, robotics, programming, or coding. There is hardly a better personality type to do the job in the field of computer science than an INTJ because they enjoy working toward the development of an idea. Additionally, INTJs require a profession that frequently engages them intellectually and utilizes their analytical and critical thinking skills. Additionally, INTJs have the perseverance to work on a particular issue and, when required, can offer perceptive solutions.

Here are some examples of careers in this area that are appropriate for those with the INTJ personality type: 

• Network Administrator;

• Computer and IS Manager;

• Computer Scientist;

• Computer Programmer;

• Computer Analyst;

• Software Developer.

VIII - Famous INTJs you might know

There are many well-known celebrities and well-liked characters who are INTJs thanks to their intelligence, cunning, and analytical thinking. You've probably noticed that this brilliant personality type is well-suited to leadership positions that require sound judgment, which results in a long list of INTJ politicians. Many of the world's inventors are INTJs because of their inventive and resourceful ideas, which make them well-suited for analytical jobs in the sciences and engineering. 

Due to their propensity for deduction and observation, INTJs frequently play the misunderstood genius in popular TV shows and motion pictures where they frequently find solutions to difficult problems. Of course, just like with any other type, there are also some intriguing INTJ antagonists.

Here are some famous INTJs you might know : 

1. INTJ Actors

Given how talented INTJs are, it shouldn't be surprising that there are many INTJ actors. Even more intriguing is the INTJ personality type's association with some of the greatest filmmakers in history. INTJ participation in the Seventh Art has resulted in some of the most revolutionary work due to their creative thinking. Cinema allows viewers to escape reality, but INTJ actors and directors often go further by imagining what our world might be like. Check out some of the most well-liked INTJ performers and filmmakers:

• Christopher Nolan

• Colin Firth

• Russell Crowe

• Clive Owen

• Arnold Swarzenneger

2. INTJ Writers

Sometimes INTJs discover that writing is the best means of expressing their emotions. Because of this, INTJ authors have likely told some of the most intriguing tales in both classic and contemporary literature. The majority of INTJ writers also include social commentary in their work by addressing issues they have personally experienced in society. Numerous times, their actions have spurred social change. Look at some of the most fascinating works by INTJ authors:

• Isaac Asimov

• Ayn Rand

• Phillip K. Dick

• Philip Pullman

• Susan Sontag

• Yuval Noah Harari

3. INTJ Musicians

The 16 personality types are designed by INTJs, as we have already stated. This can be seen in their musical careers as well; well-known pianists and composers are frequent examples of INTJ musicians. INTJs aim to achieve true mastery in their professional fields and aren't afraid of complex theory, particularly musical theory. Here are some well-known INTJ musicians as examples:

• Antonio Salieri;

• Arvo Part;

• Johan Sebastian Bach;

• Johannes Brahms.

4. INTJ Leaders

There are countless INTJ leaders. This personality type excels in the leadership role because of its admirable leadership traits. This personality type is shared by some of the most well-known US presidents and politicians worldwide. Being The Strategist among the 16 personalities must have its advantages, after all. Here are a few INTJ leaders you undoubtedly are familiar with:

• Hillary Clinton;

• John F. Kennedy;

• Bernie Sanders;

• Thomas Jefferson;

• Vladimir Lenin.

5. INTJ Fictional Characters

Last but not least, we had to discuss some of the most well-known INTJ fictional characters. INTJs make some of the most complex and insightful heroes in both literature and film, frequently solving mysteries and astounding everyone with their intelligence. You may recognize a favorite INTJ protagonist on this list, and it wouldn't be a comprehensive list of INTJ fictional characters without also listing some fictional villains and evil geniuses:

• Dr. Gregory House;

• Dexter;

• V for Vendetta;

• Katniss Everdeen;

• Sheev Palpatine;

• Thanos.