INTJ: How the mastermind personality type thinks and what are their career options?

If you’re logical, analytical, and always looking for ways to improve, then you might be an INTJ. INTJs are known for their unique ideas and problem-solving skills. They’re constantly looking for opportunities to improve at work, home, and in themselves.

INTJs approach life by understanding the theory behind what they see and experience. They’re introspective and often turn to rational processes to make decisions.

In this article, we will know more about this personality type and what are the career options for them.

Let us get started.

What does INTJ stands for?

The letters in INTJ stand for Introverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, and Judging. This combination of preferences makes up the rare personality type known as the Architect (INTJ-A) or Mastermind (INTJ-T).

INTJs are independent thinkers who do not take well to being controlled by others. They prefer to work alone or in small groups where they can be in charge. They like to have time to think things through before taking action. INTJs are often seen as cold or unemotional because they tend to hide their feelings and keep a tight control over them.

Combination of personality traits in INTJ

Here are the different personality traits in INTJ:

1. Dominant – Introverted Intuition

INTJs are known for their dominant Introverted Intuition (Ni). This is the cognitive function that allows them to see patterns and connect the dots. It’s what helps them make sense of the world and find meaning in everything they do.

2. Auxiliary – Extraverted Thinking

Auxiliary Extraverted Thinking (Te) is what INTJs use to organize their thoughts and come up with logical solutions. This function is all about putting things in order and making sure everything makes sense.

3. Tertiary – Introverted Feeling

Tertiary Introverted Feeling (Fi) is what INTJs use to make decisions based on their values and beliefs. This function helps them stay true to themselves and stand up for what they believe in.

4. Inferior – Extraverted Sensing

Inferior Extraverted Sensing (Se) is the least developed function in INTJs. This can lead to them being overly critical of themselves and others, as well as feeling like they’re not good enough or that they don’t belong.

Personality Type of INTJs in details

INTJs perceive the world as a chessboard to be managed. To them, every event and person is a piece that can be moved around to achieve a desired outcome. INTJs are always seeking to know how systems and events operate and can often predict logical results. This knowledge allows them to manipulate their environment to their benefit.

INTJs enjoy focusing on a project or concept and working towards goals. They are dedicated and driven individuals who are constantly striving for self-improvement. Their perfectionism can sometimes be overboard, but it generally serves them well in achieving their objectives.

Hobbies and interests

Here are some of the hobbies and interests of INFJs:

• Learning and researching:INTJs love learning and researching. They are constantly seeking out new information and knowledge, and they enjoy spending time exploring complicated concepts and ideas.
• Strategy games:INTJs enjoy playing strategy games, such as chess or Go. They relish the challenge of planning ahead and finding the best way to win. INTJs are also often interested in video games that require strategic thinking, such as role-playing games or real-time strategy games.
• Building things:Many INTJs enjoy building things, whether it’s a model airplane or a piece of furniture. They take satisfaction in creating something that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
• Solving puzzles:Solving puzzles is another popular hobby among INTJs. They enjoy the intellectual challenge of figuring out how something works or putting together a complex puzzle. Crosswords, Sudoku, and other logic puzzles are particularly appealing to INTJs.

Strengths and weaknesses

Since INTJ is one of the most intellectual types, here are some of the strengths and weaknesses of INTJs.

Strengths

Here are the strengths of INTJs:

• Strategy:INTJs are known for their strategic thinking. They are able to see the big picture and develop long-term plans to achieve their goals. INTJs are excellent at problem solving and are always looking for ways to improve systems and processes.
• Analytical:INTJs are highly analytical and logical. They are constantly gathering data and information in order to make informed decisions. INTJs are great at spotting patterns and trends, and they use this knowledge to their advantage.
• Independent:INTJs are independent thinkers who like to do things their own way. They prefer to work alone or in small groups where they can have control over the situation.
• Driven:INTJs are driven by a need for achievement and competence. They set high standards for themselves and others, and they’re constantly striving to meet these standards. INTJs frequently take on challenging projects or goals, as they thrive in difficult situations.

Weaknesses

Here are the weaknesses of INTJs:

• Superiority Complex:INTJs are notorious for their superiority complexes. This is because they naturally think very highly of themselves and their abilities. INTJs are often arrogant and dismissive of others, which can make them difficult to work with.
• Perfectionism:INTJs are perfectionists who expect nothing less than perfection from themselves and others. This can make them inflexible and resistant to change. It can also make them extremely critical of others, which can damage relationships.
• Lack of Empathy:INTJs are often accused of being cold and lacking in empathy. This is because they tend to be logical and analytical in their thinking, which can make it difficult for them to understand the emotions of others. INTJs may have difficulty empathizing with the experiences of others, but they can still be caring and supportive people if they learn to open up more emotionally.
• Work-life imabalance:INTJs are often so focused on their work and goals that they neglect other aspects of their life. This can lead to a work-life imbalance that can be harmful to their health and relationships. INTJs need to learn to take breaks and enjoy the other things in life, or else they risk burning out.

Career Options

INTJs love working independently or with a small team in order to achieve their goals. They are often very driven and passionate about making positive change in the world. While they may seem reserved at first, once you get to know an INTJ you will quickly see how intelligent, insightful, and dynamic they truly are.

Careers to choose as an INTJ

1. Mathematician
2. Statistician
3. Software Engineer
4. Computer Systems Analyst
5. Network Administrator
6. Web Developer
7. Technical Writer
8. Writer
9. Civil Engineer
10. Aerospace Engineer
11. Lawyer
12. Logistician

Careers to avoid as an INTJ

1. Receptionist
2. Hotel Clerk
3. Secretary
4. Telemarketer
5. Preschool Teacher
6. Home Health Aide
7. Production Worker
8. Advertising Sales Agent
9. Dental Hygienist
10. Licensed Practical Nurse
11. Medical Assistant
12. Nurse