5 Reasons I Love Being an INTP Personality Type

I took a Myers-Briggs personality test for the first time three years ago and got INTP. After retaking the test a few times, I noticed that the result remained constant. I figured it was time I took a closer look at what an INTP really is.

What I learned was that people who share my personality type are internal, rational, and logical. In fact, we’re nicknamed “the thinker,” “the rational philosopher,” or “the logician.” We’re private individuals who possess boundless curiosity. Independent and philosophical, we enjoy trying to discover the underlying nature of things. INTPs may pursue careers in science related fields, being drawn to the theoretical aspects of life rather than practical matters.

The more I learned about the INTP personality type, the more I realized that INTPs really do have a lot of remarkable traits. Allow me to present you some of my favorites:

1. Congratulations, you are special!

Out of the 16 personality types, the INTP is one of the rarest. It represents only 3 percent of the entire population. Moreover, it constitutes the fourth rarest type for women (after INTJ, ENTJ, and INFJ).

From a  young age, INTPs usually have an awareness of their uniqueness. Although they are often misunderstood by others, they tend to pride themselves on their distinctiveness—and they definitely should!

 2. Highly creative and inventive

INTPs are unique and original. Their minds are always buzzing with new ideas. To them, the world is a great, interconnected system waiting to be explored and analyzed. They may devour books on philosophy, religion, psychology, and evolutionary theory. They come up with their own ingenious theories–usually after a good dose of “alone” time. They may also love puzzles and strategy games because they enjoy the challenge of finding new ways to solve them.

3. Look for meaning in their work

Indeed, none of us want to live in vain, regardless of our personality type. However, INTPs seem to lay a lot of emphasis on this particular aspect of their lives. They crave the feeling of doing something important with their work and having the power to change something in this world. They also tend to dislike organizational life and may be reluctant to take on a company’s vision as their own. They can be sensitive to what they see as the trivial or meaningless aspects of a job—they’d rather explore ideas and analyze theories than fill out paperwork or answer emails. It’s no surprise that they score highest in career dissatisfaction (along with INFPs).

This may sound discouraging, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the INTP’s need for meaningful work can be an advantage, because it can push them to do incredible things. INTPs are individuals with extraordinary skills. In fact, Bill Gates is an INTP and Einstein was also probably an INTP. Many INTPs find success working in the fields of science, web design, information systems, writing, or finance. Others become independent consultants or entrepreneurs, giving them the freedom and control over their work they desire.

 4. Straightforward and honest

If you dislike lying, flattering empty compliments, and sugar-coating, then chances are you might be an INTP. These individuals tend to say what’s on their mind, sometimes to the point of others mistaking their behavior for rudeness. Nevertheless, those who are close to an INTP learn to value their ability to speak the truth. Wouldn’t you rather have your friend tell you that dress doesn’t look good on you than go to the party and have everyone tell you it looks fabulous, even though that is not what they actually think? INTPs have your back. The truth may sting sometimes but that is why it is such a scarce, yet desirable, asset.

5. Rebellious

I have to admit this is probably my favorite trait. I have always been a bit of a rebel, not only growing up but also in my adult life. Finding out that this was a common feature of my personality type gave me a feeling of gratification. INTPs have a natural aversion towards rules, and that could explain why they are likely to be self-employed. They do not like being told what to do and they prefer coming up with their own way to perform a task. Although rebellion can constitute a major drawback, it can also be transformed into an advantage when used properly. The INTP’s dislike for rules and already-set paths constitutes one of the primary reasons for their vast originality. They question the information which they come across and sometimes that can lead to major breakthroughs and discoveries from which all of society can benefit.

These are just a few traits of INTPs, and they might not apply to everyone in the same way. But these traits make me proud to be an INTP.

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