The topic of personality has long been an area of interest for scholars. So much so that after years of research, many of them have developed personality tests. These tests allow us to learn more about our own personalities and the personalities of others. Each test categorizes and identifies personalities differently. However, they are still a great tool you can use to learn more about yourself. Furthermore, a popular personality test is Myer’s Briggs. According to this test, personality can be divided into 16 groups. Each group has an identifiable acronym. Today, we are going to learn more about the ISTP personality, also known as the craftsman.
Overview of the ISTP Personality Type
ISTP stands for introversion, sensing, thinking, and perceiving. As a craftsman, these individuals are known to be naturally curious, practical, and observant. Furthermore, because they are introverts, the ISTP is reserved individuals who prefer to be alone rather than around others. As a result, these personalities use logic and reasoning when making decisions rather than emotionally making sense to them. Furthermore, as they are observant, these individuals tend to look at the facts around them to analyze their circumstances to understand the world around them. In addition, ISTPs enjoy being spontaneous and would instead reject the structure to enjoy themselves. Lastly, compared to other personalities globally, the ISTP personality is more common in men than in women. However, collectively, they account for approximately 5% of the population.
Strengths
Moreover, like all personality types, the ISTP has many strengths. Let’s take a look at some of them in more detail below.
Creative: As they reject structure and rules, the ISTP has no problem using their creative nature to achieve success. They often work with their hands and enjoy creating a world that is more unique and adventurous.
Flexible: ISTPs thrive in situations when last-minute changes occur often. They have no trouble remaining flexible and do not get stressed out easily.
Problem-Solver: These individuals are confident in their knowledge and their skills. Therefore, when a challenge arises, they find it easy to devise a solution regardless of the situation at hand.
Positive: The ISTP personality is naturally light-hearted and cheerful. They enjoy being productive and achieving their goals with an optimistic attitude.
Weaknesses
Furthermore, while the ISTPs have many strengths, they also have weaknesses. Let’s take a look at some of these weaknesses below.
Impatient: As these individuals are productive and logical, they can become impatient and bored when they feel others around them aren’t on the same page as them.
Insensitive: Because the ISTP uses logic and reasoning rather than emotions, they can become cold towards others. As a result, they like being direct and honest in their communication, which can hurt the feelings of others, even though it may not be intentional.
Risky-Behavior: Furthermore, as ISTPs become impatient and bored quickly, they often engage in risky behaviors without thinking of the consequences. As a result, they can make bad decisions and hurt themselves or others.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy ISTP
Moreover, while many individuals with the ISTP personality live balanced lifestyles, others can engage in unhealthy behaviors that lead to consequences. Let’s take a closer look at what a healthy vs. unhealthy ISTP looks like below.
Healthy
- Enjoy their life without needing to be right in every situation
- They like being around the company of others and learning from them
- Empathetic towards the feelings and emotions of other people
- Do not feel the need to defend themselves or be the most successful person in the world
Unhealthy
- To satisfy their ego when they feel trapped, they will make thrill-seeking decisions that can lead to dire consequences
- They are critical towards others and do not care if they hurt their feelings
- Tend to shut down when engaging with others and get angry easily
- Can experience intense emotions of unworthiness and incompetence when they don’t get their way
ISTP-A vs. ISTP-T
Furthermore, let’s compare what the ISTP-A vs. the ISTP-T is. The ISTP-A is also known as the Assertive Craftsman, while the ISTP-T is the Turbulent Craftsman. The assertive personality is more likely to feel confident in their skills, without the praise of others, while the turbulent counterpart compares themselves to others. Furthermore, the assertive ISTP always feel like they have control over challenges, whereas the turbulent ISTP is likely to become more overwhelmed. Additionally, turbulent personalities are more open to trying new things and seeking new hobbies, while assertive personalities are less spontaneous.
ISTP’s in Relationships
Moreover, when in a relationship, the ISTP is very patient and optimistic. They are able to remain calm when conflict arises, and they have a desire to solve problems as soon as possible. However, they can experience difficulties expressing their emotions and forget to consider their partner’s feelings if they need to make decisions. Nonetheless, the ISTP is a focused partner who is caring and spontaneous with a ton of fun energy.
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Best Careers for ISTP Personality Type
Furthermore, ISTP personalities tend to thrive in environments where they can work independently and solve problems using their creativity and knowledge. As a result, ISTPs tend to succeed in the following employment roles.
- Mechanical engineer
- Mathematician
- Pilot
- Carpenter
- Mechanic
- First responder
- Photographer
- Criminalist
- Software tester
- Forester
- Dental hygienist
- ER physician
- Jeweller
- Biologist
- Police officer
- Paralegal
- Property manager
- Chef
- Economist
- Budget analyst
- Firefighter
- Private investigator
Famous ISTP’s
Lastly, many individuals with the ISTP personality have gained fame for numerous reasons throughout their lifetime. Let’s take a look at some of the names down below. Do you recognize anyone on our list?
- Lance Armstrong
- Bruce Lee
- Michelle Rodriguez
- Miles Davis
- Clint Eastwood
- Kate Moss
- Scott Fitzgerald
- Amelia Earhart
- Daniel Craig
- Frank Sinatra
- Susan Sontag
- Bear Grylls
- Tiger Woods Chuck Yaeger
- Venus Williams
- Shaquille O’Neal
- Scarlett Johansson
- Tom Cruise
- Katherine Hepburn
