ISTP vs ISTJ

The Different Between Their Characteristics, Values and Attitudes

Have you just taken the MBTI and turned out to be ISTP while the results showed ISTJ in the past? Or maybe you are thinking about the compatibility level of these two personality types from the Myers-Briggs personality inventory. In any case, you should keep reading because this article is about an ISTP vs ISTJ comparison. 

The most obvious difference between these two personalities is that ISTPs are Perceiving (P) type, meaning they are flexible and adaptable people. Unlike them, ISTJs are Judging (J) types and want everything to be established according to order. However, not everybody knows that ISTPs use introverted thinking (Ti), while ISTJs use extraverted thinking (Te). As a result, things can get a bit confusing when it comes to compatibility. Let’s explore these personality types more deeply and reveal the differences and similarities between them. 

ISTP – Introverted | Sensing | Thinking | Perceiving 

Virtuoso or the Crafter are other names for ISTPs. They are goal-oriented people who prefer working alone to think about every vital detail. Being independent is a key on the road to success for them. Therefore, they try to be as self-sufficient as possible and not rely on others. ISTPs are always looking for freedom in any type of work. They enjoy adventures and are eager to take part in new experiences, no matter how risky it can be. 

This personality type is more common in men than women. Although many people think of them as silent introverts who never go out, actually, ISTPs have a positive attitude towards communicating with others. They may not have the greatest social skills, but interacting is not a big deal for them. Usually, they are objective, don’t rely on emotions, and use rational thinking to solve problems. 

ISTJ – Introverted | Sensing | Thinking | Judging

ISTJs are also called Logisticians or Inspectors. It’s one of the most objective, rational personality types who never hesitate to argue depending on logical arguments. ISTJs can’t live without an order. However, it must be their own, private rules because they value freedom. They are completely dedicated to their responsibilities and never hold back when it comes to achieving goals. 

ISTJs consider loyalty as the most important characteristic of people. They are very loyal and demand the same from others. Besides, they are realistic, down-to-earth people and can easily ignore their short-term desires in order to focus on long-term goals. However, they are very stubborn, rather subjective in relationships, and enjoy judging other people. 

How Compatible are ISTP and ISTJ?

Some people believe that ISTPs and ISTJs are not compatible due to having opposing cognitive functions. Specifically, ISTPs have an introverted thinking (Ti) function, meaning that they are focused on their thoughts and try to be as rational as possible. On the other hand, ISTJs use extraverted thinking (Te) which is the opposite of Ti. They also use logic and reason to analyze things but are more focused to make others believe what they think.

When it comes to relationships, contradictory cognitive functions can cause lots of problems. People compare these two types more often and discuss characteristics of ISTP vs ISTJ but actually, they can build healthy relationships based on mutual respect and love. Both of these personalities are rational thinkers, introverted types, and organized. Therefore, they can use their similarities and neglect differences in order to get along with each other. They don’t naturally find balance, though. 

ISTP vs ISTJ: Key Differences

Sometimes having plenty of things in common is not enough for building a relationship. ISTP and ISTJ share three basic personality traits but as a result of the difference between Perceiving (P) and Judging (J) traits, they have even more opposing characteristics, making them almost completely different from each other. Let’s discuss the leadership styles, romantic attitudes, and main values of ISTP vs ISTJ and see the most important things that make trouble in relationships of these two personality types.

Values 

• ISTPs value objectivity. They prefer complex problems that require a lot of thinking to emotions, feelings, and everything subjective. They consider freedom as a part of human functioning and want to take part in new experiences. They always look at things practically and never let their feelings block their way of being logical. They desire to follow their dreams and explore themselves in-depth. 

• ISTJs also value freedom. They believe that nobody should get in the way of their path and that’s why they prefer to think alone instead of discussing things with others. However, they like when they manage to convince people whatever they believe. ISTJs believe that objectivity is a way to improve society. However, they desire people to do their part and fight against injustice to create a better community together. 

Romantic Attitudes

• ISTPs are not very romantic people. They spend the most time thinking instead of communicating and as a result, they can’t find partners easily. That’s probably why they are attracted to people who are easy to communicate with. They usually fall in love with confident and independent people who are loyal and don’t judge them for being introverts. Over-excitement and too many emotions make them uncomfortable. 

• ISTJs are one of the most loyal partners. They are enthusiastic about romantic relationships and are absolutely dedicated to their partner. Although they don’t fall in love very easily, they can have long-term and loyal relationships. The problem is that they try to ensure that their potential partner shares all of their values and offers everything they are passionate about in relationships. 

Leadership

• Personalities with thinking (T) function usually make great leaders. The same applies to ISTPs. As leaders, ISTPs are oriented towards the team members. They would do anything in order to get the work done in the most effective way possible. They are flexible, easily adapt to new situations, and are open to new ideas from others. 

• ISTJs are completely reliable leaders. They always have obvious requirements, are practical, and are actively involved to help the team achieve success. Clear communication is a key to their great performance. They tend to take time to understand the needs of their team members and consider what they can do before giving out tasks. 

Bottom Line 

Finally, we can say that ISTPs and ISTJs don’t get along very well. They have plenty of similar characteristics but there are situations where communication between them is rather difficult. As a result, they often avoid romantic relationships but saying that ISTP and ISTJ can’t be a couple would be a mistake. They have similar attitudes towards romance and therefore, clear communication can help them to focus on their strengths and build a strong bond.