INTJ Blind Spots: What They Are + How To Fix them
We all have blind spots, but we don’t always know what they are. If you know your personality type, you might be able to gain helpful insights faster.
That’s because many personalities have common dominant and inferior cognitive functions that shine a light on how they interact with the world.
INTJs are no exception.
In this article, we’ll dive into the inferior functions of INTJs, common blind spots, and what they can do to overcome them.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
INTJs struggle with Extraverted Sensing (Se)
Those with the INTJ personality type typically demonstrate a weaker preference for extraverted sensing (Se) than others, which means they may have difficulty leveraging this cognitive ability.
There are a few reasons why INTJs may struggle with Se:
- They’re too focused on the abstract: INTJs are often preoccupied with abstract concepts, making it difficult for them to stay grounded at the moment and be aware of their environment.
- INTJs need structure: INTJs tend to prefer a structured and predictable environment and may struggle with the unexpected and spontaneous nature of extraverted sensing. In fact, it can be downright crippling.
- INTJs aren’t impressed by new things: INTJs frequently prefer familiar routines over new experiences, which can make it difficult for them to fully engage with the external world in the ways that people who are dominant in Se typically do.
INTJs also struggle with Extroverted Feeling (Fe)
Extraverted Feeling (Fe) is another one of the eight cognitive functions, according to Myers-Briggs.
People who are strong in Fe tend to be highly attuned to the emotions of others and to the social dynamics of a group. They are known for their deep understanding of others and ability to read emotions, responding in a way that fits the moment.
You know who’s not great with Fe?
INTJs!
There are a few reasons for this, including:
There are a few reasons why INTJs may struggle with Fe:
- Too much focus on logic and analysis: As previously mentioned, INTJs like to spend their time thinking deeply and abstractly. They like interpreting underlying meanings and concepts but aren’t great at applying those same skills to emotions and social cues.
- Difficulty understanding emotions: INTJs have trouble recognizing and understanding their own emotions, let alone the emotions of others. It’s a lot. At times, INTJs come off as aloof (see: INTJ death stare).
- Lack of interest in socializing: INTJs aren’t big socializers. It takes up way too much of their energy. They prefer to spend their time alone or with a small group of close friends. As a result, they may not prioritize social connections and may not see the value in maintaining a wide social circle.
- Struggle with diplomacy: INTJs may struggle with tact and diplomacy. This means they often tend to be blunt or direct in their communication, which can come across as insensitive or rude.
INTJs are dominant in Introverted Intuition (Ni)
When we say that INTJs are dominant in introverted intuition (Ni), it means that this cognitive function is their primary way of processing information and making decisions.
INTJs are known for drawing upon their intuition and inner understanding to make sense of the world.
They’re great at future-looking, big-picture thinking and recognizing patterns and connections that other people might not see.
INTJs have some quirky habits that are not always understood by outsiders.
They’re highly logical and analytical (sometimes to a fault), have a strong sense of purpose, and are fiercely independent.
Typical INTJ Blind Spots:
Many INTJ blind spots are born out of their lack of extraverted sensing (Se) and an overreliance on their dominant function, introverted intuition (Ni).
1. INTJs aren’t great at empathy:
As we’ve already hinted at, INTJs often have a difficult time taking into account the emotions and points of view of those around them.
They’re great at the abstract, analytical side of things, but can be woefully incompetent in matters of the heart or any skill, really, that involves connecting with people emotionally or empathy.
This makes it hard for them to build and maintain healthy relationships. It can even lead to unintended conflicts, both personally and professionally.
2. INTJs can be overconfident and set in their ways:
Another blindspot for INTJs is their tendency to be overly confident in their abilities and ideas, which may lead to dismissing other people’s opinions and not considering alternative perspectives.
They can also be resistant to change and are not always open to new ideas, which limits their growth, creativity, and to the growth of their organization or society.
3. INTJs can be too rigid:
The INTJ preference for structure and routine can be a blind spot because it prohibits them from seeing the potential in new ways of thinking. This seems counterintuitive to their natural desire for learning and big-picture thinking, but it doesn’t have to be.
When the original idea is their own, they’re hyperfocused on actualizing it. But when external parties push them to change their way of doing or thinking about things? There’s much more resistance.
This has the unintended consequence of leading them to miss out on opportunities and innovations.
4. INTjs are susceptible to tunnel vision:
INTJs like to put their heads down and get to work, becoming laser-focused on the task at hand. In some circumstances, this can be an attribute.
But other times, it’s another INTJ blind spot.
By not tuning in to the surrounding environment or non-verbal cues from the people around them, INTJs risk missing the forest for the trees.
Adaptability is a valuable life skill and one that INTJs must actively work on developing.
5. Socialization and connections take a lot of effort:
Many INTJs don’t prioritize a robust social life, which is fine, except when taken to an extreme, it prevents them from forming the necessary bonds to succeed. Like it or not, human beings are innately social creatures. INTjs often forget that, and it ends up turning people off.
How can INTJs overcome their blind spots?
The best advice is for INTJs to recognize which functions they struggle with and actively try to develop them, even if it’s the last thing they want to do.
If you’re an INTJ who really struggles with Fe, look for people in your orbit or online who are exceptional at this skill and see what you can learn.
Think of it as a research project (which we love, right?).
Take baby steps. What can you do to become more present and mindful of your environment? How can you improve your ability to listen and empathize with others?
INTJs would do great to do any of the following:
- Practice active listening
- Meditate or practice mindfulness
- Ask for feedback from people they trust on how they come across to others and ways they can improve.
- Practice unpacking and expressing emotions
- Actively work on developing empathy for others
- Get help from an outside professional who can provide specific exercises and feedback on improving weaker functions like Se and Fe.
For more insights into how to overcome INTJ blind spots, check out this clip:
Want to learn more about INTJs?
Check out the following resources:
- How To Tell If An INTJ Likes You
- INFJ vs INTJ: How These Rare Personalities Differ
- Are INTJs Narcissists?
- How To Date An INTJ: Your Complete Guide
- How to Know When An INTJ Misses You (And When They Don’t)
