[fretho]

Originally Posted by Catlover

Fretho: Can you provide a list of some resources to read further on the primary, secondary and tertiary MBTI styles? I have taken the MBTI both privately and in a group, but have not run across this interesting information.

I found a lot of helpful information on the INTJ site, INTJ.org, Cognitive processes. See the Also there's a lot of good information on the Wikipedia pages, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.

The Socionics page is also a valuable resource. It is a close cousin developed by a Lithuanian named Augusta, in the now-former USSR. But in reading it you have to bear in mind the difference in notation, where the J/P means the opposite thing for introverts (but doesn't change for extroverts). As an INTJ in MBTI's system, I am an INTp, or intuitive-logical introvert in Socionics terminology. An ENTJ would still be called ENTj (with lowercase merely to show which system is being used). Another difference is that it lists the weaker shadow functions (7th and 8th in Beebe's and Berens' systems) as third and fourth due to the fact that they are part of the conscious mind.

I think that learning more about your MBTI style could be very helpful. I have been thinking a lot lately about my energy level for dealing with people, which I think of as different than my general energy level but maybe I should consider them the same. I am slightly over the line toward Introvert, and as such being around people for long periods can drain me. Unfortunately, I am working in human resources at present. I think this is affecting the energy and motivation I have after work for social activities and friends. I'm trying to find the right balance--ways to manage my time during the workday so that I'm not constantly being drained by interactions with people and thinking about a possible career change.

The definition of introvert that they use is when your primary cognitive process is introverted. Apparently this is because the auxiliary trait consumes energy faster, whereas the primary creates it. Or perhaps merely uses it more slowly so your body can catch up easier.

The auxiliary is supposed to be more creative according to Socionics, and I think this is true. When I'm brilliant, it's usually when there's someone to show off to. Whereas extroverts tend to have brilliant moments during their alone time. They can seem kind of dumb comparatively when in a group, but I think this is just because it's their less creative (but more stable) side showing.