The INTP's Guide to Dealing With Emotions

As an INTP your world is nearly entirely based on your finely tuned, logically constructed framework of the world.

You understand how most things work, and you are confident in your abilities. Through trial and error, you have built a real understanding of most things in life.

Unfortunately, at some point in your life you realize, "Hey, I got feelings, and logic isn't helping anymore."

There is an overwhelming consensus with discussions around INTPs, which state that INTPs are very logical creatures. Some discussions almost completely brush off their feeling and emotional side.

Well, I'm here to tell you that INTPs actually have very strong feelings and convictions; stronger than most other thinking types.

Myers and Briggs' typing tells us that the INTP is ruled by their logic, and their way of seeing the world is through this logical analysis. However, the INTP's thinking is strongly connected to emotion. The INTP wants the world to make sense, but they also are closely in tune with the feelings and emotions of those close to them. They can form a strong bond with those they closely identify with, and can be very loyal and dedicated to people they care about.

Not Always Logical

The INTP that falsely believes they are extremely logical in all their decisions will have a tough time in the world.

The INTP needs to accept that sometimes their decisions are made by fear, passion, desire for praise, or love. And they also need to accept that these feelings are fair and allowable, and not beat themselves up for not taking the "logical choice." When the INTP accepts that their emotions (and others) are just as valid (and important), they will begin seeing the world more completely, along with accepting their own ignorance of the feeling and emotional realm.

When Thinking It Through Doesn’t Work

When an INTP can't logic themselves out of a situation, they tend to get stressed. Sometimes, the reason is that they are trying to logically justify why they shouldn't feel an emotion.

An INTP might feel that it is unfair for them to feel disappointment or annoyance toward someone because they have reasoned themselves out of it.

They might think, "I shouldn't feel this way," or "I'm being selfish for feeling this." However, if they take the time to actually accept these feelings and let them come to pass, they may just find the answer and peace of mind they've been searching for.

The INTP might actually be a bit more emotional than their INTJ and ISTJ counterparts, but this shouldn't be a problem. The INTP tends to have a bit more insight into the emotions and needs of others than the latter two types, which can be very helpful in its own way.

The INTP tends to want to use logic as a means to solve most of the problems in their life. The problem comes, when this typical mode of solving their problems doesn’t work. The INTP wants the world to make sense, so they may have a hard time admitting they feel emotions like disappointment, anger, or embarrassment.

The INTP is naturally defensive about experiencing emotions, because it puts them in a vulnerable position. Having to come to grips with intense emotions can be challenging, as the INTP does not have as much experience handling them as other types.

Feeling Others Emotions

The emotions of others are sometimes felt VERY strongly by INTPs, especially ones they are close to. The INTP might not be the best at responding to the emotions of others, but they can be relatively capable of picking up on them. For an INTP, this can be a problem that can overwhelm them and keep them from focusing on their day-to-day tasks.

The INTPs natural response is to rationalize the emotions of others, or try to problem-solve them. However, this route typically is not as effective as it might seem.

Step Back and Breathe

The INTP needs to step back, and accept the emotions that are happening in their environment, and realize that it is only natural. Trying to control or solve them, rather than letting them come to pass, will only overwhelm the INTP. Having an artistic outlet like writing, drawing, or music may allow them to express themselves better.

There is no advantage to an INTP coming to a decision in a highly emotional state, as it will more than likely be a hasty one. An emotional INTP may focus on subjective logic that seems real at the time, but then realize it was inaccurate when they have a clearer head.

Dealing With the Feels

The INTP needs to understand their emotional world a bit better in order to grow as an individual. Take some time to recognize emotions and feelings without trying to logically justify them. It will be an uncomfortable experience at first, but in time, you will get better at recognizing and dealing with them.