Ah, the wonderful ISTPs. One variant that’s certainly exciting to talk about is the ISTP 7w8. They are not the most common enneagram type, but they still somewhat complement the ISTP’s core traits perfectly.

This article discusses the ISTP 7w8 and what you can expect from them. I’ll also compare the ISTP 7w8 with other ISTP variants.

So, let’s go!

Who is the ISTP 7w8?

ISTP 7w8s are carefree people with a slice of ambition and doggedness. This personality type is more assertive than normal ISTPs. While they do not look for conflict, they don’t shy away from it. Like all type 7s, they approach conflicts light-heartedly and can often troll for fun.

Because of their wing, ISTP 7w8s usually have a somewhat clear idea about their goals or visions. They also have just enough grit and firepower to get the job done.

Type 7 is not the most common enneagram type for ISTPs. That title goes to type 5. However, it’s not uncommon for several reasons. First, ISTPs and type 7s are both impulsive people. 7s are also a great fit with the introverted thinking (Ti) function. This is the dominant function of the ISTP.

ISTP 7w8s are more likely to be ISTP-A than ISTP-T.

What is the Core Desire of the ISTP 7w8?

The core desire of the ISTP 7w8 is to be happy. They want to ride life’s challenges and prioritize activities that make them happy. To achieve this, this type might focus less on their problems by distracting themselves with “happy activities.”

What is the Core Fear of the ISTP 7w8?

The core fear of the ISTP 7w8 is to be caught in a rut or deprived of happiness. They don’t want to feel trapped or controlled. To prevent this, ISTP 7w8 might prevent making commitments unless it’s super important.

How the 7w8 Changes the Natural Tendencies of the ISTP

1.   More Communicative

ISTPs are introverts. This means they spend a lot of time alone. This is further enhanced because they use Ti. Ti without Ne means there’s more thinking but less communication. This is a bit different with ISTP 7w8s.

Type 7 knows how to express themselves. So, ISTP 7w8s generally have more flair when it comes to explaining their ideas. As we shall also see, the presence of Se gives that expressiveness a different dimension.

2.   More Extroverted

This follows the last point. Their ability to express themselves is a direct result of being more extroverted. ISTP 7w8s will have longer social batteries and will generally be more interactive.

For this reason, people might mistype them as ESTPs.

While this is true, ISTP 7w8s are still ISTPs. So, expect them to retreat once their social batteries die.

3.   More Determined

ISTPs are not known for their grit or determination. This changes with the ISTP 7w8. Because of their wing, there’s just more assertiveness and will to power through projects.

This has some advantages. First, ISTP 7w8s will achieve more than typical ISTPs. They’ll also be generally more organized. The extent to which this applies depends on the strength of their wing.

4.   Higher Energy Levels

ISTPs have one of the best energy levels among introverts. It goes even higher with the ISTP 7w8s. The main problem is that it comes in random bursts of energy.

So, while ISTP 7w8s will get more things done, they’ll generally lack consistency. For example, they might leave their room untidy for long periods and then randomly clean the whole house in a flash. There’s usually no organization or planning.

5.   Type 7 Comes Alive Through Extroverted Sensing

As mentioned earlier, ISTP 7w8s are generally more expressive. This becomes even more pronounced with their extroverted sensing (Se) function.

Thus, ISTP 7w8s find it easier to explain their thoughts in practical ways. For example, an ISTP 7w8s might decide to show a football skill to someone instead of describing it. Their Se makes them more inclined to share their ideas with others.

Se also means type 7s get excited about sensory activities. This might include sports or cooking. This is different from the ENTP 7w8, for example, who might get more excited by concepts or abstract ideas.

This does not mean the ISTP 7w8 cannot also get excited about these things. Sensory experiences just make them excited by default.

6.   Generally More Disciplined

This follows the point on determination. ISTPs are not the most disciplined MBTI type. This changes a bit with the ISTP 7w8. They become aware of their tasks and strive to complete them.

While this is true, they won’t become super disciplined. They’ll still be swayed by distractions. However, they will generally get more things done.

7.   More Charismatic

Their willingness to talk and share their ideas makes them more charismatic. People can finally understand what goes on in their heads. The effect of this is similar to an ENTP or ENFP. It’s infectious.

People will admire their flair.

New Weaknesses of the ISTP 7w8

1.   Looks Angry, But More Fearful Than Angry

The weaknesses of the ISTP 7w8 start when things don’t go their way. This personality type can react angrily thanks to their wing if they wish.

The problem is their anger can’t be sustained. In other words, this personality type is usually bluffing. ISTP 7w8s are more afraid than angry. Thus, they might react with a mixture of fear and anger.

The bottom line is the ISTP 7w8 is not as fearless in conflicts as the ISTP 8w7 or ESTP 8w7.

2.   Vices and Distractions

Like most type 7s, ISTP 7w8s are drawn to vices and distractions. If they are not careful, this can lead them down a dangerous part.

Their distractions are simply that. Distractions. ISTP 7w8s will turn to them when life is tough or when they’re unhealthy.

They might also turn to these vices when they don’t want to think. As you probably know, Ti never sleeps.

3.   Commitment Problems

Type 7s are not great with commitments. ISTPs are not bad at it, but are also not perfect too. ISTP 7w8s try to avoid commitment because they don’t want to be tied down.

You can clearly see how this is a problem. ISTP 7w8s will struggle to tie down a job or relationship. It’s also very easy for ISTP 7w8s to have a dismissive/avoidant attachment style.

Their commitment problems can hinder their progress.

4.   Might Take on Too Many Projects

Type 7 is also raring to go. They want to experience everything possible. Thus, they’ll often take on more than they can handle.

This is a big problem for various reasons. First, ISTP 7w8s are not overly disciplined. So, you bet they’ll stop working once they get overwhelmed. Secondly, it also means that they won’t get any project done to their best abilities.

As with most things in life, balance is key.

ISTP 7w8 Female- A Walking Piece of Art

ISTP 7w8 females are a walking spectacle. They are one of the few types that can combine analytical skills, immense creativity, and a life full of adventure.

Here are some things you should know about the ISTP 7w8 female.

1.   No Career is Off the Table

ISTP 7w8 females dare to dream. Because they are both practical and analytical, all careers are on the table. Thus, don’t be surprised if they are firefighters or miners.

ISTP 7w8 females defy the societal stereotype about women in more ways than one.

2.   Tendency to Settle Down Later in Life

The flighty nature of the ISTP 7w8 is also present here. Thus, ISTP 7w8 females will often take longer to settle down. Sometimes, it might never happen. They want their lives to be filled with excitement and adventure.

They won’t settle for less.

3.   Need For Space/Autonomy

Their need to experience life often means they need a lot of space. This, combined with their introverted nature, means they often spend much time alone.

ISTP 7w8 females might take breaks from the social world to recover after intense socializing. They need a bit of both worlds to be at their absolute best.

4.   Assertive/Opinionated

Type 7 is super assertive, and ISTPs have strong logical opinions. Thus, ISTP 7w8 females will often reason and assert their opinions with logic.

As mentioned earlier, ISTP 7w8s are generally more expressive. This is even more pronounced in ISTP 7w8 females.

This protects them from several problems. First, people can perceive that they are no pushovers. It also allows them to easily identify their values. This, in turn, gives their life purpose.

ISTP 7w8 in Love/Relationships

Are you dating or thinking of dating an ISTP 7w8? Here’s what you should know.

1.   Flighty

We have mentioned this before, and we’ll say it again. ISTP 7w8s will find it difficult to commit to a relationship. This is because of two main reasons. First, their biggest fear is to be trapped and stuck in a rut.

If they pick wrongly, this is exactly what happens in a relationship. Secondly, ISTP 7w8 is picky with their partners. They want a partner that fits them and their goals. So, it can take a lot for them to commit.

2.   Adventures/Peace

If you’re dating an ISTP 7w8, be prepared to go on adventures. While this won’t be as pronounced as dating an ESFP 7w8, it’s present nevertheless.

ISTP 7w8s will want to explore traveling, the environment, and everything in between. If you’re someone who doesn’t like adventures, the relationship might die a natural death.

3.   Compatibility

ISTP’s natural partners are ENTJs, ESFJs, and ESTJs. In Socionics, the ISTP is the most compatible with the ENFP.

However, the MBTI and Enneagram should not define your romantic life. Life is made up of other important factors, such as background and personal values. All this should be considered when choosing a partner.

4.   Love Languages

According to Enneagram Explained, type 7’s top two love languages for receiving love are acts of service and quality time. Thought Catalog identifies acts of service, physical touch, and quality time as ISTP’s top three languages.

Thus, I believe that it’s safe to say that acts of service and quality time are super important to ISTP 7w8. Nevertheless, the most important thing is how your partner feels. So, ask them what their love language is. You might be surprised.

ISTP 7w8 vs 8w7- What’s the Difference?

Wondering if you’re an ISTP 8w7 or ISTP 7w8? Here are some of their common differences.

ISTP 8w7	ISTP 7w8
More Confrontational	More Charming
More Disciplined	Less Disciplined
More Goal-Oriented	More Idea-Oriented

ISTP 7w8 in the Workplace

ISTPs are technicians and craftsmen. They are analytical and tend to excel at problem-solving. Thus, their careers are often directed towards this path.

ISTP 7w8s are the same. Because of their creativity, they often find new and innovative ways of achieving their goals. However, this personality type might move a lot throughout their careers. Stability comes second when compared to adventure.

Ensure there’s room for innovation to get the best out of the ISTP 7w8.

Best Careers for the ISTP 7w8

• Firefighter
• Chef
• Photographer
• Mechanic
• Mechanical Engineer
• Architect
• Painter
• Car Racer
• Graphic Designer
• Travel Blogger
• Carpenter
• Sales Representative
• Attorney

Worst Careers for the ISTP 7w8

• Judge
• Pre-school teacher
• Clergy
• Counselor

Famous People/Fictional/Anime Characters That Might Be ISTP 7w8

• Patrick Verona (10 Things I Hate About You)
• Marshall Lee (Adventure Time)
• Tord (Eddsworld)
• Lou Miller (Ocean’s 8)
• June (Avatar: The Last Air Bender)
• John McClane (Die Hard)
• Jeremy Renner
• Dovahkiin (The Elder Scrolls)
• Captain K’nuckles (The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack)
• Alex Fierro (Camp Half-Blood Chronicles)
• Bill Weasley (Harry Potter Book Series)