ISTJ is the strong-willed type of the MBTI typology. Most of the top military commanders in the world are ISTJs. We love them for their sense of responsibility and duty. ISTJs can be divided into two types. These are the ISTJ-T and the ISTJ-A.
In this article, our total focus will be on the ISTJ-A and what they bring to the table.
Who is the ISTJ-A?
This is the assertive logistician. They are more assertive than the core ISTJ. These persons take a much-opinionated approach and want to take control of their lives.
These traits are what make them different from their counterparts ISTJ-T.
What are ISTJ-As Like?
Wondering what you can expect from an ISTJ? Here are some of their most common traits you can expect.
1.     More Opinionated
ISTJs are introverts and reserved people. Thus, they are more likely to refrain from arguments. However, ISTJ-As will more opinionated.
They will have strong values and will not hesitate to defend them. Because of this, assertive ISTJs will often seem harsh or too blunt.
2.     Decisive
ISTJs are logical and straightforward. They also have a good idea of what they want. However, the assertive ISTJs take this trait to a whole new level.
They can have their entire lives planned out and know what they want and where they want to be. Unlike ISTJ-Ts who mull over options for a while before making up their minds, ISTJ-As can do this in a flash.
The downside to this is that the ISTJ-A might not think of all the loopholes before making a decision.
3.     Practical
ISTJ-As are very practical people. This cuts across pretty much every part of their lives. Thus, they are more realistic when considering their goals and expectations.
They are also more objective than your core ISTJs. While turbulent ISTJ might be more idealistic about their expectations, this has no room for the ISTJ-As.
4.     ISTJ-As and Enneagram Types
ISTJ-As are more likely to be type 1s than any other type. This makes sense as they often have deep moral values. Type 1s are also prone to sermons or been judgmental. ISTJ-As will often feel that their own values and morals are the best.
They will not hesitate to let the world know and let the ribbons fly.
5.     Ruthless and Determined
ISTJ-As are more focused and determined. Backed by their confident and opinionated nature, they can be quite intimidating.
They are also ruthless. Thus, ISTJ-As are more likely to go after what they want without care for other people’s feelings.
This might create a strain with others as they might see them as self-centered and annoying.
6.     ISTJ-A Can Take Criticism Really Well
ISTJ-A is really good at taking criticism. Thus, they will not be quick to jump to their own defense if the criticism actually makes sense.
ISTJ-As will however only accept such criticism if it is backed up with logic and sounds accurate to them. Anything else will be dismissed.
ISTJ-A and Dating
ISTJ-A are like all ISTJs very traditional people. Thus, dating them will only work if you do it the traditional way.
They are very reliable in the relationship and keep their word at every point in time. They also expect you to do the same.
Here are some things you should know before dating an ISTJ.
·       ISTJ and Compatibility
ISTJ’s natural partners are the ESFP-T and the ESTP-T. ISTJ-As will naturally do well with extroverted partners that are turbulent.
However, any two mature people can make a relationship work.
·        Honesty is important
ISTJs have very strong values. ISTJ-As are no different. One value that especially irks them is dishonesty. No matter what you do, never lie to an ISTJ. It’s always good to tell the truth.
If you lie to an ISTJ and they find out, it definitely won’t end well.
·        They like Structure
ISTJs like to have a structure in their relationships. While they can handle spontaneous activities every once in a while, it means more to them when an event is well planned out.
So, going on a dinner that both of you planned is far more amazing to them than taking them on a spontaneous hike they never planned for.
·        They are very Committed People
ISTJ-As do not go into a relationship for a casual fling. They really do not want that. Once they are in a relationship, they want to commit.
They want to be sure that their partner takes the relationship as seriously as they do. Ways to show that the relationship means a lot to you include showing them respect and keeping your promises.
Do that and you cannot go wrong.
Struggles ISTJ-As Face in Relationships
·        Insensitive
ISTJ-As will often be called insensitive. They are quite opinionated and say things how it is. Thus, they might hurt their partner’s feelings without meaning to.
This can be a serious problem if their partner is a feeler type.
·        Routine vs Adventure
ISTJs love routine. They want to know what they are going to do the next day. Thus, if they are with a more adventurous partner such as the ENTP or ENFP, this can be overwhelming.
The ISTJ-A will struggle with having their entire plans for the day destroyed. It’s going to turn their world upside down.
ISTJ-A and Career Options
ISTJ-As strive in areas that are structured. They want to feel like they are making a meaningful contribution to society.
They are the ones that work the hardest in most industries. Thus, you can always count on the ISTJ-As to put in a shift.
Here are some of the best careers for ISTJ-As
- Logistician
- Financial analyst
- Cost estimator
- Top executive
- Industrial electrician
- Electrical engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil engineering
- Clergy
- Social worker
Careers the ISTJ-A Should Avoid
- Journalism
- Actor
- Photography
- Pre-school teacher
- Musician
Growth Tips for ISTJ-A
- It wouldn’t hurt to loosen up a bit. By doing so, you might be able to see other people’s opinions as also valid.
- Sometimes, spontaneous activities can be a lot of fun. You just have to take the first step.
