When people compare the INTP to the enneagram of personality, type 4 and type 5 usually come to mind. However, there is a much smaller subtype that’s often forgotten. That is the INTP 9w8.
So, this article is going to focus on them. What can you truly expect from the INTP 9w8?
Who is the INTP 9w8?
This personality is much more reserved and diplomatic. While they are great thinkers, their first approach towards matters is one of harmony and peace.
However, this certainly does not mean that the INTP 9w8 is a pushover. They know what they want and will look for ways to get it.
Because they are type 9, they will be more interested and invested in people’s emotions and intentions. This will keep them in the good books of others.
What is the Core Desire of the INTP 9w8?
The core desire of the INTP 9w8 is to live in harmony. While this is true, this INTP still has huge targets and goals that they want to pursue.
However, these goals and targets will always come second to how those around them feel about it.
What is the Core Fear of the INTP 9w8?
The core fear is to be without harmony. This can happen when they have major disagreements with those closest to them.
They are also quite scared of being abandoned. So, they try to be at peace with as many people as possible.
Differences between INTP 9w8s and Core INTPs
1. More Relaxed
INTPs are introverts. There’s definitely no doubt about that. However, they are also quite opinionated about their views and thoughts.
You get something different with the INTP 9w8. Just like any other INTPs, they have pretty strong opinions. However, they will keep these to themselves unless it’s necessary to express them.
It is not surprising then that most INTP 9w8s will be INTP-Ts. With the need to go with the flow comes the danger of being people-pleasers.
However, if they have a strong wing, this will definitely not be a problem.
2. More Open to Taking Risks
INTPs are known to seek comfort first. While they are spontaneous, they are not exactly keen on taking risks.
INTP 9w8s are more open to this prospect. This might because of their wing. Thus, this personality type might take risks to achieve their goals.
Because of this, they have a much higher chance of hitting their targets.
3. More Diplomatic
Type 9s are the mediators or peacemakers. This trait is also present with the INTP 9w8. They prefer to make peace.
Thus, they are often diplomatic with others when issues arrive. They are also the mediators around friends who have problems.
In their view, being diplomatic and accepting is better than having the last word.
4. More Ambitious
INTP 9w8s are more ambitious than core INTPs. They have great ideas and want to try them out. The only problem lies in type 9’s major flaw. Complacency.
Thus, INTP 9w8s might have the most brilliant ideas in the house but might never get around to making it a reality.
However, if their wing is especially strong, complacency and procrastination will be reduced.
5. More Considerate
INTPs can be quite insensitive. When they have their thinking cap on, being emotional just won’t fly with them. However, INTP 9w8 is a bit different.
Because they do not want to be abandoned by others, they have developed their extroverted feeling (Fe) function.
Thus, they are more considerate and tactful when stating their case. People who know them can easily mistype them for an INFP.
6. More Indecisive
INTPs are already one of the types that have analysis paralysis. INTP 9w8s breaks new ground with this one. There are so many things in their head when making a decision.
First, they want to make sure that it’s the right decision. Secondly, they also want to make a decision that will not offend anyone.
These two needs are present in big decisions and small ones too. This can be a real thorn in their side.
INTP 9w8 vs INTP 5w4 vs INTP 5w6
Wondering what enneagram type you have as an INTP? Here is a triple showdown of the three most popular enneagram types for INTPs.
INTP 5w4 | INTP 9w8 | INTP 5w6 |
More interested in being unique | More interested in being at peace | More interested in being secure |
Looks a lot like the stereotypical INTP | Looks a lot like the INFP | Looks a lot like the INTJ |
Interested in a career that offers creativity and self-sufficiency | Interested in a career that brings peace, growth and pursues a worthy cause | Interested in a career that promotes stability. |
INTP 9w8 and the Workplace
Certain things must be present in a work environment. These things make the INTP 9w8 perform better.
Here are some of them.
· Harmony
Unlike other INTPs, harmony and peace matter a lot to the INTP 9w8. They want to work and interact with colleagues who are peaceful.
They certainly do not enjoy an overly competitive and toxic environment.
· Working with a Purpose
They want their work to have a lot of meaning. Thus, INTP 9w8s will work better when they feel like they are contributing to a just cause.
Without that feeling, they might not stay motivated.
· Exciting and Not Mundane
Just like the normal INTP, this personality type doesn’t do well with routine and mundane activities. They want to work on a truly exciting project. If it is spontaneous, even better!
The fastest way to kill their motivation is to give them routine work. This will make them less productive and complacent.
· Good old Creativity
Finally, INTP 9w8 are creative people. They are great with analysis and want to use these qualities. Giving them the chance to do this will make them happier.
It might just be the gamechanger.
Best Careers for the INTP 9w8
- Professor
- Writer
- Politician
- Psychologist
- Arbitrator
- Lawyer
- Economist
- Financial Analyst
- Mechanical Engineer
- Architect
- Counselor
- Therapist
Worse Careers for the INTP 9w8
- Preschool Teacher
- Clergy
- Sales Manager
- Dental Assistant
- Paralegal
Fictional/Anime Characters that are INTP 9w8
- Patrick Star (SpongeBob SquarePants)
- Manjirou “Mikey” Sano (Tokyo Revengers)
- Garfield the Cat (Garfield)
- Shikamaru Nara (Naruto Shippūden)
- Brian Griffin (Family Guy)
- Kisuke Urahara (Bleach)
- Bugs Bunny (The Looney Tunes Show)
- Pascal (Tangled)
- Dr. Manhattan (DC Comics)
- Robin Buckley (Stranger Things)
Famous People/Celebrities that are INTP 9w8
- Kal Pen
- James Murphy
- Norm Macdonald
- Mehran Modiri
- Jamie Campbell Bower
- Alex Horne
- Afonso Padilha
- Mitch Hedberg
- Steven Wright