Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
Based on the MBTI test from 16personalities, the third scale is nature, which shows how much we value emotions or rationality when considering choices. Does someone tend to use the Thinking (T) personality trait, which relies on the brain, or the Feeling (F) trait, which relies on the heart?
But let’s not oversimplify. Imagine it as hands. A left-handed person uses their left hand more, but they still use their right hand, even if less frequently. We can apply the same approach to someone who has a dominant Thinking or Feeling trait.
Based on the explanation on the 16personalities website, here are the advantages of both traits:
Advantages of Thinking (T)
83% of people with the Thinking trait say it’s best to take a scientific approach to the problems in their own lives, compared to 43% of those with the Feeling trait.
- Scientific Innovation Survey
When faced with a decision, people with the Thinking trait usually rely on objective information. Knowledge is a very important tool for them. After gathering the facts, they test their alternatives with logic and common sense to see which decision is, by those standards, the most effective or realistic. They typically manage their relationships using fairness and efficiency as their primary ways of relating to others.
Advantages of Feeling (F)
88% of those with the Feeling trait said they value and cherish their emotions, compared to 47% of those with the Thinking trait.
- Emotional Intelligence Survey
People with the Feeling trait follow their heart and emotions - sometimes without realizing it. They may show this in different degrees and ways, but however they do it, Feeling personality types tend to be caring, compassionate, and warm. These considerate people can be very protective of those they care about - whether it’s their immediate family or groups in need of help.
So, what’s next?
As someone who has a tendency towards the Feeling trait (around 70%), it feels really exhausting to make decisions 😖. Actually, I am quite science-based.
Like, if I want to do something, there needs to be research or a manual first, to avoid mistakes (it’s a hassle if you go through all the effort, only to get it wrong). Or at least, it should have been done before, either by me directly or by someone I trust.
The problem, and the most confusing part, is before making a decision. I always overthink a lot.
"Will this option tire A* out?" (even if the other option tires me out) *my friends
"Is my writing clear enough? Will they understand what I mean? Will sending it now be disturbing?" (and then I delete it for fear of misunderstanding and disturbing)
"If I scold the kid, will they get angry/hold a grudge? But if I let it slide, it will be difficult in the future :(" (especially if others have different opinions)
"Should I join in or not? If I join, I might be seen as trying too hard 😔" (even though I’m feeling lonely, lol)
And many more examples that are just exhausting 😌.
"New Year New Me"?
People tend to say niw yiir niw mi, mehh. I don’t deny it, I also want to change every year to become a better person.
One of my hopes for myself this year is to make my nature scale on 16personalities become 50%. I don't know if it's possible, but I hope so. Being rational seems perfect for me. I’m not sure, but that’s my hope.
Imagining myself not using feelings too much when making decisions feels like "quick and clear" 😭👍🏻. Let’s hope for the best 🤲🏻.
*Update (22 June 2024): my trait is changing to Thinking! I got around 63%. One of my dreams came true 😱. But, because this is MBTI, of course it's not permanent. It will change as my journey continues. 🚀