To be or not to be

[Joohanh]

Except it isn't about life and death, but something far more dire.

I'm seriously beginning to doubt whether I'm an INTP or not. The huge controversy is in my introversion. I'll try to explain:

I've always regarded myself as an extreme introvert, and relating strongly to people here has kind of been the scientific proof of my introversion. The behavioral traits which I've always perceived typical for me are the traditional ones: avoiding crowds, attention, moments alone with someone, small talk et cetera. In other words, I've always thought I'm as passive in socialization as possible.

However, this doesn't seem to be the case anymore. Since I took up my philosophy studies about six months ago, I've become more and more socially active. I've always talked with my hands to the point of ridiculous exaggeration, but this kind of involvement in communication has increased substantially over the last few months. During lectures I practically hanker for a turn to speak. I've done some presentations to a group of about 30 people, and found myself loving it and the attention it brings me. On the top of it all, I've even started to care for my looks, styling my hair in mornings and using skin products!

WHAT'S HAPPENING TO ME

 

[Trebuchet]

WHAT'S HAPPENING TO ME

It sounds like you are having fun. That happened to me when I was 15, and went from terrified to say anything in front of others to loving the chance for public speaking. It doesn't have anything to do with being an introvert. It is a delightful quality, and rare, so treasure the fact that you have it.

Taking care of your grooming is a sign of happiness, as well as wanting to communicate better non-verbally. Clearly, communication is important to you. Your written text is clear and to the point, and properly spelled and punctuated. You enjoy public speaking. How you look physically affects how others perceive you and your statements.

Being attractive and expressive is perfectly compatible with being INTP. Revel in it.

 

[Cogwulf]

Yes.

 

[Joohanh]

Thank you, truly.

If it is so, I guess I'm having the time of my life right now. This personality trait is probably something I've always had, but as there was nothing to really ignite my passion for life before, it didn't activate - until now.

I will enjoy this new dimension greatly.

 

[ScorpioINTP]

INTP (myers-briggs traits) aren't necessarily black and white. It more measures your tendency and preferences. If you are good at something, you enjoy performing and being admired. That is natural. I was painfully shy as a kid...to the point I was afraid to play little league and embarrass myself (and I didn't have friends in a new town).

Well fast forward to college and I was a pitcher. I reveled in being in front of a crowd and doing my thing. I have never had so much confidence in anything in my life. Fearless even. I even got to do some press conferences, but doing something you are good at (even speaking) is different than just being in a crowd of people IMO.

That is something I miss now, having the respect and notoriety as well as identity. You don't get all that in a day to day job.

 

[Jesse]

Yes, you are still an INTP and yes even an introvert. I did well in Drama, Sport and even debating but when it comes to 1 on 1 interaction or expressing my feelings thats where I lose it.

 

[EyeSeeCold]

1 on 1 interaction is the best. It's very... experimental.

But yeah in response to the intial post, it just sounds like you have more confidence in your self.

Comfortable atmosphere + your interests = your brain inside out.

 

[a detached retina]

The hand waving and such could be your Fe coming out

 

[Gluon the Ferengi]

I don't see much of a dilemma here. INTs love to talk about subjects they find interesting. Philosophy is pretty high on the list.
Introverts aren't necessarily anti-social at all. Mostly they just lack social opportunities in modern society.
It seems like you've found a niche in which you feel comfortable. Yet I bet you're still reluctant to chat with cashiers and other service personnel who are playing a 30 second part in your life.

Also, it's not uncommon for INTs to do well on presentations. The one way interaction with the audience allows one to circumvent lots of the usual rules.
Where an extro often has stage fright for fear of social shaming, an intro can go up to the podium with a sense of apathy and calm.

 

[Vrecknidj]

Over the past few decades, I've opened up my E and my F. My S and J were over-emphasized since my ISFJ father brutally instilled his worldview on my.

But, I can honestly say that I've become a far more whole person by consciously developing my E and F. I highly recommend that you stay aware of the changes you're experiencing.

You're still an INTP. I am.

Dave

 

[myexplodingcat]

You've found a crowd of people who care about getting information correct and appreciate that you do. Since you don't want to lose their approval, you will most likely try and improve your appearance. Everyone likes to be appreciated, and I bet that a few people you're meeting here are INTPs.

This also shows the characteristic INTP self-doubt...

 

[Cavallier]

...that is the question
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
or to...take...damn it.

There you have it. Consensus is that you are still one of us. You can sigh with relief now.