9 Things ISTP Need in a Relationship for Long-Term Success
ISTP (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving) are known for being independent individuals who become deeply committed once they've made a choice. Despite appearing as individuals who prefer living life on their own terms, many ISTPs have long-term relationships because they aren't interested in short-lived, dramatic, or shallow connections.
So, what do ISTP need in relationships? Here are several aspects crucial for ISTPs in nurturing a relationship. Let's dive in!
1. Honesty
Most people appreciate honesty, but for ISTPs, this value seems even higher. According to Susan Storm, the founder of Psychology Junkie, this is due to the dominance of introverted thinking in the ISTP personality type.
They highly value accuracy and truth, more so than many other MBTI types. Dishonest behavior, manipulation, secrecy, or being two-faced is considered a serious violation of the principle of honesty for ISTP. If you seek a lasting relationship with an ISTP, steer clear of dishonesty.
2. Freedom
Individuals with the ISTP personality type have a need for personal space and independence. In forming a relationship, an ISTP independence doesn't automatically diminish. Instead, independence remains an essential aspect for them.
As explained by Dario Nardi, Ph.D., a personality expert and author of Neuroscience of Personality, reported by Mind Body Green, ISTPs require ample time alone to process and organize their thoughts. Pressure to constantly be together might make ISTP uncomfortable. They might feel stifled if too much emphasis is placed on the relationship.
"In a relationship, if I'm given autonomy and freedom, I'll be very happy and committed," says Jake Williams, an ISTP, as cited by Psychology Junkie.
3. Understanding
Many individuals with the ISTP personality type often struggle because they feel misunderstood in relationships. According to Susan Storm, this is because ISTP have Extraverted Feeling (Fe) as a weaker function, which makes them struggle with expressing emotions regularly.
The difficulty in expressing emotions often leads their partners to misunderstand or underestimate their feelings. Although ISTP tend to hold back, it doesn't mean they lack deep emotions. ISTP prefer to show their love and affection through tangible actions rather than words.
4. Appreciation
Everyone desires appreciation in relationships. However, for individuals with the ISTP personality type, this appreciation is considered crucial. Showing appreciation is closely tied to the concepts of loyalty and honesty.
To demonstrate appreciation to an ISTP, it's advised to remain faithful, be honest, and value the independence and autonomy they require. Remember, the honesty of a partner is very important to ISTP.
5. Clear Communication
In the context of conversation or interaction within a relationship, ISTP tend to value communication that has a clear purpose or focus. They may be reluctant or less responsive to conversations considered noisy, unstructured, or lacking a clear direction.
ISTP will be more comfortable and feel valued if conversations have a clear direction and desired outcomes. If there are issues in the relationship, ISTP will be more motivated to communicate and participate in conversations aimed at finding solutions. Also, avoid excessively discussing problems without discussing implementable solutions.
6. Loyalty
ISTP are very loyal once they decide to enter a relationship. Although they may have a reputation for being aloof, they actually take the well-being of their loved ones seriously. Typically, ISTP are not interested in romantic relationships that lack meaning or purpose.
The loyalty of a partner is considered highly important by all ISTP. Although they appreciate freedom, ISTP tend to be serious about long-term relationships, and loyalty becomes the foundation for building a strong relationship.
7. Spirit of Adventure
The ISTP personality tends to enjoy new and diverse experiences in life. They enjoy playing games, traveling, building or creating things, or challenging themselves.
In the context of a relationship, ISTP prefer partners who are open to trying new and thrilling things together. This reflects the tendency of ISTP to seek excitement and adventure in life.
"ISTP tend to enjoy a calm romantic relationship with someone who shares similar hobbies and interests," says John Hackston, head of leadership thought at the Myers-Briggs Company, as reported by Mind Body Green.
8. Warmth and Caring
The ISTP personality type values people who display warmth and care. This may be related to their weak Fe function, making individuals attracted to those who have a dominant Fe function.
"As an MBTI practitioner, I see ISTP/FJ relationships more often than other ISTP relationship pairs. ISTPs often appreciate the friendliness, warmth, and attention given by these personality types," explains Susan Storm.
9. Quality Time
ISTP generally aren't fond of involvement in large social gatherings. Instead, they prefer spending one-on-one time with their partners rather than going to big parties or clubs.
Providing specific and regular one-on-one time to an ISTP partner will give them the confidence that you care. It also shows that you're providing an opportunity for them to build a deeper and more meaningful relationship with you.
In essence, ISTP desire relationships that offer space for freedom but also provide emotional loyalty and warmth. Creating a balance between personal freedom and deep emotional involvement allows relationships with ISTP to thrive and grow.