Exploring Extraverted Thinking (Te)
Extraverted Thinking, or Te, is one of the eight cognitive functions laid out by Carl Jung. The cognitive functions are the basic building blocks for each of the 16 personality types. Exploring Extraverted Thinking (Te) is the fourth installment of this series. If you want to read the previous ones, check out Exploring Extraverted Intuition (Ne), Exploring Extraverted Feeling (Fe), and Exploring Introverted Sensing (Si). Eventually, we aim to cover each of the eight functions via this series. Iโm hoping to get this accomplished within the next few months, but weโll see what happens. Weโre also referencing Carl Jungโs Psychological Types as we work through this. The aim is to provide a realistic picture of each cognitive function, that covers both the core underlying rational and possible external manifestations.
Who uses Extraverted Thinking (Te)?
Every personality type has a cognitive function stack made up of only four cognitive functions. In other words, since there are eight functions in total, only half of the 16 personality types have Te, namely the TJs and the FPs. However, with that in mind, the FPs often devalue Te, since it is either in the third or fourth slot of their function stack. (Their Introverted Feeling, or Fi, often overrules their Te.) Therefore, this article primarily applies to the TJ types, which are ENTJ, INTJ, ESTJ, and ISTJ.
The TJ types will be the ones prioritizing Te, and thus will lean on it heavily in their daily lives. They will have the greatest range of use for the function, in both the positive and negative directions, although they will be the most apt of all the types to use it in a healthy, and positive way.
What is Extraverted Thinking (Te)?
Extraverted Thinking, or Te, is an extraverted judging function based on thinking. Extraverted functions in typology are objective, which means externally focused. (Read more here: Objectivity vs. Subjectivity) In other words, TJs prioritize objective data as means to draw conclusions and establish a universal formula for life.
10 Characteristics of Extraverted Thinking (Te)
Bear in mind, that some of the information below will describe core cognition, while other parts will describe common behavioral trends. You donโt have to relate to everything 100% in order to be an TJ.
1. Extraverted Thinking orients thinking to the external world
This is a key point, because of the confusion between Ti and Te. Ti logic is more idea focused, in a sense. Te logic elevates the external above subjective ideas. Therefore, their logic will more readily align to verified facts and generally accepted ideas. Bear in mind, Iโm not saying that theyโll naively accept whatever theyโre told. Many TJs have a rigorous process for verifying data and checking sources. However, they will highly value external data when forming their conclusions. TJs are often the ones to reference sources when sharing information or proving a point.
2. Extraverted Thinking naturally sees the world in terms of cause and effect
Extraverted thinking allows TJs to be good at recognizing the real world effect of their actions, in the physical sense (not the emotional sense). For instance, many TJs excel at time management. MBTI stereotypes generally describe judgers as the ones who are structured and always on time. However, TJs specifically are the ones who excel at recognizing exactly how long a task will take. Whereas, in my personal experience, FJs seem to always be running late. (Iโm sure this doesnโt apply to all FJs, but itโs definitely a trend that Iโve noticed.) A TJโs ability to see cause and effect is what makes them good at optimizing external systems in order to make them more efficient.
3. Extraverted Thinking uses thinking to solve real world problems
A natural result of how TJs approach reality, as described above, is their tendency to use their logic to provide solutions for the problem they see around them. This includes other peopleโs problems. The TJ that is looking to help someone typically does so in a solution-focused way. If you vent to a TJ, their natural impulse is to respond with a practical, real-world solution. Some may even take it upon themselves to enact the solution for you, for better or worse. Itโs also worth noting that many TJs will miss (or dismiss) the emotional or subjective context of a personโs problem, so the solution they provide, while technically โcorrectโ, may be over-simplified or not catered well to the individual.
4. Extraverted Thinking values objective standards that they believe everyone should adhere to
Carl Jung describes every function in an extreme manner for the sake of demonstrating a concept. However, in regard to Te, he describes the user as someone who โelevates objective reality, or an objectively oriented intellectual formula, into the ruling principle not only for himself but for his whole environment.โ This is likely the reason why TJs are known for being commanding or domineering. Carl Jung goes on to say that a Te user will use this โformulaโ to determine right and wrong. Everyone who agrees with and adheres to the formula is judged correct, while those who oppose it are deemed wrong. However, not all TJs will appear to be this extreme, which will be discussed further down.
5. Extraverted Thinkers are usually structured individuals
As a byproduct of forming objective standards, TJs tend to approach life in a structured way. Sure, they can have their impulsive moments. EXTJs specifically can be quite impulsive, especially the ENTJ variant. However, they usually have a concrete plan theyโre putting into action. In addition, while a TJ doesnโt have to be perfectly organized to qualify as one, their standard for what organized means is usually objectively correct. Unlike the TP who claims that there is an order to their chaos, the TJ will readily identify chaos for what it is. Order will look like order. Chaos will look like chaos. In a work environment, they often value having an external standard to adhere to so order and structure can be effectively maintained.
6. Extraverted Thinkers often define themselves based on their capabilities
This will be especially the case for a Te dominant, or an EXTJ. IXTJs will have a more rigid and personalized sense of self. However, they will still be prone to defining themselves based on their real world value. (This is the result of low Fi using Te metrics rather than relying on subjective introspection.) It makes sense that the stereotypical TJ is known for being productive, ambitious, and achievement-oriented, given this tendency. However, in spite of the stereotypes, it is possible for a TJ to be truly lazy. (Any type can be lazy.) But, a TJ that is truly lazy will struggle with low self-esteem, due to their failure to prove their own value to themselves.
7. Extraverted Thinkers are goal-oriented
As a result of the previous point, TJs naturally establish concrete goals that they believe to be achievable. Despite common belief and the extreme stereotypes, these goals do not have to be remarkably ambitious. Not every TJ wants to be a manager or a world dictator. The goal can be modest or humble, so long as itโs something to work toward and provides the TJ what they want. Due to a variety of reason, it is possible for a TJ to not know what they want, whether that be due to an irreversible disruption to their current course or simply immaturity. (Many teenagers and young adults struggle with choosing a life path.) However, until the TJ establishes a clear, concrete goal, they will feel lost, purposeless, and even anxious.
READ MORE: 6 Extraverted Thinking (Te) Stereotypes
8. Extraverted Thinking values efficiency and competency
Obviously, other personality types can have these values as well. However, TJs specifically prioritize these values in their daily lives. Theyโll find ways to optimize their processes and routines to make them take as little time as possible. When dealing with others, many TJs will struggle with impatience, because they hone in on how inefficient everyone else is. Theyโll be prone to judging people based on their competency at specific tasks, whether at home or in the workplace. The TJ that is dealing with someone they deem to be less capable may feel compelled to take over the task so that it is done correctly.
9. Extraverted Thinkers have a heightened awareness of external hierarchies and systems
I struggled to label this point, because TJs can respond to external hierarchies in drastically different ways, in spite of their natural awareness. The ambitious TJ will use their natural awareness to climb the ladder within whatever hierarchy they choose to be a part of. The conflict avoidant TJ will use their awareness to avoid making waves and maintain a desirable state. Some TJs will lash out against the hierarchy in a desire to assert control or fix a perceived problem. Too often, people assume TJs will always be extremely aggressive and abrasive, disliked by all those around them. On the contrary, some TJs actually turn into people-pleasers, as a way to win favor, bolster their image, and achieve whatever goal they have set. Many are actually genuinely caring individuals intent on doing some good in their environment.
READ MORE: The Dual Nature of Extraverted Thinking (Te)
10. Extraverted Thinkers devalue emotions
As with all thinkers, TJs tend to devalue emotions, in themselves and others. This is due to prioritizing extraverted thinking over introverted feeling. Unless looping or gripping, TJs donโt typically see a point in spending too much time dwelling on feelings. Instead, they focus in on physical tasks or problems, so they can work toward concrete solutions. As a result, they can appear cold or abrasive at times, because they failed to address or value the emotional context. (Some TJs even view emotions in an extremely negative light, possessing an attitude that is โanti-emotionโ, because they see emotions as a hinderance or a weakness.) However, with that being said, that doesnโt mean that TJs are inherently mean. Think of it more like a struggle to tap into the emotional atmosphere. A healthy TJ is certainly capable of empathy, especially with those close to them, but since their default response is to fix problems, they may have to learn to allow people space to vent and process their emotions.
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This one of the accurate understanding on Extraverted Thinking, your in-depth cognitive function articles put a realistic picture of how they work and have a unique element to them, this is why your website is one of my favourites.
As Iโve said before (in the inferior Ni vs inferior Si article) keep playing your part in making personality theory and MBTI system simple yet fleshed out!
Nice article, this makes me able to understand on how Te works in real life, maybe it just me but If I requested this article then I would like to say thank you for the effort of making this article.
Your resources when it comes to diving into MBTI and cognitive functions are spot-on and accurate, overtime I see improvement with your articles and how theyโre more good or well-written with each and every post! Iโm so glad Iโve came across this site when I had feel stuck on most personality sites, I admire how your website is full of valuable knowledge about personality theory โ weโre all proud of how far youโve comeโฆ.
This article is very interesting! Iโm now able to visualize how Te manifests between TJs, I wish more of your content revolving around the MBTI system, cognitive functions, and personality theory to be packed with quality tackling the nitty-gritty stuff and a truckload of broad information that we all need, your ideas and interpretation are very refreshing โ though I understand that it may be somewhat difficult to pull off since youโre busy with your day-to-day life and responsibilities.
This is a great post! this explains a lot why people describe Te in biased, unfair ways โ Iโm so relieved that you cut TJs some slack and provide real, relevant information about the MBTI theoryโฆ I hope they get the recognition that all types deserve equallyโฆ
Mara and Ryan, you really are acing your style of trying to provide a practical, broad, and especially invaluable writings or information about MBTIโฆ please continue to keep pursuing your passion regardless of what others sayโฆ you provide good contributions and justice in the personality community
This article is so good! I love how accurate this is
I see the value in you trying to provide a eloquent, broad, candid information about MBTI so the community thanks you!
This article is so refreshing! Every MBTI theory post you make is so neat and very easy-to-understand whilst providing a technical, realistic, pragmatic information about the MBTI which is very valuable in itโs rightโฆ thanks to you I found out that Iโm an extravert!
The way you write out Te is very exceptional! Iโm so blissful that youโre writing MBTI and personality theory to your heartโs contentโฆ your articles are wonderful by default and it helps dozens of people who have trouble getting Typology..
Your articles manage to envoke fascination on me, great job for writing a captivating post on extraverted thinking! Both of you are a gem in the Typology system, with all your dazzling and smashing interpretation combined with a complex understanding of personality really made this website workโฆ
On a more serious note, your depiction of Te is well-defined and precise! I can now see through the stereotypes of XXTJs being tyrannical ruler due to trying to control theenvironmentt through objective standards..
This is one of your finest work yet! Although can I inquire you about something?
Can ESXJs in particular be as reckless or impulsive as ENXJs? I know what youโre describing are trends or tendencies youโve picked out but how does tertiary Se in ENXJs make them more impetuous than ESXJs?
I want get a more inโdepth answer to my answer about this I know extraversion is prone to this in general but I need clarification.
Hey, I just found your site and words canโt express how much I wanna thank you for everything
It probably helps that sensor-types are manning the site because they provide down-to-earth information about personality and make it much more simple and complex at the same time..
Iโve finally found my personality type because of youโฆ so thanks Mara and Ryan for taking action to create your website, Iโll never forget what you done for usโฆ
Thank you! ๐ Glad we could help!
No prob! Keep making outstanding MBTI theory content!
(Tribute comment)
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you put so much heart into your website and theory articles in making MBTI straightforward againโฆ
Your website is basically the love letter to Personality Theory, Typology, or MBTI in general, this is clearly your passion project..
Thank you! ๐
Youโre welcome! Hope the encouraging sentiments help you!
I love these personality theory analysis articles! Most of emโ are pretty good and captures the functions precisely.
How come Se and Te users appear similiar and whatโs the distinguishing factor between them? This subject get really confusing to me.
Why does FJ got a tendency to yield to the group? Iโve saw FJs whoโre quite difficult? Will spiteful or malicous FJs still desire harmony even when they have bad intentions if so then why?
Hey! Te wants control, order, and results. Se wants freedom and experiences. Both may have a preference for the concrete, but high Se users will have a much more free flow way about them, where high Te users will be more concerned with the environment remaining orderly.
FJs want to belong to a group, which means theyโll want to do whatโs best for the group and be supportive of it. For some FJs, this might involve a lot of yielding. A spiteful FJ could definitely act out against the group, if theyโve failed to find a place within it or had people turn on them. A gripping FJ might give up on groups entirely, during the period in which they are in the grip. In addition, FJs in one group may be mean to those outside of their group, since they owe no loyalty to anyone outside their group.
Thanks! The clarification means a lot.
Since TJs and SPs value external empirical data itโs hard to tell which is which.
And Iโve encountered a rebellious FJ so its quite hard to tell that from an FP.