The Commander

COGNITION

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ENTJ

Quick definition

Visionaries and leaders. Confident and commanding. Strong sense of self. Successful and dedicated.

Average user score

82

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The ENTJ, or The Commander, are known for being strong, confident leaders who like to take charge and lead the way for those around them. They are motivated by finding roles of power in the world and measure themselves in how successful they are in doing so. Commanders have a strong sense of self-belief and find it troubling when someone calls into question their capabilities.

Like other extroverts, Commanders like to surround themselves in a social circle. They enjoy ENTJs taking charge of those around them, and will often be the organizer of a social group. Their organizational skills extend outside of these realms; they are excellent planners both in relationships and in their work life. Whether it be a short-term or long-term goal, Commanders will put a plan into action with care and expertise to ensure that it is accomplished.

ENTJs love to take on and conquer a challenge, and find themselves stimulated in doing so. Similarly, they are notoriously impatient and find it frustrating when things falter or fail to improve. This is especially true during times of crisis, in which ENTJs excel. Commanders can be blunt and honest, and hold high standards for both themselves and those around them.

About this trait

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Archetype Breakdown

(I)ntroverted

(E)xtroverted

(S)ensing

I(N)tuitive

(F)eeling

(T)hinking

(J)udging

(P)erceiving

Commanders are devoted and committed partners, with an eye for the long term. The Commander looks for a partner that can supplement their need for control and leadership. They often choose to take the leading role in a relationship, and prefer relationships that are more traditional.

In a romantic relationship the Commander is very dedicated to their partner and is incredibly supportive of them. While they struggle with casual relationships, dating an ENTJ is usually very exciting as they love to be adventurous and active with their partner, and to explore new things with them. ENTJs need their partners to be active in the relationship, not merely passengers who go along with whatever they decide. The Commander is usually extremely physical and willing to explore sexually with their partners.

ENTJs can, however, fail to notice their partner's emotions and struggle to ask about them. Similarly, the Commander finds it difficult to step outside of the realm of logic, and struggles with understanding these emotions when they are discussed. For themselves, emotional intimacy is usually only achieved when they feel extremely comfortable in a relationship. If they don’t find this with their partner, ENTJs are quick to end the relationship, cut their losses and move on.

Commanders are incredibly comfortable in the workplace and are often highly motivated workers who care deeply about personal success at work. This makes them versatile as they are willing to take on a variety of tasks across skill sets. This type handles their assignments efficiently and effectively and tends to produce excellent results.

Succeeding in the workplace brings the Commander genuine joy; they are willing to go above and beyond for their jobs. They thrive best in a workplace environment that has structure, rules, and clear authorities. Because of this, the Commander can often be found in the tech sector, law, science, or managerial work.

Commanders struggle most with being in a subordinate role at work as they believe that they are bound for leadership. While they are willing to take on a variety of tasks at work, they can become demoralized if they are consistently assigned work which they deem unworthy of their skills.

The Commander's self-confidence is typically a good thing, yet it can get them into some sticky situations. ENTJs believe that their way is the right way, and struggle to hear otherwise. This attitude can cause them to be perceived as callous or arrogant and may generate dislike towards them. As outspoken individuals, Commanders have a hard time holding back and may be seen as confrontational.

Commanders crave leadership and power, especially in the workplace, and are often willing to do whatever is necessary to achieve it — even at others expense. ENTJs especially struggle with separating logic from emotions, and which can frustrate those around them.

Unhealthy Adaptations

  • Neglecting the emotions of those around them, instead choosing blunt honesty
  • Lashing out when receiving feedback or criticism instead of carefully listening to what is being said
  • Choosing to speak out of turn when restraint would be more effective in a heated conversation
  • Seeking power and authority even at the cost of others around them

The Commander often feels a calling to be a leader and thrives in the position. As a leader they implement structure for those around them and are highly efficient at organizing their teams. This can lead to the ENTJ to be overbearing, as they do have a tendency to micro-manage. They find the greatest success in leadership roles when they feel that their team is as dedicated and hard working as they are.

As a leader, the Commander has little patience; in other words, they don’t tolerate failure. An ENTJ's high standards means that they can be harsh if a group member is struggling. They tend to care more about the work being completed than the feelings of their team members which may have negative backlash.

Commanders find immense joy at seeing their goals achieved, whether it be in relationships or in the workplace. Personal success contributes greatly to whether or not the ENTJ is happy in their life. This success isn't always about workplace or external achievements; it can also come in the form of developing and nurturing long-term relationships with close connections. Commanders also love to try and conquer new things, and explore things that they haven’t before, and are happiest when they're able to find this stimulation and follow their own curiosity.

Healthy Adaptations

  • Finding work where they can express their skill set and finding success in the workplace
  • Engaging in stimulating conversation and challenging activities with those close to them
  • Forging new relationships and then seeing improvement in themselves and in these relationships
  • Making their life and the lives of those around them more efficient

Commanders are natural leaders and possess many of the qualities that allow them to succeed in that role. They are confident and charismatic, as well as highly organized. This type is great to have in a crisis; they are able to make the right decision on the spot and do well to motivate those around them to act in a similar manner. Commanders' confidence in their abilities lends itself to success in both the workplace and in socializing.

  • Analyzing and dissecting an issue to isolate the root of the problem
  • Communicating clearly and conveying ideas in an effectual manner
  • Being honest and forthright with others; not hesitating to share their opinion on a topic
  • Seeing both the bigger picture and focusing in on the details
  • Being passionate in both in their own work and in their social life, giving them a natural charisma that draws others to them