Similarly, my ability to deal with change and stress make me well-suited for careers in the global business environment, in which I would be expected to travel and communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds than my own.
The Gospel and Personal Reflection" offers advice on how to navigate through the world with greater self-awareness. As an ISTJ, I know that I work best in a structured environment. I expect loyalty from others because I exhibit it myself. Thus, I would do well to avoid individualistic work environments or situations that incite competition due to a lack of internal consistency and cooperation. At the same time, Fischer suggests developing a sense of understanding for different personalities and communication styles. An ISTJ does tend to be judgmental, and my challenge is to refrain from making unnecessary judgments. Not all individuals are like me and not all individuals should be like me.
Although I work well alone, when I do work in teams I cooperate effectively and do not instigate ego battles or conflicts. The "Care For" precept is perhaps the one I struggle with most (George). Integrating gospel teachings into my communications style enables me to approach conflict with compassion rather than criticism. Being willing to share burdens with others to serve the common goal enhances my usefulness and productivity. I find it simple to integrate Christian values and teachings into all areas of my life.
Being an ISTJ...
Commitment to my brothers and sisters, united under a common spiritual purpose is a common scriptural theme (I Tim 5:1-2). Because I value loyalty and commitment I tend to view all team situations as families. Teams are mirrors of the spiritual family in which we are all part, which is why I expect others to flourish as well as I do in such well-defined, purposeful environments.
My main strengths can become my greatest weaknesses if I forget to cultivate self-awareness. Applying spiritual truths to my professional life will enable me to overcome judgmental attitudes. Instead, I should capitalize further on my strengths, including high level of honesty and commitment, trustworthiness, ability to avoid or mediate conflict, and a high tolerance for change. My low level of stress also makes me a prime candidate for positions that require poise in the face of traumatic change, and I would be well-suited for a role in a strong, large, effective multinational organization.
References
Fischer, K. (nd). "The Gospel and Personal Reflection
George, J. (nd). "One Another."
Holy Bible
Portrait of an ISTJ." BSM Consulting. Retrieved Nov 25, 2006 at http://www.personalitypage.com/ISTJ.html
The Prentice Hall's Self-Assessment Library 3.3 CD-ROM
Robbins, S.P. & Judge, T.A. (2007). Organizational Behavior.
