INTP: Career Advice?

INTP: Career Advice?

HELLO! So, I am a very typical INTP who has been racking her brain and panicking because I don’t know what I want to do in life and I feel so behind compared to my peers. Below, I wrote a rather long explanation of my life (sorry, it’s 12 AM and this is what happens). If you are an INTP or any person who breathes, really, and would like to contribute your wisdom– I would really appreciate it! Thanks in advance for your kindness and time you took to read through!


Background: I just graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. I honestly haven’t had the opportunity or bluntly, the motivation, to find a job. I’m realizing that this field might not be for me. It’s not exactly meaningful or intellectually challenging/interesting in the way that I would like. I’m currently looking at going back to school to pursue a different type of career. I’m working at a coffee shop now and substitute teaching at the moment, while I re-evaluate my life.

About Me: I am an INTP. I really enjoy work with a high level of analysis, autonomy, and intellectual challenge. In school, I was an overachiever. I would like a career that enables me to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, financially. I am currently a part-time photographer and appreciate creative projects, as well. I enjoy deep talks (probably because of all of the analysis), philosophy, and researching knowledge. I think seeing the transition from abstract thoughts into something concrete is exciting.

Things I Have Considered: 

Law, Psychology, Doctor, Engineer, Graphic Design, Professional Photographer

Why I Am Reluctant to Pursue the Above Areas:

-I possibly could dislike the public speaking (speaking in public is torturous for me) or competition (I have heard jobs are extremely scarce). (Lawyer)

-I’m unsure if I would be tired of 10 years of medical studies and/or if I would like the long hours and amount of doctor-patient interaction. (Doctor)

-Although I have heard great things about the amount of science + creativity that is woven through, I’m not very hands-on or mechanical. I’m very conceptual. (Engineering)

-Not sure if there’s a super promising future, position or income-wise/ very saturated field (psychologist, graphic design, photographer)

*If any of these statements are complete myths or can be countered in some way, please do! I appreciate all of the insight.

Final Notes: I’m not really interested in any super tech-savvy careers such as becoming a web developer or IT. Also, it would be a huge plus if the career could be pursued internationally somehow. I aspire to help people cross-culturally one day.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING. PLEASE COMMENT ANY INSIGHT OR ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS YOU HAVE. YOU ARE GREAT.