Jungian Cognitive Functions

Cognitive functions and Carl Jung

Carl Jung (1875-1961) was a Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who is best known for his contributions to psychology, particularly his development of analytical psychology. He was a student and collaborator of Sigmund Freud until they had a falling out over differences in their theories. Jung developed his own approach to psychoanalysis, which emphasised the importance of the unconscious mind, the study of dreams and symbols, and the integration of spiritual and psychological aspects of human experience. His work on archetypes, the collective unconscious, and personality types, including the concept of the Jungian cognitive functions, has had a significant impact on modern psychology and fields such as literature, art, and spirituality. Jung's ideas continue to influence many areas of human thought and experience today. 

Jungian cognitive functions refer to the eight mental processes or ways of thinking that Carl Jung identified as being fundamental to human cognition. According to Jung, everyone has a dominant cognitive function that is their primary way of processing information and making decisions. The four functions are divided into two categories, the "perceiving functions" and the "judging functions." The perceiving functions are responsible for taking in information, while the judging functions are responsible for making decisions based on that information.

The eight possible functions are:

The order in which these functions appear in a person's cognitive function stack is referred to as their cognitive function position. For example, someone whose dominant function is Ti would be classified as an "Ti-dominant" type, while someone whose auxiliary function is Fe would be classified as an "Fe-auxiliary" type.

The four cognitive functions that make up a person's function stack are typically ordered as follows:

  1. Dominant function: The dominant function is the primary function that a person uses to navigate the world. It is often described as the "hero" function, as it is the one that a person is most comfortable using and that comes most naturally to them.
  2. Auxiliary function: The auxiliary function is the second most important function and serves to support the dominant function. It is often referred to as the "sidekick" function and is used to supplement the dominant function in situations where it may not be enough on its own.
  3. Tertiary function: The tertiary function is less developed than the dominant and auxiliary functions but still plays an important role in a person's cognitive function stack. It is often described as the "child" function and is used when the dominant and auxiliary functions are not sufficient.
  4. Inferior function: The inferior function is the least developed function in a person's stack and is often the one that causes the most stress and discomfort. However, it can also provide a source of growth and development as a person learns to develop and integrate it into their personality.

The exact order and strength of a person's cognitive functions can vary depending on their type, development, and life experiences. Understanding one's cognitive function position can provide insight into their strengths, weaknesses, and preferred modes of thinking and processing information.

This section will provide an overview of what Jungian cognitive functions are, what people relying on these functions heavily are good at, what people relying on this function heavily are less good at, how people can struggle with these functions, how they function in different roles. how people can improve their use of individual functions.

Extraverted Thinking (Te): 

This function is focused on organising and analysing external data logically and systematically. People who use this function often excel at strategic planning and problem-solving. They tend to rely on data and facts and may be seen as objective, efficient, and practical. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: making lists, categorising information, breaking complex tasks into manageable steps, and identifying flaws in an argument.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with ambiguity and uncertainty. They may have difficulty making decisions when they don't have all the necessary data and become frustrated when things don't go according to plan.

People who have low usage of this function may struggle with logical analysis and problem-solving. They may have difficulty making decisions based on objective information and may be easily overwhelmed by complex situations.

Extraverted Thinking (Te) functions differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Te: Te-dominant types rely heavily on logical analysis and objective data to make decisions and solve problems. They are highly organised and efficient, and are often skilled at planning and executing complex projects. However, they may struggle with considering alternative perspectives or taking into account the subjective experiences of others.
  2. Auxiliary Te: Types with auxiliary Te use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of organising and structuring information. They may be skilled at creating systems or processes that streamline their work and make it more efficient. However, they may sometimes struggle with being overly focused on the details and may need to step back and consider the big picture.
  3. Tertiary Te: In the tertiary position, Te may be used in a more exploratory way, as a means of gathering objective data to support a person's more subjective experiences. Types with tertiary Te may be skilled at analysing and synthesising complex information, but may struggle with putting that information into practice or making decisions based solely on objective data.
  4. Inferior Te: Types with inferior Te may struggle with analytical thinking and may have difficulty making decisions based on objective data. They may feel overwhelmed or frustrated when faced with complex or technical information, and may prefer to rely on their more subjective experiences instead.

Overall, Te is a rational function that values efficiency and objectivity. It is often paired with a perceiving function (Se or Ne) that provides the raw data for Te to analyse and make decisions from. Te users may benefit from developing their emotional intelligence and considering the perspectives of others in order to balance their more logical and objective approach to problem-solving.

Extraverted Thinking (Te) filters perceiving function input (Sensing and Intuition) by organising and evaluating information based on external standards and objective criteria. Te tends to prioritise efficiency and productivity over subjective experience, and seeks to create practical solutions that are based on data and evidence.

When presented with input from a perceiving function, Te will typically seek to organise and evaluate the information in a clear and systematic manner. Te may ask questions such as "what are the relevant facts and data points?" and "how can we use this information to make a practical decision?"

In general, Te tends to filter perceiving function input by seeking to create practical solutions that are based on objective criteria and external standards. Te may be less concerned with subjective experience or individual values, and more interested in creating efficient and effective solutions that can be implemented in a tangible way.

A brief overview of how Te interacts with each of the other functions:

Overall, Te interacts with the other functions in complex ways that can either support or challenge its goal of logical, objective analysis. Understanding these interactions can help individuals develop a more balanced approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

To strengthen this function, engage in activities requiring logic and problem-solving skills, such as puzzles or strategy games. You can also try to practise being more objective in your thinking and consider multiple perspectives before making decisions.

Introverted Thinking (Ti): 

This function is focused on understanding and analysing internal information logically and systematically. People who use this function often excel at critical thinking and analysing complex systems. They tend to rely on their own internal logic and may be considered independent and intellectual. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: analysing the structure of an argument, finding inconsistencies in a theory, and evaluating the validity of a concept.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with emotional or subjective information that can't be analysed logically. They may have difficulty understanding the perspectives of others, particularly when they conflict with their own internal logic.

People who have low usage of this function may struggle with abstract or theoretical thinking. They may have difficulty analysing their thoughts and beliefs and rely heavily on external sources of information.

Introverted Thinking (Ti) functions differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Ti: Ti-dominant types rely heavily on their internal logic and analysis to make decisions and understand the world around them. They are often highly skilled at categorising and organising information, and are driven to understand the underlying principles that govern systems and processes. However, they may struggle with taking into account the emotional or subjective experiences of others, and may appear cold or distant.
  2. Auxiliary Ti: Types with auxiliary Ti use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of verifying or testing their internal logic. They may be skilled at finding flaws or inconsistencies in arguments, and may be drawn to subjects like maths or science. However, they may sometimes struggle with considering multiple perspectives or taking into account subjective experiences.
  3. Tertiary Ti: In the tertiary position, Ti may be used in a more exploratory way, as a means of seeking understanding and creating internal consistency. Types with tertiary Ti may enjoy learning about complex systems and processes, but may struggle with putting that information into practice or making decisions based on their analysis.
  4. Inferior Ti: Types with inferior Ti may struggle with understanding complex systems or making decisions based on logical analysis. They may find themselves overwhelmed or intimidated by technical information, and may prefer to rely on their intuition or subjective experiences instead.

Overall, Ti is a rational function that values internal logic and consistency. It is often paired with a perceiving function (Se or Ne) that provides the raw data for Ti to analyse and make sense of. Ti users may benefit from developing their emotional intelligence and considering the perspectives of others in order to balance their more logical and internal approach to problem-solving.

Introverted Thinking (Ti) filters perceiving function input (Sensing and Intuition) by analysing and organising the information based on internal logic and consistency. Ti tends to prioritise objective analysis over subjective experience, and seeks to understand the underlying principles and patterns that govern a particular system or concept.

When presented with input from a perceiving function, Ti will typically seek to deconstruct and analyse the information in a logical, step-by-step manner. Ti may ask questions such as "how does this information fit into my existing framework of knowledge?" and "what are the underlying principles and assumptions behind this information?"

In general, Ti tends to filter perceiving function input by seeking to understand the underlying logic and consistency of the information. Ti may be less concerned with concrete details or subjective experience, and more interested in the overall structure and organisation of the information.

A brief overview of how Ti interacts with other functions:

Overall, Ti interacts with the other functions in complex ways that can either support or challenge its goal of objective, logical analysis. Understanding these interactions can help individuals develop a more balanced approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

To strengthen this function, try to engage in activities that require abstract thinking, such as philosophy or theoretical science. You can also practise analysing your thoughts and beliefs to understand your internal logic better.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe): 

This function is focused on understanding and responding to the emotional needs and social dynamics of others. People who use this function often excel at building relationships and creating harmony in social settings, and they tend to be empathetic, compassionate, and skilled at reading nonverbal cues. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: considering the feelings of others before making a decision, mediating a conflict between two people, and prioritising group harmony over personal interests.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with conflict or criticism. They may have difficulty asserting their own needs and may prioritise the feelings of others to the point of neglecting their own.

People with low usage of this function may struggle with empathy and understanding the feelings of others. They may prioritise their own needs and opinions over those of others and may have difficulty resolving conflicts.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe) functions differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Fe: Fe-dominant types prioritise harmony and social cohesion, often placing the needs and emotions of others above their own. They are highly attuned to social cues and norms, and may be skilled at navigating social situations and understanding the emotional experiences of others. However, they may struggle with prioritising their own needs and emotions, and may have difficulty setting boundaries in relationships.
  2. Auxiliary Fe: Types with auxiliary Fe use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of evaluating and managing social dynamics and relationships. They may be skilled at creating a sense of community and connection, and may prioritise empathy and social harmony in their decision-making. However, they may struggle with making decisions that conflict with their desire for social harmony.
  3. Tertiary Fe: In the tertiary position, Fe may be used as a way of exploring social dynamics and relationships, as well as evaluating the emotional significance of social interactions. Types with tertiary Fe may struggle with balancing their own emotions with the emotional experiences of others, and may have difficulty setting boundaries or asserting their own needs.
  4. Inferior Fe: Types with inferior Fe may struggle with understanding or managing social dynamics and emotional experiences. They may find themselves overwhelmed by social situations or emotional experiences, and may have difficulty asserting themselves or navigating conflicts in relationships.

Overall, Fe is an extraverted function that prioritises social harmony and the emotional experiences of others. It is often paired with a perceiving function (Se or Ne) that provides the raw data for Fe to evaluate and make sense of. Fe users may benefit from developing their own emotional awareness and assertiveness in order to balance their desire for social harmony with their own needs and values.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe) filters perceiving function input (Sensing and Intuition) by prioritising interpersonal harmony and emotional expression. Fe tends to be attuned to the emotions and needs of others, and seeks to create positive social interactions and relationships.

When presented with input from a perceiving function, Fe will typically seek to evaluate the information based on its impact on others and on social relationships. Fe may ask questions such as "how will this information affect the people involved?" and "what are the emotional implications of this information?"

In general, Fe tends to filter perceiving function input by seeking to create positive social interactions and relationships. Fe may be less concerned with objective data or logical consistency, and more interested in fostering positive emotional connections with others.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe) interacts with other functions in a number of ways. Some possible examples include:

Overall, Fe tends to prioritise emotional expression and positive social interactions, and may struggle to connect with individuals who prioritise other functions that are less focused on emotions or interpersonal harmony.

To strengthen this function, try to engage in activities that involve interacting with others, such as volunteering or joining a club. You can also practise expressing your own needs and opinions while also considering the feelings of others.

Introverted Feeling (Fi): 

This function focuses on understanding and analysing one's emotional experiences and values. People who use this function often have strong personal convictions and are guided by their inner values, and they tend to be introspective and authentic and may have a strong sense of identity. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: reflecting on personal beliefs and values, making decisions based on personal principles, and standing up for one's own values even if it goes against social norms.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with situations requiring them to compromise their values or beliefs. They may have difficulty understanding or empathising with people whose values conflict with their own.

People with low usage of this function may struggle to understand their values and beliefs. They may have difficulty making decisions based on their own internal sense of right and wrong and may rely heavily on external validation.

Introverted Feeling (Fi) functions differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Fi: Fi-dominant types rely heavily on their internal values and subjective experiences to make decisions and understand the world around them. They are often highly attuned to their own emotions and the emotions of others, and may prioritise authenticity and personal integrity in their relationships and decision-making. However, they may struggle with objectively evaluating information that conflicts with their values or beliefs.
  2. Auxiliary Fi: Types with auxiliary Fi use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of evaluating and prioritising their personal values in relation to external circumstances. They may be skilled at empathising with others and understanding their emotional experiences, but may struggle with making decisions that conflict with their personal values.
  3. Tertiary Fi: In the tertiary position, Fi may be used as a way of exploring personal values and identity, as well as evaluating the emotional significance of experiences. Types with tertiary Fi may struggle with balancing their own emotional experiences with those of others, and may have difficulty communicating their feelings to others.
  4. Inferior Fi: Types with inferior Fi may struggle with understanding or articulating their own values and emotions. They may find themselves overwhelmed by emotional experiences or unable to make decisions that are in alignment with their personal values.

Overall, Fi is a subjective function that values personal values and authenticity. It is often paired with a perceiving function (Se or Ne) that provides the raw data for Fi to evaluate and make sense of. Fi users may benefit from developing their logical and analytical skills in order to balance their more emotional and subjective approach to decision-making.

Introverted Feeling (Fi) filters perceiving function input (Sensing and Intuition) by evaluating the information based on personal values and emotions. Fi tends to prioritise internal consistency and authenticity over external standards or social expectations.

When presented with input from a perceiving function, Fi will typically seek to evaluate the information based on its personal relevance and alignment with internal values. Fi may ask questions such as "how does this information relate to my personal values and beliefs?" and "how do I feel about this information?"

In general, Fi tends to filter perceiving function input by seeking to create a sense of personal authenticity and coherence. Fi may be less concerned with external standards or social expectations, and more interested in aligning the information with personal values and beliefs.

It's worth noting that Fi can manifest differently in different individuals, depending on other factors such as their other cognitive functions, life experiences, and personal values. Some individuals with strong Fi may prioritise individualism and personal authenticity, while others may prioritise empathy and understanding of others' emotions.

Introverted Feeling (Fi) interacts with other functions in a number of ways. Some possible examples include:

To strengthen this function, try engaging in activities that allow you to explore your values and beliefs, such as journaling or meditation. You can also practise empathising with others and considering their perspectives, even if they conflict with your own values.

Extraverted Sensing (Se): 

This function is focused on processing and responding to sensory input in the present moment. People who use this function often enjoy adventure, risk-taking, and experiencing new sensations, and they tend to be spontaneous, energetic, and action-oriented. Examples of characteristic thought processes include seeking new experiences, enjoying physical activities, and noticing details in the environment.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with long-term planning or delayed gratification. They may be prone to impulsiveness and may struggle to see the big picture.

People with low usage of this function may struggle with living in the moment and experiencing the world through their senses. They may be prone to overthinking and may struggle to adapt to new situations.

Se, or Extraverted Sensing, operates differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Se: Those with dominant Se use it as their primary way of interacting with the world. They are often highly attuned to their physical surroundings and can be skilled at reacting quickly and effectively to changes in their environment. They may also have a strong desire for novelty and stimulation. However, they may struggle with long-term planning and may have a tendency to prioritise immediate gratification over more distant goals.
  2. Auxiliary Se: Types with auxiliary Se use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of gathering information and staying connected to their physical environment. They may enjoy physical activities and may use them as a way of energising and grounding themselves. However, they may struggle with staying focused on their long-term goals and may be easily distracted by sensory experiences.
  3. Tertiary Se: In the tertiary position, Se may be used as a way of exploring new experiences and seeking stimulation. Types with tertiary Se may enjoy physical activities and may be motivated by the prospect of novelty and excitement. However, they may struggle with finding a balance between their desire for new experiences and their long-term goals.
  4. Inferior Se: Types with inferior Se may struggle with connecting to their physical environment and may be easily overwhelmed by sensory experiences. They may also have difficulty taking risks or trying new things, and may prefer to stick to familiar routines.

Se, or extraverted sensing, relates to objects through the senses, particularly sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. Individuals with strong Se tend to have a heightened awareness of their physical surroundings and are often drawn to experiences that provide sensory stimulation, such as sports, music, or food. They are typically very present-oriented and enjoy taking action in the moment to interact with their environment, rather than spending a lot of time reflecting on the past or pondering the future. They may also have a preference for hands-on learning and may struggle with abstract or theoretical concepts that are not immediately applicable to their sensory experience. Overall, Se is an extraverted function that prioritises engagement with the external world through sensory experiences. Se users may benefit from developing their ability to plan and prioritise long-term goals, as well as finding healthy ways of balancing their desire for stimulation with their responsibilities and obligations.

To strengthen this function, try to engage in activities that involve experiencing the world through your senses, such as travelling or trying new foods. You can also practise being present in the moment and focusing on the details of your surroundings.

Introverted Sensing (Si): 

This function is focused on recalling and organising detailed sensory information from the past. People who use this function often have a strong sense of nostalgia and enjoy revisiting familiar experiences. They tend to be detail-oriented and may have a good memory for facts and details. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: reminiscing about past experiences, following a routine, and recalling specific details from a previous event.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with change or uncertainty. They may become anxious or stressed when their routines or familiar environments are disrupted.

People who have low usage of this function may struggle with routine and organisation. They may have difficulty remembering details or following through on tasks and may be easily overwhelmed by environmental changes.

Si, or Introverted Sensing, operates differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Si: Those with dominant Si use it as their primary way of taking in information and making sense of the world. They are often highly attuned to details and may have a strong memory for past experiences. They may also be skilled at noticing patterns and making connections between seemingly unrelated events. However, they may struggle with adapting to new or unfamiliar situations, and may have a tendency to rely too heavily on past experiences and routines.
  2. Auxiliary Si: Types with auxiliary Si use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of organising and categorising information. They may be skilled at recalling facts and details, and may be motivated by a desire for accuracy and precision. However, they may struggle with adapting to new or unexpected situations, and may have a tendency to cling to familiar routines and habits.
  3. Tertiary Si: In the tertiary position, Si may be used as a way of seeking comfort and stability. Types with tertiary Si may have a strong attachment to familiar routines and may find comfort in established traditions and customs. However, they may also struggle with adapting to new or unexpected situations and may be prone to becoming stuck in their ways.
  4. Inferior Si: Types with inferior Si may struggle with recalling details or past experiences, and may have difficulty organising information in a coherent way. They may also have a tendency to overlook important details or to be unaware of their physical surroundings.

Si, or introverted sensing, relates to objects through memory and personal experience. Individuals with strong Si tend to have a rich internal database of sensory information and details about their past experiences. They may have a strong sense of nostalgia or a desire to preserve traditions and customs that have personal significance to them. They may also have a preference for familiar and predictable environments, as they find comfort in what they know and have experienced before. They may be detail-oriented and enjoy organising their environment in a way that makes sense to them. They may struggle with change or new experiences that challenge their established ways of doing things. Overall, Si is an introverted function that prioritises engagement with the internal world through sensory experiences. Si users may benefit from developing their ability to adapt to new situations and experiences, as well as finding healthy ways of balancing their desire for stability and routine with their need for growth and change.

To strengthen this function, try to engage in activities that involve organisation and routine, such as keeping a daily planner or maintaining a regular exercise routine. You can also practise being more adaptable to change and exploring new experiences.

Extraverted Intuition (Ne): 

This function is focused on generating new ideas and possibilities based on patterns and connections observed in external data. People who use this function often have a knack for brainstorming and creative problem-solving, and they tend to be imaginative, curious, and open-minded. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: generating multiple solutions to a problem, seeing connections between seemingly unrelated concepts, and brainstorming new ideas.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with following through on their ideas or plans. They may become distracted by new possibilities or may struggle to choose between multiple options.

People with low usage of this function may struggle with generating new ideas and exploring different possibilities. They may have difficulty seeing the big picture and may be overly focused on details.

Ne, or Extraverted Intuition, operates differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Ne: Those with dominant Ne use it as their primary way of exploring and generating new ideas and possibilities. They may have a knack for seeing connections between seemingly unrelated concepts and for finding novel solutions to problems. They may also be highly adaptable and enjoy taking risks and exploring new experiences. However, they may struggle with following through on their ideas or with settling on a single course of action.
  2. Auxiliary Ne: Types with auxiliary Ne use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of exploring new ideas or generating possibilities within a specific area of interest. They may be skilled at brainstorming or coming up with new ways of looking at problems, but may also struggle with settling on a specific course of action or with following through on their ideas.
  3. Tertiary Ne: In the tertiary position, Ne may be used as a way of exploring new ideas or possibilities in a more playful or experimental way. Types with tertiary Ne may enjoy exploring new hobbies or interests and may be open to trying new experiences. However, they may also struggle with following through on their ideas or with developing a more focused or grounded approach.
  4. Inferior Ne: Types with inferior Ne may struggle with generating new ideas or with exploring possibilities outside of their established comfort zone. They may be more cautious or risk-averse, and may prefer to stick to what is familiar and established.

Ne, or extraverted intuition, relates to objects in terms of their potential and possibilities. Individuals with strong Ne tend to be imaginative and open-minded, often generating multiple ideas or perspectives about a given object or situation. They may enjoy exploring new ideas or concepts and may have a tendency to question established norms or assumptions. They may also have a preference for novelty and may find routine or repetition to be stifling or limiting. They may be good at spotting patterns and making connections between seemingly disparate objects or ideas. They may struggle with making concrete decisions or focusing on one idea for an extended period of time, as their attention is often pulled in many different directions by the possibilities they perceive. Overall, Ne is a function that enables individuals to generate and explore new ideas and perspectives about objects and situations, often with a focus on potential rather than practicality. Ne users may benefit from developing their ability to follow through on their ideas and to establish a more focused or grounded approach to their interests and pursuits. They may also benefit from finding healthy ways of balancing their desire for exploration and novelty with their need for stability and routine.

To strengthen this function, try to engage in activities that involve brainstorming and generating new ideas, such as brainstorming sessions or creative writing. You can also practise exploring different possibilities and considering multiple options.

Introverted Intuition (Ni):

This function is focused on generating insights and predictions based on patterns and connections observed in internal data. People who use this function often have a strong sense of intuition and enjoy exploring abstract ideas and theories. They tend to be deep thinkers and may have a strong sense of purpose or vision for the future. Examples of characteristic thought processes include: making connections between seemingly unrelated concepts, having a strong sense of intuition about a person or situation, and having a clear vision for the future.

People who rely heavily on this function may struggle with details or concrete information. They may have difficulty communicating their ideas to others, particularly when they are complex or abstract.

People with low usage of this function may struggle to understand the deeper meaning and patterns in their experiences. They may have difficulty communicating their ideas to others and struggle to find a clear direction in their lives.

Ni, or Introverted Intuition, operates differently depending on its position in a person's cognitive function stack:

  1. Dominant Ni: Those with dominant Ni use it as their primary way of interpreting and processing information. They may have a natural ability to see underlying patterns and connections between seemingly disparate ideas, and to envision future possibilities based on these patterns. They may also be highly focused and driven, with a strong sense of purpose and direction. However, they may struggle with being too inward-focused or detached from the external world, and may benefit from developing their ability to engage with concrete details and practical realities.
  2. Auxiliary Ni: Types with auxiliary Ni use it to support their dominant function, often as a way of envisioning future possibilities or interpreting information within a specific area of interest. They may be skilled at seeing the big picture and anticipating future outcomes, but may also struggle with being too abstract or removed from concrete details.
  3. Tertiary Ni: In the tertiary position, Ni may be used as a way of envisioning future possibilities or exploring abstract concepts in a more playful or experimental way. Types with tertiary Ni may enjoy exploring philosophical or spiritual ideas, but may also struggle with being too detached from practical realities or with developing a more grounded approach.
  4. Inferior Ni: Types with inferior Ni may struggle with envisioning future possibilities or with seeing underlying patterns and connections in information. They may prefer to focus on concrete details and practical realities, and may feel uncomfortable with abstract or speculative thinking.

Ni, or introverted intuition, relates to objects in terms of their underlying meanings and implications. Individuals with strong Ni tend to be reflective and introspective, often seeking to understand the deeper significance of a given object or situation. They may have a natural inclination towards symbolism and metaphor, and may find meaning and purpose in abstract or intangible concepts. They may have a sense of conviction or certainty about their own insights, and may feel driven to uncover hidden truths or patterns. They may be able to anticipate future outcomes or possibilities based on their understanding of the underlying dynamics at play. They may struggle with explaining their insights to others, as their thought processes can be highly abstract and difficult to articulate. Overall, Ni is a function that enables individuals to gain insight into the underlying meanings and implications of objects and situations, often with a focus on uncovering hidden truths or patterns. Ni users may benefit from developing their ability to engage with concrete details and practical realities, as well as from finding healthy ways of balancing their tendency towards abstract thinking with a more grounded and practical approach. They may also benefit from learning to effectively communicate their abstract ideas and visions to others.

To strengthen this function, try to engage in activities that involve exploring the deeper meanings and patterns in your experiences, such as meditation or dream analysis. You can also practise communicating your ideas to others clearly and concisely.

Cognitive axes

These cognitive functions operate on cognitive axes.Cognitive axes refer to the four pairs of cognitive functions that work in opposition to each other, creating a complementary balance. Each pair consists of one judging function (Thinking or Feeling) and one perceiving function (Sensing or Intuition). The four axes are:

  1. The Extraverted Thinking (Te) - Introverted Feeling (Fi) axis, which emphasises the ability to analyse and categorise information objectively, with a focus on logical consistency and efficiency, versus the ability to evaluate and prioritise information subjectively, with a focus on personal values and ethics.
  2. The Extraverted Feeling (Fe) - Introverted Thinking (Ti) axis, which emphasises the ability to read and understand social cues, norms, and values, with a focus on group harmony and consensus, versus the ability to analyse and understand abstract concepts and theories, with a focus on logical coherence and precision.
  3. The Extraverted Sensing (Se) - Introverted Intuition (Ni) axis, which emphasises the ability to process and respond to immediate sensory data and experience, with a focus on present reality and concrete details, versus the ability to interpret and foresee patterns and connections between disparate information, with a focus on future possibilities and potentialities.
  4. The Extraverted Intuition (Ne) - Introverted Sensing (Si) axis, which emphasises the ability to brainstorm and generate multiple possibilities and interpretations of information, with a focus on novelty and innovation, versus the ability to recall and recognize familiar patterns and sensory details, with a focus on personal experience and memory.

These axes provide a way to understand the dynamic interplay between different cognitive functions and how they influence each other in decision making, problem-solving, and perception of the world.

Te-Fi axis 

The Te-Fi axis is one of the four cognitive function axes in the Jungian typology system. It is comprised of Extraverted Thinking (Te) and Introverted Feeling (Fi).

Te is a function that is primarily concerned with organising and structuring the external world in a logical and efficient manner. Individuals with strong Te are often highly analytical and detail-oriented, and may excel in fields such as engineering, finance, or management. They may be highly focused on achieving tangible results and may place a high value on productivity and efficiency. However, they may struggle with understanding or acknowledging the emotional needs of others, and may be perceived as overly critical or dismissive of subjective experiences.

Fi, on the other hand, is a function that is primarily concerned with internal values and personal authenticity. Individuals with strong Fi may have a strong sense of personal morals and may be highly attuned to their own emotions and needs. They may be highly empathetic and may place a high value on individuality and authenticity. However, they may struggle with making objective decisions or prioritising logic over personal values, and may be perceived as overly emotional or self-absorbed.

In combination, Te and Fi can be a powerful combination for achieving personal and external goals while maintaining a strong sense of personal values and authenticity. Individuals with strong Te-Fi may be highly effective at achieving tangible results while remaining true to their personal convictions. However, they may also struggle with balancing objective logic and subjective emotions, and may need to actively work to ensure that they are not disregarding the needs or perspectives of others in pursuit of their own goals.

Fe - Ti axis

The Fe-Ti axis is one of the four cognitive function axes in Jungian personality theory. It represents the interaction between the extraverted Feeling (Fe) and introverted Thinking (Ti) functions.

Extraverted Feeling (Fe) is primarily concerned with understanding and responding to the emotions and needs of others. Individuals with strong Fe are often skilled at reading social cues, and may excel in fields such as counselling, teaching, or social work. They are often focused on building and maintaining harmonious relationships with others, and may prioritise the needs of others over their own.

Introverted Thinking (Ti), on the other hand, is concerned with understanding and analysing abstract concepts and ideas. Individuals with strong Ti are often skilled at critical thinking, problem solving, and may excel in fields such as science, engineering, or mathematics. They tend to prioritise logical consistency and accuracy over the emotions of others, and may struggle with understanding or expressing their own emotions.

The Fe-Ti axis represents a balancing act between these two functions, with individuals working to integrate and balance their understanding of the emotional needs of others with their own logical analysis of a situation. Those with a strong Fe-Ti axis may be skilled at navigating complex social dynamics while maintaining a logical and rational approach to problem-solving. However, they may also struggle with balancing the needs of others with their own personal values and beliefs, and may find it difficult to make decisions that prioritise one over the other.

Se - Ni axis

The Se-Ni axis is one of the four cognitive function axes in Jungian typology. This axis includes the extraverted sensing (Se) function and the introverted intuition (Ni) function.

Extraverted sensing (Se) is a function that is focused on the present moment and the physical environment. It is attuned to details and sensory experiences, and is often associated with a strong desire for action and adventure. People who use Se as a dominant or auxiliary function tend to be highly aware of their surroundings and often enjoy engaging in physical activities such as sports or travel.

Introverted intuition (Ni) is a function that is focused on abstract concepts and possibilities. It is often described as a "sixth sense" or an intuition that is attuned to patterns and underlying meanings. People who use Ni as a dominant or auxiliary function tend to be highly imaginative and often have a strong sense of purpose or direction in their lives.

The Se-Ni axis is sometimes referred to as the "perception axis" because both Se and Ni are focused on taking in information and making sense of it. People who have a strong Se-Ni axis tend to have a knack for understanding complex systems and patterns, and may be skilled at predicting future trends or outcomes based on their insights.

People who rely on this axis may struggle with taking action or making decisions based on their perceptions. They may become lost in their own thoughts or ideas, or may have trouble translating their insights into concrete actions.

To strengthen the Se-Ni axis, individuals can practise grounding techniques such as mindfulness or meditation to help them stay present in the moment. They can also work on developing their decision-making skills by seeking out new experiences and challenging themselves to take risks and make choices based on their intuition.

Ne - Si axis

The Ne-Si axis is one of the two cognitive axes in the Jungian cognitive function theory. It is also known as the "perceiving axis" or "attitudinal axis." This axis is formed by the interaction between the dominant function of Ne (extraverted intuition) and the auxiliary function of Si (introverted sensing).

Ne is the dominant function for individuals who have an innate ability to perceive patterns and connections in the external world. Ne users have a preference for exploring multiple possibilities and generating new ideas. They enjoy exploring new concepts and theories, and they are comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty. Ne can sometimes result in overthinking and difficulty making decisions due to the many options that are considered.

Si, on the other hand, is the auxiliary function for individuals who have a preference for organising sensory information and details from their environment. Si users are comfortable with established routines and practices and have a good memory for details. They prefer to rely on past experiences and knowledge to inform their present decision-making. Si can sometimes lead to resistance to change and difficulty adapting to new situations.

The Ne-Si axis is characterised by a focus on the past and present, as well as a tendency to rely on experiences and observations. Ne users provide new and diverse perspectives, while Si users provide grounding and practicality. Individuals who have developed both Ne and Si can strike a balance between creativity and practicality, and are able to make use of their intuition while staying grounded in reality.

Conclusion

It's important to note that while everyone uses all eight cognitive functions to some extent, individuals tend to have one or two dominant functions that they rely on more heavily than the others. Many psychologists seem to agree that personality is quite solid, but behaviour is subject to change.  All cognitive functions have equal value as they possess unique strengths and drawbacks. Understanding your dominant cognitive functions can help you better understand your strengths and weaknesses and make more informed decisions about your career, relationships, and personal development.