Four Modes, Eight Functions--Part 2--Seeking Focus

Welcome to Part 2 of our look at the primary functions of our thinking brain. This week we are going to explore the functions located in the front left mode. This is the directing part of our brain. Decisions made from this mode are generally based upon facts without emotional input.

In this front left lobe we have two possible functions. One is extroverted and the other is introverted. Each one strives toward focus and structure from two different perspectives, but with a common goal of producing structure and focus.

The extroverted Focus seeking function provide clear leadership and direction. Those who lead with this function are the "take charge" people. They love to have control and are often the most self-confident. Nothing brings them greater pleasure than setting goals and directing others to meet those goals. Donald Trump operates strongly from this function. While they may like you, they will never let sentimentality get in the way of firing you if they feel it is necessary.

Extroverted Focus seeking individuals are driven to succeed and are energized by challenges. While they do make errors, they do not let this affect their confidence. This part of the brain is responsible for our self-concept and our self-regulation. It is not influenced by moment to moment feelings, so people who lead with this function often seem cold and unfeeling. If this function becomes imbalanced these individuals can become domineering; choosing to lead by intimidation.

With the introverted Focus seeking function the key goal is knowledge. These individuals spend lots of time in their heads, weighing out the facts. These are the accountants, the record keepers who love to organize data and use it to measure outcomes. Introverted Focus seekers are the "Thinkers". They seem to have a detachment about them. They are focused and self-reliant, often appearing very independent. They can spend hours devising spreadsheets, gathering information, and analyzing. Many engineers lead with this function. These are the people that pay close attention to the details.

At times these individuals can be forgetful like the "absent minded professor". Operating from the left front brain which does not see things holistically, but rather breaks them down into parts,sorts them, measures them, these individuals refuse to decide until all the facts are in.  When this function is over-used an individual can become rigid and overly independent; doing what they want despite the consequences. They will not rebel overtly but will let you think they are going to comply, and then do what they want anyway. Intellectual snobbery is also possible when this function is over used. Nikola Tesla was a mental genius, but his eccentric and often independent behavior made it difficult for the society of his day to embrace his ideas. 

 

The extroverted and introverted Focus seeking functions have brought us some great leaders, high achievers and genius thinkers. Each of us has access to these functions, either as our dominant function, through supportive mentors or people who challenge us to grow even when we don't want to.

If you want to learn more about Astro-Brain Dynamics and how the eight functions work in your brain, check out  my website.