Defender (RMI-M)

Defenders are respectful types who value personal integrity and responsibility. They defend that which they see as right, be it personal values, their way of life, or professional practices and goals. They value time-tested concepts and approaches that have been proven through experience and show themselves to make functional sense.

This isn’t a type that places much trust in things that are claimed to be effective according to mere theory, even if it seems well-supported. They prefer methods and views tested through practice in life, employing them because they provide stable, reliable outcomes. This doesn’t mean Defenders resist all change, but they aren’t always enthusiastic about it, waiting until new things prove themselves before adopting them.

Defenders understand that such ways might not be perfect, and that experience and life may yet produce something even better. But they feel experimental innovation isn’t something that happens easily or at a low cost, and that history is filled with failed promises of making something better. Defenders want to produce more than just a promise.

They like good ideas but tend not to delve into more abstract topics, preferring that which is practical and concrete – and closer to their own experience. Esoteric or philosophical worlds can seem too distant and unreal to them, and not very useful or exciting.

Defenders are dedicated, meticulous, and practical. They like deciding on the exact approach they’ll use before beginning anything, and this often results in their effectiveness and success. Defenders try to stand behind their decisions and be responsible, as they value follow-through once a commitment or effort is undertaken in any area of life. They apply this value to themselves and others.

This type strives to be respectful toward others and dislikes when someone acts as though their needs and desires outweigh all else. Defenders protect these values when they’re challenged, assertively voicing concerns when they think something isn’t right. They confront those who are disrespectful of others or whose sloppiness creates risk, wanting to foster responsibility.

Others often find this integrity, respectfulness, and kindness very appealing, but also appreciate Defenders’ focus and diligence. They do quality work for which they rarely expect special praise or recognition, as they think it’s just the right thing to do. That being said, Defenders feel energized when others recognize their well-intentioned efforts, especially when they also pitch in.

Friends and family are very important to Defenders, and they put heartfelt effort into building and maintaining their relationships by being there for people when they’re needed. However, as Introverts, there are limits to how much social stimulation they enjoy. As much as they value those close to them, they also value their time alone to recover from social activity and restore their energy.