INFPs are idealists at heart and altruistic by nature. They live by strong core beliefs, but are non-judgmental of others who live different lives. They are open-minded and believe everyone should follow their own paths.
They can often be lost in thought and have vibrant inner lives. They are creative, self-expressive, and full of ideas. They have a deep understanding of human nature and remain curious about people and the world around them.
Mediator
Creative, Idealistic, Curious, Sensitive, Self-Isolating
Motivations: Searching for meaning to stay true to themselves
Values: Authenticity, ideas, open-mindedness, and autonomy
Fears: Not living up to their ideals
4% of General Population; 4% of Men; 5% of Women
Introvert (I):
Energized by inner world and alone time
Intuition (N):
Focused more on ideas, abstracts, and patterns
Feeling (F):
Decisions are made from the heart
Perceiving (P):
Perceived by others as flexible, spontaneous, and adaptable
Strengths & Weaknesses
Healthy personality types will often relate more to the strengths, while unhealthy types relate more to the weaknesses. However, most people are a combination of both.
Strengths:
INFPs have the great ability to see multiple perspectives and understand different viewpoints. They understand other people’s emotions and want to help those around them. They are independent and creative thinkers. They are dedicated to their values and the people they value.
- Empathetic
- Generous
- Open-minded
- Creative
- Passionate
- Idealistic
Weaknesses:
INFPs have difficulty accepting disappointment or failure. They live by high standards and are often hard on themselves. They also take criticism very personally. They can be prone to neglecting their own needs and wants. They struggle to open up to others and share themselves.
- Unrealistic
- Self-isolating
- Unfocused
- Emotionally vulnerable
- Desperate to please
- Self-critical
Development
Like any personality type, INFPs can be healthy, unhealthy, or anywhere in between. Here is what they look like at their best and at their worst.
At Their Best
At their best, INFPs are in tune with their own morals and values, and they are able to learn what values are important to others. They are involved in causes they believe in. They encourage those around them and help them to achieve their own goals. They live their lives with full authenticity and self-expression.
At Their Worst
At their worst, INFPs are self-isolating and incredibly self-critical. They are stuck in their heads unable to take action. They are unable to take criticism from others and may project their sensitivity to every area of their life. They neglect themselves and are prone to blow-ups and emotional breakdowns.
Personal Growth
Though INFPs have many great qualities, there are always areas for any type to grow in. Here are some tips for growth.
- Don’t retreat into fantasy: INFPs are notoriously idealistic and see the world through rosy colored glasses. They can spend a great deal of time fantasizing about the idealized world or person. Instead of living in this fantasy, they should use this fantasy to create the world they want.
- Don’t shy away from leadership: Since INFPs are introverts, the spotlight and energy leadership roles require may seem overwhelming. However, INFPs naturally listen to different perspectives, believe in cooperation, and are passionate about their values. They can make great leaders when they believe in themselves.
- Stop being hard on yourself: Because of the INFPs high standards and ideals, they can notoriously be hard on themselves. They have a particularly hard time letting go of failure. Their sensitivity causes them to focus on their shortcomings. They can greatly benefit from giving themselves the understanding they give others.
Managing Conflict
Typically, INFPs communicate in a relaxed somewhat direct way. They like relying on close relationships and appreciate cooperating with others. They are relationship and people-oriented. They do not like a direct aggressive approach to conflict, as they fear endangering their relationships. When confronted, they can appear indecisive, passive, and defensive.
When INFPs find themselves in conflict with others, it’s important for them to address it directly. Their passivity and sensitivity will not always be appreciated. It will be hardest for INFPs to communicate with those who are too aggressive or overstimulating. When under stress, INFPs tend to accept and submit to what others want, or withdraw and avoid the conflict altogether. Here are some tips for INFPs to manage conflict:
- Be clear and direct with your needs and wants
- Follow through to see if the conflict is resolved, even if it makes you uncomfortable
- Consider if the other person meant to hurt you, or if there are other circumstances involved
- Give yourself reassurance that the relationship will survive despite conflict coming up from time to time
Types they may struggle to communicate with:
Nurturing INFPs
To take care of an INFP, it’s important to know what stresses them out and what they need to fill at ease. Below are some stressors for INFPs, and also what others can do to help them feel cared for.
Stressors
- Blunt or harsh criticism
- Analyzing specific facts or data
- Following rigid and unnecessary routine
- Being around large groups of unfamiliar people
- Listening to a lot of negativity and pessimism
Nurture
- Speaking kindly and with gentle suggestions
- Contemplating philosophy, art, and big ideas
- Fluid structures
- Being around an intimate group of people
- Listening to positivity and optimism
The Human Connection 