INFPs and stress Because of their quiet, reserved nature, loud interruptions or conflicting personalities can create stress for people with INFP preferences. They tend to dislike last-minute changes and repeated mistakes, which they see as thoughtless or uncaring.
INFPs are introspective types who tend to listen more than they speak. However, when their imagination is stimulated, they can become quite chatty, exploring ideas, possibilities, and musings.
They often feel like they're on the outside looking in, and this can lead them to be quiet and introspective. INFPs may seem shy at first, but once they get to know you they can be some of the most engaging people you'll ever meet.
The pressure of having everyone looking at them waiting for a reaction can make them feel shy or awkward. Many INFPs also experience “second-hand embarrassment”. For example, they might feel embarrassed when someone is trying to make jokes but they are all falling flat.
INFPs are often deep thinkers who need quiet time alone to reflect on things that happened throughout the day. They can also be very sensitive to other people's emotions, so when someone is struggling, it might make an INFP stressed out and cause them to want space from that person for a while.
Since they are introverts, INFPs tend to have a lot of introverted characteristics. They are often quiet and reserved, although this doesn't necessarily mean they're shy. With rich inner lives, they enjoy their own company and need solitude to recharge after social interactions.
Although introverted, we can be remarkably talkative.
Afterward, of course, we'll retreat to our own little introvert caves, but while the conversation is happening, we might be quite the chatterbox.
Although Mediators are warm and accepting, they don't always find it easy to make friends. This may be because superficial, casual relationships can leave these personalities feeling a bit empty.
They like to cyber stalk their love interests, but can be somewhat shy with them in person until communication has opened up a bit. You'll find that INFPs make this open communication flow happen rather quickly.
Inflexible or purposeless routine is also likely to bring a bit of stress to INFPs. They generally dislike strict schedules and prefer to make things up as they go. Being boxed into a routine may make them feel like they have no freedom, which will take away from their natural energy. INFPs also tend to dislike crowds.
INFPs prefer to communicate one-on-one or in small groups. They may have a few close friends that they are incredibly loyal to and who know them deeply. INFPs can be difficult to get to know at first and may seem shy or aloof, but once you've earned their trust they will open up their inner world to you and let you in.
Anyone with any personality type can struggle to grasp new information, and INFPs are no different, but as a whole, they aren't typically slow learners.
1. It's hard to find people who are emotionally open, available, and willing to dive deep. INFPs are generally very understanding and empathetic to others, even people they do not understand (no matter how hard they try). However, they do not usually make deep connections with shallow or gossipy people.
ISFPs are introverted. They tend to be reserved and quiet, especially around people they do not know well. They prefer spending time with a close group of family and friends. ISFPs are very private and keep their true feelings to themselves.
Therefore, if an INFP likes you, they will not only listen to you closely, but also remember tiny details about your life. Things that maybe you don't even remember telling them about, such as what was the color of your first bicycle, or what was your favorite cartoon as a kid.
As partners, they are most likely hand-holders and snugglers, using physical closeness as a love language. About 83% of them agree that understanding their partner's physical needs is essential for a healthy relationship. They will likely make a very conscientious effort to make sure that those needs are met.
Who are INFPs most compatible with? INFPs are most compatible with the other Intuitive-Feeling types—ENFJ, ENFP, and INFJ—as well as ESFJs.
Because Fi is introverted in nature, it is guarded against the outside world and INFPs will only show their feelings to those they feel they can trust implicitly. This is why when you get to know the INFP in a deeper, more intimate way, they may reveal a side of themselves you didn't know existed.
Under extreme stress, though, the laidback and caring INFP becomes inflexible, rigid and efficiency-driven. Instead of being open-minded and compassionate, they may become harshly critical of themselves and those around them. They may fixate on accomplishing tasks and lose touch with their creative streak.
Many INFPs struggles with feelings of inadequacy. They may also find it difficult to handle criticism or confrontations. Socially, INFPs can come across as shy. This can make it difficult for them to get out there and share their ideas or connect with others.
Much of the time, an INFP may seem completely happy with their own company, almost to the point of appearing antisocial. But INFPs, though definitely Introverts, do have a greater-than-average need for meaningful human connection.
Being in social situations can drain their energy, and they prefer interacting with a select group of close friends. While they like to be alone, this should not necessarily be confused with shyness.2 Instead, it simply means that INFPs gain energy from spending time alone.
INFPs Excel at Learning Foreign Languages
According to the MBTI® Manual, INFPs have a general advantage in foreign language learning. Dario Nardi says that INFPs show high activity in regions of the brain that handle language, including diction, grammar, and voice tone.
INFPs may appear very quiet and reserved on the exterior, but they have an extroverted side too. When INFPs tap into their Extroverted Intuition (Ne) they can become quite creative and animated. They enjoy engaging in ideas, brainstorming with others, or coming up with new stories and possibilities.
Introverted Feeling (Fi), by contrast, is an intrapersonal function. Whenever possible, it prefers to handle emotional issues inwardly and independently. This is why ISFPs, who use Fi as their dominant function, are among the least talkative of all types.