INFPs are imaginative idealists, guided by their own core values and beliefs. To a Healer, possibilities are paramount; the realism of the moment is only of passing concern. They see potential for a better future, and pursue truth and meaning with their own individual flair.
1 The INFP personality type is often described as an "idealist" or "mediator" personality. People with this kind of personality tend to be introverted, idealistic, creative, and driven by high values.
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.
The good: Above all, INFPs are values-based. We're committed to living according to our values, even when others wish we'd be more “flexible.” But that means we're more trustworthy than most, and that we aren't easily shaken by peer pressure. We care very much about the causes and values we deem important.
INFPs are idealists who care deeply about the world they live in. They feel like they exist to make the world a better place for everyone. They are existentialists, always seeking meaning and purpose in their lives.
INFPs and INFJs are commonly confused for one another due to their apparent commitment to sensitivity, forming deep relationships and helping others navigate the world.
ESTJ. Practical, realistic, matter-of-fact. Decisive, quickly move to implement decisions.
If an INFP was traumatized in childhood, they may develop a strong dependence on their therapist. This is because deep down they long for a mentor who respects them for who they are and gives them the guidance they need. At the same time, INFPs tend to be sensitive to interference.
Who are INFPs most compatible with? INFPs are most compatible with the other Intuitive-Feeling types—ENFJ, ENFP, and INFJ—as well as ESFJs.
Mediator (INFP) Weaknesses
Self-Isolating – Mediators long to connect with others, but they don't always know how. Especially in new environments, Mediators may be reluctant to put themselves out there in ways that would help them make new friends or become involved in a new community.
Although introverted, we can be remarkably talkative.
When INFPs are in the right mood, we'll talk your ear off, simply because we have so much to say, so much has happened, and we've been thinking about so many things we'd like to discuss with you.
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.
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.
INFP, according to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), stands for Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Perceiving. INFPs are introspective, intuitive, empathetic, and flexible, often characterized by their idealism, creativity, open-mindedness, and strong personal value systems.
In fact, an INFP is usually so good at reading people that we might even be able to know what they are thinking before they say it. Personally, I find myself noticing little things — someone who's biting their nails or playing with an earring is probably nervous.
They are often seen as imaginative, creative, and focused on a future or vision they'd like to see become a reality. Because INFPs use extraverted Intuition (Ne) they tend to enjoy brainstorming or posing unusual ideas or theories with others.
Driven to meet the needs of others, INFPs tend to choose creative or human service-oriented careers that allow them to use their instinctive sense of empathy and remarkable communication skills. INFPs represent 4.4 percent of the U.S. population.
The INFP. Your rich imagination and mysterious, complex nature are deeply attractive. We wish that you could invite us into the world inside your mind so we could explore its beauty and ingenuity. You see meaning in everything around you and you challenge us to be our authentic selves.
INFP: Won't Cause a Scene
If you're an INFP, you avoid reaching a place of anger and will do your best to hold everything inside to avoid making a scene in public.
INFPs are very sensitive to interpersonal tension and tend to avoid conflict. They have trouble letting go of hurts and often hold grudges. Because they see only the good in those they care about, they run the risk of being disillusioned and disappointed easily.
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.
Those who are extroverted, sensing, feeling, and judging are often identified as one of the kindest types by experts. "ESFJs have extroverted feeling as a dominant cognitive function," Gonzalez-Berrios says. "This makes them rule by their hearts. They are kind, polite, friendly, and sensitive."
According to the MBTI Manual, creativity correlates most strongly with intuition (N), as well as, to a lesser extent, perceiving (P). This suggests that NPs (i.e., the INTP, INFP, ENTP, & ENFP) are, on average, the most creative of all types.
Realists are loyal to the people around them and work hard to keep their promises. They are honest and straightforward with others and expect the same in return. Realists believe in standard procedures and will only support change when there is a demonstrable benefit.