No, INFPs aren't slow learners. INFPs are adaptable and fast-thinkers - they just might not be very vocal about it, which leads some people to believe they're slow learners.
Individualistic and nonjudgmental, INFPs believe that each person must find their own path. They enjoy spending time exploring their own ideas and values, and are gently encouraging to others to do the same. INFPs are creative and often artistic; they enjoy finding new outlets for self-expression.
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. INFPs are deep thinkers. They believe that there is more to the world than what is seen on the surface.
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.
When you first meet an INFP, you may think them to be quiet, reserved or even dull. At times it is hard for an INFP to open up to other people.
INFP: People-pleasing
The biggest turn-off for INFPs is people-pleasing. INFPs are independent and individualistic in their beliefs and values. They want people to be authentic and true to themselves, even if they risk offending others.
Who are INFPs least compatible with? INFPs are the least compatible with Thinking-Judging types—ISTJ, ESTJ, ENTJ, and less so, INTJ.
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.
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.
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.
That can be a double-edged sword, and Mediator (INFP) personality types seem to have conflicted opinions on ego. For example, about seven out of 10 say having a big ego is a bad thing, yet six out of 10 say they think their ego is something that they should embrace.
And with severe anxiety/depression, ISTJs were 36% less likely, and INFPs 86% more likely to report severe anxiety/depression.
INFP and INFJ: The Overthinkers
When it comes to these types, their anxiety can stem from an inclination to overthinking. Psychology Today defines overthinking as “an excessive tendency to monitor, evaluate, and attempt to control all types of thought,” something this INFJ knows all too well.
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.
INFPs are adaptable and fast-thinkers - they just might not be very vocal about it, which leads some people to believe they're slow learners.
As an INFP you have a creative and ingenious way of understanding the world. You're someone who values personal integrity to a great degree. This means that you check in with yourself to make sure you're not being hypocritical and that your values are consistent.
Mediators (INFPs) are warm and sensitive people. But they often need to start their self-promotion by looking in the mirror. They can sometimes struggle with self-esteem issues to a greater extent than most personality types. If one has self-doubts, it can be hard to talk about one's strengths.
INFPs keep their emotions and feelings tucked away and hidden from the outside world. They view their values and feelings as private and guard them closely. In fact, most typology books describe Fi-dominant types as appearing “aloof, cool” or “hard to read”.
Although INFPs are interested in helping people, they are also extremely reserved and maintain a small circle of friends.
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.
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.
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.
While any personality type can succeed in any environment, INFPs may want to avoid open office environments found in many corporations. INFPs tend to thrive in influential, creative individual contributor roles. They prefer working behind the scenes, rather than as the face of an organization.
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.
The most compatible personality types for INFPs are considered the INFJ, ESFJ, and ENFJ personality types. The joint function is the extroverted feeling (Fe) that allows INFPs to explore the more adventurous side of their personalities mutually.