According to MBTI (Myers Briggs Type Indicator) theory, everyone can be divided into one of the 16 personality types. The categorization is based on 4 dichotomies that are, I or E (Introversion or Extroversion), N or S (Intuitive or Sensor), F or T (Feeler or Thinker), and P or J (Perceiver or Judger). It can be followed by A or T, whether a person is Assertive or Turbulent.
Being an INFP means being an introvert, an intuitive, a feeler, and a perceiver. But what does this mean?
1. Introversion – An introverted person is focused on their inner thoughts and ideas rather than the outside world. They tend to mentally recharge by spending time alone and doing activities that do not involve a crowd.
2. Intuition – An intuitive person is more inclined toward their instincts than their senses.
3. Feeling – A feeler listens more to the heart rather than the head. They emphasize feelings and emotions more and prefer taking emotion-based decisions rather than logic-based.
4. Perceiving – Perceivers perceive things rather than judge them. They tend to be flexible and open-minded.
- An important thing to note here is that no person is purely one or the other of the incongruities. Everyone has a bit of everything in them. The MBTI divides people into four dichotomies based on where the traits are more inclined.
If you are an INFP, the first thing that is fascinating to know at you is one of the rarest of all personality types: the 4% of the population. That is why feeling misunderstood and not being able to fit in is very common for INFPs in a world full of Extroverts and Sensors.
But like all the other types, INFPs are unique in themselves, and this rare combination of traits makes them stand away from the crowd.
Common traits of INFPs
1. They feel everything very deeply.
INFPs use Fi (Introverted Feeling) as their dominant cognitive function. This means they tend to see everything based on how they feel about it. This makes them feel every emotion deeper than any other type.
2. They tend to have difficulty fitting in and often feel misunderstood.
Being one of the rarest types, no wonder an INFP can feel alien in many situations, especially in social settings. They have a unique thought process and see the world differently, making them the black sheep in many cases.
3. They have a strong moral compass.
They have high regard for their feelings, values, and morals because of their Fi. An INFP knows what they stand for. If a task does not align with an INFP’s values, they are very much likely to not do it at all.
4. They are very empathetic.
Also known as healers, INFPs are very sensitive to the emotions of other people. They are empathetic and kind towards others’ feelings.
5. They are very creative.
Using Ne (Extroverted Intuition) as their Auxiliary function, INFPs always look out for new ways to do things rather than being conventional. They enjoy exploring new ideas.
6. They tend to procrastinate things.
INFPs are a little laid back and want to enjoy the little things of life. In this process, they can sometimes forget important goals and procrastinate.
7. They tend to suppress their emotions.
Though very big on feeling emotions, an unhealthy INFP can repress their emotions because they are unable to express them. They prefer analyzing and feeling inside their head rather than letting it out.
8. They like art.
INFPs not only like art, but being creative, they are also good at them. It is not surprising that a lot of actors, writers, musicians, and poets are INFP.
Compatibility With Other Types
Though any type can be compatible with anyone if the individuals work toward it, according to the MBTI theory, INFPs are most compatible with the NF types, namely, INFJ, ENFJ, ENFP, and INFP.
This is because being feeler and intuitive, these types can get an INFP in a way others might not. They tend to validate the emotional and sensitive nature of an INFP.
Some INFPs who are more logic-based can be very compatible with the NT types as INFPs love to get involved in intelligent and rational conversations.
- Compatibility is indeed based on the individuals more than their typing; any type can work with any other type if they are mature and healthy.
Some Famous INFPs
Some notable INFPs are-
1. William Shakespeare
2. Audrey Hepburn
3. J.R.R. Tolkien
4. Vincent Van Gogh
5. Johnny Depp
6. Virginia Woolf
7. Health Ledger
8. Edgar Allen Poe
Thank you for reading!