INFP: The Mediator (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving)

INFPs are keenly interested in making the world a better place. Besides aspiring to understand themselves better, they are also interested in helping others. An INFP personality type is often described as both an "idealist" and a "mediator."

People with this personality type often spend a lot of time exploring their life goals and thinking about how they can use their skills and talents to better serve humanity. INFPs tend to be introspective, idealistic, and creative, driven by high values.

INFP - Key Characteristics

INFPs can be very meticulous about things they genuinely care about or projects they are working on. However, they often overlook mundane details. They usually rely on intuition, focusing more on the big picture than on small details.

INFPs tend to conserve their energy, preferring to interact with a select group of close friends in social situations. They are often reserved, quiet, and restrained. Although they like to be alone, this should not be confused with shyness. It just means INFPs recharge their energy by spending time alone, while social situations require them to expend energy.

INFPs prefer to keep their options open when it comes to making decisions. Decisions are usually based on personal values rather than logic. INFPs often delay important decisions in case circumstances change.

INFPs pay special attention to personal feelings, and their solutions depend more on these emotions than on objective information.

INFP - Strengths

  • Ardent
  • Concerned
  • Sensitive to feelings
  • Both interested in others and caring
  • Good at seeing "the big picture"
  • Enjoy working alone
  • Values close relationships

INFP - Weaknesses

  • Overlooks details
  • Too idealistic
  • Taking everything personally
  • Difficult to get to know
  • Losing sight of the little things from time to time

Who are some famous INFPs?

Bob Marley
Chloe Sevigny
Emily Blunt
Tom Hiddleston

Personal Relationships

INFPs may have an idealized image of the perfect partner in their minds, which can be a difficult role for their loved one to fulfill, resulting in high expectations in relationships.

People with this personality type care deeply about others but can be hard to recognize due to their introverted nature. They tend to form close, deeply committed relationships with a select few. They also dislike conflicts and try to avoid them.

When conflicts or arguments arise, they usually focus on how it makes them feel rather than on the specific details of the argument. They may seem overly emotional or even irrational during disputes. However, they can also be effective mediators, helping those involved in conflicts to identify and express their feelings.

INFPs are inclined to be loyal to their close friends and family, placing great importance on the feelings and emotions of their loved ones. It can be difficult for others to understand the INFP because they are so private and reserved. They tend to be very loyal to the people they love and the beliefs and values that are important to them. Most of their energy is focused inward, characterized by intense feelings and strong values.

Career Paths

INFPs tend to be spiritual, creative, and artistic. They often have a talent for learning languages but may prefer to express their thoughts and feelings through writing rather than speech.

INFPs usually succeed in careers where their creativity and vision can be expressed. Although they work well with others, they generally prefer to work alone.

Despite being firmly committed to their own values, INFPs are also interested in learning more about others and are willing to listen and consider various aspects of an issue. Because they have strong ethics and values, they are passionate about protecting or defending their beliefs.

Friendships with INFPs

While people with this personality type understand others' emotions well, they often find it difficult to share their own feelings. INFPs usually have only a few close friends, but these relationships tend to be long-lasting. Getting to know an INFP can take time and effort, but the reward can be great for those with patience and understanding. Social contact can be challenging, although INFPs crave emotional closeness and deep connections.

Parenting

INFP parents are good at setting guidelines, helping children develop strong values, and are generally supportive, caring, and kind. They may struggle to share their emotions with their children, often focusing on creating harmony in the home. Their goal as parents is to help their children grow

Relationships

INFPs can struggle to get close to potential romantic partners, as is the case with friendship. Once such people form a relationship, they approach them with a strong sense of loyalty. If your partner is an INFP, understand he/she may struggle to open up, be too sensitive to perceived criticism and often put your own happiness above his own. Sometimes they may have both overly romantic views on relationships and high expectations their partners struggle to justify. They also tend to take comments personally, while also trying to avoid conflicts.

What are some good careers for an INFP?

  • Fashion Designer
  • School Counselor
  • Physical Therapist
  • Psychologist
  • Writer
  • Museum Curator
  • UX designer
  • Zoologist