INFP Introduction

INFP MBTI type: The Idealist

I - INFP definition and how to determine who is A Mediator

1. What is INFP? 

A four-letter abbreviation for one of the 16 personality types recognized by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator is INFP (introversion, intuition, feeling, perception). The "idealist" or "mediator" personality types are frequently used to describe the INFP personality type. This personality type is typically introverted, idealistic, creative, and motivated by lofty ideals.

INFPs are concerned with how they can best assist others and want to improve the world. Additionally, they strive to comprehend who they are and their place in the world better. This personality type spends a lot of time considering their own life's purpose and how they can use their abilities and skills to benefit humanity. 

Primary INFP Characteristics:

• They are among those with the lowest risk of developing heart disease. 
• They represent some of the groups most susceptible to having suicidal thoughts. 
• Compared to the other types, they frequently find learning a foreign language easier and are more successful. 
• They are some of the people least likely to be satisfied with their work. 
• Their personal values include originality and independence. 
• They are most likely to pursue careers in writing, the arts, or counseling.

2. INFPs characters 

Idealistic and extremely sensitive, INFPs are. They are frequently distinguished by their fidelity and gentleness, but silent waters frequently have unexpected depth. Their laid-back demeanor masks a steadfast passion for the things they care about and the people they care about. A mediator is someone who has firmly held values and convictions that they are willing to stand up for without hesitation.

INFPs are introverts who focus their energy inward. Because they are alone so frequently, they have developed into private, self-aware people. Since they are extremely independent, mediators are frequently observed keeping to themselves. Being of the intuitive type, INFPs are imaginative, idealistic, and creative individuals. They can think of ideas and reflect on abstract ideas as easily as they can breathe. They tend to concentrate more on the future than the present most of the time. Mediators are also Feelers, who let their emotions guide their decisions and act from the heart. Because they value harmony and balance, INFPs can be easily offended and dislike conflict. 

When it comes to the people they let into their inner circle, INFPs are warm, loyal, and caring. On the one hand, they have a quirky sense of humor and are playful and enjoyable. On the other hand, to those who don't know them, they might come across as intense and serious. As they also seek affirmation, affection, and integrity from others, INFPs are generous with praise and encouragement. Mediators are very romantic and skilled at spotting contradictions in both themselves and others.

INFPs enjoy learning and doing well. They are naturally impulsive, which causes them to become restless in formal and impersonal settings. Due to their need to create and express themselves, Mediators learn well on their own when they are intellectually engaged. Even though they might pursue a career in education to appease others, they are happiest when they stay true to their sensitive nature and identity.

II - Strengths and Weaknesses of the INFP

The INFP personality type has both positive and negative traits, just like other personality types. The strengths and weaknesses of INFPs that are typical of this personality type are listed below. Though each Mediator exhibits them to some extent, some representatives may do so more than others.

1. INFP Strengths

• Empathetic - Mediators show more than a passing interest in other people. These individuals are capable of actually sensing the emotions of others, including happiness and joy as well as sorrow and regret. Due to this sensitivity, Mediators frequently have thoughtful personalities, are kind to others, and detest the thought of hurting people—even unintentionally. 
• Generous - Mediators rarely take pleasure in winning at the expense of others. They feel compelled to uplift those around them, share the positive aspects of their lives, and give credit where credit is due. These people want to make a difference in creating a society where everyone's needs are met and their voices are heard. 
• Open-Minded - Tolerant and accepting, mediators make an effort not to criticize the opinions, choices, or lifestyles of others. Many Mediators have empathy for those who have done wrong despite their own faults because they have a personality type that values compassion over finding fault. Because they are so accepting, Mediators frequently serve as confidants for friends, family, and, on occasion, complete strangers. 
• Creative – Mediators enjoy looking at situations from unusual angles. Few things make them happier than letting their minds wander to various possibilities, ideas, and daydreams. The fact that many Mediators enjoy creative activities or that this personality type is prevalent in writers and artists is not surprising, then. 
• Passionate - Mediators want to put their entire heart into a cause when it captures their attention. Despite the fact that people with this personality type aren't always outspoken, they still have strong feelings for a cause that resonates with their values and convictions. 
• Idealistic – Mediators try to act in accordance with their moral convictions, even when it is difficult or inconvenient to do so. They rarely let go of the desire to lead a life that is meaningful, purposeful, and leaves the world a better place.

2. INFP Weakness

• Unrealistic - Nothing in this world is perfect, and for mediators, that can be a hard truth to accept. People with this personality type may have unrealistic expectations for their lives and be hopeless romantics. This may leave mediators feeling let down when their expectations are inevitably exceeded in reality. 
• Self-Isolating – Mediators yearn to connect with others but frequently lack the skills to do so. Mediators may be hesitant to make themselves known in ways that would allow them to meet new people or get involved in a new community, especially in unfamiliar environments. People with this personality type may occasionally feel lonely or alone as a result. 
• Unfocused - The creative, introspective nature of mediators doesn't always support productivity. Many Mediators become frustrated by how challenging it is for them to focus and complete tasks. It's not that they are incapable; rather, the issue arises when they fail to commit to a course of action because they are too preoccupied with various ideas and ideals. 
• Emotionally Vulnerable - These personalities' sensitivity to others' emotions is one of their best qualities. However, if mediators don't set boundaries, they run the risk of absorbing the unfavorable attitudes or moods of others. 
• Desperate to Please - Mediators often find conflict stressful because they long for peace and acceptance. 
• Self-critical - Mediators have a strong sense of their special potential and a strong desire to live up to it. However, this might lead them to set unattainable goals for themselves. Mediators may accuse themselves of being useless, selfish, or dreadfully inadequate when they fall short of these visions. If taken too far, this self-criticism can demoralize Mediators and cause them to abandon even their most cherished goals.

III - INFP Cognitive Processes and INFP-A /  INFP-T

1. The cognitive function of INFP

Every person interacts with the world through eight cognitive functions, as we have already mentioned. There are two types of functions: extroverted and introverted, respectively (the energy is directed outward). Let's examine the entire INFP function stack.

Dominant: Introverted Sensing

Most INFPs use this function. The Introverted Feeling function gives Mediators the ability to know what they value because when Feeling (F), they base decisions on feelings and instincts. As if the INFP had an internal radar, it gives them an uncanny ability to see through people's facades and know who they really are. When they locate a person who shares their values, a desire to connect arises.

Although INFPs have a wide range of emotions, they typically process them internally because they are introverts. They are incredibly curious about the world and have deep empathy and compassion for others. Even though these feelings are intense, INFPs tend not to show them, which is why they sometimes come across as distant or unwelcoming.

Additional: Extraverted Attitude 

This function is utilized to some extent by INFPs. INFPs process new information using impressions, possibilities, and meanings when using intuition (N). They are able to see alternative futures thanks to extroverted intuition. When an INFP receives information, they are able to recognize that there are multiple perspectives on a situation.

• INFPs often consider a range of options before deciding on a course of action. They do this by using their imagination and "what if" scenarios to explore situations. They interact with the outside world by using their intuition, and their inner lives exert a strong influence on their personalities. 
• The "big picture" and issues that will determine the future's direction are what INFPs concentrate on. They become transformative leaders with a passion for making the world a better place thanks to this talent.

Tertiary: Introverted Thinking

This function is used by INFPs, albeit to a lesser extent. INFPs use their five senses to process data through Sensing (S). They can recall information in detail and contrast it with current knowledge thanks to the Introverted Sensing function. It enables them to draw connections between their recent and past experiences in order to make sense of them.

INFPs have vivid memories of the events they learn about. They frequently relive these events in their minds to reflect on experiences in less demanding circumstances. Recalling such memories can frequently feel like reliving the event because they are typically tied to strong emotions.

Inferior: Extraverted Intuition

The least of the four functions is utilized by INFPs. INFPs make logical decisions while Thinking (T). They can organize and categorize their ideas and arguments using the Extroverted Thinking function. This ability translates into the capacity to understand the logical outcomes of choices. Additionally, it is organized and sequenced logically.

Making objective, logical sense of the world is a key component of this cognitive function. Extraversion can manifest itself under stress even though it largely has an unconscious impact on the INFP's personality. An INFP may suddenly become very practical and detail-oriented under stress, for example, focusing on logic rather than emotion. 

INFPs occasionally struggle to feel effective and productive because their thinking is typically more influenced by intuition and emotion. A better sense of balance can be achieved by people with the INFP personality type by learning to develop their extraverted thinking function.

2. Assertive Mediator  (INFP-A) vs. Turbulent Mediator (INFP-T)

Those who practice mediation are reserved, free-spirited individuals who see life as an endless stream of idealistic possibilities that have yet to be realized. Typically, they make an effort to get along with people and foster peace wherever they go. However, how they go about doing that depends on whether they are Turbulent Mediators (INFP-A) or Assertive Mediators (INFP-T). The expression of the other personality traits is given more complexity by identity. Below, we look at how frequently that occurs.

The differences between INFP-A and INFP-T:

• Turbulent Mediators frequently exert more effort than their Assertive counterparts as a result of their idealistic self-evaluations, but they can also be very critical of themselves. 
• Positive impulses inspire Assertive Mediators to pursue their humanistic objectives and spread encouragement and hope, but these personalities are prone to ignoring issues that require their attention. 
• Assertive Mediators report experiencing negative emotions much less frequently than Turbulent Mediators, but this can make them more empathic. 
• Assertive Mediators are less influenced by other people's opinions, which can give them more independence and cause them to be less attentive to insightful comments and viewpoints. 
• Turbulent Mediators may be better listeners and team players because they value other people's opinions.

IV - INFPs in Relationships 

Due to their strict moral code compliance, INFPs are often seen as being too rigid or set in their ways. But all they want is a better understanding of both the world and themselves. The fact that INFPs are very aware of their likes and dislikes does not preclude them from having harmonious relationships with others. It can be challenging for some people to accept them as they are despite this. 

The Sensing and Judging preferences of the SJ pragmatist temperament types (ESTJ, ESFJ, ISTJ, and ISFJ) are what motivate them. These personality types take pleasure in creating and adhering to rules, as well as structure. For them, the smooth operation of society depends on strategizing, careful planning, and adherence to organizational norms and traditions. This fundamental tenet directly conflicts with INFPs' more impulsive nature, who dislike being told what to do. Instead, they prefer to go with their instincts, even if they go against social convention and accepted norms.

However, INFPs make excellent friends and partners because of their empathy. Let's examine how they act in various social relationships.

1. Personal Relationships

Because they are idealists, INFPs frequently have high expectations, including in romantic relationships. They might have an idealized picture of their ideal partner in their heads, which can be challenging for anyone to fulfill. 

People with the INFP personality type have a strong sense of empathy. Being introverts, they can be challenging to get to know. They do have a tendency to develop close relationships with a select few people and to be extremely loyal to them. 

Conflict is another thing INFPs detest and try to avoid. When disagreements or conflicts do occur, people frequently pay more attention to how they feel about it than the specifics. INFPs may appear overly emotional or even irrational during disagreements. They can, however, also be effective mediators by assisting those involved in a dispute to name and express their feelings. 

For others to get to know INFPs can be challenging due to their reserved and private nature. They frequently give great importance to the feelings and emotions of their loved ones and are quite devoted to their close friends and family. 

2. Romantic Relationships

Given the sincerity and depth of the INFP personality, it is not surprising that they make excellent partners. This personality type never takes their romantic relationship for granted and has the amazing ability to make others feel heard and understood. Mediators are more than willing to unconditionally show how much they value the other person on a daily basis and are ready to do so. When it comes to love, INFPs are prepared to wait a long time until they meet their "ideal" soul mate. Casual relationships and dating are not things that INFPs enjoy doing. But once they do, INFPs are fiercely devoted, grateful, and capable of forging a close bond. 

It makes sense for INFPs, who prefer to avoid conflict, to want to get along with everyone in their life. They gladly assume the role of the compassionate partner because they are constantly ready to speak up for their loved ones and give them a voice. Of course, some personality types they get along with better than others. These are some of their best matches: 

INFP and ENFJ

There is a lot of potential for the INFP-ENFJ couple to have a healthy and satisfying relationship. Both types prioritize their relationships and infrequently make concessions. They are friendly people who hate it when people take advantage of them. They are genuine to the core. They aspire to deeper connections and are willing to talk about anything with their partners. When the ENFJ energy gets out of control and becomes too much for the introverted INFPs to handle, that is when tension between them usually arises. Despite this, this relationship is largely harmonious, solid, and based on shared compassion, understanding, and consolation. 

INFP and INTP

Having three of the four preferences in common, INFPs and INTPs have a lot in common. Both types are appreciative of each other's lack of desire to dominate the other. They take pleasure in intellectual pursuits like reading, contemplating, and speculating on complex topics. They share the same views on what constitutes a good time because they both value their privacy and like to keep to themselves. The INTP's logical and seemingly insensitive nature may cause issues in this pairing. They might doubt the INFP's emotionality and refuse to acknowledge their emotions, which is a mindset that can only irritate an INFP. 

These are just two of the combinations that stand the best chance of fostering a successful union with an INFP. They can, however, get along with other types of people as well if there is sufficient willingness on both sides. It makes sense that some relationships would require more effort than others. This INFP Relationships and Compatibility article contains a thorough analysis of their compatibility with each personality type, including themselves.

3. Friendship 

Only a small number of close friendships, but usually lasting ones, are typical of INFPs. Although people with this personality are skilled at understanding the emotions of others, they frequently find it difficult to express their own feelings.

All of their relationships, including friendships, are important to INFPs. Even though they are committed to creating a meaningful connection, given their introverted personality, this can occasionally prove to be challenging. For the quiet and reserved INFP, talking to people can be difficult when beginning a relationship. The high expectations they have for those they associate with may make their struggles more difficult. In spite of this, INFPs are incredibly devoted, grateful, and eager to engage in a meaningful connection when they find their people. Others are careful to listen to what INFPs have to say about their problems because they are quick to realize how simple it is to confide in them. 

What better combination of traits to look for in a friend than understanding, patience, and loyalty? Nothing makes INFPs happier than helping others, even though they are introverted. It's challenging to relate to everyone in the same way, though. The majority of people don't comprehend INFPs and may even believe that they are too rigid, forgetful, or just plain strange. What personality types find it more difficult to get along with INFPs?

INFP and ISTJ

ISTJs and INFPs get along well. While ISTJs are infamously rigid, both types share a sense of responsibility. They enjoy acting in accordance with predetermined rules and guidelines. They dislike making an extra effort to experiment with novel ideas or take an unconventional approach to a problem. These two make decisions very differently from one another, which can make them impatient with one another. The more sensitive INFP can't put up with the judgmental and demanding behavior that ISTJs are known for for very long. 

INFP and ESTP

Another unlikely pair of friends are INFPs and ESTPs because they hardly ever interact with one another in real life. This is as a result of how radically distinct they are from one another. While ESTPs are always in the center of the action, INFPs are reserved, shy, and prefer to keep to themselves. It is clear that these two personality types live in very different environments. However, if they do cross paths, both parties can benefit greatly from one another. ESTPs can encourage INFPs to step outside of their comfort zone and broaden their horizons, while INFPs can provide a deeper understanding of how to read and manage emotions. 

INFP and ESTJ

The values that INFPs and ESTJs hold dear when it comes to friendship vary. INFPs prefer to have deeper relationships with their friends and are much better at offering them emotional support. Instead of attempting to empathize with the other person, ESTJs are more pragmatic and quick to offer a logical solution to a problem. An INFP, who is a deeply sensitive type, might find this to be cold-hearted and insensitive, and they wouldn't be able to fully understand this kind of reaction. However, if they make an effort, this difference in values can work in their favor.

4. Parenthood Relationship

The search for meaning and fulfillment would be the definition of "life" as given by INFPs. Since their experiences can range from being simple to being excruciatingly difficult, they can always benefit from traveling with like-minded individuals. Mediators seize this chance to share their knowledge with others while also learning from them, which is precisely what parenthood so beautifully enables them to do. Parents who are INFPs are encouraging, warm, and supportive. The unique, novel perspective of rediscovering the world through their child's eyes frequently mesmerizes them. One of the reasons they frequently give their kids a lot of freedom to form and express their own opinions and develop as people is because of this. 

Don't be misled; INFPs are anything but irresponsible, despite the fact that their parenting styles are generally flexible. Compassion, honesty, and the value of interacting with others are the main values they want to instill in their kids. This implies that their kids can easily develop empathy as well. Teaching others the value of taking personal responsibility and the obligation to live in a way that doesn't harm other living things is one of the most important things for INFPs. 

Because INFPs have such strong moral convictions, the Mediator parent naturally wants to set a good example for their children. They prioritize maintaining harmony and peace in the home because of this, which prevents them from wanting to talk to their kids about their problems or their bad feelings. Even though they protect their kids from what might seem like negative experiences, this parenting approach puts them at risk of growing up in a bubble. Because of this, it's critical for INFP parents to be aware of these preferences and get ready to have difficult conversations with their kids when they're old enough. 

Any child would be lucky to have INFPs as parents because they are independent and spontaneous. They encourage their kids to voice their genuine opinions and defend them. Because of this, their children frequently turn out to be very loving, responsible, and self-reliant adults.

V - INFPs at work

1. INFP in Workplace Customs

As we've already mentioned, INFPs are kind, considerate, and empathic people. They frequently display these traits in their work as well. Although they may appear quiet and reserved, mediators are motivated by careers that support their personal beliefs and let them assist others. They don't tend to stick with a job just because it pays well or is prestigious. Instead, they are more drawn to initiatives that are motivational, consider the big picture, and align with their own moral compass. Their ideal job is one that allows them to fully express their creative potential while contributing to worthwhile causes in a calm, quiet, and peaceful workplace.

Given their idealistic outlook, INFPs prefer to engage in meaningful work that benefits others. They are dependable and helpful team members, but occasionally they take on more than they can handle. This might be as a result of their increased sense of accountability for their work and the people they collaborate with. Because INFPs enjoy putting their own unique stamp on their work, they would welcome the opportunity to do so. It's crucial for the INFP to feel a sense of teamwork, support, and shared values with the other team members when they're working with others. 

The subject of INFP work preferences is broad and fascinating, as are the topics of INFP career matches and INFP careers to avoid. We've provided a brief overview of a few career paths that they might find enjoyable and excel at below. The comprehensive article on INFP careers is available here.

2. INFP Career Matches

An occupation that is both creative and connected to personal significance is ideal for INFPs. People with this personality type should work in an environment that is strongly compatible with their strong moral codes and value systems. INFPs have a strong sense of altruism and strive to make a positive difference in the world. They are kind and considerate people who get a lot of satisfaction from doing good deeds. Given the INFP's sensitivity to others' feelings and emotions, any team member can appreciate their supportive nature. 

In the list below, you'll find several INFP careers that can help them succeed and pique their interest for years to come.

Psychologist

An area where INFPs excel naturally is psychology. It combines all of this personality type's best traits, possibly making them good at this job. It makes sense that this personality type is occasionally referred to as "The Healer." A career in psychology can be versatile, which is a plus. INFPs have a lot of options for where to grow, from private therapy practices to clinical research in a lab. They would probably be extremely happy no matter which route they take. Working alone and relying on one's own knowledge and skill set is a common aspect of psychology work. The reserved INFPs enjoy this intimate privacy because it gives them more freedom to practice their keen intuition and grasp of unique human emotions.

Social Worker

Jobs in the social sciences or humanities are also a good fit for INFPs. Social work could be one of these occupations. As was already mentioned, INFPs are naturally empathic and have a keen understanding of other people. This makes it simple for them to relate to other people and have understandable conversations with them. Warmth, supportiveness, and approachability are some of the crucial INFP personality traits that are essential for a challenging career like social work. They can make people feel secure and at ease and can see through hedges that people frequently erect to surround themselves, no matter how high they may be.

Professor

Sharing knowledge to look for truth and meaning is something that comes naturally to INFPs. Being a professor is enjoyable for INFPs because of the smaller class sizes and the advanced level of university students. Even though they are qualified for this position, their reserved personalities are likely to handle older students more effectively than, say, preschoolers. Particularly in graduate programs, university students are likely to be passionate about the subject they are studying. Since the INFP professor almost certainly deeply resonates with the subject matter (otherwise, they wouldn't be instructing it), they are likely to connect with their students on a similar level. This can then lead to a great deal of support, cooperation, and encouragement between teacher and students, which can result in enormous satisfaction for both parties.

VI - Famous INFPs you might know

Some of the most compassionate, nurturing, and emotionally complex fictional characters and well-known individuals are INFPs. Since they like to blend in with their surroundings, they are not always easy to identify, but anyone who is familiar with the traits of INFPs can correctly classify a number of well-known individuals and fictional characters as belonging to this type. In fact, INFPs excel in a wide range of professions, from artistic ones like acting, music, and art to more rigid ones like philosophy. 

Film, television, literature, and comic books frequently feature fictional INFPs. They can distinguish right from wrong thanks to their strong moral compass, and when they are committed to a cause, nothing can stop them.If you're curious, you can look at this incredible list of  well-known INFP characters and people. A brief analysis of well-known musicians, actors, and even YouTubers is also included. We've outlined a few of the categories there in the paragraphs below.

1. INFP Musicians

Additionally closely related to INFP creativity is music. Because of their innate creativity and distinctive perspective on the world, they typically write their own music. INFPs find a novel way to express their emotions and thoughts through music. This personality type values self-expression, which explains why they are so concerned with and careful about the meaning and message they convey through their art. This is likely the reason why INFP musicians who are activists for social causes are so prevalent.

• Bob Marley, Jamaican singer.
• John Mayer, American singer.
• Lenny Kravitz, American singer.
• Ronnie James Dio, American singer.
• Thom Yorke, English singer, vocalist of Radiohead.

2. INFP Actors

INFPs make devoted, enthusiastic actors. An effective way for INFPs to conceal their identities, acting is probably how they see it. Even though the INFP is naturally shy, they can gain confidence from this transformation and use it to their advantage. This is likely the reason INFP actors frequently exert great effort and willpower into fully embodying a character. They want to portray someone else with as much accuracy and sincerity as they can. 

• Audrey Hepburn, English actress.
• Heath Ledger, Australian actor.
• Jude Law, English actor.
• Marlon Brando, American actor.
• Tom Hiddleston, English actor.

3. INFP Writers

INFPs are frequently born writers. One of their favorite things, having time to themselves, is encapsulated in writing. When working independently, INFPs can express their creativity and imagination without interruption from others. Selecting which of their many ideas to build upon, though, can be a real challenge for them. Because INFPs are highly empathic and emotionally skilled, their fictional characters' emotions are brilliantly depicted in their stories, which frequently have a strong reader connection.

• A. A. Milne, English author.
• C. S. Lewis, English author.
• Edgar Allen Poe, American author and poet.
• George Orwell, English author.
• J. R. R. Tolkien, English author and linguist.

4. INFP Fictional Characters

The quiet Mediator, the introspective character, with keen observational skills and a distinctive perspective of the outside world, is a common trait of INFP fictional characters. They are likable to audiences because of their intense idealism and passion for their own beliefs and ideas. They are compassionate and have sharp intuition. Although the INFP's worldview occasionally diverges from reality, they are unconcerned by this because they would rather remain inside their own heads. They can distinguish right from wrong thanks to their strong moral compass, and when they are committed to a cause, nothing can dissuade them. 

• Daenerys Targaryen, Game of Thrones
• Jane Eyre, Jane Eyre
• Luke Skywalker, Star Wars
• Marshall, How I Met Your Mother
• Rafiki, The Lion King
• Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, Romeo and Juliet
• Tina Belcher, Bob’s Burgers