Are you an introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging individual?
Do you often feel misunderstood and struggle to find your place in the world?
You may be an INFJ personality type.
INFJs are known for their compassion, creativity, and deep introspection.
But what does it really mean to be an INFJ?
In this article, we’ll explore the characteristics of this rare personality type and help you determine if you are indeed an INFJ.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of INFJs.
What INFJ Type Am I
To determine if you are an INFJ type, it’s important to understand the four main areas that the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) looks at: extroversion vs introversion, sensing vs intuition, thinking vs feeling, and judging vs perceiving.
INFJs tend to lean towards introversion, intuition, feeling, and judging. This means that they are reserved and quiet, prefer abstract concepts and the big picture over concrete details, make decisions based on emotions rather than objective facts, and like to plan and organize their lives.
If you find that these traits resonate with you, then you may be an INFJ type. But it’s important to remember that everyone is unique and complex, so it’s possible to have some traits of an INFJ without fully fitting into the personality type.
Understanding The INFJ Personality Type
INFJ is one of the 16 personality types identified by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). INFJs are guided by a deeply considered set of personal values, and they are intensely idealistic. They can envision a happier and more perfect future and are motivated to take positive action to make the world a better place. INFJs tend to be reserved and quiet, preferring abstract concepts and the big picture over concrete details. They make decisions based on emotions rather than objective facts and like to plan and organize their lives.
One of the defining characteristics of INFJs is their deep sense of empathy for others. They are highly attuned to the emotions and needs of those around them, which makes them excellent mediators who seek to find common ground with others. INFJs value authentic connections with people they trust, and although they may seem mysterious or private to others due to their rich inner life, they are profoundly committed to these relationships.
Another defining characteristic of INFJs is their idealism. They believe that a better world can only be attained if we concentrate on doing what is right, regardless of short-term consequences. This idealism is coupled with a deep respect for human potential and an interest in understanding the mind. INFJs are motivated to pursue authentic self-development and strive to live up to their true potential while encouraging and guiding others to do the same.
INFJs also have a strong desire for inner stability, harmony, and peace of mind. They may struggle with ignoring the disturbing parts of life in order to live in peace and comfort, which can lead them to numb out or run away from paradoxes in order to find a painless solution to their problems. However, this does not mean that they turn a blind eye to suffering; rather, they may adopt proverbs, sayings, or platitudes that comfort them during difficult times.
One of the greatest pathways to growth for INFJs is learning to express their will and their anger in healthy ways. They need to learn not to numb out but to inhabit themselves fully. Because they tend to manage stress by downplaying their own will and choices, it’s important for INFJs to learn how to assert themselves and stand up for themselves when necessary.
The Four Key Traits Of An INFJ
The INFJ personality type is characterized by four key traits: thoughtfulness, creativity, sensitivity, and a drive to help others.
Firstly, INFJs are thoughtful individuals who often reflect on their own experiences and the world around them. They have a deep sense of personal integrity and are driven to live in a way that aligns with their values. They are also highly creative and have a talent for coming up with original solutions to personal and societal issues.
Secondly, INFJs are highly sensitive individuals who are attuned to the emotions of others. They have a unique ability to intuit how someone else is feeling before that person may even realize it themselves. This ability allows them to form strong relationships with those they trust and often serve in the role of a helper.
Thirdly, INFJs tend to make decisions based on their emotions rather than objective facts. They have a strong desire to help others realize their potential and often seek out meaning and purpose in their own lives. They have an immense interest in deeply understanding culture, society, and the universe as a whole.
Lastly, INFJs like to plan and organize their lives. They are driven by a desire to turn their abstract and intellectual musings into concrete actions that can make a transformative impact on others. Although they may struggle with taking action at times, when they are at their best, their actions are aligned with their authentic values.
The Strengths And Weaknesses Of INFJs
INFJs possess a number of strengths that make them valuable members of society. One of their greatest strengths is their big-heartedness. INFJs are driven by a desire to make the world a better place and use their influence to help others. They are also creative individuals who think outside the box and are not afraid to express themselves in unique ways.
Another strength of INFJs is their astuteness. They have the ability to see beyond what is superficial and recognize a person’s actual needs, motives, and feelings. This keen sense of perception allows them to be great listeners and attentive to others. They also possess strong values and beliefs, making them a force to be reckoned with when it comes to matters of ethics and morality.
INFJs are also ardent individuals who are purpose-driven and chase their own ideals and thoughts about life. They do not conform to societal norms and have a passion for making a difference in the world. They are decisive and follow through on their ideas with conviction, making them effective problem solvers.
However, like any personality type, INFJs have weaknesses that can hold them back. One of their weaknesses is their sensitivity to criticism. They can become defensive or dismissive when someone challenges their most cherished principles or values. This can create distance in their relationships and hold them back from asking for help when they need it.
Another weakness of INFJs is their reluctance to open up. While they value honesty and authenticity, they can find it difficult to be vulnerable about their struggles and may not ask for help when they need it. This can lead to burnout as they exhaust themselves trying to balance their drive to help others with necessary self-care and rest.
INFJs can also be perfectionistic, which can leave little room for the messiness of real life. They may struggle to appreciate their jobs, living situations, or relationships if they continually fixate on imperfections and wonder if they should be looking for something better. Finally, INFJs can avoid the ordinary and yearn to do extraordinary things with their lives, but may struggle to turn their grand visions into reality without breaking them down into small, manageable steps.
How To Identify If You’re An INFJ
If you’re trying to identify if you’re an INFJ, there are a few key characteristics to look for. Firstly, INFJs tend to have a strong sense of compassion and empathy towards others. They are often described as deep and complex individuals who seek out meaning in all areas of their lives, including relationships and work.
Another important trait of an INFJ is their innate ability to understand other people’s feelings. While they are introverted, they sometimes seem extroverted at times due to their strong interest in people and society. They are interested in helping others and making the world a better place, and tend to be excellent listeners who are good at interacting with people with whom they are emotionally close and connected.
INFJs are also known for their talent for language and ability to express themselves well on paper. They have a vivid inner life but are often hesitant to share this with others except for perhaps those closest to them. While they are quiet and sensitive, they can also be good leaders who act as quiet influencers behind the scenes.
In school, INFJs are usually high achievers who can be perfectionists at times and tend to put a great deal of effort into their academic work. They enjoy learning, particularly about people, society, literature, and art. They tend to prefer studying subjects that involve abstract theories and ideas rather than concrete facts and information.
Famous INFJs And Their Contributions
INFJs are known for their creativity, empathy, and drive to help others. Some of the most successful and talented people in the world are INFJ types. Here are a few famous INFJs and their contributions:
1. Martin Luther King Jr. – As a civil rights activist and leader, Martin Luther King Jr. fought for equality and justice for all people. He used his gift of empathy to connect with others and inspire change.
2. Nelson Mandela – As a political leader and activist, Nelson Mandela fought against apartheid in South Africa and worked towards peace and reconciliation. He used his creativity and determination to bring about change in his country.
3. Mother Teresa – As a Catholic nun and missionary, Mother Teresa dedicated her life to serving the poor and sick in India. She used her compassion and empathy to help those who were suffering.
4. Mahatma Gandhi – As a political and spiritual leader, Mahatma Gandhi fought for Indian independence from British rule through nonviolent resistance. He used his creativity and determination to inspire change in his country.
5. Oprah Winfrey – As a media mogul and philanthropist, Oprah Winfrey has used her platform to inspire and empower others. She has used her creativity and empathy to connect with her audience and make a positive impact on the world.
These INFJs have made significant contributions to society through their unique talents, creativity, and empathy. They have inspired change, helped others, and left a lasting impact on the world.
Tips For INFJs To Thrive In Life And Work
For INFJs, finding the right career path and navigating life can be challenging. Here are some tips to help INFJs thrive in life and work:
1. Find a career that aligns with your values: INFJs are driven by their strong values and seek out meaning in all areas of their lives including relationships and work. It’s important for INFJs to find a career that aligns with their values and allows them to make a positive impact on the world.
2. Embrace your strengths: INFJs have a talent for language and are usually quite good at expressing themselves. They have a vivid inner life but are often hesitant to share this with others, except for those closest to them. INFJs should embrace their strengths and find ways to use their intuition, empathy, and altruism to their advantage.
3. Connect with others: While INFJs tend to be introverted and only willing to share their “true selves” with a select few, it’s important for them to connect with others and build meaningful relationships. INFJs should seek out opportunities to interact with people who they are emotionally close and connected with.
4. Take time for self-care: After being in social situations, INFJs need time to themselves to “recharge.” It’s important for INFJs to take time for self-care and prioritize their mental health.
5. Don’t settle for a job that doesn’t fulfill you: INFJs will not be content with a shallow life. Simply working to pay their bills will leave them feeling empty and restless. INFJs should avoid jobs that don’t align with their values or allow them to make a positive impact on the world.
By following these tips, INFJs can thrive in both their personal and professional lives. Remember, being an INFJ is a unique gift, and it’s important to embrace your strengths and live authentically.
