Are you curious about the INFP personality type? Do you want to know how to recognize an INFP in your life?
Look no further!
INFPs are known for their empathetic and intuitive nature, as well as their strong moral compass. They tend to be self-reflective and compassionate towards others, making them great listeners and mediators.
But how can you spot an INFP?
In this article, we’ll break down the key characteristics of an INFP and give you tips on how to recognize them in your daily life.
So, whether you’re an INFP yourself or just interested in learning more about this personality type, keep reading to discover the unique traits that make an INFP stand out from the crowd.
How To Recognize An INFP
1. They Need Alone Time
INFPs are introverts and need time alone to recharge. They may seem quiet or reserved in social situations, but don’t mistake this for shyness. INFPs are often deep thinkers and prefer to spend their time reflecting on their thoughts and feelings.
2. They Have Strong Moral Values
INFPs have a deeply rooted moral compass that guides their decisions and actions. They are passionate about their beliefs and will stand up for what they think is right, even if it means going against the norm.
3. They Are Empathetic and Compassionate
INFPs have a strong sense of empathy and compassion towards others. They are great listeners and will often put others’ needs before their own. They have a natural ability to understand and connect with people on a deep level.
4. They Can Be Self-Reflective
INFPs tend to be introspective and self-reflective, which can sometimes lead to them being too hard on themselves. They may struggle with self-doubt or anxiety, but they also have a strong desire to grow and improve themselves.
5. They Believe in People
INFPs have a positive outlook on life and believe in the goodness of people. They are always ready to help others out, not because of societal norms, but because they genuinely care about the person themselves.
What Is An INFP?
INFPs are idealists who have high expectations, especially in relationships. They may hold an idealized image of their perfect partner, which can be difficult for anyone to fulfill. As introverts, they can be difficult to know, but they care deeply about other people. INFPs tend to become very close and committed to the few they forge close relationships with. They also dislike and try to avoid conflict, focusing more on how it makes them feel rather than the actual details. During arguments, INFPs might seem overly emotional or irrational, but they can also be good mediators by helping others involved in a conflict identify and express their feelings.
INFPs worry a lot about how others are doing and ask if someone is okay, becoming convinced that the person is lying when they promise that they really are fine. Nicknamed “the Mediator personality type,” INFPs will never be content with lives dedicated only to themselves and their own achievements nor will they be satisfied lodged in systems of inequality and complacence. They truly value compassion in themselves and others, often above all else. It pains them greatly when others are in pain, sometimes so much that they take on that pain themselves.
INFPs have a dominant Introverted Feeling that compels them to make decisions based on their intuition and gut feeling. They are alert as to how their actions can affect other people’s feelings, and their solid moral compass is a strong driver in their lives. In many situations, INFPs won’t care much for social rules and boundaries if those clash with their own inner sense of right and wrong. They are much more interested in the big picture rather than individual details.
In contrast, ESTJs are worlds apart from INFPs. ESTJs can come across as extremely insensitive in the eyes of empathetic and compassionate INFPs. They don’t understand this practical and straight-to-the-point approach to life, which clashes with the core of the INFP personality. Although INFPs might admire the discipline of ESTJs, they themselves would never be able to dutifully work on a task that doesn’t appeal to their moral code and sense of justice.
Empathetic And Intuitive Nature
One of the defining traits of an INFP is their empathetic and intuitive nature. They have a natural ability to understand and connect with people on a deep level, often picking up on emotions that others may not notice. INFPs are highly attuned to the feelings of others and are often drawn to careers in counseling or social work, where they can use their empathy to help others.
INFPs are also deeply intuitive, relying on their inner sense of knowing to make decisions. They have a strong sense of what feels right and wrong, and are guided by their values and beliefs. This intuition is often paired with a vivid imagination, allowing INFPs to see possibilities and connections that others may overlook.
While INFPs may seem reserved or introverted in social situations, they are often highly perceptive and able to pick up on subtle cues. They are great listeners and are able to create a safe space for others to share their thoughts and feelings. INFPs may struggle with boundaries at times, as they can become emotionally invested in the problems of others.
Strong Moral Compass
One of the defining traits of an INFP is their strong moral compass. They have a clear sense of what is right and wrong, and they are not afraid to stand up for their beliefs. INFPs are deeply passionate about their values, and they strive to live in accordance with them.
Their moral code is not something that they take lightly. INFPs believe in justice and fairness, and they will do everything in their power to avoid causing harm to others. They are honest and transparent in their dealings with others, and they hold themselves accountable for any wrongdoing.
INFPs are also highly empathetic individuals who are sensitive to the emotional states of others. They have a deep understanding of human nature and can often put themselves in other people’s shoes. This makes them highly compassionate, and they will go out of their way to help those in need.
In most cases, INFPs keep their personal moral code private. They believe that what is right for them may not be right for everyone, and they respect the fact that different people have different beliefs. However, when they witness injustice or wrongdoing, they will not hesitate to speak up and take action.
Self-Reflective And Compassionate
INFPs are known for their self-reflective and compassionate nature. They spend a lot of time analyzing their own thoughts and feelings, which allows them to relate to people from different backgrounds and walks of life. This introspection also makes them very compassionate towards others, as they understand the complexity of human emotions.
INFPs are the type of people who worry about how others are doing, and they will often ask if someone is okay. They value compassion above all else and are deeply pained when others are in pain. Sometimes, they may even take on the pain of others, which can be harmful to themselves, especially in relationships.
However, this self-reflective nature can also lead to self-doubt and anxiety. INFPs may struggle with being too hard on themselves and may need reassurance from others. They have a strong desire to grow and improve themselves, but they may also need support from others to do so.
Great Listeners And Mediators
One of the defining traits of INFPs is their ability to listen attentively to others. They are genuinely interested in understanding people and their perspectives. INFPs make great listeners because they are empathetic and compassionate, and they have a natural ability to connect with people on a deep level. They are patient and non-judgmental, which makes others feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with them.
Moreover, INFPs are great mediators and are effective at solving other people’s conflicts. They intuitively understand people’s perspectives and feelings, which allows them to find common ground and come up with creative solutions. They value harmony and empathy, and they will go to great lengths to avoid conflict. INFPs are also great at helping others see different perspectives, which can help resolve conflicts before they even begin.
INFPs tend to be reserved in expressing emotion, but they are caring and genuinely interested in understanding people. Their sincerity makes them valued as a friend and confidante. They put others at ease by being great listeners, which helps them build strong relationships based on trust and understanding.
Tips For Recognizing An INFP In Your Life
If you suspect someone in your life might be an INFP, here are some tips to help you recognize them:
1. Look for Signs of Introversion
INFPs often need time alone to recharge and may seem quiet or reserved in social situations. They may also prefer deeper, more meaningful conversations over small talk.
2. Notice Their Strong Moral Compass
INFPs have a deep sense of right and wrong and are passionate about their beliefs. They may be vocal about their opinions and stand up for what they think is right, even if it goes against societal norms.
3. Observe Their Empathy and Compassion
INFPs have a natural ability to understand and connect with people on a deep level. They are great listeners and often put others’ needs before their own.
4. Pay Attention to Their Self-Reflective Nature
INFPs tend to be introspective and self-reflective, which can sometimes lead to self-doubt or anxiety. They may be open about their struggles and have a strong desire to grow and improve themselves.
5. Notice Their Positive Outlook on Life
INFPs have a positive outlook on life and believe in the goodness of people. They may be quick to offer help or support to those around them, not because of societal norms, but because they genuinely care about others.
