Are you struggling to connect with an INFP in your life?
Do you find it difficult to get them to open up and share their thoughts and feelings with you?
If so, you’re not alone. INFPs are known for being private and guarded individuals, making it challenging for others to break through their walls.
However, with a little patience and understanding, you can learn how to get an INFP to open up and share their innermost thoughts and emotions.
In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for connecting with an INFP on a deeper level, including how to show interest, ask specific questions, and be open and non-judgmental.
So, if you’re ready to learn how to build a stronger connection with the INFP in your life, keep reading!
How To Get An INFP To Open Up
1. Show Interest
The first step in getting an INFP to open up is to show them that you notice and appreciate them. INFPs often feel invisible and like there is nobody at their wavelength, so making them feel seen and heard is already a significant step. Be present and give them quality time, as they need it to feel comfortable enough to open up.
2. Ask Specific Questions
INFPs tend to be deep thinkers, so asking them specific questions about their thoughts and feelings can help them open up. Try to get past boring platitudes and talk about something you both find really interesting. Encourage participation and use metaphor and symbolic language to help them express themselves.
3. Be Open and Non-Judgmental
INFPs are sensitive individuals who value authenticity and honesty. To get them to open up, it’s crucial to be open and non-judgmental. Show a willingness to entertain and hear their unique perspective, even if you disagree with them. Recognize that the INFP is morally and emotionally invested in what they want, and in going against or disregarding their feelings, you also fail at experiencing a connection.
4. Follow Their Rebellion
INFPs are known for being rebels who march to the beat of their own drum. To get them to open up, show a willingness to follow them in their rebellion. Let them know that you take their unique perspective seriously and that you consider the two of you a team. Don’t be afraid of being honest and letting them know when you feel differently, but still honor their presence and show them humility.
5. Share Your Life
When an INFP has become comfortable, they will be curious about you too. Open up about your life, share your views, and describe what you think about what you’re doing – the emotions, the perspective, and your response. Sharing secrets is a technique that can keep an INFP interested.
Understanding The INFP Personality Type
To understand how to get an INFP to open up, it’s essential to understand their personality type. INFPs are introverted, intuitive, feeling, and perceiving individuals. They are curious about other people and are often talented listeners. They enjoy exploring situations using imagination and ‘what if’ scenarios, often thinking through a variety of possibilities before settling on a course of action.
INFPs have a dominant inner life, which is a significant force in their personality. They engage with the outside world by using their intuition and focusing on the “big picture” and things that will shape the course of the future. INFPs are idealistic and romantic partners who desire a long-term, passionate love relationship and take their commitments seriously. They are fiercely loyal to their partners and tend to project perfection in their lives, including finding the ideal soulmate.
However, INFPs can struggle with conflict and criticism, and it can be hard for them to open up when they feel judged or dismissed. They may also struggle with projecting their idealism onto their partners, which can lead to disappointment when they start seeing flaws in their partner that they deem unsatisfactory or even flawed.
To get an INFP to open up, it’s important to show interest, ask specific questions, be open and non-judgmental, follow their rebellion, and share your life with them. By understanding the INFP personality type and connecting with them in a meaningful way, you can create a safe space for them to open up and share their thoughts and feelings with you.
The Importance Of Building Trust With An INFP
Building trust with an INFP is crucial if you want them to open up to you. INFPs are sensitive and value authenticity, so it’s essential to show that you are trustworthy and genuine. Here are some ways to build trust with an INFP:
1. Be Consistent
INFPs appreciate consistency and reliability. If you say you’re going to do something, follow through on it. Be consistent in your actions and words, and avoid making promises you can’t keep. This will show the INFP that they can trust you and rely on you.
2. Listen Without Judgement
INFPs are known for being deep thinkers who value their emotions and feelings. When an INFP opens up to you, listen without judgement or criticism. Show empathy and understanding, even if you don’t agree with them. This will help build trust and make them feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings with you.
3. Respect Their Boundaries
INFPs value their personal space and boundaries, so it’s essential to respect them. Don’t push them to open up or share more than they’re comfortable with. Let them set the pace, and don’t pressure them into anything they’re not ready for.
4. Be Honest and Authentic
INFPs value honesty and authenticity above all else. Be honest about your intentions and feelings, and avoid being manipulative or deceitful. This will help build trust and make the INFP feel safe opening up to you.
5. Show Empathy
INFPs are empathetic individuals who value compassion and understanding. Show empathy towards them, and try to understand their perspective even if it’s different from yours. This will help build trust and make them feel understood.
Showing Genuine Interest In An INFP’s Life
One of the most important things you can do to get an INFP to open up is to show genuine interest in their life. INFPs are curious about other people and are often great listeners, but they also crave a deep connection with someone who is interested in them. Here are some ways to show genuine interest in an INFP’s life:
1. Ask About Their Day
One simple way to show an INFP that you care is to ask them about their day. This question may seem mundane, but it can be a great way to start a conversation and show that you’re genuinely interested in what they have to say. Be sure to listen actively and ask follow-up questions to show that you’re engaged in the conversation.
2. Ask About Their Thoughts on Current Events
INFPs tend to be deep thinkers, so asking them about their thoughts on current events can be a great way to get them to open up. Be sure to ask specific questions and encourage them to share their unique perspective. Avoid judgment or criticism, and try to keep the conversation open and non-confrontational.
3. Ask About Their Passions
INFPs are passionate individuals, and they love talking about the things they care about. Ask them about their hobbies, interests, or creative pursuits, and give them space to share their thoughts and feelings. Be sure to listen actively and show that you appreciate their unique perspective.
4. Be Curious (But Not Nosy)
INFPs value their privacy, so it’s important to be curious without being nosy. Avoid prying or invasive questions, and give them space to share what they feel comfortable sharing. Be respectful of their boundaries and show that you value their privacy.
5. Show Empathy
INFPs are highly empathetic individuals who value emotional connection. To show genuine interest in an INFP’s life, it’s important to show empathy and understanding. Try to put yourself in their shoes and imagine how they might be feeling. Show that you care about their emotional well-being and are willing to support them through difficult times.
Asking Specific Questions To Encourage Openness
Asking specific questions is a powerful tool for getting an INFP to open up. INFPs tend to be deep thinkers and enjoy talking about meaningful topics, but they may not always feel comfortable initiating these conversations. By asking specific questions, you can help them feel more comfortable and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings.
One approach is to ask open-ended questions that invite the INFP to share their perspective. For example, instead of asking “How was your day?” you could ask “What was the most interesting thing that happened to you today?” This type of question encourages the INFP to reflect on their experiences and share something meaningful.
Another approach is to ask questions that relate to the INFP’s interests or passions. INFPs are often passionate about causes or creative pursuits, so asking them about these topics can help them open up. For example, you could ask “What inspired you to get involved in this cause?” or “What do you love most about your creative work?”
It’s important to be genuine in your interest and avoid coming across as nosy or invasive. INFPs value authenticity and may be put off by insincere questions or probing too deeply into personal matters. Instead, focus on asking questions that show you care about their thoughts and feelings and are genuinely interested in hearing what they have to say.
Creating A Safe And Non-Judgmental Environment
Creating a safe and non-judgmental environment is essential when trying to get an INFP to open up. INFPs are sensitive individuals who value authenticity and honesty, so they need to feel comfortable and secure in their environment before they can share their thoughts and feelings. Here are some tips to help create a safe and non-judgmental environment for an INFP:
1. Listen Without Judgment
INFPs are great listeners, but they also need someone who will listen to them without judgment. When an INFP shares their thoughts and feelings, it’s important to listen attentively and without interrupting or judging them. Create a safe space where they can express themselves freely without fear of being criticized or judged.
2. Respect Their Boundaries
INFPs value their privacy and personal space, so it’s important to respect their boundaries. Don’t push them to share more than they’re comfortable with, and don’t invade their personal space without permission. Give them time and space to process their thoughts and feelings before asking for more information.
3. Show Empathy
INFPs are empathetic individuals who mirror the emotions of others. Show empathy towards them by acknowledging their feelings and validating their experiences. Let them know that you understand how they feel, even if you don’t necessarily agree with them.
4. Be Authentic
INFPs value authenticity, so it’s important to be genuine and honest with them. Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not or hide your true feelings. Be yourself and let them see the real you.
5. Avoid Criticism
INFPs are sensitive individuals who take criticism very seriously. Avoid criticizing them or their ideas, as this can cause them to shut down and withdraw. Instead, offer constructive feedback in a gentle and supportive way.
By creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for an INFP, you can help them feel comfortable enough to open up and share their thoughts and feelings with you. Remember to listen without judgment, respect their boundaries, show empathy, be authentic, and avoid criticism. With patience and understanding, you can build a strong connection with an INFP that is based on trust and mutual respect.
The Power Of Active Listening With An INFP
Active listening is an essential skill when it comes to getting an INFP to open up. INFPs are natural listeners and often find themselves on the receiving end of others’ emotional unloading. To show an INFP that you care, it’s important to be an active listener. This means paying attention to what they are saying, asking follow-up questions, and showing empathy.
One way to be an active listener is to ask open-ended questions. INFPs tend to be deep thinkers, so asking them questions that encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings can help them feel seen and heard. These questions should be specific and focused on topics that interest them. For example, instead of asking “How was your day?” try asking “What was the most interesting thing that happened to you today?”
Another crucial aspect of active listening is showing empathy. INFPs are sensitive individuals who value authenticity and honesty, so it’s important to be non-judgmental and open-minded. When they share their thoughts or feelings with you, try to put yourself in their shoes and understand where they are coming from. Validate their emotions and show that you understand why they feel the way they do.
Finally, it’s essential to give the INFP your full attention when they are speaking. This means avoiding distractions and focusing solely on the conversation at hand. Find a quiet place where you can both feel comfortable and free from distractions. By being fully present in the moment, you will show the INFP that you value their thoughts and feelings and are committed to building a meaningful connection with them.
In summary, active listening is a powerful tool when it comes to getting an INFP to open up. By showing interest, asking specific questions, being open-minded and non-judgmental, following their rebellion, sharing your life, and being an active listener, you can build a strong connection with an INFP and help them feel seen and heard.
