Are you an INFJ?
If so, you’re part of a rare and complex personality type that makes up only 1% to 3% of the U.S. population.
INFJs are known for their unique blend of creativity and analytical thinking, as well as their deep empathy and sensitivity towards others.
They’re often described as quiet, caring, and perceptive individuals who are driven by their inner values and principles.
But what does it really mean to be an INFJ?
In this article, we’ll explore the traits and characteristics that define this personality type, from their vivid imagination to their love of high-quality things.
So if you’re curious about what makes INFJs tick, read on to discover more.
What Does Being An INFJ Mean
INFJ stands for Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Judging. These four traits work together to create a unique personality type that is both complex and fascinating.
One of the defining qualities of INFJs is their vivid and private imagination. They have a unique ability to see patterns and connections between things, and are focused on identifying where those patterns will lead in the future. This gift for anticipating future events can seem “magical” even though it can be explained scientifically.
INFJs are also highly perceptive about people and want to help others achieve understanding. They reflect at length on issues of ethics, and feel things deeply. Because of this, they may appear quiet and reserved at first, but can surprise others with their intensity when one of their values is threatened or called into question.
Despite their sensitivity, INFJs are also easy-going perfectionists. They have a love for high-quality things, like good food and nice clothes, but are minimalists at heart. They’d rather have one or two really nice items than ten mediocre ones.
INFJs are driven by their inner values and principles, which can make them fiercely loyal to their own system of beliefs. They may be reluctant to engage with others who might not understand or appreciate them, and can thus be hard to get to know. However, those who are close to an INFJ will likely see beneath the surface and recognize their depth of empathy and curious nature.
The Traits Of An INFJ
INFJs possess a unique set of traits that make them stand out from other personality types. One of their defining qualities is their introversion, which means they tend to focus inward before outward. They prefer to spend time alone or with a small group of close friends rather than in large social gatherings.
Another trait of INFJs is their intuition, which allows them to see beyond the surface and understand the deeper meaning behind things. They are able to pick up on subtle cues and have a natural ability to read people’s emotions and motivations.
INFJs are also deeply empathetic, and they care about the well-being of others. They have a strong sense of personal integrity and are driven to help others realize their potential. They are nurturing and creative, often coming up with original solutions to problems that others may not have considered.
Despite their sensitive nature, INFJs are also analytical and logical. They enjoy exploring complex ideas and concepts, and are often fascinated by the mysteries of the universe. This reflective and curious worldview gives INFJs a unique perspective on life that is both insightful and thoughtful.
Finally, INFJs are known for their judging trait, which means they prefer structure and organization in their lives. They like to plan ahead and have a clear sense of direction, but they can also be adaptable when necessary. They strive for balance between their inner world and the external world, seeking to turn their abstract ideas into concrete actions that make a positive impact on others.
The Strengths Of An INFJ
INFJs possess a variety of strengths that set them apart from other personality types.
Firstly, INFJs are highly empathetic and sensitive to the needs of those around them. They have a unique ability to understand people’s true motivations, feelings, and needs, even when they are not explicitly expressed. This allows them to connect deeply with others and build strong, meaningful relationships.
Secondly, INFJs are creative and innovative thinkers. They are not afraid to embrace out-of-the-box ideas and are intuitive to patterns, designs, and options that other personality types may overlook. They have an inner curiosity that leads to their success and thrive in situations when they can spend time alone and drift into their own imaginations.
Thirdly, INFJs possess an astute ability to see beyond what is superficial and seek out deeper truths in life. They have a knack for seeing past the façade that people put up and seeing a person’s actual needs, motives, and feelings. This allows them to provide practical insight and develop effective strategies for action.
Fourthly, INFJs are ardent individuals who chase their own ideals and thoughts about life rather than follow after things others around them are doing. They have a strong sense of purpose and are driven by their convictions and values. Their understanding of their own motivations helps them push themselves toward growth and change, as well as inspire others to contribute to important causes.
Fifthly, INFJs have unwavering commitment to their values and desire to help better the lives of others. They are willing to sacrifice their time, energy, and resources to make sure others are treated fairly and justly. They are good listeners who take the time to understand people’s problems and find solutions that will benefit everyone involved.
The Weaknesses Of An INFJ
While INFJs have many strengths, they also have some weaknesses that can hold them back. One of the biggest challenges for INFJs is their tendency to be overly sensitive and easily offended. They take criticism personally, especially when it comes to their core values and beliefs. This can lead to defensive behavior and arguments, which can strain relationships.
Another weakness of INFJs is their perfectionism. They have high standards for themselves and those around them, which can create unrealistic expectations. This can lead to disappointment and frustration when things don’t go as planned, which can be discouraging for INFJs.
INFJs also have a tendency to avoid conflict. While this can be a good trait in some situations, it can also prevent them from resolving issues that need to be addressed. INFJs may try to keep the peace at all costs, even if it means sacrificing their own needs or values.
INFJs are also highly private individuals who may struggle to open up and share their struggles with others. They may feel that they are burdening others with their problems, and so they keep things to themselves. This can create distance in relationships and prevent others from truly getting to know them.
Finally, INFJs are prone to burnout. They have a deep desire to help others and make a difference in the world, but this can come at a cost to their own well-being. INFJs need to learn how to balance their desire to help others with self-care and rest, otherwise they risk becoming drained and exhausted.
INFJ Careers
INFJs are known for their strong desire to make a positive impact on the world. They are naturally drawn to careers that allow them to use their creativity and intuition to help others. Here are some of the best careers for INFJ personality types:
1. Counselor or Therapist: INFJs have a natural ability to connect with people on a deep level and understand their emotions. They make excellent counselors, therapists, or psychologists, as they can help people work through their problems and find solutions that align with their values.
2. Social Worker: INFJs are passionate about social justice and making a difference in the lives of others. A career in social work allows them to use their empathy and compassion to help people in need.
3. Teacher or Professor: INFJs are natural teachers who enjoy sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. They can be effective educators in a variety of fields, from elementary school to higher education.
4. Writer or Artist: INFJs are highly creative and imaginative individuals who can excel in artistic fields such as writing, painting, or music. They have a unique perspective on the world, which can make their work stand out.
5. Researcher or Scientist: INFJs are analytical thinkers who excel at research and analysis. They can make great scientists or researchers in fields such as psychology, sociology, or political science.
6. Nonprofit Worker: INFJs are driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world, and working for a nonprofit organization can allow them to do just that. They can work in fields such as environmentalism, human rights, or social justice.
7. Healthcare Worker: INFJs are compassionate individuals who enjoy helping others. A career in healthcare, such as nursing or physical therapy, can allow them to use their empathy and intuition to make a difference in people’s lives.
8. Spiritual Leader: INFJs are deeply spiritual individuals who may find fulfillment in roles such as clergy members or spiritual leaders. They can offer guidance and support to those seeking spiritual growth and understanding.
INFJ Relationships
INFJs bring their unique qualities to their romantic relationships as well. They are known for seeking depth and meaning in their relationships, and are unlikely to settle for anything less than true love. While some may view INFJs as being too choosy, the reality is that they have high standards for themselves and their partners.
INFJs tend to be completely committed to their partner, putting the other person first and consistently working toward growth in the relationship. They are positive, driven partners who are open to other points of view and able to remain empathetic most of the time. INFJs thrive in relationships where their partner is putting in an equal amount of effort. They look for partners who are motivated, trustworthy, and encouraging, and want to feel fully loved and accepted as they are in a relationship.
The Introverted Intuition (Ni) and Extraverted Feeling (Fe) functions serve as powerful screening tools for INFJs in everything from friendships to romantic relationships. INFJs are constantly evaluating their relationships, keeping at least one finger on the pulse of the relationship at all times. They are looking for qualities like openness and honesty, patience, genuineness, a minimum level of intellectual compatibility, good communication, friendship, perceptivity and receptiveness from their partner, some level of interest in social issues, and physical attractiveness.
In relationships, INFJs are supportive and guided by a sense of integrity. They are encouraging of their partner’s dreams, aspirations, and achievements, and want to maintain harmony in their relationships. INFJs tend to be creative problem-solvers and look for the emotional core of an issue to create a meeting of the minds. Although they desire cooperation, they are not willing to go along with an idea that does not feel authentic to them.
INFJs seek long-term, lifelong relationships but sometimes struggle with finding the right match due to their high set of standards and values anchored within the core of their personality. They may appear reserved or shy when it comes to approaching someone new due to their dominant introverted intuitive function which largely blocks their attempt at communication until they find “clues” that might signal a positive outcome. Ultimately, INFJs value a partner who respects their values and emotions, appreciates their creativity and inspiration, and is willing to commit to continued growth within the relationship.
