Are you an introverted idealist who sees the world not as it is, but as it could be?
Do you have strong principles that drive you to help others better themselves, but prefer expressing yourself through art or writing rather than direct confrontation?
If so, you may have an INFP personality type.
INFPs make up only about 4% of the population, but their unique characteristics and strengths make them valuable members of society.
In this article, we’ll explore the traits of an INFP personality and discover some famous individuals who share this type.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about who has an INFP personality.
Who Has An INFP Personality
INFPs are introverted individuals who tend to be quiet and reserved by nature. They prefer small groups and intimate conversations with close friends rather than large crowds. INFPs can feel drained when having to open up in public social settings, but they thrive on being alone.
One of the defining traits of an INFP personality is their idealism. They see the world not as it is, but as it could be. INFPs have strong principles that they do not let go of easily, and these principles drive them to help others better themselves. However, as introverted personalities, they rarely do so through direct confrontation. Instead, they prefer expressing themselves through art, writing, or other media.
INFPs tend to focus more on the big picture than on the small details of matters. They can be ultra-focused when it comes to projects that they are passionate about, but they often ignore the boring, mundane parts of the project. When making decisions, INFPs tend to rely more on their feelings or intuition rather than objective information.
INFPs can be slow in making decisions, often because their personal values guide them more than logic and reasoning. However, they usually like to keep their options open if something about the situation changes.
What Is An INFP Personality Type?
INFP is a four-letter abbreviation for one of the 16 personality types identified by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. It stands for introverted, intuitive, feeling, and perceiving. INFPs are imaginative idealists, guided by their own core values and beliefs. They are deeply concerned with personal growth and the growth of others. INFPs are often characterized by their loyal and gentle nature, but beneath their easygoing disposition runs a fixed passion for the causes they believe in and the people they care for.
As introverts, INFPs direct their energy inward and are highly independent people who can be seen to keep to themselves most of the time. They are imaginative, idealistic, and creative people who focus on the future rather than the present. INFPs make their decisions from their heart and let emotion drive them. They place value on harmony and balance, which is why they dislike conflict.
INFPs are playful, fun, and possess a unique sense of humor. They are generous with praise and encouragement, as this is also what they seek from others – words of affirmation, affection, and integrity. Mediators are adept at identifying inconsistencies in themselves and others and are very romantic.
INFP people enjoy devising creative solutions to problems, making moral commitments to what they believe in. They enjoy helping others with their growth and inner development to reach their full potential. INFPs can be slow in making decisions because their personal values guide them more than logic and reasoning. However, they usually like to keep their options open if something about the situation changes.
The Characteristics Of An INFP
INFPs are known for their creativity and problem-solving abilities. They are deeply thoughtful, curious, and imaginative learners who value continuous personal growth. They are motivated by their own core values and are equally interested in the values of others.
INFPs are introverted, quiet, and reserved. They prefer interacting with a select group of close friends rather than large crowds. While they like to be alone, this should not be confused with shyness. Instead, it simply means that they gain energy from spending time alone.
INFPs rely on intuition and are more focused on the big picture rather than the nitty-gritty details. They can be quite meticulous about things they care about or projects they are working on but tend to ignore mundane or boring details.
Personal feelings hold significant importance for INFPs, and their decisions are more influenced by these concerns than by objective information. When making decisions, INFPs like to keep their options open and often delay important decisions just in case something about the situation changes.
INFPs value close relationships and are loyal and devoted to their loved ones. They are sensitive to other people’s feelings and genuinely care about them. However, because they are so reserved and private, it can be challenging for others to get to know them.
INFPs are creative, artistic, and spiritual individuals who enjoy exploring their own ideas and values. They have strong ethics and core values and become passionate about advocating or defending their beliefs. They love meaningful connections and are usually drawn to nature.
Finally, INFPs have a strong interest in making the world a better place. They spend a lot of time exploring their own purpose in life and thinking about how they can use their skills and talents to best serve humanity. As a result, they are naturally inclined toward helping professions and careers in which they can use their creativity.
INFPs In Relationships And Careers
INFPs are selective about who they share their innermost feelings with, so it may take them some time to let a potential partner in. They tend to choose a partner based on mutual trust and shared values, rather than dating around. INFPs often see the potential for long-term partnership in their relationships and are empathetic, dedicated, and loyal. They tend to be very in tune with their partner’s feelings and will often put a great deal of thought and effort into helping their partner achieve their goals.
When it comes to careers, INFPs tend to choose professions that allow them to express their individuality and personal values. Many INFPs work in helping professions, where they can bring their compassion and empathy to others. They also frequently choose to work in creative and artistic occupations which allow them to think freely and be their unique selves. INFPs thrive in mission-driven careers that connect to their values and need to feel purposeful. They are much more likely to pursue a career that enables them to make a meaningful contribution rather than a well-paid job that leaves them unfulfilled.
While some high-paying career options for INFPs do exist, such as science and healthcare roles, roles within the creative arts can be either poorly or exceedingly well paid depending on the level of recognition earned. Graphic design is an excellent career choice for INFPs since it offers them the freedom to work independently and express their personal style. Additionally, psychology is a field that appeals to the INFP’s preference for creative problem-solving as well as their desire to help others, making it another excellent career choice for those with an INFP personality.
According to research, INFPs may find the most relationship success with other NF types (ENFJ, ENFP, and INFJ), as well as ESFJs. It’s important for an INFP to have a partner who can help balance some of the areas they struggle with, such as indecisiveness or being more reserved despite craving connection. Someone who is more extroverted while still sharing those intuitive and feeling qualities would likely mesh well with an INFP and help bring them out of their shell.
Famous INFP Personalities
There are many famous individuals who have been identified as having an INFP personality type. One of the most well-known is Bill Watterson, the creator of the comic strip Calvin and Hobbes. Watterson is a reserved but passionately creative individual who has avoided contact with the media since retiring from his comic in 1995. He continues to work on his art, transitioning from comics to landscapes and other paintings. Watterson also demonstrates the INFP’s strong sense of morality – he walked away from his comic because he felt it was time and hated the idea of continuing solely to make money.
Another famous INFP is actor Robert Pattinson. He is principled and doesn’t compromise his values for personal gain. He lives in his head and enjoys being alone in nature. INFPs are known for being creative and compassionate, and Pattinson is a great example of this. He stands up for what he believes in and doesn’t let anyone tell him what to do. He is also a very talented actor and has been in some amazing movies.
INFPs have left their mark on many different fields, including music, politics, and YouTube. One notable example is Johnny Depp, who is also an INFP. Throughout his career, he has taken on some of the weirdest and most conceptual roles known to film history and turned them into relatable characters. He is known to be a very artistic and considerate person, despite his recent controversies.
How To Connect With Other INFPs
Connecting with other INFPs can be a rewarding experience, as you share similar values and ways of processing the world around you. Here are some tips on how to connect with other INFPs:
1. Find Common Ground: As an INFP, you likely have a deep appreciation for art, literature, and other creative pursuits. Seek out others who share your interests and passions. Join a book club or attend a poetry reading. These types of events are perfect for meeting other like-minded individuals.
2. Be Authentic: INFPs value authenticity and honesty in their relationships. Be yourself when interacting with others and don’t be afraid to share your true thoughts and feelings. This will help build trust and create a deeper connection.
3. Listen Intently: INFPs are great listeners, so make sure to give others your undivided attention when they speak. Show genuine interest in what they have to say, and ask questions to show that you care about their perspective.
4. Share Your Passions: If you’re passionate about a particular cause or project, share it with others who may have similar interests. This can be a great way to connect with others who share your values and beliefs.
5. Be Patient: INFPs can be slow to open up to others, so don’t rush the process. Take your time getting to know someone and allow the relationship to develop naturally over time.
By following these tips, you can connect with other INFPs on a deeper level and build meaningful relationships based on shared values and interests. Remember that everyone is unique, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t immediately click with every INFP you meet. Keep an open mind and stay true to yourself, and you’ll eventually find your tribe.
Embracing Your INFP Identity: Tips And Advice
If you identify as an INFP, it’s important to embrace your unique qualities and characteristics. Here are some tips and advice to help you do just that:
1. Recognize and embrace your idealism: As an INFP, you likely have a strong sense of idealism and a desire to make the world a better place. Embrace this quality and use it to fuel your passions and pursuits.
2. Connect with others who share your values: INFPs often feel like they don’t fit in with mainstream society. However, there are many other individuals who share your values and ideals. Seek out like-minded individuals and connect with them to build a supportive community.
3. Use your creativity as an outlet: INFPs often struggle with expressing themselves verbally, but they may excel at expressing themselves through creative outlets such as art, writing, or music. Use these outlets as a way to express yourself and connect with others.
4. Practice self-care: As an introverted personality, it’s important for INFPs to take time for themselves to recharge and reflect. Make sure to prioritize self-care activities such as meditation, yoga, or spending time alone in nature.
5. Trust your intuition: INFPs tend to rely on their intuition when making decisions rather than objective information. Trust your gut instincts and don’t be afraid to take risks based on your intuition.
By embracing your INFP identity and using these tips and advice, you can live a fulfilling life that aligns with your values and passions.
