Have you ever been told that you’re too sensitive? As an INFP, you may have heard this more times than you can count. But why is it that INFPs are often labeled as overly sensitive?
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this trait and what it means for those who possess it. From heightened empathy to a deep sense of personal involvement in social issues, we’ll delve into the unique characteristics of the INFP personality type.
So, if you’re an INFP looking to understand yourself better or simply curious about what makes this personality type so sensitive, keep reading.
Why Are INFP So Sensitive
INFPs are known for their sensitivity, empathy, and compassion. These traits are a result of their dominant Introverted Feeling function, which drives them to champion causes that are highly personal to them. INFPs are deeply connected to their emotions and inner landscape, which can make them appear reserved or even detached from others.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. INFPs feel things deeply and are highly attuned to the emotions of those around them. They have a natural ability to empathize with others and understand their perspectives, making them excellent listeners and counselors.
INFPs also tend to be highly idealistic and value-driven. They care deeply about social issues and often advocate for change in areas that align with their personal values. This can lead them to become passionate activists or advocates for causes they believe in.
Another reason why INFPs are so sensitive is that they have a strong sense of personal involvement in the world around them. They may feel deeply affected by news stories or events happening in their community or the world at large. This can lead them to experience intense emotions such as sadness or despair, which can be difficult for others to understand.
It’s important to note that sensitivity is not a weakness but rather a strength. INFPs’ heightened sensitivity allows them to connect with others on a deeper level and understand the nuances of complex situations. It also allows them to be more creative and imaginative, as they are able to tap into their emotions and use them as inspiration for their art or writing.
What Is An INFP?
INFP stands for Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving. This personality type is defined as a compassionate and sensitive individual who is driven by their inner values and emotions. INFPs are introspective and tend to be highly creative and imaginative. They have a strong sense of empathy and are able to understand the emotions of others on a deep level.
INFPs are often described as healers because they care deeply about promoting their own personal growth as well as that of others. They are driven by their values and often advocate for social change in areas that align with their personal beliefs. INFPs tend to be highly idealistic and have a strong sense of justice, which can lead them to become passionate activists or advocates for causes they believe in.
INFPs are also known for their sensitivity and emotional depth. They have a natural ability to connect with others on a deep level and understand their perspectives. INFPs tend to be highly intuitive and are able to pick up on subtle cues that others may miss. They are also highly perceptive and are able to see through facades or hidden agendas.
The Empathetic Nature Of INFPs
One of the most prominent traits of INFPs is their empathetic nature. They have an innate ability to understand and feel the emotions of those around them, making them highly sensitive to the needs and struggles of others. This empathy is not just limited to feeling others’ emotions but also extends to crafting a vivid image inside their heads and seeing what others are going through as if they’re living it themselves.
INFPs are often called “Healers” because they go to great lengths to help those in need. Their empathy is so strong that it personally hurts them when they see someone else struggling, and they are compelled to do something about it. This deep sense of caring and compassion makes them excellent listeners and counselors, as they can provide a safe space for others to share their feelings and experiences.
However, this level of empathy can also be a double-edged sword for INFPs. They can become overwhelmed by the emotions of others, leading to emotional exhaustion and burnout. In some cases, they may even lose their empathetic nature altogether, becoming wholly unconcerned about the struggles of others.
Despite this risk, INFPs continue to prioritize empathy and compassion in their lives. They believe strongly in making the world a better place and helping those in need, and their empathetic nature is a key part of this mission. It allows them to connect with others on a deeper level and make a positive impact in the world around them.
INFPs And Personal Involvement In Social Issues
INFPs are highly passionate about social issues and often feel a strong sense of personal involvement in the causes they champion. They tend to be highly empathetic and sensitive, which allows them to understand the struggles of those who are marginalized or oppressed.
INFPs often advocate for social change and may attend or lead protests, speak out to their friends and family about the issues on their mind, donate to charities that support their causes, or even start their own organizations. They are known for fighting for the underdog and standing up for “the little guy” against larger corporations or the government.
What’s interesting about INFPs is that they don’t necessarily need a personal connection to a cause in order to be moved to act. Many INFPs feel a deep sense of personal involvement in news stories they read or watch. They may feel torn, wanting to help but feeling overwhelmed by sadness and despair.
INFPs are idealists at heart, so they tend to have high expectations for themselves and others. They hold an idealized image in their minds of what a fair and just society should look like, and they strive to make that vision a reality. This can lead them to become passionate advocates for social justice, human rights, and environmental causes.
The Downsides Of Being Sensitive As An INFP
However, being highly sensitive can also have its downsides for INFPs. One of the biggest challenges is that they can become easily overwhelmed by their emotions. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or even physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues.
INFPs may also struggle with setting boundaries and saying no to others. Their desire to please and help others can lead them to take on too much, which can be emotionally and physically draining. This can lead to burnout or resentment towards others.
Another downside of being sensitive as an INFP is that they may struggle with criticism or conflict. INFPs value harmony and may avoid confrontation at all costs. They may take criticism personally and become deeply hurt by it, even if it is constructive feedback.
Finally, INFPs’ sensitivity can make them vulnerable to manipulation or emotional abuse from others. They may struggle to recognize when someone is taking advantage of their kindness or empathy, leading them to stay in unhealthy relationships or situations.
Coping Strategies For INFPs To Manage Sensitivity
While sensitivity can be a strength, it can also be overwhelming for INFPs. Here are some coping strategies to help manage sensitivity:
1. Practice self-care: INFPs should take time to care for themselves and recharge their emotional batteries. This can include activities such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.
2. Set boundaries: INFPs should learn to set boundaries and say no when they feel overwhelmed. It’s important for them to prioritize their own needs and not overcommit themselves.
3. Seek support: INFPs should surround themselves with supportive friends and family who understand their sensitivity and can offer a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on.
4. Practice mindfulness: INFPs can benefit from practicing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or visualization exercises. This can help them stay present in the moment and avoid getting lost in their emotions.
5. Engage in creative outlets: INFPs can use their sensitivity as inspiration for creative outlets such as writing, painting, or music. This can be a healthy way for them to express their emotions and channel their sensitivity into something positive.
By implementing these coping strategies, INFPs can learn to manage their sensitivity and use it as a strength rather than a weakness. It’s important for them to remember that sensitivity is a valuable trait that allows them to connect with others on a deeper level and make a positive impact in the world around them.
