INFJ

INFJ is a personality type characterized by a complex and multifaceted inner world. They tend to be deeply introspective and intuitive, guided by their strong inner convictions and values. INFJs are known for their empathetic nature, and they often possess an uncanny ability to sense and understand the emotions of those around them.

INFJs are idealistic by nature, and they have a deep desire to make a positive impact on the world. They tend to be creative individuals who value self-expression, often finding outlets for their creativity through artistic pursuits. INFJs are often deeply spiritual, and they seek meaning and purpose in their lives. They have a strong sense of individuality and authenticity, and they tend to resist conformity in favor of forging their own unique path in life. While INFJs can be reserved and private individuals, they have a strong desire to connect with others on a deep and meaningful level.

To understand what each letter in INFJ means, the table below describes each the four traits while contrasting them with the opposite trait.

“Seek meaning and connection in ideas, relationships, and material possessions. Want to understand what motivates people and are insightful about others. Conscientious and committed to their firm values. Develop a clear vision about how best to serve the common good. Organized and decisive in implementing their vision.”

Introduction To Type
Isabel Briggs Myers

“Personal growth. Sustain the vision. Honoring the gifts of others. Taking a creative approach to life. Talent for foreseeing. Exploring issues. Bridging differences and connecting people. Practical problem solving. Living with a sense of purpose. Living an idealistic life often presents them with a great deal of stress and a need to withdraw.”

Neuroscience of Personality: Brain-Savvy Insights for All Types of People
Dario Nardi

Here are some common themes associated with the INFJ personality type:

• Empathy and Compassion: INFJs have a natural ability to understand and relate to the feelings and needs of others. They are often very empathetic and caring, and may be drawn to careers in helping professions like counseling or social work.
• Insightfulness: INFJs are known for their deep insights and intuition. They are often able to see patterns and connections that others miss, and may have a strong sense of foresight.
• Strong Values: INFJs have a strong sense of personal values and are often guided by their moral compass. They may be very idealistic and may work towards creating a world that aligns with their values.
• Creativity: INFJs often have a rich inner world and a vivid imagination. They may enjoy creative pursuits like writing, art, or music, and may find it cathartic to express themselves through these outlets.
• Compassionate Listening: INFJs are often skilled listeners who are able to truly understand and validate the perspectives of others. They may be drawn to helping professions like counseling or coaching because of their ability to listen and provide guidance.
• Perfectionism: INFJs often hold themselves to very high standards and may struggle with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt. They may also be very critical of themselves and others, as they strive for perfection.
• Intense Emotions: INFJs may experience emotions very deeply and intensely. They may feel things more acutely than others, and may struggle with processing and regulating their emotions.
• Private Nature: INFJs are often very private and may be hesitant to share their inner world with others. They may keep their thoughts and feelings to themselves, and may need time alone to recharge and reflect.
• Long-term Thinking: INFJs often have a strong sense of the future and may be very forward-thinking. They may be able to see the potential in others and work towards helping them reach their full potential, and may be very dedicated to long-term goals and visions.

Some challenges and areas for growth for INFJs include:

• Overwhelming empathy: While empathy is one of their greatest strengths, INFJs may also be prone to taking on the emotions and problems of others to the point of burnout. Learning healthy boundaries and self-care strategies can be helpful in managing this challenge.
• Difficulty asserting themselves: INFJs may prioritize harmony and avoiding conflict, which can sometimes lead to a reluctance to assert their own needs and boundaries. Developing assertiveness skills can be helpful in addressing this challenge.
• Perfectionism: INFJs may have high standards for themselves and others, which can sometimes lead to feeling overwhelmed or disappointed when things don’t go as planned. Learning to accept and embrace imperfection can be helpful in managing this challenge.
• Feeling misunderstood: INFJs may feel like they are constantly misunderstood or like they don’t fit in with others. Finding like-minded individuals or communities and learning to communicate their thoughts and feelings effectively can be helpful in addressing this challenge.
• Difficulty making decisions: INFJs may spend a lot of time analyzing and considering all possible outcomes before making a decision, which can sometimes lead to indecisiveness or feeling stuck. Learning to trust their intuition and taking action even when they don’t have all the information can be helpful in managing this challenge.
• Self-doubt: INFJs may struggle with feelings of self-doubt or imposter syndrome, feeling like they don’t measure up to their own or others’ expectations. Learning to recognize and challenge negative self-talk can be helpful in addressing this challenge.
• Overthinking: INFJs may spend a lot of time analyzing and thinking through problems, which can sometimes lead to overthinking or getting stuck in their own thoughts. Learning to take action and trust their intuition can be helpful in managing this challenge.

“The visions of the INFJs tend to concern human welfare.”

Gifts Differing: Understanding Personality Type
Isabel Briggs Myers & Peter B. Myers

“INFJ’s thrive in occupations which involve interacting with people, nurturing their personal development, especially on a one-to-one basis. Teaching and the ministry hold attraction, although INFJs must develop an expressive attitude in both professions, which for them requires a great deal of energy. More suited to them is the general practice of medicine, or therapeutic counseling.”

Please Understand Me II: Temperament, Character, Intelligence: 2
David Keirsey

“Occupational trends identified: religion, counseling, teaching, arts.”

MBTI Manual
Isabel Briggs Myers

“They are at their best in situations that encourage personal enhancement.”

Type Talk
Otto Kroeger, Janet M. Thuesen

INFJs are individuals who are driven by their values and a desire to make a positive impact on the world, and this often guides their career choices. They may be drawn to careers that allow them to help others, such as social work, counseling, or healthcare. In these fields, INFJs can use their compassion and empathy to make a difference in people’s lives and work towards creating a better world.

Another career path that may appeal to INFJs is one that allows them to express their creativity and pursue work that is fulfilling and meaningful. They may be interested in careers in the arts, such as writing, graphic design, or music, where they can use their imagination and originality to create something new.

INFJs may also be drawn to careers in entrepreneurship or non-profit organizations, where they can work towards a greater purpose and create positive change in the world. Ultimately, by pursuing careers that align with their values and interests, INFJs can find fulfillment and success in their work.