Introduction to Type

INFP

FiNeSTeinfpTHOUGHTFUL IDEALIST
1 Favorite ProcessIntroverted
Feeling
2 Second FavoriteExtraverted
Intuition
3 Third favoriteSensing
4 Least favorite Extraverted
Thinking
INTROVERSION INTUITION FEELING PERCEIVING

At Their Best

INFPs have an inner core of values that guides their interactions and decisions.

They want to be involved in work that contributes to their own and others’ growth and inner development—to have a purpose beyond their paycheck. They make it a priority to clarify their values and live in congruence with them.

INFPs recognize and honor the emotional and psychological needs of others, even when those others may not have recognized or expressed their own needs.

Characteristics of INFPs

INFPs use their Feeling primarily internally, where they make decisions based on their values of self-understanding, individuality, and growth.

They live by a moral commitment to what they believe in and are likely to be

  • Sensitive, concerned, and caring
  • Idealistic and loyal to their ideas

INFPs enjoy reading, discussing, and reflecting on possibilities for positive change in the future. They are curious about ideas and quick to see connections and meanings. INFPs are likely to

  • Be curious and creative
  • Have long-range vision

INFPs are usually fascinated by opportunities to explore the complexities of human personality. They tend to work in bursts of energy and are capable of great concentration and output when fully engaged in a project. They are generally faithful in fulfilling obligations related to people, work, or ideas to which they are committed, but they can have difficulty performing routine work that has little meaning for them.

How Others May See Them

INFPs find structures and rules confining and prefer to work autonomously.

They are adaptable and flexible until something violates their inner values. Then they stop adapting. The resulting expression of value judgments can emerge with an intensity that is surprising to others.

INFPs tend to be reserved and selective about sharing their most deeply held values and feelings. They value relationships based on depth, authenticity, true connection, and mutual growth. INFPs prize most those who take time to understand their values and goals.

Others usually see INFPs as

  • Sensitive, introspective, and complex
  • Original and individual
  • Sometimes difficult to understand

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