UNIQUE, CREATIVE, UNCONVENTIONAL
There’s no doubt about it, INFPs are unique. They lead their lives according to an inner compass that can often lead them off the beaten path and in their own direction. INFPs are also gifted with a creative spark that allows them to generate new, unconventional and even revolutionary ideas. Their thoughts and ideas are frequently focused on people, and they have an easy time relating to – and understanding – their fellow human beings. In fact, INFPs often appear to have an x-ray vision into the inner-workings of other people. Most successful INFPs attribute success to an innate ability to flex their style to meet others more than halfway. This makes them naturals at effective communication, and they are usually considered to be excellent listeners – rarely judging, just seeking to understand.
BURSTS OF INSPIRATION
Flexible, casual, spontaneous and easy going, INFPs like to leave their options open as long as possible. It is not uncommon for them to struggle to stay organized, and they can be easily distracted from the task at hand. Luckily, they actually prefer to prepare rather last minute when the urgency is high. INFPs tend to work in bursts of inspiration and take a lot of mini-breaks, rather than steadily throughout the day or week. They tend to be very flexible and open to changing plans last minute.
IDEA GENERATORS, VISIONARIES
INFPs are “idea generators” much more than they are “detail people,” and they love to discover “win-win” solutions that have a long- term positive impact on people. There are two phases of most projects or meetings: 1) the initial “big picture,” “vision setting” stage; and 2) the logistics or “action items” stage. Innovative visionaries, INFPs shine during the former, gaining much more energy from envisioning future possibilities and idea generating then from completing concrete tasks. They tend to lose steam toward the end of projects when everything is decided.
DRIVEN BY PERSONAL VALUES
INFPs have very strong personal values, which have a large impact on their actions and decisions. They seek to feel that they are living their lives in accordance with their values and what “feels” right to them. Unlike their INTP colleagues (who are exceptionally logic driven), INFPs are uncomfortable making decisions based predominantly on impersonal, logical analysis. INFPs trust their hunches more than most, and have a tendency to read between the lines of what others are saying more than any other type.
CALM, RESERVED, SYMPATHETIC
INFPs tend to have a relaxed outward appearance that has a calming influence on others. Reserved and modest, INFPs are not likely to “advertise” their own strengths, and it can take many encounters to get to know them. First impressions do not always give a sense of their incredible warmth, generosity, and kindness.
DEEP INNER WORLD
Inside the mind of all INFPs is a rich, well-developed inner world that they tend to keep rather private. They are one of the most sympathetic types, who genuinely care about and enjoy people, and strongly value their relationships. Being in highly social environments tends to drain their energy, and they crave time inside their own head to process and recharge. With those in their “inner circle,” INFPs show a much more talkative, passionate, and enthusiastic side.
Top ten: INFPs are the type MOST likely to . . .
1. Read between the lines
2. Have a “sixth sense” at times
3. Follow their hunches; make decisions based on what “feels” right
4. Value uniqueness and originality in themselves and others
5. Reflect on who they really are, and on the meaning and purpose of life
6. Do work that has personal meaning for them and betters others’ lives
7. Have a calming influence on others
8. Not follow “the pack”
9. Enjoy an assignment with maximum creative license
10. Give others the benefit of the doubt