INFP Description

Brief Description

Often called “the idealist” and “the dreamer”, the common view of the INFP is that of a daydreamer who prefers their ideal dream world of visions and possibilities over that of the real world. They appear dreamy and detached from the world and have an almost other-worldly quiet contemplation quality to their being. INFPs are highly in touch with their own feelings and are thus able to communicate them in elegant and artistic ways- often making them skilled writers. Also, understanding their own feelings on a deep and nuanced level provides them insights into the universal human experience and to communicate things for the broader humanity. This insight is both a blessing and a curse for them as their inner world can sometimes feel tumultuous, and their mood can get in the way of them accomplishing their goals. In their style, INFPs are eclectic, individualistic, and idiosyncratic. They are gentle, kind, unimposing, and can seem a bit awkward and odd but in their own charming way. They value finding and being true to their authentic selves and encourage others to do the same. INFPs hate conformity and fakeness and are able to easily spot insincerity. They are highly interested in the inner worlds of other people and want to understand people as individuals. INFPs are bothered by the restrictions that society places on the freedom of expression of individuals and are afraid that they will lose themselves to this force. As a result, INFPs often go on journeys, whether physical or only spiritual, to find and understand their authentic selves and what is right for them. INFPs are highly in touch with what they believe in and put their heart and soul into it. This complete integration with their beliefs and deep feeling nature can cause them to sometimes ignore facts and evidence that contradict what they believe. For INFPs data isn’t so important as their journey to find their own truth. INFPs want to be free to explore their own feelings and passions and they encourage others to do the same. Overall, for INFPs, their values are of primary importance with the exploration of those values and many interests of secondary importance. They find routine stifling and may clash with authority but can also ground themselves to settle down as they get older. INFPs are aware that the world can be cruel and society repressive and they see it as their moral duty to bring about social change. INFPs do this by developing their own personal core philosophy and creating a vision for the change, they would like to see in the world. Ultimately, they want to make their reality as close as possible to the world of their visions and dreams. However, though INFPs have their own deep personal passions and convictions and believe in freedom of expression, they do not like to impose their views on the world. They also do not share their inner life with many people because they feel that most people do not understand them. Overall, INFPs like to keep a small inner circle of people with whom they can communicate openly and authentically their deepest passions and inner thoughts. In relationships, INFPs look for a person who understands and appreciates their deep feeling nature and values. They need to be with someone who will allow them to express themselves authentically and to continue exploring their passions. The main love languages of INFPs are quality time and gifts, and they want to know that their partner thinks highly of them. For more on INFP relationships and best romantic matches, check our INFP Relationships page.