What Is the INFP Personality Type?

The INFP personality type, known as the Mediator, is authentic, creative, free-spirited, and empathetic, with a strong tendency toward daydreaming and fantasizing. People with this personality are also very idealistic and wholeheartedly believe in a world where each good deed is rewarded.

However, that’s not to say Mediators are naive—on the contrary, they can be excellent at reading situations and people. Still, they want to believe in good, so they do, even if that makes them appear overly innocent at times.

In many ways, INFPs have a hard time fitting in with today’s fast-paced society, so they often feel lost and out of place. Instead of technology, success, and achievement, these types value nature, art, and deep, meaningful connections that last a lifetime.

What Is the Meaning of INFP?

The meaning of the INFP personality type is:

• Introverted. INFPs prefer the company of close friends and loved ones to large social groups and gatherings and need plenty of alone time to recharge.
• iNtuitive. People with the INFP personality type observe the world through intuition rather than the five senses, focusing on the patterns, possibilities, and the big picture.
• Feeling. In decision-making, INFPs follow their hearts and rely on their emotions rather than logic. They also tend to value feelings higher, exhibiting substantial emotional intelligence.
• Perceiving. INFPs aren’t natural planners; instead, they like to play by the ear and stay flexible in most situations. Routines and structures may feel stifling to this personality type.

How Rare Is the INFP Personality Type?

The INFP personality type is fairly rare, making up approximately 4.4% of the general population in the US.

Male Mediators are somewhat less common, as the percentage of the INFP personality type among men is 4.1.

However, women with the INFP personality type aren’t significantly more common—they account for approximately 4.6% of the total female population. In other words, the distribution of INFPs is quite balanced across genders.

5 Key INFP Personality Characteristics

The key INFP personality type characteristics include:

Creativity

INFPs are true creative forces with a passion for the arts, writing, music, photography, or any other activity that allows them to express themselves. Though they seem quiet and calm, their imaginations run wild, and they easily get caught up in their daydreams and fantasies.

However, many of INFP’s ideas, no matter how unique and original, remain in their heads, as this type often struggles to realize them in reality. That’s because Mediators, fitting the stereotype of the absent-minded artist, tend to be very impractical and lack the necessary drive to make that final step.

Open-Mindedness

Being a little eccentric themselves, INFPs are more than willing to accept differences and are, in fact, glad to embrace those society considers outcasts. They frequently surround themselves with unconventional people whose ideas inspire them to keep broadening their horizons.

This quality makes INFPs excellent friends and confidants—they don’t judge, instead trying to understand even the points of view that are opposite of theirs. Even if they can’t, they will accept the other person regardless, as long as they respect them and do not harm anyone.

Idealism

As true dreamers, INFPs often imagine what the world should be like and strive to make it such through small or large acts of kindness. They have a very idealistic view of life, believing that they will ultimately be rewarded as long as they stick to their moral compass and do as their conscience advises.

This sort of thinking is admirable and does improve the world little by little, but INFPs, especially in their youth, believe everyone else is as ethical as they are. This sets them up for inevitable disappointment, which may result in withdrawal and even depression.

Still, INFPs who keep their idealism, even if slightly tempered by realism, can continue to make a difference in the world. So, despite its downsides, it’s a quality they can be proud of.

Lack of Focus

INFPs struggle to stay focused on only one thing, their heads always brimming with ideas and possibilities. Impatient as they are, they want to pursue every new thought right away, regardless of whether they are doing something else or not.

Therefore, they can come across as scatterbrained, flaky, and unreliable, seemingly lacking direction and focus. This doesn’t usually bother them, though; they even enjoy jumping from one thing to another. However, their absent-mindedness can become a problem in certain situations, such as the workplace.

Authenticity

People with the INFP personality type are authentic and true to themselves even when faced with outside pressures to conform. Although they are empathetic and care about other people’s opinions, they don’t let anyone dictate their behavior and stick to what they believe is right no matter what.

As such, they can seem stubborn sometimes, but at the same time, they are steadfast, independent, and genuine, which makes them excellent friends to have in your corner.

What Are the INFP Personality Type’s Cognitive Functions?

The INFP personality type’s cognitive functions show how Mediators process information and make decisions. Each type you can get on the 16 personalities test has its own function stack, arranged from the most to the least developed function.

In the case of INFP, the function stack consists of the following functions:

Introverted Feeling (Fi)

Introverted feeling (Fi) is a cognitive function concerned with personal values, authenticity, and ethical considerations. As such, it evaluates the information from the outside world using an internally constructed belief system and makes decisions based on its conclusions.

Fi has unparalleled influence as a dominant function in INFPs, making this type particularly independent, authentic, and true to itself. INFPs aren’t necessarily the most outspoken type, but when they do speak up, their opinions are always their own.

Similarly, they are steadfast in their beliefs and values, never letting outside influences shake them up. At times, that may result in them becoming outcasts misunderstood by society, but INFPs find it more important to stay honest than to please others.

However, since Fi is always turned inward, INFPs can be overly private, reclusive, and difficult to connect with. This can be somewhat of a concern, as Mediators both love and benefit from cultivating close bonds with others.

Extraverted Intuition (Ne)

As an auxiliary function, extraverted intuition (Ne) supports Fi and helps it connect to the outside world by supplying it with information. Ne is known as the function of possibilities, ideas, and potential, focusing on the what-ifs instead of the here and now.

High Ne users, like INFPs, tend to be very creative, open-minded, and adventurous, often seeking new experiences to stimulate their imaginations and broaden their horizons. That’s why Mediators, despite being introverts, feel the need to engage with the world and try new things, even if they may be overwhelmed sometimes.

At the same time, auxiliary extraverted intuition is one of the reasons that INFPs appear scattered, absent-minded, and flaky. It can be difficult for them to focus on one idea when there are so many more bubbling up in their brains.

Introverted Sensing (Si)

In its tertiary place, introverted sensing (Si) serves to ease the mental burden on the first two functions, coming to the forefront at times of relaxation. As a practical, detail-oriented function, Si provides a much-needed balance to flighty INFPs and helps them stay grounded in their day-to-day lives.

Introverted sensing often manifests itself in INFPs through nostalgia. For instance, Mediators love revisiting the songs they listened to as children, enjoy rewatching their comfort movies over and over again, and find peace in familiar places and people.

Furthermore, as their Si develops, INFPs may rely more on their past experiences and find ways to combine them with Ne’s novel approaches.

However, INFPs shouldn’t allow themselves to lean on Si too much—after all, this function can never reach the same level of development as the first two. Overreliance on Si may result in getting stuck in the past and feeling paralyzed by past mistakes, which, ultimately, doesn’t do Mediators any good.

Extraverted Thinking (Te)

As an inferior function, extraverted thinking (Te) is the least developed and often suppressed function, which, therefore, manifests itself in unconscious and uncontrolled ways.

Since Te is concerned with external structures, logic, and organization, INFPs may perceive it as the opposite of Fi and thus undesirable. Fi focuses on the individual and the subjective, while Te prioritizes systems and objectivity, which may seem too cold and impersonal to sensitive INFPs.

As a result, Mediators filter everything through a highly personal lens. They might listen to authority only if it’s someone they like (otherwise, they have great difficulty accepting it), and they always struggle with systems and structures. Overall, they have a hands-off approach to life, preferring to live without big plans or goals.

However, this may lead to INFPs missing out on many possibilities and opportunities requiring extra effort. So, they should occasionally push themselves to activate their Te and bring structure to their lives—it won’t come naturally, but it will be worth it in the long run.

INFP Personality Types Growth & Development Tips

Here is what INFP personality types can do to encourage their own growth and development:

#1. Step Out of Your Shell

INFPs can be notoriously reclusive, but they are also vulnerable to loneliness and need to feel loved. This can be quite a conundrum for people with this personality type, but it’s actually an easy one to solve—they need to come out of their shells despite their reservations.

That’s not to say Mediators shouldn’t take any time for themselves, but they should also cultivate their bonds and attempt to make new ones occasionally. This will help them fend off the loneliness and build a stronger support network.

#2. Manage Your Expectations

INFPs are prone to daydreaming and fantasizing, and the world in their heads is usually far more beautiful than the real one. As a result, their standards are always high, which can easily lead to disappointment.

That’s why it’s important for INFPs to manage their expectations and remember that reality doesn’t usually align with their imagination. They shouldn’t fully give up on their standards, but they should find ways to protect themselves from potential letdowns.

#3. Focus on One Thing at a Time

Instead of chasing after every possibility that crosses their minds, INFPs should try to focus on one thing at a time and see it through before switching to the next one. That way, they will get more done and experience a far greater sense of accomplishment than when they leave their projects only halfway finished.

#4. Organize Your Time

INFPs struggle with structures and time management, often finding themselves unable to plan and organize their days properly. Although this may not bother them ordinarily, it can be troubling in their professional lives and even affect some of their personal relationships.

Therefore, they should master time management, either by buying a planner or making use of a calendar app on their smartphones.

#5. Don’t Take Things Too Personally

Mediators’ sensitivity can get in the way of even the most well-meaning advice—generally, they respond poorly to perceived criticism, shutting down almost entirely.

However, INFPs should remember that accepting advice, even the kind they may initially dislike, is the only way toward growth. If they keep in mind that their loved ones mean well with their comments and feedback, they can benefit from them and also avoid getting their feelings hurt.

INFP Personality Type Career Paths: Best & Worst Choices

The INFP personality type thrives in career paths that allow it to use creativity, originality, and emotional intelligence. People with this type may not be the most conscientious or organized, but they make up for it with their passion, imagination, and ability to quickly come up with unique ideas.

In the following sections, we will explore which careers INFPs should pursue and which ones they should avoid.

Best Careers Paths

The best career paths for the INFP personality type include those that align with their personal values and help them feel like they are making a difference in the world. However, these occupations should also contain creative elements, as Mediators can’t stand monotony.

That said, some of the best jobs for INFPs include:

• Artist
• Writer
• Musician
• Animator
• Illustrator
• Translator
• Interpreter
• Sociologist
• Psychologist
• Photographer
• Social Worker
• Interior Designer
• Fashion Designer

Careers to Avoid

INFPs hate dealing with cold facts, numbers, or statistics and generally steer clear of jobs with little to offer in terms of creativity and spiritual fulfillment. Although financial security is important to this type, like any other, Mediators are unlikely to select a job just because it pays well—they need to truly see themselves in it.

In light of that, here are some of the worst career paths for INFPs:

• Judge
• Chemist
• Engineer
• Statistician
• Accountant
• Data Analyst
• Police Officer
• Financial Advisor
• Corporate Lawyer
• Sales Representative

How INFP Personality Types Behave at Work

INFP personality types perform well at work if their career gives them a sense of purpose and creates a positive, inspiring atmosphere. When these conditions are met, INFPs are eager to do their best and go the extra mile to please their superiors and coworkers.

Like in other spheres of their lives, INFPs place a high value on their feelings in their work. If they feel connected to the workplace or their colleagues, they are much more motivated to perform well. If, however, they feel overlooked, unappreciated, or exploited, they will quickly lose the desire to do their job well.

That’s not to say that unmotivated INFPs are difficult to work with—as a naturally empathetic type, they don’t want to cause trouble to anyone or enter conflicts. So, they will continue with their tasks as always but also keep an eye on better opportunities that come their way.

INFPs as Leaders

As leaders, INFPs view themselves as guides or support rather than actual managers who are supposed to tell their subordinates what to do. They are glad to give advice and suggestions, but they don’t impose their opinions on others and are, in fact, likely to ask their employees for their thoughts.

In other words, INFPs may not be the best suited for leadership positions, nor do they have much interest in them. While they have their strengths, they often struggle to establish firm boundaries, give negative feedback, and make clear decisions that benefit their team and workplace.

INFPs in Teams

In teams, INFPs may not feel as comfortable as when working alone, but they can still be a great asset that helps hold the entire group together. That’s because, despite being quiet, INFPs are very insightful and considerate, so they can quickly understand what each person in the team wants and needs.

As a result, Mediators’ colleagues frequently turn to them for advice and support, and INFPs are happy to provide. This way, they ensure their team’s smooth functioning and prevent potential conflicts caused by bad moods or dissatisfaction.

INFP Personality Advantages & Weaknesses in Relationships

The INFP personality type places great importance on relationships despite its introversion. After all, Mediators actually love spending time with people as long as it’s their loved ones who make them feel comfortable and loved.

That said, let’s examine how INFPs behave in different kinds of relationships.

INFPs as Romantic Partners

As romantic partners, INFPs are idealistic, passionate, and affectionate, pouring most of their time, energy, and effort into their significant other. They want their partner to be happy both in and outside the relationship, so they gladly go the extra mile in their support and dedication.

However, INFPs also have high standards for their partners, refusing to settle for anything less than true, all-encompassing love. That’s because they are dreamers by nature, and it’s hard for them to accept the reality that doesn’t align with their fantasies, especially when it comes to love and romance.

Nevertheless, INFPs are ready to compromise, but only to an extent. They are happy to give people a chance; however, they must feel their connection with them is real and powerful. If this feeling is missing, Mediators are unlikely to stick around, moving on to search for a more profound emotional bond.

INFPs as Friends

As friends, INFPs are warm, considerate, and accepting, eager to both share their inner worlds and explore their friends’. Since they are very private, INFPs prefer to spend time with small circles of friends to whom they can speak honestly rather than pretend to enjoy small talk at social gatherings.

In fact, friendships may pose somewhat of a difficulty to INFPs—they feel most true to themselves when alone, yet long to feel loved and accepted. As a result, they may struggle to keep in touch with their friends, though they always feel better once they reach out.

Ultimately, Mediators’ friends must get used to their flighty nature and accept that they need time away from everyone. It’s not something they do on purpose or out of malice; rather, it’s a genuine need for solitude and reconnecting with oneself.

INFPs as Parents

As parents, INFPs are caring, affectionate, and open-minded, with a strong desire to raise their children to be just as free-spirited as they are. Of course, something like that can’t be taught, so Mediators encourage their children to explore and form their opinions as independently as possible.

As a result, they frequently play the role of a gentle guide rather than a strict parent and enjoy watching their children discover all the wonders the world has to offer. Still, there are times when they must interfere—either for their children’s safety or to correct their behavior.

Although INFPs want their children to be free, they also want them to be good people who can easily tell the difference between right and wrong. They try to instill these values by being good role models, but when that doesn’t work, they are not above directly talking to their children about what they’ve done wrong.

Which Personality Types Are Compatible With INFPs?

INFPs are compatible with many personality types due to their gentle, warm, and romantic nature, which tends to always see the best in people. Still, they have a particular affinity for some types, while others may be more difficult for them to get along with.

Taking that into account, let’s explore the compatibility of the INFP personality type in more detail.

INFP Best Matches

The best matches for INFPs are other intuitive types, as they share their love for ideas and unconventional approaches to life.

The INFP personality type gets along well with the following types:

• ENFP. ENFPs and INFPs have much in common—both types are creative, affectionate, and somewhat eccentric. Though their energy levels and social needs differ, this is not a significant problem, as the two can actually complement and balance each other out.
• INTP. INTPs may initially seem too cold and emotionally detached for sensitive INFPs, but this pairing works surprisingly well. The two can spend hours discussing fun yet unrealistic ideas, and their differences in emotional expressiveness can encourage mutual growth if both are mature.
• ISFP. Despite not being an intuitive type, ISFPs match INFPs well because they are also creative and artistic—but in a far more grounded way. As a result, the two can understand each other well and simultaneously balance the abstract with the realistic.

INFP Worst Matches

The worst matches for INFPs are ST types—in Mediators’ eyes, they are either too stuck in their ways or too emotionally unavailable. Furthermore, their values and priorities differ significantly, so they rarely see eye to eye.

The INFP personality type usually doesn’t get along with the following types:

• ISTP. Though both ISTPs and INFPs are spontaneous and adventurous, their similarities end there. ISTPs are very practical and pay little attention to abstract and unrealistic ideas, while INFPs, on the other hand, find their groundedness stifling, uninspiring, and limiting.
• ISTJ. Aside from introversion, ISTJs and INFPs have almost nothing in common. The former like rules, structures, and routines, while the latter tend to forge their own way and prefer unstructured, free-spirited lifestyles. As a result, this pair is rarely drawn to each other and can only succeed if both sides are incredibly understanding and mature.
• ESTJ. ESTJs share a love for rules and structures with ISTJs, but they take it all a step further and act as enforcers of existing systems. Unsurprisingly, INFPs find this off-putting and typically avoid spending time with this personality type unless they absolutely have to.

What Interests & Hobbies Are Popular Among INFP Personality Types?

Interests and hobbies popular among INFP personality types usually include creative pursuits that they can do alone, although they don’t mind sharing their pastimes with their loved ones.

Here are some of the activities INFPs typically gravitate toward:

INFP Celebrities & Famous People

Famous people with the INFP personality type are individuals who gained recognition in a creative path, such as writing, art, or poetry. After all, for many Mediators, self-expression is the ultimate life goal.

Some of the best-known INFP celebrities include:

• William Shakespeare. Often considered the greatest writer in the English-speaking world, Shakespeare penned numerous plays, sonnets, and poems that enriched the English language. Particularly well-known ones include tragedies such as Hamlet, Othello, and Macbeth and comedies like A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Much Ado About Nothing.
• Bob Marley. Jamaican reggae singer Bob Marley is the pioneer of that genre and a widely recognized pop culture icon. Beyond his music, he was recognized for supporting democratic reforms and his belief in the new Rastafari religion, which appeared in Jamaican black communities in the 1930s.
• Vincent van Gogh. Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh was a 19th-century post-impressionist painter considered one of the greatest artists of all time. His unique style is still widely recognizable, particularly in paintings such as The Starry Night, Sunflowers, and Self-Portrait.