In a Nutshell: The INFJ Personality
Struggling to identify if you are an INFJ? Don’t Worry, I’m Here to Guide You!
To gain a clearer understanding of the INFJ personality, please bear with me as I’m still in the process of learning about MBTI. There may be occasional inaccuracies, and I’ll be making revisions as needed in this blog. However, I’ll start by providing you in a nutshell of what it means to be an INFJ. First, let’s delve into the four letters that make up INFJ in the MBTI:
I — How they gain their energy
N — How they gather and process information
F — How they make decision
J — How they organize their world
Now, I’d like to dive a bit deeper into the technical aspects. The four letters I mentioned earlier don’t tell the whole story; there’s more to it. To truly understand the INFJ personality, we need to explore the cognitive function stack. But before we delve into that, I’ll provide an overview of MBTI cognitive functions because these concepts are essential for understanding what it means to be an INFJ.
Within each of the 16 MBTI types, there are 8 MBTI cognitive functions, organized into 2 groups: the Primary Process and the Shadow Process. For now, let’s focus on the Primary Process of cognitive functions. To help illustrate this, I’ll use a car analogy, as shown below.
PRIMARY FUNCTION STACK OF INJF:
Dominant Function: Ni (Introverted iNtuition)
Auxiliary Function: Fe (Extraverted Feeling)
Tertiary Function: Ti (Introverted Thinking)
Inferior Function: Se (Extraverted Sensing)
To learn more about the function stack, visit the link below:
Anyhoo, let’s revisit and understand how this applies to the INFJ personality, which is quite interesting in my opinion. As far as I understand, this concept illustrates how our thinking processes work.
“I” in INFJ
Let’s kick off by delving into the “I” in INFJ and its significance in the MBTI. The first letter in MBTI, whether it’s “I” for Introvert or “E” for Extrovert, denotes how an individual derives their energy. Interestingly, there are occasions when an INFJ might appear extroverted, and this is often attributed to their auxiliary function, Extraverted Feeling or “Fe.” We’ll explore “Fe” in more detail shortly, but in essence, each person encompasses elements of both introversion and extroversion. The key is recognizing which of these tendencies resonates more with you.
An introvert can also have extroverted qualities, which means they can confidently socialize with others. Still, eventually, they will need solitude and alone time to recharge. Excessive social interaction and constant engagement with people can be draining for an introvert.
Conversely, extroverts can have introverted tendencies too. They can spend some time alone, but they can’t endure prolonged periods of solitude. Too much isolation might drive them feel a bit stir-crazy, so they seek out new social interactions to rejuvenate their energy.
In essence, INFJs have an inherent introverted nature, but their Fe can sometimes give the impression of extroversion. However, after they’ve spent time socializing and engaging, they often find themselves longing for solitude as a means to rejuvenate their energy. Solitude or alone time hold a profound importance for INFJs, as the constant interaction with others can be quite exhausting for them.
“N” in INFJ
The second letter in MBTI determines how a person gathers and processes information. It can either be “S” for Sensing or “N” for iNtuition.
Let’s delve on “N” since it’s the second letter for INFJ. Individuals with an “N” preference tend to rely on their intuition and hunches. They have a propensity for abstract theories and a future-oriented perspective, focusing on exploring future possibilities. Moreover, they often exhibit qualities like innovation, creativity (thinking outside the box), idealist, and imagination, which may sometimes come across as daydreaming. They’re naturally inclined to ask, “What could be?”
Since INFJs are introverts, the “N” becomes “Ni” or Introverted Intuition. If you’re curious about how this transformation to “Ni” occurs, you can check the link provided above to learn more about the function stack. In this discussion, we’ll delve deeper into Ni as it acts as the driving force behind the thought process of INFJs, as illustrated above.
As you can observe, “Ni” takes the driver’s seat, serving as the primary function for gathering and processing information for INFJs. In this case, the role of Ni unfolds as it collects information. Given their introverted nature, INFJs typically begin by engaging in research, reading, or exploring “ideas” and “concepts.” They excel at grasping the big picture rather than getting lost in the details.
To illustrate, suppose they are tasked with building a Christmas tree. Instead of immediately seeking out a manual, INFJs first aim to understand the underlying concept of the tree’s construction. They only turn to the manual if they encounter a sense that something might be amiss during the process.
“F” in INFJ
The third letter in MBTI pertains to how a person utilizes their decision-making processes, which can be categorized as either “T” for Thinking or “F” for Feeling. In the case of INFJ, it’s “F,” specifically “Fe.” As you’ll notice, this function takes on the role of the co-pilot, sitting alongside “Ni” in their cognitive vehicle. For INFJs, “Fe” plays a crucial role in fostering empathy towards others. More than that, it enables them to absorb the emotions of those around them, forging deep and meaningful connections. When we delve into the definition of Fe within the cognitive function stack, as an auxiliary function, it guides decisions based on the external environment and how their emotions will impact their physical world.
Thanks to INFJ’s Fe, they may occasionally appear extroverted to those who are not yet familiar with them. This ability to display extroverted traits is why there are instances when they might seem warm and sociable on the surface but, on the inside, appear somewhat cold. Fe has a natural inclination to seek harmony and meet the expectations of others, hence INFJ are sometimes referred to as social chameleons.
In essence, INFJs have a knack for adapting to social situations, wearing figurative masks, and adjusting their behavior to align with the expectations of those around them. But, it’s essential to remember that, no matter how sociable we may seem, after a day of socializing, we yearn for solitude to rejuvenate and regain our energy.
However, there’s a unique challenge that comes with it. Since INFJs are so in tune with the feelings of others, they sometimes find it difficult to remain equally in tune with their own emotions. Their focus on external emotional dynamics can lead to a situation where they struggle to express their own feelings, as they may be accustomed to prioritizing the emotions of those around them.
Combination of Ni and Fe
The interplay of INFJ’s dominant function (Ni) and auxiliary function (Fe) in their thought process can make engaging in small talk quite challenging for them. INFJs are naturally drawn to deep, meaningful conversations and often find it challenging to engage in or initiate small talk. Ni is wired to seek profound, insightful discussions rather than surface-level chatter. Small talk simply doesn’t align with their preference for more profound and thought-provoking interactions.
INFJs are often described as having a sixth sense. When Ni, which is associated with intuition and gut instincts, combines with Fe, it transforms these instincts into a deep emotional knowing.
However, INFJs might struggle to articulate these gut feelings without the assistance of Ti (introverted Thinking). With time and careful consideration, Ti steps in to support Fe in analyzing these intuitive sensations, providing a more comprehensive understanding of their emotional insights.
In addition, combined with their Ni and Fe functions, drives INFJs to seek a purposeful vocation. They are drawn to roles and professions that have the potential to make a lasting impact on the world. Their desire is to benefit not only the current generation but also those of the future.
“J” in INFJ
The fourth letter in MBTI pertains to how a person organizes their world and can be categorized as either “J” for Judging or “P” for Perceiving. In the case of INFJ, it’s clearly “J.”
The “J” according to MBTI, represents their inclination towards being planners. Given the combination of “N” (intuition) and “J” (judgment), INFJs tend to meticulously plan their lives well into the future. However, they may appear spontaneous at times due to their “Fe” (extroverted feeling).
When INFJs find themselves in a group of people with a “P” (perceiving) trait, who tend to be spontaneous, they can adapt to the situation. Yet, internally, they may feel conflicted because it deviates from their carefully laid plans. This adaptability to spontaneity is typically short-lived. Without a plan, INFJs often experience a sense of being lost, and it’s their “J” trait that compels them to create a structured plan. In my experience, I rely on planners or time-management tools like Trello, Todoist, or similar apps because planning holds significant importance for me.
The rear or passenger seat within the cognitive vehicle of an INFJ
Let’s revisit the previously mentioned illustration of the INFJ’s primary function stack. In this stack, we have Ti in the rear seat behind Fe and Se seated in the rear seat behind Ni. Now, let’s delve into these two tertiary (Ti) and inferior (Se) functions.
The tertiary function plays a supporting role for the auxiliary function. In this case, with Fe as the auxiliary function and Ti positioned behind it, the primary purpose of Ti is to assist in the decision-making process of Fe.
In a positive context, INFJs can occasionally bypass their auxiliary function, Fe, and engage Ti directly. However, this can sometimes lead to the development of elaborate theories with limited real-world applications.
This inclination to bypass Fe in decision-making arises from the INFJ’s introverted nature. They often find solace in their alone time, and this is where they tend to call upon Ti for decision-making. In less favorable situations, when Ti is predominantly used, INFJs may slip into an Ni-Ti loop, often referred to as analysis paralysis. When this function is underdeveloped, INFJs might unintentionally employ it in counterproductive ways, leading them to overanalyze negative future scenarios.
How does this threefold cognitive function stack (Ni — Fe — Ti) operate within the INFJ?
Allow me to illustrate this process with a scenario: Imagine an INFJ is faced with the challenge of improving email management within a team. Here’s how their cognitive functions (Ni — Fe — Ti) come into play:
1. Ni (Introverted Intuition): First, the INFJ’s Ni takes the lead. They start by gathering information. They dive into online research, scouring the internet and exploring various online forums to uncover potential applications, methods, or processes that can enhance their email management, leveraging their knack for seeking patterns and possibilities.
2. Fe (Extraverted Feeling): With valuable insights collected, the Fe function kicks in. The INFJ calls a team meeting, bringing together members to share their perspectives and input on how to tackle the email management issue. Their Fe enables them to create a harmonious atmosphere where everyone’s feelings and viewpoints are acknowledged, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration within the group.
3. Ti (Introverted Thinking): Finally, as the group discussions unfold, Ti enters the scene. This function assists Fe by analytically assessing the logical aspects of the proposed solutions. It aids in refining and finalizing the decision-making process by scrutinizing the facts and ensuring that the chosen solution is well-grounded and aligned with rational principles.
In this way, the INFJ effectively utilizes their cognitive function stack to tackle the email management problem, leveraging their intuition, empathy, and logical analysis to arrive at a well-considered and people-oriented solution.
The Inferior Function of INFJ
Lastly, there’s the inferior function of INFJ, Se. As illustrated above, Se is positioned in the backseat, making it the blind spot for INFJs. In MBTI terms, Se is associated with living in the moment, being attentive to sensory details, and having a strong orientation toward specifics.
For INFJs, living in the present moment can be challenging. They can manage it if they’re surrounded by individuals with an “S” dominant function stack who excel at this. In a favorable setting, INFJs might briefly savor living in the moment. However, at the end of the day, they naturally revert to their dominant Ni function, which pulls them toward broader patterns and insights.
During moments of their grip stress, because Se is their blind spot and under developed function, INFJs might employ it negatively. They may turn to immediate sensory comforts like binge-watching, excessive exercise, overeating, or impulsive shopping as a way to relieve stress.
In summary, this is how the INFJ’s mind operates. The dominant and auxiliary functions are integral to the daily life of an INFJ, much like the automatic act of breathing. This innate thinking process is an inherent part of your identity and cannot be altered.
If you’re interested in delving deeper into self-discovery, I recommend keeping a journal and reading it aloud. This practice allows you to introspect and determine if the characteristics mentioned here truly resonate with you. If they do, you can confidently identify yourself as an INFJ. Welcome to the world of the INFJ!