INFJs are complicated and amazing people. We are so different from others that sometimes we get wrapped up in focusing on those differences instead of focusing on ourselves and seeing the advantages that we have.
With the good, there is also some not so good. Every personality type has areas that they aren’t as strong in and things that they need to work on. We are no different. Let’s take a look at our strengths and weaknesses.
INFJ Strengths
Insightful
INFJs have an amazing intuition that is active all of the time. It operates without us even realizing what is happening. We analyze things in the background of our minds and come to conclusions about people and things very quickly. We can see right through people very soon after meeting them because of this. Manipulation and lies don’t work on us most of the time.
We see how things are connected and can sort through problems very quickly as well. We use our insight so see exactly what’s going on and find creative and efficient ways to fix problems.
Creative
Our creative imagination helps us to solve problems of all kinds. We can see systems as work and analyze them for efficiency and effectiveness.
We can also solve human problems like communication and misunderstandings. We are great at learning the communication style of those around us and being able to understand what they are saying and what they aren’t saying as well. Then we can interpret it for others to resolve issues.
Helpful
Most INFJs are very skilled at understanding the needs of those around them and striving to do whatever they can to help them. We generally have years of practice in this area. We can also use our intuition to pick up on their needs.
Understanding
INFJs have an amazing ability to understand all different kinds of personality types. We are natural empaths who understand things that we have not even experienced ourselves. We can feel the feelings of those close to us. This unique ability helps us to relate to them and literally feel their pain.
Inspiring
Because we relate so well to others we can easily determine what they need and how to motivate them. We are amazing at connecting with people in this way especially if we are speaking about something that we enjoy and are passionate about. It shines through in our words.
Determined
When an INFJ sets their mind to do something they will pursue it with a passion and determination that will astonish even their closest friends. We are not afraid to dream big dreams and put in the work to accomplish them. INFJs are also not afraid to stand up for what they believe in. This doesn’t always sit well with those around us, but we rarely let that hold us back.
INFJ Weaknesses
Sensitive
Whether we like to admit it or not, INFJs are extremely sensitive. We take words straight to heart, especially criticism. We are quick to shut down in the face of conflict just to process what we are thinking and feeling. When we are pushed too far our reaction can be very uncharacteristic of our normal personality. Our responses can be sharp and brutal as a result of an attack on our values.
Private
INFJs are extremely private. We have very strong and deep emotions that we do not like to share with others. We protect these things fiercely in order to protect ourselves. It takes us a while to open up to new people. It’s a long and complicated process getting to know new people.
Perfectionistic
We like things to be perfect. We spend a lot of time in our heads imagining the perfect future down to the smallest detail. When reality doesn’t match up to that vision it can be hard for us to deal with.
We also get stuck in planning mode. We don’t want to start a project until we have it perfectly planned out and know exactly how it will turn out. This tendency leaves us with lots of plans and not nearly as many actions.
Need lots of alone time
As empaths, INFJs soak up the feelings and emotions of those around them. We take on all of these things as well as our own. The way that we process all of this is by spending time alone. We chose to spend a lot of time alone.
All of this alone time can lead to broken friendships, leaving the INFJ completely alone, if they are not careful.
At the end of the day…
Although we can’t necessarily choose our personality I know that I am happy to be INFJ. I love that we can see these strengths and weaknesses and figure out how to make the most out of all of them. We may not have chosen to be INFJ, but we can certainly embrace and celebrate it!
