Have you ever felt like you’re just a little different? Like you don’t quite fit into any of the typical personality boxes people often find themselves in?
Well, you might be an INFJ, the world’s rarest personality type.
Being an INFJ is unique, and often comes with a set of traits that set us apart. It’s not always easy to identify these characteristics within ourselves, but there are certain signs to look out for.
Let’s dive into the 9 signs that you’re an INFJ, the world’s rarest personality type.
1) Deeply introspective
Have you ever found yourself getting lost in your own thoughts?
Being an INFJ means you’re often deep in thought, probing into the whys and hows of life. This introspective nature is a key characteristic that sets us apart from others.
We INFJs are known for our ability to dive deep into our minds, constantly analyzing our feelings, thoughts, and ideas. This internal exploration often leads to profound insights and understandings about ourselves and the world around us.
But remember, while this depth of thought gives us a unique perspective, it can also make us feel isolated or misunderstood at times. Don’t worry, it’s just a part of being the world’s rarest personality type.
2) Empathy overload
Have you ever felt like you just understand people, sometimes even more than they understand themselves?
Let me share a personal experience. I was once at a gathering with friends when one of them seemed particularly out of sorts. While everyone else shrugged it off as him just being tired, I could sense there was something deeper troubling him. Turns out, he was going through a tough breakup that he hadn’t shared with anyone yet.
This is a typical INFJ experience. Our empathetic nature often allows us to tune into the emotions and feelings of those around us, sometimes even before they’ve fully acknowledged these feelings themselves.
Our high emotional intelligence and intuitive nature can make us acutely aware of the emotions in our environment, making us excellent confidants and advisors. But it can also be emotionally draining at times, so it’s important for INFJs to remember to take care of their own emotional needs as well.
3) Love for solitude
Do you find yourself craving solitude, even after spending time with people you enjoy?
INFJs are often dubbed as social introverts. We can enjoy the company of others, but we also need our alone time to recharge. This is because, while we can appear extroverted at times, we’re still introverts at heart.
Interestingly, according to the Myers-Briggs Foundation, INFJs are the only personality type that switches between wanting to be around people and needing to be alone. We value our alone time to reflect on our thoughts and feelings, often coming up with creative ideas or insights during these solitary moments.
If you often find yourself needing to retreat into your own space after social interactions, you might just be an INFJ.
4) Idealistic visionaries
Are you someone who often dreams of a better world?
As an INFJ, I often find myself envisioning how things could be, in an ideal world. We INFJs are known for our visionary thinking, our ability to imagine and aspire for a kinder, more harmonious world.
We don’t just dream, though. We also have the determination and drive to turn these visions into reality. We’re often drawn to careers that allow us to make a meaningful impact on the world and people’s lives.
However, our idealistic nature can sometimes lead to disappointment when reality falls short of our expectations. But remember, it’s our vision and drive that can inspire change and make a real difference.
5) Highly intuitive
Ever had a gut feeling about something, and it turned out to be right?
INFJs are known for their strong intuition. We often have a knack for picking up on patterns and making connections that others might miss. This intuition is almost like a sixth sense, guiding us in our decisions and understanding of the world around us.
We tend to trust our instincts, relying on our inner feelings and insights rather than just cold, hard facts. This intuitive nature helps us in understanding complex situations and navigating social interactions.
However, our reliance on intuition can sometimes be misunderstood by others as being irrational or impulsive. But for us INFJs, it’s just part of how we perceive and interact with the world.
6) Sensitive souls
Do you often find yourself deeply moved by art, music, or even a heartfelt conversation?
As INFJs, we have sensitive souls. We feel things deeply and are often touched by the beauty and pain we see in the world. A piece of music, a novel, or even a simple act of kindness can stir profound emotions within us.
This sensitivity allows us to appreciate life’s intricacies and empathize deeply with others. It makes us compassionate and understanding, enabling us to connect with people on a meaningful level.
However, this depth of feeling can also make us vulnerable. We might get hurt easily or feel overwhelmed by negative events. But remember, it’s this same sensitivity that allows us to experience life so richly and form deep, meaningful connections.
7) Perfectionist tendencies
Have you ever spent hours perfecting a task, even when others would have considered it done?
I recall working on a project once, pouring over every detail, revising and refining repeatedly. While others were content with the ‘good enough’, I strive for the ‘best possible’. This drive for perfection is a common trait among INFJs.
We INFJs are often our own harshest critics. We set high standards for ourselves and work tirelessly to meet them. Our meticulous nature ensures that we’re thorough and detail-oriented in everything we do.
However, this relentless pursuit of perfection can sometimes lead to unnecessary stress or feelings of dissatisfaction. It’s important for us to remember that sometimes, good enough is indeed good enough.
8) Natural nurturers
Are you often the one your friends turn to for advice or comfort?
As INFJs, we have a natural inclination to nurture and care for others. Our empathetic nature and intuitive understanding of people make us excellent listeners and counselors.
We derive great satisfaction from helping people, understanding their problems, and guiding them towards solutions. We are often drawn to roles that allow us to utilize these caregiving tendencies, such as teaching, counseling, or social work.
However, our desire to help others can sometimes lead us to neglect our own needs. It’s crucial for us INFJs to remember to care for ourselves too, ensuring our own emotional well-being while we care for others.
9) Value authenticity
Do you crave genuine connections and value authenticity above all else?
As INFJs, we have a deep need for authenticity in our lives. We value honesty and sincerity, both in ourselves and in others. We are drawn to people who are genuine and true to themselves, and we strive to be the same.
We detest pretense and can easily see through insincere behavior. We believe in being true to ourselves and our values, even if it means standing apart from the crowd.
This commitment to authenticity shapes our relationships, our choices, and ultimately, our lives. It is perhaps one of the most defining characteristics of being an INFJ.
Embracing your uniqueness
The journey of self-discovery and understanding is a continuous and ever-evolving process.
Being an INFJ, the world’s rarest personality type, comes with its own unique set of traits and challenges. From our deep empathy and intuition to our love for solitude and authenticity, each aspect of our personality shapes our worldview and interactions.
Carl Jung, the renowned Swiss psychiatrist who gave us the concept of introversion and extraversion, once said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are”. Embracing our INFJ nature is a significant step towards becoming our authentic selves.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong personality type. Each one has its strengths and areas for growth. The most important thing is to understand yourself better, accept who you are, and harness your natural abilities to lead a fulfilling life.
As an INFJ, you are part of a rare group who possess a unique blend of characteristics – a combination that allows you to perceive the world in a deep, empathetic, and insightful way. So embrace your rarity, it’s what makes you uniquely you.
