Understanding yourself can be a complex puzzle. Especially when it comes to diving into the depths of your personality type.
If you’ve ever felt different, like you don’t quite fit the mold, you might just be an INFJ – the rarest of all personality types.
Being an INFJ means having a unique combination of qualities that set you apart from the crowd. It’s not always obvious, but there are distinct signs that can help you identify if you belong to this exceptional group.
In this article, I will guide you through 9 tell-tale signs that you’re an INFJ. If these resonate with you, congratulations – you’re part of an exclusive club!
Ready to embark on this self-exploration journey?
Let’s get started!
1) You’re introspective and intuitive
Diving into the world of INFJs, one thing stands out – their remarkable capacity for introspection and intuition.
Unlike many personality types who rely heavily on what they can see, touch, or hear, INFJs are driven by their inner world. They have an uncanny ability to understand the underlying motivations and emotions of others, often before people are aware of them themselves.
This introspective nature is coupled with a strong sense of intuition. INFJs often feel things deeply and can predict outcomes or understand complex situations without needing tangible evidence. It’s like they have a sixth sense that guides them through life.
If you frequently find yourself in deep thought or being able to ‘read’ others effortlessly, this could be a sign that you’re an INFJ. But remember, being an INFJ isn’t just about one trait. Let’s delve into more signs to give you a fuller picture.
2) You crave meaningful connections
Now, let’s talk about relationships. As an INFJ, I’ve always felt a deep desire for meaningful connections.
Surface-level interactions and small talk? They’ve never been my thing.
I remember when I was at a party full of people I barely knew. Everyone was chatting away, but all the conversations felt so… shallow. It wasn’t long before I found myself slipping away to a quiet corner, seeking solace in the solitude.
That’s because as an INFJ, we crave authenticity. We yearn for deep, meaningful conversations that go beyond the weather or latest trends. We want to know what makes people tick, their dreams, fears, and passions.
3) You’re driven by a sense of purpose
INFJs aren’t just dreamers, they’re doers. They feel a strong need to make a difference in the world and are often driven by a sense of purpose. This isn’t about climbing the corporate ladder or seeking fame. No, it’s about making a positive impact on the world and the lives of those around them.
Did you know that many INFJs are drawn to careers in counseling, writing, and the arts? These fields allow them to express their creativity, empathetic nature, and desire to help others in meaningful ways.
Do you find yourself motivated more by humanitarian goals than material rewards? This could indicate that you are part of this unique personality type. But remember, we still have more signs to consider before drawing any conclusions.
4) You value privacy
INFJs are private creatures. They value their personal space and often keep their thoughts, feelings, and experiences to themselves. This isn’t because they’re secretive or have something to hide, but because they prefer to process things internally before sharing them with others.
As an INFJ, you might find it difficult to open up and share your innermost thoughts and feelings, even with those closest to you. You might also need a considerable amount of alone time to recharge and reflect.
5) You’re highly sensitive
Sensitivity is another characteristic that is often associated with INFJs. They feel things deeply and are affected by the moods and emotions of those around them. This sensitivity extends to their environment as well, with INFJs often being affected by things like noise, smells, or a chaotic environment.
This heightened sensitivity can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it allows INFJs to be empathetic and understand others on a deep level. On the other hand, it can make them susceptible to feeling overwhelmed or drained, particularly in highly stimulating environments.
If you often find yourself deeply moved by art, music or personal stories, or if you’re easily affected by your surroundings, this could be another sign of being an INFJ. But don’t jump to conclusions just yet – we have more signs to uncover.
6) You often feel misunderstood
Feeling misunderstood is a common experience for many INFJs. Given their unique combination of traits – introspective, intuitive, driven by purpose, private, and sensitive – it’s not uncommon for INFJs to feel like they don’t quite fit in.
As an INFJ, you might often feel like an outsider looking in, unable to bridge the gap between your inner world and the world around you. You may find it difficult to explain your thoughts and feelings to others, making you feel isolated or misunderstood.
While it can be challenging to feel out of sync with those around you, remember that your unique perspective is a gift. It allows you to see the world in a way that others may not, and this can be incredibly valuable.
7) You have a complex inner world
One thing I’ve noticed about myself is that my mind never seems to rest. As an INFJ, I often find myself lost in thoughts, daydreams, and reflections. It’s as if there’s a whole universe inside my head, brimming with ideas, questions, and possibilities.
I remember sitting in a busy café once, surrounded by the hum of conversation and clatter of cups. But in my mind, I was exploring the meaning of life, pondering over a book I’d read recently, and contemplating a creative project I wanted to start.
This rich inner world is a common trait among INFJs. If you often find yourself caught up in your thoughts and imagination, you could be an INFJ. But hold on – we have a couple more signs to discuss.
8) You’re a perfectionist
INFJs are often perfectionists. They have high standards for themselves and others, and they strive for excellence in everything they do. Whether it’s in their work, relationships, or personal endeavors, INFJs are rarely satisfied with ‘good enough.’
This drive towards perfection can lead to great achievements.
However, it can also lead to stress and burnout if INFJs don’t learn to balance their high standards with self-care and realistic expectations.
9) You’re often seen as wise beyond your years
Lastly, INFJs are often seen as old souls. They possess a depth of understanding and wisdom that seems beyond their years. This comes from their ability to see things from different perspectives, their introspective nature, and their keen interest in understanding the human condition.
People often turn to INFJs for advice or guidance, drawn by their empathetic listening and insightful responses. If you’ve frequently been told that you seem wise beyond your years, it could be the ultimate sign that you’re an INFJ.
A journey of self-discovery
Delving into the world of personality types, particularly the rare INFJ, is akin to embarking on a journey of self-discovery. It’s about understanding and embracing the unique qualities that make you who you are.
As Carl Jung, the founder of analytical psychology and the pioneer of personality types once said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” And for INFJs, this means recognizing and honoring their introspective nature, deep sensitivity, desire for meaningful connections, and their complex inner world.
The road to self-understanding isn’t always easy. There might be moments when you feel misunderstood or out of sync with the world around you. But remember, being an INFJ is a unique gift.
Your ability to empathize with others, see the world from different perspectives, and your drive to make a difference are traits that make you exceptional.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
