Are you an INFP?
If you’re not sure, you might be surprised to learn that only 4.4% of the U.S. population shares your unique personality traits.
INFPs, also known as “Mediators,” possess a rare set of abilities that allow them to deeply understand emotions and the human experience. They are driven by strong principles and a desire to make the world a better place.
But what exactly makes an INFP? And how do they fit into the larger landscape of personality types?
In this article, we’ll explore the characteristics of an INFP and take a closer look at just how many people share this fascinating personality type.
So, whether you’re an INFP yourself or simply curious about this rare breed, read on to discover more about the world of Mediators.
How Many People Are INFP
As mentioned earlier, INFPs make up only 4.4% of the U.S. population. This means that out of every 100 people you meet, only four or five are likely to be INFPs.
But what exactly does it mean to be an INFP?
INFP stands for introverted, intuitive, feeling, and perceiving. These individuals are often described as idealists or mediators, as they possess a strong desire to help others and make the world a better place. They are driven by their principles and values, and often have a deep understanding of emotions and the human experience.
INFPs are also known for their creativity and ability to communicate effectively through art, writing, or other forms of media. However, they can also be shy and withdrawn if they do not find a way to express themselves.
What Is An INFP?
An INFP is a unique personality type identified by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test. They are introverted, meaning they direct their energy inward, and are highly intuitive, imaginative, and creative individuals. INFPs are feeling types, which means they make decisions based on their emotions and values. They are also perceiving types, which means they prefer to keep their options open and adapt to changes as they occur.
INFPs are often described as idealists or mediators, as they have a strong desire to help others and make the world a better place. They possess a rare set of abilities, including the power to understand emotions and the human experience. They are driven by their principles and values, which they do not compromise easily.
INFPs are highly empathetic and feel other people’s emotions deeply. They are loyal and caring individuals who value harmony and balance in their relationships. INFPs often have a strong sense of purpose in life and spend a lot of time exploring their own identity and how they fit into the world.
The Characteristics Of An INFP
INFPs are imaginative and guided by their own core values and beliefs. They have a remarkable sense of empathy and communication skills, which makes them ideal for creative or human service-oriented careers. They are deeply concerned with personal growth, both for themselves and others, and believe that everyone should find their own path in life.
Being introverted, INFPs tend to be quiet and reserved, preferring to interact with a select group of close friends rather than large crowds. They gain energy from spending time alone, but this does not mean they are shy. Instead, they can be quite outgoing when in the company of those they feel comfortable around.
INFPs rely on intuition and are more focused on the big picture than the details. They can be meticulous about things they care about or projects they are working on but tend to ignore mundane or boring details. Their decisions are more influenced by personal feelings than objective information, and they prefer to keep their options open when making decisions.
Loyal and devoted, INFPs are sensitive to the feelings of others and value close relationships. They enjoy exploring their own ideas and values and are encouraging to others to do the same. However, they can be overly idealistic and take everything personally, which can make it difficult for them to get to know others on a deeper level.
Famous INFPs And Their Impact
Famous INFPs have made a significant impact in various fields, including literature, music, art, and social activism. These individuals have used their unique perspective and creativity to inspire and influence others.
One notable INFP is J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Tolkien’s vivid imagination and love for language created a world of fantasy that has captivated readers for generations. His work has been adapted into successful films, and his influence can be seen in various forms of media.
Another famous INFP is Vincent Van Gogh, a post-impressionist painter who created some of the most iconic artworks in history. Despite his struggles with mental health, Van Gogh’s passion for art and his ability to convey emotions through his paintings continue to inspire artists today.
INFPs have also made significant contributions to social activism. Princess Diana was known for her philanthropic work and advocacy for various causes, including HIV/AIDS awareness and landmine removal. Her compassion and dedication to making a difference in the world continue to inspire people today.
Other notable INFPs include musician Kurt Cobain, writer Edgar Allan Poe, and philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau. Each of these individuals has left their mark on their respective fields and continues to influence future generations.
How INFPs Fit Into The MBTI Personality Types
According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), there are 16 personality types, and INFP is one of them. INFPs are part of the NF empath temperament, which also includes INFJ, ENFJ, and ENFP.
INFPs share some similarities with other personality types within this temperament, such as their idealistic nature and desire to help others. However, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.
For example, INFPs are introverted, meaning they tend to focus on their inner world and recharge by spending time alone. In contrast, ENFJs and ENFPs are extroverted and gain energy from being around others.
INFPs are also intuitive, meaning they rely on their intuition and imagination to understand the world around them. This is in contrast to sensing types, who rely on their five senses to gather information.
In terms of feeling versus thinking, INFPs are feeling types, meaning they make decisions based on their emotions and values. In contrast, thinking types rely on logic and reason when making decisions.
Finally, INFPs are perceiving types, meaning they prefer to stay open to new information and experiences rather than making quick judgments or decisions. This is in contrast to judging types, who prefer structure and organization.
The Rarity Of The INFP Personality Type
Despite their unique and valuable qualities, INFPs are one of the rarest personality types, making up only a small percentage of the population. According to data from the 16 Personalities Institute, INFPs make up just 4% of the general population.
Interestingly, there is a gender difference in the distribution of INFPs. Female INFPs are slightly more common than male INFPs, making up 5% of the female population and 4% of the male population. This means that out of every 100 people you meet, only one or two are likely to be male INFPs, while three or four are likely to be female INFPs.
In addition, INFPs are the 8th rarest personality type overall, according to Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) statistics. This rarity can make it difficult for INFPs to find others who understand them and share their values and interests.
Despite their rarity, however, INFPs have made significant contributions to society through their creativity, empathy, and dedication to helping others. And for those who identify as an INFP, knowing that they are part of a unique and valuable group can bring a sense of pride and belonging.
The Benefits And Challenges Of Being An INFP
Being an INFP comes with its own benefits and challenges. On one hand, INFPs are deeply caring individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others. They possess a strong sense of idealism and integrity, which allows them to be effective advocates for causes they believe in. Their creativity and ability to communicate effectively also make them valuable assets in any team or group setting.
However, being an INFP can also present some challenges. INFPs tend to be sensitive and may struggle with accepting disappointment or criticism. They may also have difficulty sharing about themselves or prioritizing their own needs over the needs of others. Additionally, their big-picture focus may cause them to overlook important details, which can be problematic in certain situations.
Despite these challenges, INFPs have many strengths that can help them succeed in both personal and professional settings. Their compassion, creativity, and dedication make them valuable team members, while their strong sense of ethics and values allow them to stand up for what they believe in. By learning to manage their blind spots and embrace their strengths, INFPs can make a positive impact on the world around them while also living fulfilling lives.
