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Understanding MBTI: INFJ – The Advocate

4th January 2024

Let us start with a very popular belief in the coaching community – as a coach, you must know more about your client than the challenges they are dealing with. For the uninformed, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator — The 16 Personality Types: The Definitive Guide does a great job of explaining how MBTI works.

If you’re doing exactly that and want to understand their personality type, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test can be a great tool to help you discover more about your client.

In this article, we will explore the INFJ personality type, also known as “The Advocate,” and discuss its key characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, subtypes, and some frequently asked questions.

In Brief : Understanding MBTI: INFJ – The Advocate

Key INFJ Characteristics

Introverted – As an INFJ, you prefer quiet and solitude, valuing deep connections over many acquaintances.
Intuitive – Trusting gut feelings and insights, you have a keen perception of people’s emotions and a strong sense of life’s purpose.
Feeling – Prioritizing emotions, you deeply care for others, seek relationship harmony, and easily empathize with people.
Judging – Inclined to plan and organize, you prefer order, clear plans, and demonstrate conscientiousness in achieving your goals.

INFJ Weaknesses

Sensitivity – INFJs, highly empathetic, may struggle with taking criticism personally, necessitating the development of a thicker skin.
Perfectionism – Setting high standards, INFJs may face self-criticism, requiring self-forgiveness and an acknowledgment that perfection is often unattainable.
Boundary-setting – Overwhelmed by others’ emotions, INFJs may find it challenging to establish boundaries, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their well-being and learning to say “no.”

INFJ Strengths

Vision and Inspiration – INFJs, driven by a strong sense of purpose, inspire others with a clear vision for positive change, often leading as natural motivators.
Empathy and Compassion – Deeply empathetic, INFJs offer profound emotional support, making them valued friends and caregivers who understand others’ perspectives.
Creativity and Idealism – INFJs are creative idealists, envisioning a better world and using their imagination to find innovative solutions for positive change.

What does INFJ stand for

INFJ stands for Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Judging. These are the four dimensions that make up the MBTI personality test. INFJs are known for their strong values, empathy, and ability to understand and connect with others on a deep level. INFJ is also the least common MBTI personality type, comprising only 1% to 3% of Americans.

If you learn better through visuals, here’s a good video to supplement this article and boost your understanding of the INFJ personality type:

Key INFJ Characteristics

1. Introverted

As an INFJ, you are an introverted type and prefer spending time alone or with a small group of close friends.

You recharge by being alone and introspecting. You may find large groups or social events overwhelming and exhausting, preferring instead to spend time in quiet and peaceful environments.

You value deep and meaningful connections, and you tend to have a few close friends rather than many acquaintances.

2. Intuitive

As an INFJ, you tend to rely on your intuition and trust your gut feelings and insights over logic and facts. You have a keen sense of perception and can often pick up on subtle cues that others may miss.

You have a deep understanding of people and their emotions, which allows you to empathize with them on a profound level. You often have a strong sense of purpose or mission in life, and you trust that your intuition will guide you in the right direction.

3. Feeling

INFJs are feeling types and prioritize emotions and values over objective analysis. You have a deep concern for the well-being of others and strive to create harmony and balance in your relationships.

You are attuned to the emotions of others and can often sense when someone is upset or in need of support. You have a strong sense of empathy and can easily put yourself in other people’s shoes.

4. Judging

As a judging type, INFJs like to plan, organize, and structure their environment. You have a strong need for order and predictability and may find it difficult to relax in chaotic or unpredictable situations.

You prefer to have a clear plan of action and may become stressed or overwhelmed when faced with too many options or too much uncertainty.

You are highly conscientious and responsible, and you take your commitments seriously. You have a strong sense of purpose and direction in life and are driven to achieve your goals.

INFJ Weaknesses

1. Sensitivity

One of the biggest weaknesses of INFJs is their tendency to take things personally. Due to their highly empathetic nature, INFJs can easily become hurt by criticism or conflict.

They may take things to heart and feel deeply affected by the negative opinions or actions of others. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and even depression.

To address this weakness, INFJs may need to work on developing a thicker skin and learning to not take everything personally.

2. Perfectionism

INFJs also tend to be perfectionistic and can struggle with self-criticism. They set high standards for themselves and may become overly critical when they fail to meet these expectations.

This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. INFJs may also struggle to delegate tasks or ask for help, as they may feel that they are the only ones who can do things “right”.

To address this weakness, INFJs may need to learn to be more forgiving of themselves and to recognize that perfection is often an unattainable goal.

3. Boundary-setting

INFJs can become overwhelmed by the emotions of others and may struggle to establish boundaries. They are highly empathetic and may feel responsible for the emotional well-being of those around them.

This can lead to taking on too much emotional labour and neglecting their own needs. INFJs may also find it difficult to say “no” to others, as they do not want to disappoint or hurt anyone.

To address this weakness, INFJs may need to learn to establish clear boundaries and prioritize their emotional well-being. They may need to practice saying “no” and learning to delegate emotional labour to others.

INFJ Strengths

INFJs have many strengths that make them valuable in both personal and professional relationships. We’ve listed a few down below.

1. Vision and Inspiration

INFJs have a strong sense of purpose and passion for their values, which allows them to inspire and motivate others.

They have a deep understanding of the needs and desires of those around them and can articulate a clear vision for a better future.

They are often natural leaders, able to rally others around a cause and inspire them to take action. INFJs are driven by a strong sense of purpose and can channel their energy into creating positive change in the world.

2. Empathy and Compassion

INFJs are deeply empathetic and compassionate, often putting themselves in other people’s shoes to understand their perspectives. They have a deep understanding of human emotions and can connect with others on a profound level.

INFJs are often able to provide comfort and support to those in need and are skilled at helping others navigate difficult emotional situations. Their empathy and compassion make them valued friends, partners, and caregivers.

3. Creativity and Idealism

INFJs are also creative and idealistic, able to envision a better world and work towards making it a reality. They are often drawn to artistic or humanitarian pursuits and may use their creativity to express their values and inspire others.

INFJs have a strong imagination and can see beyond the present to a future that is more just and equitable. Their idealism fuels their passion for creating positive change in the world, and they are often able to find innovative solutions to complex problems.

INFJ Subtypes

INFJs have four cognitive functions: dominant, auxiliary, tertiary, and inferior. Understanding these functions can help you understand your own strengths and weaknesses as an INFJ.

Dominant: Introverted Intuition

INFJs have a strong sense of intuition, allowing them to see patterns and connections in the world around them.

Auxiliary: Extraverted Feeling

INFJs are also very empathetic and attuned to the emotions of others, allowing them to connect deeply with others and create strong relationships.

Tertiary: Introverted Thinking

INFJs also have a strong sense of logic and reasoning, which allows them to analyze and understand complex ideas and concepts.

Inferior: Extraverted Sensing

Extraverted Sensing – INFJs can struggle with being present at the moment and may struggle with practical tasks that require attention to detail.

Bonus: MBTI test

By understanding their clients’ MBTI types, coaches can tailor their coaching approach to better suit their client’s needs and communication styles.

For example, an INFJ client may prefer a coaching approach that emphasizes empathy and emotional support, while an ESTP client may prefer a more action-oriented and results-driven approach.

Additionally, the MBTI test can help coaches identify potential areas of challenge or growth for their clients, such as managing stress or developing leadership skills.

By incorporating the MBTI test into their coaching practice, coaches can provide a more personalized and effective coaching experience for their clients, and help them achieve their personal and professional goals.
If you’re convinced that the MBTI test can be helpful, here’s a reliable test to help you get started.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the INFJ personality type can help individuals recognize their strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of others around them. INFJs are introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging individuals who value empathy, compassion, and creativity.

They have a deep sense of purpose and passion for their values and can inspire and motivate others towards positive change.

However, they may also struggle with sensitivity, perfectionism, and boundary-setting. By recognizing these traits, INFJs can work towards leveraging their strengths and addressing their weaknesses.

Understanding the INFJ personality type can also help individuals develop better relationships with INFJs in their personal and professional lives, and appreciate the unique perspectives they bring to the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an INFJ personality?

An INFJ personality is introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging. INFJs are known for their empathy, creativity, and strong sense of purpose and values.

What jobs are good for INFJ personality types?

INFJs thrive in careers that allow them to make a positive difference in the world. Some good career options for INFJs include counseling, social work, writing, teaching, and psychology.

Who is INFJ most compatible with?

INFJs are most compatible with other personality types who share their values and vision for the world. They are often drawn to partners who are supportive, empathetic, and able to connect with them on a deep emotional level. ENFPs, ENFJs, and INFPs are often considered good matches for INFJ. However, it is important to note that compatibility is highly individual.

Further Resources:

Dive into the detailed characteristics of ISTJ personalities, known for their practicality and organizational skills, with valuable insights for personal and professional development: MBTI ISTJ Personality.
Explore the analytical and independent traits of ISTP individuals in this comprehensive guide, offering insights into their problem-solving approach and unique perspectives: MBTI ISTP Personality.
Discover the nurturing and empathetic qualities of ISFJ personalities, characterized by their focus on harmony and support, in this insightful exploration: MBTI ISFJ Personality.
Uncover the intellectual and creative aspects of INTP personalities, known for their logical thinking and innovative ideas, through this in-depth analysis: MBTI INTP Personality.
Explore the energetic and adaptable traits of ESTP individuals, often described as dynamic and action-oriented, in this comprehensive examination: MBTI ESTP Paersonality.
Gain insights into the strong leadership and organizational skills of ESTJ personalities, known for their practical approach and decision-making prowess: MBTI ESTJ Personality.
Discover the lively and spontaneous characteristics of ESFP individuals, celebrated for their social energy and enthusiasm, through this engaging guide: MBTI ESFP Personality.
Delve into the sociable and supportive qualities of ESFJ personalities, recognized for their people-centric approach and warm-hearted nature: MBTI ESFJ Personality.
Explore the innovative and passionate nature of ENFP personalities, known for their creativity and curiosity, in this insightful analysis: MBTI ENFP Personality.
Gain a deeper understanding of the charismatic and empathetic qualities of ENFJ individuals, often described as natural leaders and communicators: MBTI ENFJ Personality.
Delve into the traits and tendencies of ENTJ personalities, characterized by their strategic thinking and decisive leadership, in this comprehensive exploration: MBTI ENTJ Personality.
Explore the artistic and adaptable characteristics of ISFP individuals, known for their sensitivity and aesthetic appreciation, in this insightful guide: MBTI ISFP Personality.
Uncover the idealistic and creative aspects of INFP personalities, known for their authenticity and passion, in this in-depth exploration: MBTI INFP Personality.
Gain insights into the strategic and analytical nature of INTJ personalities, recognized for their vision and problem-solving skills, through this comprehensive guide: MBTI INTJ Personality.

ABOUT SAI BLACKBYRN

I’m Sai Blackbyrn, better known as “The Coach’s Mentor.” I help Coaches like you establish their business online. My system is simple: close more clients at higher fees. You can take advantage of technology, and use it as a catalyst to grow your coaching business in a matter of weeks; not months, not years. It’s easier than you think.