I can offer some general insights into why this could be the case for some INFJs:
Individual Differences: While INFJs are often known for their empathetic and intuitive abilities, there is a wide range of individual differences within each personality type. Not all INFJs will possess the same level of skill in reading people, as various factors can influence this ability, such as life experiences, upbringing, and personal development.
Lack of Experience: Reading people effectively often comes with practice and exposure to various social situations. If you haven't had many opportunities to interact with different types of people or haven't actively focused on developing this skill, it's natural not to feel entirely proficient in it.
Overwhelmed by Empathy: INFJs are highly empathetic individuals, and sometimes, this sensitivity can be overwhelming. Being so attuned to others' emotions might make it challenging to differentiate between their feelings and your own, which could affect your ability to read them accurately.
Boundaries and Self-Protection: In some cases, INFJs may develop strong boundaries as a way to protect themselves from being emotionally overwhelmed by others' feelings. While this is a helpful coping mechanism, it might lead to a reduced ability to read people on a more profound emotional level.
Cognitive Bias: Like everyone else, INFJs can be susceptible to cognitive biases, which might influence their interpretations of others' behaviors or emotions.
Non-Verbal Communication Difficulties: Reading people often involves picking up on non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. Some individuals, regardless of their personality type, might struggle with recognizing or interpreting these cues effectively.
Focus on Introspection: INFJs have a strong inner world and often spend a lot of time introspecting and exploring their own thoughts and emotions. This focus on their internal world might occasionally take precedence over observing and analyzing external cues from others.
If you find that your difficulty in reading people is causing significant challenges in your relationships or daily life, it could be beneficial to work on developing your social and emotional intelligence. This could involve seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor, practicing active listening, studying non-verbal communication, and engaging in more social interactions to gain experience.
Remember that being an INFJ is just one aspect of your personality, and you are a complex individual with a unique combination of traits and experiences. Embrace your strengths, acknowledge areas for growth, and continue on your journey of personal development and self-awareness.