It's completely normal to feel torn between two personality types, especially when they both resonate with you in different ways. Both INFP (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Perceiving) and INFJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) are beautiful personality types with unique strengths and qualities. Remember that these personality types are just general frameworks and that every individual is unique, so don't feel pressured to fit perfectly into one category.
To gain better clarity, consider exploring the key differences between INFP and INFJ:
Dominant Function:
- INFP: Fi (Introverted Feeling) - Emphasizes internal values, authenticity, and individuality.
- INFJ: Ni (Introverted Intuition) - Focuses on insights, patterns, and understanding the deeper meaning behind things.
Auxiliary Function:
- INFP: Ne (Extraverted Intuition) - Seeks new possibilities and connections, curious and open-minded.
- INFJ: Fe (Extraverted Feeling) - Values harmony, empathetic, and attuned to the emotions of others.
Tertiary Function:
- INFP: Si (Introverted Sensing) - Appreciates familiarity and draws on past experiences.
- INFJ: Ti (Introverted Thinking) - Analyzes information and seeks logical coherence.
Inferior Function:
- INFP: Te (Extraverted Thinking) - Struggles with organizing and implementing ideas in the external world.
- INFJ: Se (Extraverted Sensing) - May struggle with being present-focused and practical matters.
To help you determine which type aligns more closely with your personality, consider reflecting on the following questions:
How do you handle emotions and decision-making? Are you more focused on your internal values and individuality (INFP), or do you prioritize empathy and understanding others' emotions (INFJ)?
How do you approach new situations? Are you naturally curious and open-minded, seeking new possibilities (INFP), or do you tend to look for patterns and deeper meanings (INFJ)?
How do you handle practical matters? Do you find it challenging to organize and implement ideas in the external world (INFP), or do you struggle with being present-focused and practical matters (INFJ)?
What role does logic and rationality play in your decision-making? Are you more inclined to analyze information and seek logical coherence (INFJ), or do you sometimes feel that practicality and logic may not be your strongest suit (INFP)?
Remember that personality typing is a tool for self-awareness and understanding, not a strict label. It's okay to see yourself as having traits from both types. If you find that you strongly resonate with aspects of both INFP and INFJ, you might consider identifying as an ambivert or explore other personality frameworks that allow for more flexibility.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to embrace your unique qualities and recognize that you don't have to fit perfectly into any specific personality type. Embrace the complexity of your personality and focus on personal growth and self-awareness. If you feel that your self-exploration is still challenging, consider discussing your feelings with a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support on your journey of self-discovery.