Question

As an INFJ to another, have you ever felt as if no one (including family) understood you as a kid, due to the way you presented yourself? Why?

Answer 1

Many INFJs report feeling misunderstood or different from others, including family members, during their childhood and even throughout their lives. There are a few reasons why this might happen:

1. Depth of Emotions: INFJs often experience emotions deeply and may have a complex inner world. This depth of emotions can be challenging for others, especially if they have a different personality type or struggle to understand the INFJ's emotional complexity.

2. Private Nature: INFJs are generally introverted and private individuals. They may not openly express their thoughts and feelings, making it harder for others to understand what's going on inside their minds.

3. Idealism: INFJs often have strong values and beliefs and may strive for a better world. This idealism might be difficult for others to relate to, especially if they have more practical or conventional perspectives.

4. Unique Perspective: INFJs have a rare personality type, making up a small percentage of the population. Their perspectives and ways of thinking can be quite different from the majority, leading to a sense of being misunderstood or alienated.

5. Complexity: INFJs tend to be complex individuals, blending intuition, feeling, and thinking in unique ways. Their multifaceted nature can be challenging for others to grasp fully.

6. Empathy: INFJs' strong empathetic abilities mean they may be attuned to the emotions and needs of others but may struggle to feel understood in return.

While feeling misunderstood can be challenging, it's important to remember that being an INFJ comes with many strengths as well. They often have a deep sense of compassion, creativity, and a unique ability to connect with others on a profound level.

If you are an INFJ or someone who feels misunderstood, it might be helpful to find like-minded individuals or communities where you can connect with others who share similar perspectives and experiences. Self-awareness and understanding your own needs and boundaries can also play a significant role in navigating relationships and feeling more understood by others. Counseling or therapy can also be beneficial for exploring these feelings and developing coping strategies.