INFP personalities's topics - tribe.net

How were you sure they were THE ONE?

Mary — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 18:58:39 GMT

This isn't really intended to be a follow up to my last query about my relationship with my boyfriend, but it does have something to do with it I guess.

For those of you INFPs who are married, how did you know it was the right time and place to get married? How did you feel about your partner at the time of marriage and did you feel any certainty about whether they were the one you were meant to be with forever?

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

Numbness / Depression / Creativity

jake — Sat, 10 May 2008 00:48:27 GMT

I swing to and from these states with little or no control. It seems to make no difference whether I am physically healthy and in a 'good' frame of mind or taking drugs and trying to force certain moods. I often obsess over perfection, in every aspect of my life (except time management!) like attempting to provide the perfect conversation, cook a perfect meal, write the perfect music. Obviously, this is extremely difficult because I find perfection to be subjective and therefore a bit of a headache when it comes to treating other people perfectly... for instance, in a group of people I am shy but I feel a huge responsibility to keep the general mood happy. I find myself constantly weighing positives and negatives, to find the best outcome across the board. I have a huge problem with love. I love everyone. Even if I hate them, I still empathise to an almost intolerable extent. Sometimes all of this leaves me feeling hollow and disembodied, like I am watching myself in a movie. I know rant, rant, rant. Sorry :) Everything just fits together for me, most of the time... (unless it's mathematics)... because I just feel it. People rarely believe me and I find this irritating but I can understand why. I have tried very, very hard to rationalize my creativity and my feelings and feel I have come to a sort of middle ground where I can switch off if I am in danger of hurting myself. Unfortunately this seems to be most of the time.

If you read all of that you're probably pretty bored by now :) I was just wondering if anyone else Identifies or if they would just like one of those smiles that we all seem to share with soul-piercing eyes! I love other infps but our morals are always so different... what a shame!

posted in INFP personalities - 7 replies

OBAMA...INFP?

Barton F1nk — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 00:35:56 GMT

Well, has anyone pegged him yet? Obviously an Idealist personality type...and most anecdotal evidence suggests a "contemplative" introverted temperament. So it's either P o J, and while J would probably be favorable to any presidential candidate, his continued emphasis on open-mindedness and transcendence over bi-partisanship makes me think he might be a very gifted P.

What do you think?

posted in INFP personalities - 29 replies

The Empathy Test

JW — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 17:57:29 GMT

Do you ever find yourself telling people about bad experiences to see how they will react? I do that habitually with potential or actual friends (though I'm not sure I have any of those now). It has more to do with Enneagram type probably, but reacting badly to a lack of empathy is relevant here. Many, or most, of my fallings-out with people have involved their not being empathic toward me. It usually comes as a shock. This observation I give to the world for comment.

posted in INFP personalities - 21 replies

infp/intp mood swings?

libramoon — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 06:36:23 GMT

On closer inspection, what I had formerly labelled mood swings seems to be a periodic switch between f and t functions. Apparently in the "f" mode I eventually become overwhelmed with feeling and retreat into a "t" mode, which seems to work out for me just fine. So, I guess my normal default mode must be feeling. Does anyone else here resemble this syndrome?

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

Two INFPs together

webbedmonkey — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 08:03:45 GMT

What do people think of two INFPs being romantically linked? Do you think this would be a good thing as you could hopefully deeply understand each other? Or is it just asking for trouble? Has anyone ever been in this situation? Thoughts...

posted in INFP personalities - 4 replies

"Fun" Relationships

JW — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:01:31 GMT

I have the bias of feeling like INFPs are on a higher plane. I won't deny it - if there are different planes, ours fly near the top :) That makes it all the more baffling to me that people who share my personality type exhibit (IMO) the same, frequent poor choices in relationships other types make. At the same time, it makes me feel like my idea of a relationship is abnormal.

First of all, I've noticed that some deep people don't seem to care very much about talking in relationships.

What's the point? I think of relationships as accomplishing something together, maybe in part because I seem unable to accomplish much on my own, and because to do something good for the world is everything to me. If there's little talking, then people wouldn't seem to be contributing to each other's accomplishments.

I hope that someone with a semblance of my personality wouldn't be going for relationships just for sex and other "fun" - getting drunk, for example. I hope I'm not the only person who has never gone out of his way for that kind of fun. There are activities I enjoy with other people, that I hesitate to do without a partner, but I don't miss them so much as to want "someone" just for the sake of activities.

There are INFPs who crave "security" from relationships, maybe to feel like part of a family (poor relations with family of origin), to build a family, maybe even from fear of being alone for just short lengths of time. It's appealing to part of me. But I doubt that many would go for just that. The heart has to be into it.

Could it be easier to introvert (used as a verb) and not miss conversation because it risks criticism and conflict? As likely as I would be to busy myself with my own mission, I think I would feel bored and very lonely if I were with someone and not having deep conversations.

Explain it all to me, please.

posted in INFP personalities - 7 replies

Are you prone to social causes?

rax_infp — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:14:35 GMT

Does your INFP-ness make you more prone to emotional turmoil when subjects like Tibet, or GLBT rights, or the trees in Berkeley are discussed?

I feel the need to atleast stand up in support and be counted, to peacefully/gracefully protest human rights violation or natural destruction.
I try to research the subject and be more informed, and dare I say, take a thinker's/logical approach, but I always end up going with what my gut feel/emotion says.

Am I an INFP looking for a cause?

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

Advice you'd give to your younger self

ockham — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 07:21:45 GMT

Currently 37. This is the advice I would give my myself at age:

18 - There are over 18 dance clubs. Start dancing now instead of waiting 3 more years.

20 - Read Rich Dad, Poor Dad and Cash Flow Quadrant.

24 - Start 1st year of kungfu instead of doing 4th year of aikido. Start taking lindy lessons instead of east coast swing.

25 - Start putting money in an IRA now instead of waiting another 6 years. Pay off all credit cards on time no matter what because saving half a percent on your mortgage is a very big deal.

27 - Turn all paycheck over to wife and let her handle the finances. Start cash only budget now.

34 - Start adoption paperwork on 2nd daughter right away because the wait is going to be really, really, really, really long. Quit procrastination on the journal to your 1st daughter.

That's pretty much it. Just small advice that I would have understood back then that would have made a big difference in my life as I would know it today.

posted in INFP personalities - 20 replies

What job do you hold?

blackegg — Tue, 11 Oct 2005 14:50:46 GMT

Just wondering what jobs some of you have found fulfilling.
or etc.

posted in INFP personalities - 113 replies

What's the Most Fulfilling Job You Ever Had?

Honeylet — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 15:34:20 GMT

IT pro, doc, nurse, PT, psychologist, stock/real estate broker, graphic artist?

posted in INFP personalities - 19 replies

What are you listening to?

rax_infp — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:08:35 GMT

I thought I'd start a thread for people to share what they're listening to.

I heard a nice song called "new soul" by Yael Naim (the macbook air song), and this week another one of her songs(far far) is free on itunes.

Anyone who uses lyrics like "how can you stay outside? there's a beautiful mess inside" gets five stars in my book.

posted in INFP personalities - 9 replies

Do you have close friends?

therose — Wed, 04 Jan 2006 06:34:44 GMT

I ask because looking back on at my life from now all the way back to babyhood (yes, I remember being a baby :)) I never had any close friends. Every time there is a problem in my life, I am so used to dealing with it on my own, I always find it odd that people actually (gasp!) have someone they can call when the going gets tough.

I have acquainces, divorced, had another long-term relationship, but never a close friend. Is that typical with "us"or am I just the only one?

posted in INFP personalities - 30 replies

Overconfidence in Assessing People

JW — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:47:30 GMT

I was thinking of a related topic, but I doubt it would have gotten many responses and this goes to the heart of the issue. I probably make too many assumptions about individuals. I look at them, and I "know" if they are interesting or not. I talk to them (if I talk to them) and don't ask questions or don't offer much about myself. You might rightly infer from my withholding that most of my assessments are negative and that I worry about being hurt. And that I'm left lonely. The issue is on my mind because I recently met an interesting person whom I might have written off based on just appearance and chit-chat. Don't misunderstand - I do believe my ability to read people would prove good if there were a test for it and that I (partly because of INFP type) don't have enough in common with most people to invest much effort by default, but maybe I should second-guess myself more. I was about to post without the question, assuming again - Can you relate to what I've described?

posted in INFP personalities - 10 replies

a procrastinating infp

Róisín — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:13:35 GMT

just wondered if it's a typical infp thing to be a terminal procrastinator? i have an undergrad dissertation due in 4 weeks...yikes! just cant seem to get it together and put in the hours. does anyone else find themselves in similar situations? i'd love to hear from anyone whose found a way of breaking this habit.

posted in INFP personalities - 4 replies

Introvertedness and alcohol

Ursyoola — Mon, 26 Jul 2004 16:25:12 GMT

I was always shy and introverted (not the same thing, I know).

However, during my junior year in college (I was in England, so drinking was legal) I discovered that alcohol took away most of my concerns about social interaction....In my mid-20s, I spent A LOT of time hanging at a neighborhood bar and was happy as a clam to chat to any and all.

Now I'm in my mid-30s, and while I still don't like being social much, and I don't hang out in bars anymore, I DO find that the experience of having been outgoing while drinking is something I can tap into when I have to be social and I'm not drinking. Does this make me a false introvert, lol?

Any others have similar experiences with alcohol (or any other inhibition-reducing substance)?

posted in INFP personalities - 26 replies

the human mind

rax_infp — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 23:33:57 GMT

Saw this posted elsewhere on tribe and I found it very interesting, especially to people like me who drift to the right brain ("la la land") periodically.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyyjU8fzEYU

Do you think it was insightful, or just hippie talk (as one commenter on youtube said)

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

conflict evasion

James — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 10:33:25 GMT

Hi everyone, I just took the personality test a few days ago and my result was INFP. Since that revelation I've been doing a lot of research into the subject and found this tribe, along with a lot of information that bares more than a striking similarity to myself. :S

I must say after flicking through a lot of the posts here I am nothing short of astounded with a lot of peoples replies and thinking "wow that's what I would say". :P

Anyway, a question to break the ice.

Do you guys lie a lot?
I don't mean compulsively, but, you know, to avoid any sort of debate/bad blood with others. I dislike dishonesty personally but I find I will sprinkle my day with little white lies to cater to the fact that everyone is happy and the world keeps turning.

An example would be, say, if someone at work asks if you have finished something you should have, I will always say "yes it's finished, i'll have it on your desk tomorrow morning".. then spend the next entire night at work trying to finish it, opening myself up to a buffet of problems if I don't get it done. A better example actually since I'm late to every single appointment I've ever made in my life would be the poor friend who has arrived on time and calls to ask where you are or have I left yet, I will answer something along the lines of yes i'm almost there or, i'm stuck in traffic etc. Unfortunately this is gained me a very flakey reputation haha, but it's the principle that I don't do it out of sheer disregard for whoever i'm meeting, I just have absolutely no concept of time.

In summary, I have become somewhat of a habitual fibber if answering "no" will generate any kind of criticism or anger/upset. I really hate to quarrel, no matter how small the matter.

I really dislike dishonesty and it really upsets me that I have resorted to being this way to keep everyone happy... I can never say no to anyone, which as you can imagine has brought me many a ben stiller-esque situation.

Anyway, hello. (:

posted in INFP personalities - 3 replies

INFPs with ISFJ...thoughts please.

Mary — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 19:05:45 GMT

Someone please help...In your opinion, what is the outlook for an INFP marrying an ISFJ? My boyfriend is an ISFJ and I am the INFP, and while our relationship seems good from the outset, I sense something deeply incompatible going on.

The biggest thing to me is we have no understanding of other's "big dream" in life. His biggest ambition is to settle down and get married and spend his life providing for his wife and make a living at something that has no personal meaning because to him, the fun of work is in providing a happy domestic kingdom for himself and his family. A noble goal on the surface, sure, but for any INFPs reading this, I think you'll agree it's somewhat lacking in fufillment. I should also mention he is 37 and I am 25 and he's never been married or in a commited relationship, although it was always his dream to be.

He has no idea how to relate to my "dreams and goals," as abstract and non-concrete as they are. He can't understand how I can be so comfortable with having everything in life so open-ended. He doesn't understand why I can't find my life's fulfillment within a 60 mile radius of his job, nor why I would find it necessary to move from place to place to search for such a thing. He doesn't see a job as anything more than something to pay the bills and believes career has nothing to do with life fulfillment. This is so infuriating to me, but as he points out, has little bearing on our relationship with each other. Harumph.

Here's the thing though...He's the most incredibley loving, giving and attentive man I've ever known. He loves me so deeply and is very sincere and emotionally expressive, which I love about him. He has a deep heart and a few creative/intellectual tendencies, though I wish they were more developed. He is also enthusiatic about security and being repsponsible. He would always take care of all the little details in life that I find so difficult and would support me doing anything as long as it didn't take me away from him. He is extrememly kind and gentle, tender and sensitive and I know finding another like him will be impossible, my idealism aside. He would make the worlds best husband, and wife for that matter. He finds the greatest joy in doing anything for me, especially domestic activities like cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, fixing things, running errands, paying bills, rubbing my feet and keeping me safe.

So wow, what a guy right? How could I ask for more, right? And yet I do. For all the loving things he does and as much as I will always mean to him, I feel like he will never understand me. He would support me in any endeavor, but he wouldn't support the endeavor itself, nor care about anything I care about. But somehow this is not important to him...but it's everything to me! I always envisioned my significant other being my "partner in crime," the one who I could relate all my passions and ideals to and we would go out and save the world together, side by side. But apparently my boyfriend thinks it's a perfect arrangement if I go do these things without his passion while he just keeps up the homefront and brings me dinner. He says he wants me to have and do anything I want in life and he will help me do it, but I just feel disheartened that he doesn't share my passions. Trying to talk him about the things that consume me is like talking to a brick wall sometimes; even though he always listens attentively, he never has anything to add to discussions I start.

It's like he would deal with reality, leaving me free to exist in the impractical. It makes me feel foolish, as though I'm freeloading, but he doesn't think so. He always says, "I want to be the man behind the woman." He has little care for his own personal success, only supporting me with mine.
He would provide room and board, and I would be left to wander alone in my abstract world. This seems grossly out of balance to me, what do you think?

Tell me, does this sound like a pretty sweet setup for an INFP, or a ticket an unsatisfying permanent relationship? I know we INFPs tend to deeply idealistic and unrealistic, so I am passing up a wonderful thing for someone who may not exist if I dump him, or will I be settling if I marry this man from Planet Good Husband?

I am very curious to know your opinions....Thanks! -Mary

posted in INFP personalities - 10 replies

working with nostolgia

Barton F1nk — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:37:17 GMT

So here I am, trying to read up for a poli-sci course, and every couple pages I find myself lost in nostalgic reflections. Five minutes later I look down at my text again and realize what I've been doing. It's strange because last week I was such an efficient worker.

I shift between these entirely different frames of mind with such serendipity, and they're so difficult to maintain for long stretches. It would certainly be great to return to my last week self so I could get this work done faster.

posted in INFP personalities - 14 replies

INFP and money

ockham — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 10:04:37 GMT

What are you're feelings towards money? Do you think it's important? Do you think it should be important?

I think money is important. I think it should be.

I look at this way. I don't have any hobbies that I don't like. I can't think of any activities that I do because they weren't important in some way to my life whether it's work or play.

I don't know anyone who has unimportant things in their life. I don't have any unimportant friends. If they're important, I call them. I spend time with them. I do things for them. It's a chicken or egg questions. I'm not sure if they're my friends because I made them important or they're important because they're my friends.

Anybody I meet that I ignore don't become friends. They don't stick around to be ignored. I feel money reacts the same way. If you don't think money is important and you ignore it, it doesn't stick around.

Also, I think health and wealth are very similar because it's all about good habits.

I don't look at my yoga instructor and think she only got that way because she had good genes to start with and she must taken steroids to get to where she at. The same applies for wealthy people I know. I don't think they somehow cheated the system or got lucky to get where they are now.

My yoga teacher is healthy because she's eats incredibly healthy and exercises daily. I intake too much sugar and don't exercise enough. She has better habits and therefore healthier.

All the people I know who I think will be financially free in the next 5 years (and can quit working completely) have saved at least 10% of their income and donated 10% of their income all their lives. They have really good wealth habits.

posted in INFP personalities - 11 replies

How to connect with INFPs

Rachel — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 21:42:34 GMT

I'm an INFJ, curious what you INFPs think of my situation. I posted this in response to a question on the INFJ tribe about how well INFJ/INFP relationships work out. I recently got reacqainted with an INFP that I used to be very interested in...I tried to make a connection, but it never worked out. I thought I had misinterpreted the frequent eye contact and that he wasn't actually interested. However he clearly is now, only whenever I try to make any kind of move I get shut down. It's like he pursues me until I respond, then he retreats. I think after reading many of your comments, I made a mistake by calling him out on the fact that he called me and didn't leave a message (I was teasing, of course, but maybe he thought it was intrusive).

Anyway, I'm curious about your take on this. Was I too direct? Is ANY move going to be interpreted as invasive or pushy? I'm not in general dating now, and I'm pretty content with that, but for this one I'd make an exception.

posted in INFP personalities - 8 replies

Manipulative?

rax_infp — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:55:00 GMT

So, I was off at the INTP tribe reading their musings about relationships and feelings.
Its so cute to see them try and rationalize, and understand the logic behind emotions.
Anyways, INTPs intellectually stimulate me and their quirks amuse me.

So, reading the thread about their past relationships and what types fit best with them, I came across this comment by someone saying that they were in a relationship with an INFP and that person was very "manipulative" (and that it was hell... blah blah blah).

My first reaction was "Ouch".
On further analysis, I feel this could be true.

I think I have a good understanding of my own feelings, and sometimes I understand the feelings of others (or believe i do), and hence I can gauge what their emotional response(s) would be to my emotions.
So I can suppress emotions or express them in order to elicit the appropriate response from them.

For example, if I need to be emotionally strong instead of a sobbing queen, i can do that.
Is that being manipulative, or did I misunderstand it?

Does this emotional self-control ring true with others here?
Is this limited to an INFP-INTP interaction ? (where the INTP labels it "manipulative", as they understand it, or have you heard this from other types as well).
Is there a better word for this?

posted in INFP personalities - 20 replies

Are INFP's always the result of distressing childhoods?

Barton F1nk — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 05:13:20 GMT

Are there people with biological pre-dispositions towards INFP, or do we crop up as the result of much suffering?

posted in INFP personalities - 16 replies

How do you cope with judgemental people/types behaviour?

pj — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:15:41 GMT

G'day everybody, I am new...I am an INFP, I'm having a really great life, it's been so good to find this forum...I have never met (knowingly) any other INFP's.....this is all really kinda nice, but I have a very serious question:

How the hell do you guys cope with all the judgemental type people/behaviour out there? The people that have strong opinions/judgement upon our world and society and people....and stuff!

Some of it I can let blow over, or blow down the peace pipe, but some are really quite offensive and seem to lack any empathy or compassion or tolerance or understanding of humankind, animalkind, the world????

Or is it just me?

Thanks so much for any feedback. Sometimes I can just walk away, but sometimes I feel like I need to stick up for stuff-the underdog, the picked on? the judged?

Enough eh.

posted in INFP personalities - 35 replies

Literary Magazines

Susan — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:40:30 GMT

Hi there

I'm a student/writer/editorial assistant for the Southern Review, a literary magazine.

I just wanted to start a thread for talking about creative publications.

http://www.lsu.edu/tsr/

posted in INFP personalities - 4 replies

Teenage Rebellion Has Become a Mental Illness

libramoon — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 08:19:54 GMT

http://www.alternet.org/healthwellness/75081/

How Teenage Rebellion Has Become a Mental Illness

By Bruce E. Levine, AlterNet
Posted on January 28, 2008, Printed on January 29, 2008
http://www.alternet.org/story/75081/

For a generation now, disruptive young Americans who rebel against authority figures have been increasingly diagnosed with mental illnesses and medicated with psychiatric (psychotropic) drugs.

Disruptive young people who are medicated with Ritalin, Adderall and other amphetamines routinely report that these drugs make them "care less" about their boredom, resentments and other negative emotions, thus making them more compliant and manageable. And so-called atypical antipsychotics such as Risperdal and Zyprexa -- powerful tranquilizing drugs -- are increasingly prescribed to disruptive young Americans, even though in most cases they are not displaying any psychotic symptoms.

Many talk show hosts think I'm kidding when I mention oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). After I assure them that ODD is in fact an official mental illness -- an increasingly popular diagnosis for children and teenagers -- they often guess that ODD is simply a new term for juvenile delinquency. But that is not the case.

Young people diagnosed with ODD, by definition, are doing nothing illegal (illegal behaviors are a symptom of another mental illness called conduct disorder). In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) created oppositional defiant disorder, defining it as "a pattern of negativistic, hostile and defiant behavior." The official symptoms of ODD include "often actively defies or refuses to comply with adult requests or rules" and "often argues with adults." While ODD-diagnosed young people are obnoxious with adults they don't respect, these kids can be a delight with adults they do respect; yet many of them are medicated with psychotropic drugs.

An even more common reaction to oppressive authorities than overt defiance is some type of passive defiance.

John Holt, the late school critic, described passive-aggressive strategies employed by prisoners in concentration camps and slaves on plantations, as well as some children in classrooms. Holt pointed out that subjects may attempt to appease their rulers while still satisfying some part of their own desire for dignity "by putting on a mask, by acting much more stupid and incompetent than they really are, by denying their rulers the full use of their intelligence and ability, by declaring their minds and spirits free of their enslaved bodies."

Holt observed that by "going stupid" in a classroom, children frustrate authorities through withdrawing the most intelligent and creative parts of their minds from the scene, thus achieving some sense of potency.

Going stupid -- or passive aggression -- is one of many nondisease explanations for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Studies show that virtually all ADHD-diagnosed children will pay attention to activities that they enjoy or that they have chosen. In other words, when ADHD-labeled kids are having a good time and in control, the "disease" goes away.

There are other passive rebellions against authority that have been medicalized by mental health authorities. I have talked to many people who earlier in their lives had been diagnosed with substance abuse, depression and even schizophrenia but believe that their "symptoms" had in fact been a kind of resistance to the demands of an oppressive environment. Some of these people now call themselves psychiatric survivors.

While there are several reasons for behavioral disruptiveness and emotional difficulties, rebellion against an oppressive environment is one common reason that is routinely not even considered by many mental health professionals. Why? It is my experience that many mental health professionals are unaware of how extremely obedient they are to authorities. Acceptance into medical school and graduate school and achieving a Ph.D. or M.D. means jumping through many meaningless hoops, all of which require much behavioral, attentional and emotional compliance to authorities -- even disrespected ones. When compliant M.D.s and Ph.D.s begin seeing noncompliant patients, many of these doctors become anxious, sometimes even ashamed of their own excessive compliance, and this anxiety and shame can be fuel for diseasing normal human reactions.

Two ways of subduing defiance are to criminalize it and to pathologize it, and U.S. history is replete with examples of both. In the same era that John Adams' Sedition Act criminalized criticism of U.S. governmental policy, Dr. Benjamin Rush, the father of American psychiatry (his image adorns the APA seal), pathologized anti-authoritarianism. Rush diagnosed those rebelling against a centralized federal authority as having an "excess of the passion for liberty" that "constituted a form of insanity." He labeled this illness "anarchia."

Throughout American history, both direct and indirect resistance to authority has been diseased. In an 1851 article in the New Orleans Medical and Surgical Journal, Louisiana physician Samuel Cartwright reported his discovery of "drapetomania," the disease that caused slaves to flee captivity. Cartwright also reported his discovery of "dysaesthesia aethiopis," the disease that caused slaves to pay insufficient attention to the master's needs. Early versions of ODD and ADHD?

In Rush's lifetime, few Americans took anarchia seriously, nor was drapetomania or dysaesthesia aethiopis taken seriously in Cartwright's lifetime. But these were eras before the diseasing of defiance had a powerful financial ally in Big Pharma.

In every generation there will be authoritarians. There will also be the "bohemian bourgeois" who may enjoy anti-authoritarian books, music, and movies but don't act on them. And there will be genuine anti-authoritarians, who are so pained by exploitive hierarchies that they take action. Only occasionally in American history do these genuine anti-authoritarians actually take effective direct action that inspires others to successfully revolt, but every once in a while a Tom Paine comes along. So authoritarians take no chances, and the state-corporate partnership criminalizes anti-authoritarianism, pathologizes it, markets drugs to "cure" it and financially intimidates those who might buck the system.

It would certainly be a dream of Big Pharma and those who favor an authoritarian society if every would-be Tom Paine -- or Crazy Horse, Tecumseh, Emma Goldman or Malcolm X -- were diagnosed as a youngster with mental illness and quieted with a lifelong regimen of chill pills. The question is: Has this dream become reality?

Bruce E. Levine, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and author of Surviving America's Depression Epidemic: How to Find Morale, Energy, and Community in a World Gone Crazy (Chelsea Green, 2007).

© 2008 Independent Media Institute. All rights reserved.
View this story online at: http://www.alternet.org/story/75081/

posted in INFP personalities - 3 replies

Depression Blues Ennui etc

alan — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 07:59:04 GMT

I got the impression that I'm not the only one here that seems to suffer from not quite depression--not sure if it's just a personality characteristic, don't know why it comes and goes. What do you guys do to treat it, if anything? I don't know why, but I feel like there is a tiny hole in my heart right now.

posted in INFP personalities - 20 replies

Sensory Rooms: Snoezelen

belen — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 22:25:21 GMT

I was doing some research on the nervous system and senses, and came across the word "Snoezelen". It's a kind of multi-sensory environmental immersion room, designed for people with sensory, mental, and internal ("invisible") disabilities.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snoezelen

I'd love to make a Burning Man chillspace using their research :D

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Safe

serafine — Sat, 10 Dec 2005 21:27:12 GMT

Today I realized that the only place I feel safe is inside myself. As much as I long for intimacy with another person. I truely only feel safe within myself.

posted in INFP personalities - 18 replies

do you ever feel invisible?

libramoon — Sun, 13 Nov 2005 05:20:15 GMT

standing on line in a crowd,
do people look right through you
out to those folks that they smile and nod to?
Or do you seem to be standing at
an alternate portal
where "I look in and see
those who don't notice me"?
Is it not so much lonliness as confusion:
if there is no one looking,
do I exist?

posted in INFP personalities - 22 replies

coping mechanisms in an E world?

libramoon — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 06:21:42 GMT

What coping mechanisms have you developed to deal with all the Es, Ss, Ts and Js we must always be interacting with?

posted in INFP personalities - 9 replies

How often do you molt?

ockham — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 05:31:20 GMT

I haven't posted in a while for this very reason.

Certain animals molt. The old skin grows tight and so it's shed so the new skin can grow. I think INFP go through the same process as they grow into their ideal self.

Every so often as the INFP grows more into their ideal, they realize that their old skin doesn't fit them so they shed it. This could mean losing old acquaintances and meeting new people. It could mean moving to a new location or quiting your job and finding a new one. This molting process usually always entail getting rid of things (physical, emotional, etc) that you realize was no longer of use. And it also entails embracing new things to replace what you got rid of.

Another way to sum it up is this: Life is going from one set of problems to a better set of problems. Molting moves you to a better set of problems. That's why INFPs in the phase embrace the new because the answers to the new problems aren't to be found in the things before.

How often do you molt? What behaviors do you exhibit?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

I do it every 3-4 years. I'm notorious packrat and I throw everything away. I make new friends. I take up new interests that years to get good at.

posted in INFP personalities - 16 replies

How tidy are you ?

ZaidaZadkiel — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 03:21:53 GMT

I seem unable to keep my place clean for more than a few seconds.
I'm TERRIBLE at keeping things tidy.

My working desk has to be messy so I can get stuff done.
If I clean my desk I can't work at all, because I get distracted by the cleanness D:

How is it for you ?
Do you keep your place clean + tidy ?

posted in INFP personalities - 13 replies

kids on drugs

libramoon — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 06:38:56 GMT

any composers want to co-create an anthem?

Kids on Drugs
(a walk on the child's side)

Janey just wants to be good,
to do as we all know she should,
to glow in our smiles and hugs.
And we try to fix her with drugs.

Johnny can't think and move well,
living in his chemical haze hell.
His outbursts caused such consternation;
we must keep him on his medication.

Children must be bound by rules.
We can't afford disruption in our schools,
or real help to sort out what's wrong,
or room for free expressive dance and song.

Maggie died so quietly, so young
her life unlived, her brilliant song unsung.
All the drugs, taunts, disappointed sighs
overwhelmed her instinct to survive.

(c) January 13, 2008 Laurie Corzett/libramoon

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

new tribe for artistic philosophers

libramoon — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 20:31:02 GMT

http://tribes.tribe.net/distillife

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Favorite INFP love songs

ockham — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 07:42:03 GMT

So what exactly is an INFP love song and how does it differ from a non-infp love song? I'm not sure if I could define it.

Love song is kind of a broad category because, there's love lost, love found, unrequited love, love returned, new love, old love, etc.

For me, I like INFP love songs that don't quite sound like love songs.

Kate Bush - This Woman's Work - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk2ok338CnU
Sinead O'Connor - Troy - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-kd5QO8fyE
Sisters of Mercy - Some Kind of Stranger ( my favorite love song of all time for about 16 years now)
Damien Rice - Volcano - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmKVylIzmOE
Swans - Blackmail
Sarah Brightman - Deliver Me - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuECcqgwrvo
Hooverphonic - Mad About You - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cWggYivjh8
Sting - Mad About You - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAa3rU41dAw
PJ Harvey - Oh My Lover - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2SmKhhZKi4
Depeche Mode - Judas - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjJoFqO-YUM
Skinny Puppy - Love<br>
Peter Murphy - Cuts You Up - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udQcrUY515A
James Blunt - Goodbye My Lover - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YTWNSyYWvI
Death Cab For Cutie - I Will Follow You Into the Dark - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNIS0cuDOMw
Sarah McLachlan - Angel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CbAjj80NIM%22
Prince - Thieves in the Temple

and probably the best unrequited love song of all time

Matchbox Twenty - You Won't Be Mine - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M-nOlAIo-s

posted in INFP personalities - 15 replies

Actively remaining single

Barton F1nk — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 03:28:03 GMT

I was wondering how many INFP's have considered letting go of relationships and voluntarily remaining single. I consider it a tempting proposition at the moment. For all the fluff about how great relationships are, it always leads to the same disappointments...even when the relationship is going fine the regularity inevitably gives way to boredom, and I end up dreaming of new possibilities. Tight friendship can supplement the loneliness, and there is a, dare I say it, spiritual component to acknowledging your fundamental isolation.

So what say you? Anyone pursued this rode with success? Any horror stories?

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

Am I iNFj or iNFp?

Jani — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 18:36:20 GMT

Hello iNFp:s.

I'm trying to find myself. I've been on this exploration inside my mind for a long time. My friend told me about the Keirsey temperament sorter and I took it. The result said that I am an iNFj. I read the description of the iNFj temperament and it seemed to fit me perfectly. I searched the internet for more information about iNFj:s and as I kept reading I could always recognize myself from the descriptions.

Then I took the test again. This time in my native language. I reconsidered a few questions and answered them differently. Those were questions that I had trouble answering the first time. This time the result was that I'm an iNFp. Once again I read the type description of iNFp and searched the internet for more information. But I couldn't recognize myself from the texts that I read.

I'm confused.

I have read stuff that iNFj:s have written in their tribe and I found their writings rather boring.

I've also read a lot of the topics here in iNFp tribe and they seem a whole lot more interesting and touching.

That's what makes me confused. The description of iNFj type fits me like a glove but I enjoy more reading about the thoughts of iNFp:s. I'd be glad to read your insights on this. Please help me find myself! :>

- Jani

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

Pictures and the "Friends" Option

JW — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 01:41:28 GMT

One of the other members was kind of saying that pictures and "friends" add credibility, and I instinctively reacted negatively. Maybe they do add credibility, but 1) I don't think they should and 2) I think of INFPs as often maybe deliberately not using those features. I like to think that, in some ways at least, I'm a typical INFP: I'm guarded, and I think it's smart to be guarded on the big bad WWW. I would like to make some friends here. How to do that, being so guarded and probably preferring people who are like that, I don't know. (Read between the lines: contact me if you live in the area and think we'd make good friends.) Anyway, I'm a little suspicious of the people with lots of "friends" and pictures. It seems extraverted to me. Friendships aren't status tools and also come and go, unfortunately, especially with not really knowing someone you haven't been around in the flesh. I wouldn't initiate the "friends" process. Maybe I'd use a picture that is of a symbol, something that doesn't look like me or mislead in any way. If I could think of the right image and be confident that it wouldn't affect the purity of the written message (how my posts are perceived). Those are my thoughts. I'm curious about how they are received.

posted in INFP personalities - 20 replies

Gauging interest in an INFP Commune Tele-meeting

Vicky Jo — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 20:58:01 GMT

I'm polling INFPs to see whether there is interest in my hosting a regular INFP commune tele-meeting.

Will you take my poll? It's short.

Find it here:
http://tinyurl.com/ysjb3b

Thank you!

posted in INFP personalities - 27 replies

The good old childhood

♀BorkBork — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 19:16:41 GMT

I've been wondering for quite some time:

INFP, to me it seems not like the type of person that just gets born. I have the feeling you become an INFP over time
Maybe I'm wrong here, but I for one, I don't think I was born an INFP, for one thing, I was born extraverted.

What has your childhood been like? Easy, difficult or downright hellish? If it's even measurable at all, that is.

I was born in a rather peculiar family.
Heroine addicted father
Disabled mother
Drug sales (and thus never being able to tell anyone anything about my life, or take a little friend home)
Crime
Dad in prison pretty much all the time until I was 9
Sexual abuse
Psychological abuse
Poor (not necessarily a bad thing)
I won't get into the details. That would take waaaay too long.

So, are you even able to share things about your childhood? Better to keep it private?

I think not.

posted in INFP personalities - 16 replies

heriditary personality type..?

subliminalinertia — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 18:54:33 GMT

i just found out my mom is also infp.... does anyone else know if their parents have the same type?

posted in INFP personalities - 12 replies

routine

Jessy — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 12:33:22 GMT

No matter how hard I try to think of it as an important part of life ..I am vehemently against routines
but being a parent , Its difficult not to have one ....
At times I dont even want to get out of bed so as not to replay the same old scene but I do and of course Im feeling frustrated ..
and then my day falls into place...without the expected.
Does anyone else have a hard time things of this nature? what have you done to make them feel better?
I can be a little unrealistic and I want to somehow shift the negative feeling ....
I have the same issue with time..I usually choose my working place by how flexible the schedule is...Im not into 9-5
more like 9-5 then 2-10 then 12-8.....
thanks.

posted in INFP personalities - 18 replies

left handed?

libramoon — Mon, 14 Nov 2005 08:37:33 GMT

Is there any positive correlation between infp and left-handedness (right brain-edness)?

or have I asked this before? Seems like deja vu. And is there any positive correlation between right brain-edness and experiencing deja vu?

Peace,
libramoon

posted in INFP personalities - 11 replies

burning with hunger for passion...???...

richard — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 19:29:08 GMT

i do

and from my interactions
with two of you
it seems you two do as well

is this a common experience for all infps...???...

does this created a dilemma
the inwards perspective
combined with intense desire

or do we smolder
fiery hot
quietly
without most ever knowing
the power of what stirs unseen

how strong your desire to share this experience
it is very much for me
but very rarely ever do anything on the outside
besides
go to yoga

can we say
tension...!!!...???...!!!...

i know that music sometimes
brings release
and dancing

i personally find
that my inwardness
combined with
my desire for passion
creates a very intense
environment
where i feel rather unrequited

posted in INFP personalities - 7 replies

Are you good with money?

ockham — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 08:01:36 GMT

So are you good with money ( ie minimal credit card debt, decent start towards some type of retirement fund, don't bite off more than you can chew spender)?

I'm not even close. Luckily for me, my wife is an INTJ with a finance degree. I'm the breadwinner of the family so I just turn over my checks to her and considering we're a still paycheck-to-paycheck family, we're doing pretty good.

I'm still in credit card debt but that should be done with by year end. I'm actually paying that off on my own outside of the dayjobs checks that go to family spending.

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

colors

Jessy — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 03:03:15 GMT

Ive always been attracted to black the most . Is this typical for InFPs? I also like blues of all kinds.. gry and green too. I stay away from white,yellow, purple and red. Wondering what colors other INfp's like the most.

posted in INFP personalities - 23 replies

Favorite music?

belen — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:23:21 GMT

Please share!

<3

I like The Books, Mum, Bjork, and Timo Maas, at least a few songs off the Loud album anyway.

You might have lots more (I certainly do) but just share as much as you can think of right now :D

posted in INFP personalities - 12 replies

Writers, what do you write?

Jen — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 02:26:01 GMT

I noticed in the thread concerning "What job do you hold?" that writing was a common response. However, not many people gave specifics of what you write and if/how you make a living writing. I enjoy writing but am not sure I have the skill or talent to write something that would actually create an income, so I'm curious what all everyone is doing and perhaps what it took to get there as a career.

I look forward to hearing some of your stories =)

posted in INFP personalities - 3 replies

Do you get disappointed easily?

Kristy — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 13:37:14 GMT

I don't know if it's an INFP thing or what, but I realized the other day that I'm never satisfied with anything. I didn't have a happy childhood so I would always daydream about how I wanted things to be when I got older. Now that I am nothing, not myself, my friends, family, events, etc. ever lives up to my expectations so I wind up getting disappointed and never really enjoying myself fully or living in the moment. I know I have to try to find more of a balance and start to appreciate things more and live in the present, while still dreaming of better things instead of just zoning the present out or being dissatisfied with it. But I just wanted to know if you guys get disappointed easily as well, and how you've learned to appreciate things as they currently are.

posted in INFP personalities - 9 replies

INFP with an extroverted side

Fri, 22 Oct 2004 19:08:26 GMT

this is what I believe I am because given the right opportunity or enough of a feeling of safety, I will often go out of my way to be the center of attention - having performed in a side-show, fire troupe, being a VJ and a general wierdo anyway. However, most of the time, I am extremely introverted though I am capable of talking ot just about anyone, but often with a certan degree if exteme hidden discomfort.

My personality is really getting in my way lately of my VJ art, because I moved somewhere new and I can't seem to get up the guts to go talk to people who I could collaborate around here. Part of it is low self-confidence and part of it having lost time with my art over the past few months, and part of it, just not feelng organized enough to head off whatever might come up or happen that I didn't like in past performances.

I tend to live in my head a lot about what could go wrong so I don't do certain things.

posted in INFP personalities - 13 replies

relationships with ENFPs?

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:02:18 GMT

have any of you awesome INFPs ever been in a relationship with an ENFP? thoughts / feelings / comments . . .
(just an ENFP who's wondering . . . )
also, wondering as to how you view ENFPs . . .

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

How do you meet your social needs offline?

JW — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 03:25:34 GMT

I rely too much on the Internet for my social needs, and it hasn't been an effective way for me to meet like-minded people offline. (When I joined this tribe, I thought it was for people in SoCal, but that's no so :( ) While I've found many gatherings with the help of the Internet, they rarely have more than one or two introverts. Who at best show up irregularly, including me :)

I admit that I'd most like to meet a woman who is attractive, intelligent, INFP, etc., and then we could mostly be homebodies or go out mostly by ourselves. Are most introverts I'm not meeting living that kind of couples lifestyle? What about the singles? Are you either isolated and hopeless or, if female, occasionally hanging out with girlfriends and uninterested in dating? When not socializing online, that is. You do need some time interacting with people you like, right?

posted in INFP personalities - 1 reply

career in psychology not working out... ?

Jen — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 23:30:23 GMT

I'm entering my third of five years in a clinical psychology doctoral program. And I'm seriously contemplating getting out.

Summer before my freshman year of college I was praying for career direction because all throughout high school my interests and abilities had been so broad that I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. I thought about some of my giftings: compassionate, good listener, observer, contemplative, good mind, etc. Psychology seemed like it might be a good fit for these things so I decided to take the intro course and said that if I enjoyed it and was good at it, I would take that as a sign to continue in that direction until directed to do otherwise.

It's strange to me that I hadn't thought about that statement in reference to my present circumstances until just yesterday. And the truth is that I am not enjoying clinical psychology and I do not seem to be very good at it. This became clear over the past year, and I kept telling myself that it would just take more time and training to feel comfortable and confident with what I'm doing. But then I realized that it's more than that. I decided to go for a Ph.D. because I wanted to keep open the academic option, but when I see my professors lives and careers, there is really nothing in me that desires that lifestyle. I want something simpler. I want time to sit and stare.

I was most surprised to find that I did not enjoy doing therapy. And again, I could rationalize it that I have not had enough experience, have not seen enough patients. But I'm pretty sure that relief when patients cancel is an indication that something is not right. My heart isn't in it because I do not see that I am doing any good, and I'm beginning to think this is because I just do not possess the talent for it. Who knows?

Why am I writing all of this? I suppose I am hoping that there is someone else out there who tried psychology and also found that it did not fit--even though it is listed on every "careers for INFPs" list that I've seen. And if there is such a person, I'd be curious as to your thoughts on why it did not fit. I feel like I need to figure out why it's not working out so I don't end up trying something else with the same problem... if that is even something one can figure out... (shrug).

Yesterday, I was excited about the prospect of quitting this and moving on to something new. I've been really quite miserable for awhile and this was like a light overwhelming the gray future I had seen spread before me. Today, I made the mistake of ruining this state of wonder with thoughts of specifics--if I don't do this, what will I do? What am I qualified to do? How do I know I will enjoy it?

I guess I will simply have to live and learn, eh?

PS Is this too long for a discussion post? Apologies if so. I'm new. =)

posted in INFP personalities - 13 replies

the kinda website you must send to your extrovert pals/ relatives!

eternal_goddess — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 07:55:09 GMT

this is a really great article.

http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200303/rauch

i just sent it to a relative of mine.

a good suggestion will be to send this to anyone who's pissing you off hehe

the comments page was pretty interesting too>> http://www.jeremygilby.com/?p=149

it's nice to read thoughts by fellow introverts.

posted in INFP personalities - 8 replies

recommend some books for INFP

myra — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 06:24:30 GMT

lets start this thread.

what are the books that touched your soul ,make you think deeply and moved you to tears?

me first..

- The Kite Runner

posted in INFP personalities - 4 replies

INFPs and INFJs

TK — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 03:58:36 GMT

Hello INFPs! (I'm a INFJ btw) I've read a few sites and posts regarding INFP/INFJ pairings (romantically and platonically), and I wanted to get some additional opinions from you guys. I've read a lot on INFPs and INFJs working out as friends (it seems everyone agrees the pair get along smashingly well) but I don't hear a lot on INFPs/INFJs in a romantic setting. From INFPglobal chatter, the overwhelming majority didn't put INFJs too high on their ideal mate list...which seems surprising considering how well INFPs and INFJs get along. From the romantic pairings I've looked at, the INFP/INFJ couple is a hit or miss. My question for you is: Have you had positive relationships with INFJs? and if not...why? Do you like INFJs? Do you hate INFJs? What's your opinion? (Feel free to rant as much as you like...all comments/opinions welcome, be it good or bad) I'm really curious about this topic, so any light on this will help me a ton! Thanks :-D

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

Just Quit My Job

Genevieve — Fri, 11 May 2007 18:03:55 GMT

Oh my! So, I started this job about 3 1/2 months ago. I took it believing whole-heartedly that it was the "right" job for me right now and that it was something that I would be good at. After the second day, I knew it wasn't going to work out, but they kept telling me there were more projects coming and that before long I'd be begging for down time. Well, I was begging for work to do every day, all day, and I started wondering why an organization would not only create a position in this capacity, but also why they would make it a full-time job. I have been perplexed. But, knowing that we need the money, I have done my best to stick it out. I've had nightmares, advice from career counselors and even my own hubby has said, "Just LEAVE." It's not right. It's not for you. You're not a "logistics" kind of gal, and while the people may be nice, it isn't working. I've throught it all through, went over and over all of it, and then yesterday, towards the end of the day, I got an email from my supervisor's supervisor that stated something to the effect that I needed to remove the humor from my monthly reports as the "higher ups" also get a copy of them. In my head I thought, "I DON'T CARE!" The reports are stupid (they basically are a one page narrative about what I've accomplished over the last month, problems/warnings, etc). It's just a waste of time, but because I have nothing else to do, I figured I'd add in some humor. My exact words under the "Warnings/Problems" sections were this:
"The polar ice caps are melting, the world is over-populated, gas prices are exorbitant and we need better/more accessible alternative fuels, my lawn is overgrown with various weeds that don't seem to go away regardless of pulling, poisoning or mowing, my puppy behaves like a spoiled four-year-old child, people turn and change lanes far too often in Colorado without signaling or looking, and I believe there is something more than a little suspect about Attorney General, Alberto Gonzales."
I haven't had any problems (because I've had nothing to do, and they are WELL aware of this, so I thought I'd spice it up a bit and make them laugh... which, my direct supervisor did. Her superior, however, didn't find it as amusing. Now, while I realize it seems like such a silly thing to send me over the edge, it was as though that was the sign I was waiting for. I don't fit in here. They are straight-laced, by the book, and I am SO not. My GAWD! I even covered my tattoos (that I love) for them because it's a "professional" office. They don't even know I have the bloody things. I took this job believing that I would have the opportunity to use my skills, to be creative, to engage with people on occasion, but it hasn't happened that way. I really wanted to stay because in the last 6 months I've had 4 jobs. Yes, two of them were temporary, but I look like such a spaz, who doesn't know what she wants and can't stay put anywhere. But, I digress. My point is, I feel free. Even if it's just for this moment, I have told them that I'm leaving, that I'm not happy and that it isn't for me. Yes, I am giving notice, so I'll still be here for a bit, but I feel as though I can do anything.

Of course, now comes the dreaded part... finding a big flake another job. <sigh> I feel so much better just venting it here too. Now, I can enjoy the weekend. :o)

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

maintaining inner balance

Jessy — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 01:14:14 GMT

I am usually a calm and quiet person but the one area I cant seem to be able to conquer is my reaction to romantic feelings for another person. I seem to becaome too intense ...too deep and a develop this immense desire to become one..so much that I loose my inner balance . I get all wraped up into what Im creating in my mind and what I physically feel and because of it that I drive myself insane. I met my first INFP for the first time and I was reluctant at first and then found myself uncontrollably attractted to him , the similarities ,and the essence of his eccentricity, but he started to withdraw like oh too often INFP 's do and I am having a hard time with it. Perhaps this is one of the reasons Corin doesnt believe two INFP's are a good match on top of all the idealistic behavior. Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!

posted in INFP personalities - 8 replies

INFP Lawyers

Brad — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 18:43:49 GMT

I will be graduating from law school in a month and am just curious if there are any lawyers in this group. If so, what are your practice areas?

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

a light in the dark

londonculture — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 18:44:39 GMT

wouldn’t it be wonderful if we were all the same ? probably not. that’s what makes the mystery of life and the dynamics of each person we meet so appealing to understand. life is quiet intriguing, especially if you really understand the mechanics of what is going on and how you fit within the puzzle

If you understand the dynamics of astrology this will clarify the inner mechanics of the self, how we connect or do not connect with those we meet in life, as well as what it's all about.

i believe being empathic and intuitive is a gift based on how i have been able to help others, and i am learning how to enjoy it’s benefits. i have found that both are splenic qualities which can be used to help others as well as used to protect oneself.

being introverted means not having the right connections with those in your life, that would allow you to tap into your potential and externalize >> no throat activation in your chart means of consistent expression.

sometimes it’s a simple as waiting to be recognized or invited into a conversation or waiting to respond

i’m not posting this for my benefit, but solely on the fact that i found the last 25 years of my life to be painful living in the dark.. and now life is starting to unfurl in the right directions. hope it helps those interested.

if you are hungry for more understanding - here are a few links that I’ve found very useful.

Intoduction to Human Design PDF file –
http://www.unifiedlifesciences.com/ftp/education_papers/Intro_to_Design.pdf

To print your Chart, Download the JAM Player, HDS Software and Educational Resource Center visit -
www.jovianarchive.com/

Human Design Community / Forums / Education -
http://humandesign.com/

Books, Classes, and more Resources -
http://humandesignamerica.com/

cheers !

michael

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

social networking?

libramoon — Sun, 27 May 2007 06:37:23 GMT

Never having learned to be socially comfortable, I have learned to be quite comfortable with myself. I can be so amusing, comforting, understanding. I even like all the same things. However, I do feel I am missing out by not socializing as is the norm. This is not about loneliness, but about the advantages it is assumed one has by virtue of being part of a social community. Social networking, acquiring information, sharing resources, having others with whom to collaborate on projects or who have projects which would be of interest, etc., come fairly unobtrusively to those in that world, but are more of a challenge without it.

posted in INFP personalities - 1 reply

Try Outs for CowHunting Documentary

♀BorkBork — Mon, 28 May 2007 13:33:56 GMT

http://people.tribe.net/fc4d148f-46f8-40f7-b7f9-19225ac20ba5/blog/2769d751-6662-4c3c-9e8c-422e719897f0

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

New tribe!

♀BorkBork — Fri, 11 May 2007 12:25:43 GMT

http://tribes.tribe.net/lolcats?_click_path=Application%5Btribe%5D.Tribe%5B859e4316-2c26-46b4-9305-b6354c005ba4%5D

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

internalizing events that did not happen to us

richard — Tue, 17 Apr 2007 17:34:14 GMT

first off
i just want to say how terribly sad i am
for everyone effected
by the shooting at VA Tech yesterday

i am posting this because
i am wondering if other infps
experience this same thing
about
internalizing events that did not happen to us

it is normal
from what i understand
to be affected by tragedies like this
even affected heavily

but it seems like i have an abnormal
emotional response to almost anything

i cant watch regular news events
because of how bad i feel afterward
and then when something like this happens
i become disabled

but it didnt happen to me

and it makes me feel so guilty
to feel like this
when there are people
who did have this happen to them

i dont understand
is this just me being overly self preoccupied
am i just trying to process things
and because i do so internally
it means i take things like this
inside where many do not

i cant tell
what is appropriate
and what is not
what is healthy
and what is not

i feel like a mess
and feel guilty about feeling like a mess

posted in INFP personalities - 6 replies

INFP-LEO

♀BorkBork — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 14:05:05 GMT

So, I believe to some degree that astrology is pretty accurate. To SOME degree.

I'm an INFP-Leo and I feel like the two are always battling.
I'm very introverted but at the same time, I'm a really good actrice and outgoing when the circumstances are perfect. And I'm shy, while I like being in the centre of attention. It's like I can never make up my mind (be shy or just enjoy the attention) and it's all subconcience. It's a constant battle that I've never heard anyone else talk about before.

So, any other INFP-Leos here?
And if so, how do you cope? What are your problems?

posted in INFP personalities - 12 replies

What's Your Superpower?

akHondaGrrl — Mon, 09 Aug 2004 03:42:45 GMT

This was on http://web.tickle.com/

My results? They seem very INFP . . .
"Don't look now! Your inner superpower is INVISIBILITY! Your answers show a remarkable talent for secrecy and hidden observation slumbering someplace beneath your quiet exterior."

So what superpowers do you other INFPs have???

posted in INFP personalities - 13 replies

INFP's and Interpersonal Sensitivity (A lifelong issue)

Kalpataru — Sun, 21 Jan 2007 04:57:40 GMT

Does anyone out there resonate with the idea that INFP's are more prone to "interpersonal Sensitivity"?.. That is, a keen awareness of what is going on in social environments.
For example, someone may be talking to me and I percieve them as being sad... Or I witness a social interaction between two people, and notice, that one has hurt the others feelings... Or been keenly aware that someone is uncomfortable, or needs something.. .And, in turn "personalizing" all of this, feeling these feelings (of other people) and needing to intermediate in some way in order to help solve the "problem".
I tend to notice, that other people dont share these sensitivities... For instance, I might be keenly aware of someones feelings, and see (other people) shrug it off, not notice, not care, etc.
Which gets me thinking about personal boundaries and sensitivity levels... I feel that whereas some persons egos are "strong" (in the sense of having a distinct sense of self uninterruped by other peoples presences).. My ego is "weak" (in the sense of being easily influenced by the ideas, opinions, thoughts, and feelings of other individuals in the present environment...)

...All of this "sensitivity" and "weakness of the ego" leading to my persistent and live long "social anxiety". Ive noticed that when attending clubs, bars, festivals, and other interactive (loud) social environments with 30 or more people... Im *highly* likely to become overaroused....And this overarousal inhibits my social functioning. And to top all this off, instead of being insensitive to others thoughts, feelings, etc... I am aware and picking up on the fact that they are aware that I am "not being myself"... Creating a downward spiral feedback loop of knowing that im out of my element and others being aware that im out of my element... And now how do I cope with the fact that im at this bar with 100+ people in it? And at this point, I just want to run away.. But since I dont want to run away from my problems and fears my whole life - the night is usually spent trying to cope with and adapt to this situation by trying my hardest to LIMIT my awareness in some way. For instance... If I can find someone I feel *safe* around, and latch in on a conversation, then I feel better... Or the music is really good I can "get lost in dancing". But the thing I dread and try to avoid is, being by myself, looking around at a social environment where everyone is engaged with everyone else in interpersonal behavior, and realizing, that im the only one standing there by myself looking around at everyone feeling *extremely alienated*...
...
Bringing me back to the point of this post: I believe that I would be less prone to anxiety in social environments, if I wasnt so sensitive, and had a *stronger* ego... For instance, all those people with the uber-confidence, bringing a consistent, unwavering vibration of "I know who I am, this is who I am, and nothing can change this" who can hold multiple converstaions with an aura of Charisma in a loud and chaotic environment, and not be phased.
Me, I feel (and have felt for most of my life) a consistent STRUGGLE just to feel in my element in a social environment with lots of people who I dont know. It takes great effort to naviagate social realities... A lot of self talk inside my head "youll make it through this... relax"... Others, well, it seems so EFFORTLESS to them.
Any of these experiences resonate with other INFP's out there?

posted in INFP personalities - 15 replies

Have you ever as an INFP

Jessy — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 01:40:46 GMT

...felt tired of being the thoughtful one ... the shoulder.... the good listner ...and have desired to be on the other end ..where some one can listen to you and you can lean on their shoulder and release for just a a second that need for everything to be harmonious. To allow yourself to be the one who needs to be comforted ....without feeling as if its wrong somehow as if this is not your position in life. Does this make any sense ..hope it does.

posted in INFP personalities - 14 replies

infp profile from webpage

libramoon — Wed, 10 Aug 2005 01:26:09 GMT

http://www.aesthetic-images.com/ebuie/infp-profile.html

I N F P -- Introverted Intuitive Feeling Perceiving
Version 0.06 (December 1998)

(Note: This is the only type profile in this webspace. There's no point in poking around looking for others.)

For INFPs, life is a journey to understand themselves and the world. Where some others may strive for achievements such as degrees and promotions, an INFP tends to consider these as important mainly for their value in making it easier to fulfill the INFP's life goals.

INFPs value authenticity, acceptance, and the search for meaning in life in both the ordinary events of life and the grand scheme of the universe. One source of sustenance for INFPs are those small, genuine gestures from the heart, be they from loved ones or strangers.

INFPs have many interests and talents. They are generally good at perceiving possibilities for improving the world and understanding others. They are often clear at expressing ideas through language, writing, poetry, and other talents. When an INFP supports a particular project or goal, they can get an extraordinary amount of work done in a short time. On the other hand, INFPs tend to procrastinate and are dissatisfied by detailed work not related to one of their important values. This is one reason INFPs are happier when working at jobs which are related to their values.

Ideas and feelings (and particularly ideas about feelings) form the center of an INFPs existence. As INFPs explore the world, they discover new relationships, concepts, and connections about the universe. This exploration guides INFPs to find values important to themselves.

Many INFPs do not like attempts to impose shoulds and have-tos. These INFPs find absolute systems of rules that everyone must abide to as confining and arbitrary and simply unfair. As such, INFPs may rail against words that imply that a value system can be imposed from the outside.

Sometimes INFPs deny having ideals or principles since it's possible to equate a reliance on principles with dogmatism and inflexibility. Instead, they prefer to talk about feelings: not momentary emotional states but the personal values on which the feeling function operates.

INFPs often place a high value on harmony, and avoid conflict unless confrontation becomes necessary. Minor, detail oriented, administrative problems are ignored until they stop the progress of any current projects. When his or her projects are threatened, an INFP will either fight for the project/ideal if it's important enough, or concentrate on another one of his or her interests to avoid a confrontation.

INFPs do not measure life in terms of the number of friends and acquaintances they have but rather by the quality of their friendships. For INFPs, the distinction between friends and acquaintances is very important; an acquaintance is someone they spend time with while a friend is someone with whom an INFP can share ideas and feelings. Their most valuable friends are people who understand their important values and accept them unconditionally.

An INFP's feelings form the foundations of the individual. They are sacred and binding, in the sense that their emergence requires no further justification. An INFP's feelings are often guarded, kept safe from attack and ridicule. Only a few, close confidants are permitted entrance into this domain.

INFP's look at humanity at both the individual (human-to-human) and societal levels. One common discouragement for INFP's is that societal change often seems impossible. When INFPs become discouraged, they may need some time and space to rediscover their values and a sense of inner peace. The conflict between their ideal world and "reality", as they see it can cause depression or withdrawal from the world unless they have people that support them in their projects.

posted in INFP personalities - 1 reply

INFP Profile by Sandra Krebs Hirsch and Jean Kummerow

libramoon — Wed, 10 Aug 2005 06:10:51 GMT

http://www.geocities.com/lifexplore/infp.htm

INFP - The Dreamer
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Profile by Sandra Krebs Hirsch and Jean Kummerow

INFPs focus deeply on their values, and they devote their lives to pursuing the ideal. They often draw people together around a common purpose and work to find a place for each person within the group. They are creative, and they seek new ideas and possibilities. They quietly push for what is important to them, and they rarely give up. While they have a gentleness about them and a delightful sense of humor, they may be somewhat difficult to get to know and may be overlooked by others. They are at their best making their world more in line with their internal vision of perfection.

Living

INFP children often create their own fantasy world and live very much within it. They may daydream about what is important to them, and sometimes others wonder if they are in touch with reality. They often get lost in their thoughts and books, and may develop a special ability in communicating, such as writing. They are somewhat reserved, especially in new situations.

INFPs decide early on what is important for them, what is of value. They tend to rely on themselves for direction and are reticent to ask others for help. They would rather do things themselves, to make sure they are done properly. INFPs have found this to be both a strength and a curse. Depending only on themselves and being careful not to show mistakes to others is important. As teens, INFPs may have a bit of a rebellious streak. They may argue with those who hold different values than they do. They are also likely to have a small, close set of friends with whom they share good times. In the comfort of those close relationships, they can relax and are often quite entertaining, since they see the world in a different and special way. Their sense of humour is readily apparent. However, unless an INFP finds an appreciation for his or her uniqueness and personal values, he or she may feel like an odd person out.

When they set their minds on things, INFPs are not likely to give up easily, yet because of their outward gentleness, they do not show their determination. They may not take a direct path, but somehow they reach their dreams.

As young adults, INFPs may have some difficulty finding the ideal career and the ideal mate, in part because of that very word 'ideal'. They have a vision in mind of what they want, yet reality may not follow suit. They may make several starts and stops in their career until they find a comfortable place for themselves.

INFPs have a need for perfection in connection with their personal values. They become frustrated with those who dwell on trivialities.

INFPs need a purpose beyond the paycheck. They become burned out easily if their job does not fit their value system; they may not feel good enough about what they have achieved and, as a result, may undervalue themselves and their contributions.

In retirement, INFPs need to look back and feel that they have led a worthwhile life that has made a difference. They want time for a variety of activities, including travel. They may also be very attached to their family and enjoy special visits with them.

Learning

INFPs learn best in flexible situations where they know the teacher takes a personal interest in them. They like to be able to interact with their peers, but not too much so. They want to feel free to dig into subjects that are of interest to them. Having both flexibility and creativity rewarded is encouraging to them. While they may not enjoy deadlines, if they value the assignment, they will meet those deadlines. Deadlines may force INFPs to decide that their work is 'good enough' to turn in.

Subjects that hold a great deal of interest for them are learned readily. They will often do extra work in their attempt to learn as much as possible about something of interest. And they often read assignments carefully and them work their creativity into the given framework of the assignment. Thus it may appear that they did not pay careful attention to the details of the assignment in their reinterpretation. It is best if they have teachers who appreciate their unique approach and who do not hold them to the letter of the law.

Working

At work, INFPs contribute their creativity, their value system, and their ability to work with others. They are able to see the larger picture and how specific programs fit in. They do not dwell on the trivialities or the details. Their job must be fun, although not racous, and it must be meaningful to them. They need a strong purpose in their work. They want to be recognized and valued, without undue attention given to them. They may become embarrassed when make the center of attention. As a result, they may undersell their strengths in order to avoid being singled out and made to feel conspicuous. They would rather have their worth be noticed gradually over time.

INFPs like to work with cooperative people committed to the same values that they are. They can become bothered when they see others working at cross purposes, especially when conflict is overt. They do not like competition or bureaucracy. They need privacy. Calm and quiet appeal to them, as does time and space for reflection. People usually like working with INFPs even though they may not know them well.

INFPs are quite disorganized. But when tasks at hand are important and best done in an organized way, INFPs strive to do so. Practicality is not a driving force for INFPs. Things that traditionally belong together may not be placed together because the INFP does not see it as necessary. They have trouble finishing what they start because of their perfectionistic nature. When they do finish a project, they may not consider it done 'for good.' Projects can always be improved upon, revised, and reworked, and therefore INFPs find it hard to bring tasks to closure. Because they are able to visualize the finished product long before it is done, the actual completion is of less importance.

INFPs prefer occupations in which they can be involved in making the world better. Having their heart in their work is important to them. These occupations also allow for an element of creativity and flexibility. INFPs are particularly interested to be counselor, editor, education consultant, English teacher, fine arts teacher, journalist, psychologist, religious educator, social scientist, social worker, teacher, writer, and other occupations that engage their values.

Leading

The INFP leadership style is subtle, gentle, indirect, and inclusive of others. INFPs do not confront people head-on, but rather work with them and through them to get the job done. Their style is not an aggressive one but is highly persistent; only reluctantly do INFPs assume leadership roles.

They lead with their values in mind, and these guide them. They prefer not to take a hands-on approach with others but to allow them to achieve in independent ways. They are facilitative rather than directive. They encourage others by appreciation and praise. Critiquing others does not come easily to them.

INFPs seldom confront situations directly, in part because they do not like conflict. Whenever possible, they would rather wait for a situation to work itself out, since they trust that people will work things through. They do not like following all the rules and regulations, but they are not overtly rebellious. They seek to get things done in their own style.

Leisure

Leisure activities are very important to INFPs, but at times it is difficult for them to separate work from play. When a new leisure pursuit is found, INFPs typically do a great deal of research. They may read many books and make several phone calls to dig for information.

Many of the INFPs' leisure activities are done alone --- reading, listening to music, and gardening are some activities likely to appeal to them. Reflection time and the opportunity to make sure things are right are important. INFPs often enjoy leisure pursuits with loved ones as well. When they want to be sociable, they can be exceedingly charming and outgoing. Their flexibility, gentleness, and sense of humour can make them quite popular in social situations.

Loving

For the INFP, love is a very deep commitment, and one that is not easily attained. They have ideals, and therefore reality may be carefully scrutinized.

With their ideal firmly envisioned, the first date with that special person is carefully planned and prepared for, and often every aesthetic thing is taken care of. The flowers are in place, the right wine is ordered, and the proper meal is prepared.

INFPs may have difficulty sharing their feelings about others. They keep so many of those feelings inside that they may forget to tell their partner how much they love and appreciate them. They also need reminders of their partner's love.

When things go wrong in a relationship, the INFP takes it to heart but does not readily discuss it with others. They may not be willing to communicate to let others know how they are feeling. When scorned, they are very hurt and may overreact in an almost maudlin way.

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

Idealist INFP and Type 9

Jessy — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 04:24:12 GMT

can I possibly be challenged any more than this?

posted in INFP personalities - 3 replies

fwd.: article: Introverted youth have deep roots for behavior

libramoon — Tue, 13 Dec 2005 21:14:58 GMT

Introverted youth have deep roots for behavior

By Janie Magruder,
Gannett News ServiceMon Nov 28, 7:36 AM ET

The attitude that there's something wrong with introverted people is widely shared in society, where fast talk and snap decisions are often valued over listening, deliberation and careful planning. Extroverts seem to rule the world or, at least, the USA, which hasn't elected an introverted president for three decades, since Jimmy Carter.

"The signals we get from the world agree that extroversion is
valued," says Sanford Cohn, an associate professor in curriculum and instruction at Arizona State University. "A lot of the messages we get from society have to do with being social, and in order to be social you have to behave a certain way."

But that is impossible for introverted kids. Raising them isn't
easy, particularly if parents, family members, teachers, coaches and other adults don't allow them to be who they are.

Introverted children enjoy the internal world of thoughts, feelings and fantasies, and there's a physiological reason for this. Researchers using brain scans have found introverts have more brain activity in general, and specifically in the frontal lobes. When these areas are activated, introverts are energized by retrieving long-term memories, problem solving, introspection, complex thinking and planning.

Extroverts enjoy the external world of things, people and
activities. They have more activity in brain areas involved in
processing the sensory information we're bombarded with daily. Because extroverts have less internally generated brain activity, they search for more external stimuli to energize them.

"It's the different pathways that are turned on that activate the behaviors and abilities we see in introverts and extroverts," says Marti Olsen Laney, a neuroscience researcher and author in Portland, Ore., who is credited with connecting introversion with its underlying biology. "It impacts all areas of their lives: how they process information, how they restore their energy, what they enjoy and how they communicate."

Introverted children need time alone more than do extroverted children, says Laney, whose book, The Hidden Gifts of the Introverted Child, is due in January. "Extroverts gain energy by being out and about," but "being with people takes energy from introverts, and they need to get away to restore that energy."

Laney says introverted kids also behave differently.

They're not slow, inattentive or shy. Shyness is behavior that may diminish as children grow; introversion is a character trait that lasts.

posted in INFP personalities - 3 replies