INFP personalities's topics - tribe.net

What job do you hold?

2010-01-07T07:50:12Z

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

posted in INFP personalities - 129 replies

INFP on the Hunt for the Elusive INTJ

2010-01-04T18:07:20Z

I became curious about the INTJ personality types after two incidents:

1.) My spreadsheet used to keep track of my friends personality types had only 15 types listed, the INTJ row was blank
2.) My room mate told me about her strange ex-husband, her stories made me believe he may be an INTJ.

The stories she told painted a picture of an unfriendly person, someone who was indifferent to her feelings. Further research found this personality type was also the lead character in Silence of the Lambs. "Ooooh, now its getting interesting", I thought to myself.

I set out to find the elusive INTJ, my first stop was "The Idiots Guide to the INTJ". Reading through the sarcastic text, I was hoping the author was just kidding about being so arrogant, really full of them selves.

It was my goal to prove to myself that there is good in all types. Even the most seemingly ... "evil", maybe that's too harsh a word.

Anyway, I went to the INTJ.org chat room. You can tell by the setup of the site a little about the type. First they're using IRC. Yeah,read tech geeks. Also by their message posts. Its hard to find a post that more than one or two sentences. They are annoyed with long, drawn out posts and sum up their point very briefly and concisely. Hmmm... something I'm probably not doing here. LOL.

So the chat room was listed with 30 or so occupants. But judging by how many people said anything to me you'd think it was just one person. Yes, only one of them said a few very short things to me. Wait, two of them. Another quipped, "I'll eat this one for breakfast."

I still want to meet one in real life. I need to know, are they all so mean? Do any have a "heart". Does it matter?

posted in INFP personalities - 1 reply

relationships with ENFPs?

2010-01-04T14:16:36Z

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 - 4 replies

What movies do INFPs like?

2010-01-03T10:37:57Z

Hi, I'm an INFJ married to an INFP and I joined your tribe temporarily to ask this question. It feels like all our Netflix suggestions are more geared towards me since I am more vocal about my opinions, so I was hoping for some suggestions from you guys. Thanks!

posted in INFP personalities - 16 replies

Advice you'd give to your younger self

2010-01-03T10:33:42Z

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 - 25 replies

The book Love Types by Dr. Alexander Avila

2009-12-30T09:01:06Z

Has anyone else read this book? I found it very good as far as determining which types are attracted to which other types. Very accurate as far as my past dating experience and friendships are concerned.

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

How do you cope with judgemental people/types behaviour?

2009-12-11T17:07:21Z

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 - 39 replies

Favorite music?

2009-12-01T09:24:54Z

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 - 14 replies

INFPs with ISFJ...thoughts please.

2009-12-01T08:55:53Z

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 - 23 replies

a procrastinating infp

2009-11-25T08:11:26Z

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 - 9 replies

Peaceful Co-Creating Emerging Visions #16 has emerged

2009-10-16T23:00:14Z

Fall into the calm within the storm
Join the merriment of dancers
where love is a whisper
from which each breath expands
for sweet co-creation

Peaceful Co-Creating Emerging Visions visionary art 'zine #16 has emerged

http://emergingvisions.blogspot.com

share and enjoy

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

New evidence about Jung's type preferences

2009-10-01T18:45:46Z

Detailed on my blog:
http://www.TypeInsights.com/blog/announcement/news-flash/

Enjoy!

-Vicky Jo :-)

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Do you think strong women attract infp men ?

2009-10-01T16:38:59Z

what kind of qualities infps look for in their idealistic women? Do you find yourself drawn to the similar type? Will infps attract to opposite type? Opposite personalities does not necessary mean opposite interest. Do you agree?

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

Forthcoming: "The Red Book"

2009-09-22T18:43:05Z

Hey everybody,

There's a lot of chatter right now about the upcoming release of C.G. Jung's posthumous book, titled "The Red Book."

The "New York Times" article is here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/20/magazine/20jung-t.html

If you are lucky enough to live in or near New York, the Rubin Museum has a special exhibit about it:
www.rmanyc.org/nav/exhibitions/view/308

and several related events associated with the release:
www.rmanyc.org/pages/load/155

If you would like to pre-order a copy for yourself, it's available at Amazon using the link below:
http://tinyurl.com/TheRedBook

Please join us in our excitement and enthusiasm about this forthcoming release!

-Vicky Jo :-)

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Are we "weak"

2009-09-01T05:04:05Z

In day to day life I often feel my ideas, thoughts and opinions are disregarded by others and I'm often treated as irrelevant.....sometimes even stupid, often treated as a "child".

Months, sometimes years later, those doing this will return to the subject or matter and say I was right all along.........yet they failed to see that at the time and had no issue with meting out ridicule or disregard,

Why is this, and what can be done about it?

posted in INFP personalities - 14 replies

Survival Guide For INFPs

2009-08-16T01:03:04Z

http://personalitycafe.com/infp-forum-idealists/2388-survival-guide-infps.html

What do you guys think?

There are more great information located here...
http://personalitycafe.com/infp-forum-idealists/

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

ADD gone wild in a classic INFP

2009-08-13T05:21:15Z

I usually go the alternative route, with herbs and homepathy, but my ADD is so bad that I'm considering getting a prescription.
What do you find works best? Unable to concentrate on mundane tasks, opening mail, paying bills, anything day to day. I'm not like this at work, but I got laid off, and I can't concentrate or focus. I waste so much time.

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

What job should I go into ?

2009-07-02T17:03:36Z

Im pretty much 100-percent an INFP.

I am a teenager, going to community college soon. I worry alot, to the point were its almost paranoia sometimes lol. I can be lazy, but when I get up off my ass, I realise certain qualities about me. I've always been very shy. Shy were i hardly talk in some places. Im not good with public speaking, and Im also very forgetful/ easily distracted too. I think I have ADD? But anyways, i have a minimum wage job, at a fast food restaurant. I do okay, but its deifnitely not what I want to do for the rest of my life. I don't make enough money or get enough hours right now, and I do think its because im not the best worker. I am not the fastest and again, I act like i have ADD alot lol, but i do decently.

Anyway, main point is that it just worries me because I have problems with these minimum wage jobs I get, because of all those above things: Being shy, being slow at times.

I am going into community college on a loan, and planning to go for a bachelors degree, but I can only move if i save up enough money, and find another decent job, and work my ass off.

I really dont know what I want to do though in the future. I start to get let down though, because if every job involves trying to move very fast and dealing with all these people, I just won't excel. I am used to it, and can do ok, but I dont EXCEL. I cant move up, or become manager. Or a lead position.

Ive always been good at drawing. I got into photoshop and stuff like that a while ago. I love art ,but I guess that..... I worry a job in this field wont get me enough money, I might be in an out of jobs. Ive considered graphic design. But again, I dont know if that is something that will keep me stable. But I have a feeling Id be good at it.

Anyway, I was looking for suggestions or advice from people. Thanks for reading :)

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

Mild INFP dating an INTJ

2009-04-23T05:21:25Z

I was just wondering if anyone had any insights in INFP-INTJ relationships?

I am madly in love with my boyfriend (who is an extreme INTJ) but he is kind of hard to deal with sometimes. I am definitely and introvert, but I don't see myself as an extreme NFP, I try to work towards practicality rather than idealist tendencies.
He sometimes makes me feel inferior, but I don't think it is his fault. I am just rather emotionally sensitive and need constant reassurance, while he is self-confident (very academically/specific facts intelligent while I am more socially/general ideas intelligent) and he thinks his love should be evident without having to express it every second. (Typical INTJ)

Our relationship is really interesting, we are very different people, but we are deeply committed and there is nothing that we cherish more than each other. It's almost like we are addicted to each other too. lol (Also, I dunno if it makes a difference, but we are currently in a long distance relationship)

Any advice? Insights? Any one have similar relationship experience?

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

Professional Careers for an INFP

2009-04-23T04:09:38Z

Ok, my second question of the night, but I am very excited to have found this forum. :)

Like I'm sure everyone here, I want to do something fulfilling to both myself and society. I am an International Affairs major starting my Masters next year in DC. I do express myself better in writing than speaking, but I am not really good at the creative arts (besides my singing). I want to do something as a career that is practical and will influence people in a meaningful and real way. It is for this reason I am concentrating in economics. I also find that although I am not good at deriving math, once I've learned it, a bit can be fun in a "yea, I solved this problem, I kick butt" kind of way.
What kind of career could be fulfilling in this area for someone like us? (I am not sure if I want to go into the private, public, or NGO sector).

Analyst? Consultant?

Thank you for your feedback!

posted in INFP personalities - 1 reply

please help

2009-04-22T03:10:41Z

i just wrote this in TextEdit (Apple's version of Notepad).
it's generated the most real feeling I've had in a long time.
i'm asking the infp tribe.net community to look it over and offer any relationship advice they can on it, because we relate on a personality-level.
thank you

"i am"

a dreamer
a wisher
a writer of thoughts
inspired more than it may seem
hurt more deeply than you may think

not one to plow into conflict
not a lover of criticism
stronger through my mistakes
somewhere i know i won't be happy like this

confused about my partner
stupidly hoping she will change
waiting for her to see how tender my heart is
bleeding emotion caught in a prison cell

supposed to talk to her about this
hurt from past conflicts and arguments
going to talk to her about my tender underbelly
trying to repair this wound of mine

dying for some independence
yearning for some free time
loving my newborn daughter
hating myself for wrong reasons

changing and i don't like it
one that would rather be poor
aspiring to see meaning in my life
not seeing it right now in my life

in distress
floating on a donut in the ocean
getting cold as the waves crush my strength
not as stupid as she may think

in desperate need of compromise with her
very cold inside my turtle shell
asking for advice on how to approach my partner
hoping it won't be so bad

hopefully walking toward a better place

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

What's the Most Fulfilling Job You Ever Had?

2009-04-19T01:23:49Z

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

posted in INFP personalities - 23 replies

Two INFPs together

2009-04-19T01:10:36Z

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 - 14 replies

Could it be?

2009-04-18T05:19:24Z

A whole community dedicated to people just like me? Is this heaven?

I've been feeling very alone lately (something it seems a lot us feel). This is what lead me to look for some sort of place to belong. I've never belonged anywhere in life, at least not socially. I love myself, my interests and pursuits. I love life. But I more or less fail when it comes to relationships.

I love the Myers-Briggs personality test. I think it's insanely intriguing. When I learned I was an INFP, and that our type is the rarest, I felt so proud! And when I read the description, I felt as though the author had written it with me in mind.

I'm here to meet you all and say hello. I hope everyone is having a glorious day, don't waste it!

posted in INFP personalities - 2 replies

being the english-to-english translator

2009-04-07T21:49:10Z

Hey!
Do you, my fellow INFP's, ever observe people confusing each-other in the way they're wording their phrases? I constantly hear questions being misunderstood and answered in a way that doesn't really help the person asking the question at all. I so badly want to interject!

In situations throughout the day, i will observe, or be close by a conversation between co-workers or whoever. I will understand what one person is conveying, and then the other participant in the conversation doesn't quite seem to "get" what the first person was trying to get across. Sometimes to a point where they're coming to a huge misunderstanding, and then it comes down to me trying to quietly interject...."no...they mean THIS, and THEY weren't saying THAT...they were saying this. The answer is probably THIS." I try to clarify for the both of them....of course most people aren't patient enough to let someone else actually interject and solve the problem...so i usually end up rolling my eyes and going about my business. lol

Super frustrating though! I feel like i'm the only one that knows how to word things properly so people will understand how to get the right idea across!! Anyone else experience this?

p.s. What a great forum!! You all make sense!!!

posted in INFP personalities - 17 replies

INFP Non-profit organization

2009-04-06T08:57:36Z

I am trying to start a non-profit organization, but the problem is what it is for. I want it to not just be focused on ONE area of aid, but MANY. I want to help give money to hospitals, as well as help with natural disaster causes, and give money to families who are about to lose there house, and I keep coming up with more and more that I want to do after I get the ball rolling. But my question is, can or should I do this? If so, what would you like to see a non-profit org help? Would people take me seriously if I'm all over the map? Or do i need to confine in just ONE area? (Which I really DO NOT want to do)

Any help.. ANY would be appreciated!! I'm sick of thinking about this, and i want to start doing this NOW! I want this to really be something!...

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Any INFP's in St. Louis, Missouri?

2009-03-14T16:23:10Z

If so, interested in starting an INFP social group?

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

In Regards to a Quote I found Here....

2009-02-04T21:39:24Z

I found the quote, "stop being NICE and start being GOOD. be good."

Then they list things like hobbies you should get into, and all this other crap that I didn't read because it sounded like she was trying to tell you to fit into a jelly mold person. Big houses, fancy cars, know what you want, put yourself first, and all this other stuff. Look, that's fine. BUT

That doesn't mean the guy that puts others before himself isn't confident. Think about this. IF your ideals tells you to strive to be a better person, a nicer person, all the time, putting others before yourself, not caring about money (to some degree of course), and just totally beleiving that love can blossom from anywhere, well then, that doesn't sound like the "Good" that this lady described, and it certainly is not what people are telling you to be in American society. So, if you have somebody with ideals that go AGAINST the grain, I beleive that would be harder? And if that's harder then I beleive they have all the self confidence in the world to keep their ideals in a society that tries to get rid of them.

I've heard tons of arguments how "nice guys" are guys with no self confidence and that they put other peoples needs above their wants.

Look, just because somebody puts other peoples needs above their wants does not mean that they're not self confident. If that were true, that means Mother Theresa was the most self depricating person in the world, because she always put others before herself. BUT, she wasn't. She was a very confident lady. Or Jesus would have been a very self loathing person, but he wasn't. Get my point? Just because you can't put others ahead of yourself, and society tells you to conform to put yourself first, does not mean that we aren't self confident. It means we have ideals. We stick to them. And sticking to ideals that EVERYONE IS TELLING YOU TO CHANGE takes a lot more confidence then conforming to what everyone tells you to do.

So take this quote and shove it up your ass. Or, learn to realize that not ALL people that are confident abide by your ideals of confidence. I'm sick of people assuming that because I'm too nice that I have no self confidence or that I'm insecure. It's simply I have a view of the world, how it should be, that ideal is worth fighting for. If I give it up to APPEAR to everyone else that I'm confident then I'm losing my identity. I have no idea how so many people I talk to do NOT SEE THIS.

posted in INFP personalities - 4 replies

A Rare Charming Celebrity Coupling

2009-01-11T22:26:18Z

Much of the celebrity behavior reported, usually about love lives, goes against my "deeply held beliefs." It sickens me, I never become wholly numb to it, and it gives me another reason to avoid most movies and TV shows.

About a week ago, I finished reading a book, a good one, called Franny and Zooey. A few days ago, I read that actress/singer Zooey Deschanel (named after the character, who surprisingly is male) is now engaged to the Death Cab for Cutie singer (Ben Gibbard). I didn't even know they were dating. I don't know much about him, other than a few songs by the band and his homely appearance. I know more about her. If she's INFP, I wouldn't be surprised. I am pleasantly surprised by a coupling that very possibly is based on love and compatibility instead of the flimsy things so often depicted in the media. Celebrity relationships face some unique stressors, so I hope their foundation is strong.

posted in INFP personalities - 3 replies

INFP or ENFP - Where are you taking the test

2009-01-09T15:45:14Z

I have taken different tests now - 5 in 1 day; the first 2 said I was an INFP. The last 3 ENFP.

Obviously, there is a comprehensive test which is not on the internet. I was wondering where people are taking these tests? And which one is correct? I can relate to both INFP and ENFP and think I may have been more introverted when younger but as I have grown older have become more extroverted. Do we change as we grow older?

posted in INFP personalities - 4 replies

INFP with ENTP?

2008-12-20T19:15:26Z

I looked through the posts and couldn't find this relationship combination addressed. Any experiences?

posted in INFP personalities - 13 replies

OBAMA...INFP?

2008-12-15T14:04:56Z

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 - 31 replies

Introverted Feeling gone wild

2008-12-08T22:40:20Z

Hello All.

I am interested in hearing stories of Fi gone haywire and interfering with Extroverted Intuition (and everything else!).

For myself, I know that once I decide I don't like something, I will do everything I can to avoid that "thing" and have gone to ridiculous measures to do so. I have to almost be held and shaken in order for new, contradictory information to get in. I have many values/opinions that I am fine with (eating a vegan diet, rejecting organized religion, etc.), but I'd like to learn to get rid of the ones that make me blind to positive experiences (I refuse to attend any type of large gathering due to a few long-ago bad moments, for instance).

I know the examples I provided aren't too great, but I am so very driven by Fi that I can't see my own behavior clearly anymore... which led me to post.

Thanks, everyone!

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

New Tribe Alert: Utopian Flash Fiction

2008-12-07T08:18:04Z

http://tribes.tribe.net/uff

Utopian Flash Fiction Tribe: for the creation of flash fiction stories to create little open doorways into possible solutions to societal problems in concise, entertaining narratives

I envision this group as a furtherance of my once and future project, to find visionaries who will take part in writing a series of flash fiction utopian pieces around an imaginary federation of diverse villages each working out their methods of community life. We can create little dramatic impacts imparting information about how the people of the community involved solve the problems of their collective lives.

A fictional project allows for social activist imaginings outside of the currently "possible" to promote ideas in an easily digestible and enjoyable form, each person involved adding their bits to the overall project. It would be wonderful eventually to publish these stories into an inspirational book, but I am mostly interested to see what kinds of ideas for possible social structures result. I am hoping eventually to see a whole world of ideas created through these short bursts of fiction, little vignettes or as one person suggested, peeks into open doors. There is no set format to fit. What each participant writes would be helping to create the structure itself.

A possible jumping off point would be to write stories based on the scenario:

We are a group of colonizers sent to a new planet, with a variety of skills and knowledge. The core group has been given the job of a sort of council of elders, to develop the new constitution, by-laws, societal structure within which the colony is to operate.

This is only a suggestion. The whole point is: there are no limits

Peace,
libramoon

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Favorite INFP love songs

2008-11-30T16:40:34Z

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 - 16 replies

Infps communcation

2008-10-31T04:43:24Z

Why infps do not like small talk? When they encounter extroverts,INFPs seems not able to carry long conversation or unable to convey ideas or thoughts in a short time. Sometime they are disconnected after a sentence or two. What is the rationale behind it?

posted in INFP personalities - 9 replies

INFP-LEO

2008-10-19T00:03:39Z

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 - 14 replies

Another Story - I'm Strange? Maybe It's Everyone Else

2008-09-03T12:58:07Z

I don't think this story will offend anyone, and I hope it will get some replies.

I went to a convenience store for some unhealthy food. The long line, tight quarters, and self-imposed time crunch made me uncomfortable, well, more uncomfortable than usual. I moved out of the way for what seemed to be a nice-looking woman (nice legs, at least). When she did eventually get in line behind me, maybe I moved up a bit much. I don't know. But she started talking, possibly to me, like "Don't be scared." Then she said something else, and unfortunately she was talking to me and not a cell phone, probably the first time ever I wished somebody were talking on a cell phone.

It wasn't bad, because she was nice-looking (attractive face, so I discovered) and expressing some interest in me, but I didn't like the somewhat erroneous interpretation of my behavior. Why must personal space and consideration for others be seemed as some kind of awkwardness? I'm an adult, not very shy anymore, but still I don't feel people treat me like much of an adult. Also, it gets my goat a little that people chat up total strangers on the basis of physical attraction. I know it's hard to meet people, but c'mon - relationships have to be based on more than just looks. Of course, that attitude keeps me single and deprives me of positive feedback on my appearance, leading to unhappiness on both counts.

Yeah, if you're INFP, you probably also don't like being put on the spot and being made subordinate to another. I didn't embarrass myself in talking to her, although I was a bit curt. Just another opportunity for me to criticize myself. Basically, that's the answer to the "strong women" post. Aggression and rather obvious sexuality are not traits I'm used to and not compatible with my ideal world, so I basically rejected her. Men who seem shy are presumed to be agreeable, not picky, and not coupled. That's the appeal to some women, I figure, but I am picky.

A funny postscript is that a few minutes later, while reflecting on a walk home, I came across the most skittish adult-sized dog I've ever seen. While the little dog lunged at me (and its unconcerned owner yakked on a cell phone), the big one actually moved to the curb and struggled to keep its balance while looking at me. I don't think that was out of concern for my feelings, and any fear was in spite of the unopened bag of food with me. I laughed out loud, and I would have violated my own rule of not unnecessarily talking to strangers if the owner hadn't been on the phone. That makes me so curious, which might have been part of why the woman in the store talked to me.

posted in INFP personalities - 1 reply

The Empathy Test

2008-08-25T06:19:33Z

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 - 22 replies

What are you thinking?

2008-08-21T19:12:23Z

Supposedly women like asking their men that. I've never been asked that. I've never asked that of anyone, either. Because seldom do I care. If someone possibly is mad at me, I'll care, because I want to know what that person will do next. I focus on emotions. I read people habitually. What someone is thinking at any given moment likely would not bring me any pleasure, and it's stressful for me to try to figure it out. I prefer a default state of not thinking, almost like meditating. It's strange that yet I often can easily imagine others' perceptions of people and environments, a thinking-feeling mix, I guess. What are you thinking right now? :) Or, to be less annoying by being more specific, what do you think when you look at the threads and see almost nothing new? Think, not feel - like, "I think I should read another chapter of that new book." How often are you wondering what others are thinking?

posted in INFP personalities - 8 replies

Thief's Rules

2008-08-21T04:07:38Z

I had to go about town today with no car. I decided to stop in a store briefly to buy a few items and left my bag outside the front door. As I was gathering the second type of item on my mental list, I noticed someone walking away from the building, which was weird since I hadn't noticed any other customers. I then noticed he was carrying my bag.

Down on the floor I put the items, and out the door I ran. When I caught up with him, he handed over the bag without my really saying anything. And when I was saying maybe "What the fuck?!" and glaring at him, he got mad at me and said something to the effect of "You're not supposed to leave that outside. Take it inside with you." I was shocked and muttered something about the store not wanting me to carry it around. Choosing not to explain my personal quirks or highlight the thievery itself, I pretty much terminated the argument and went back to the store, leaving it (a gym bag containing no valuables!) inside this time and then having to be reminded not to leave without it.

I'm annoyed with myself for not calling the cops, since the guy was carrying at least one other item that maybe he casually stole. I am mad at myself for the hobby of generally avoiding taking things inside lest stores disapprove and of getting myself into that dangerous situation. (It was broad daylight, in front of witnesses, with me being bigger than him and no easy escape route. Otherwise, maybe it wouldn't have worked out so well.)

Most of all, I'm upset to become less trustful and know that people think like that. That easy opportunities are there to be taken, without concern if the behavior might hurt others. I can think of two personality types that probably fill many prison cells as a consequence, but what about those on the outside who technically aren't criminals? People who engage in adulterous flings, corporate types who think it's all a game of enriching the self and the shareholders. There seem to be more and more 'humans' of that nature, with probably less socializing of children to counter dangerous thought patterns. And people like me who hardly have to be taught to be decent lose out on opportunities and are socially rejected in favor of those nearly conscience-free, grab-the-ring types who of course tend to be positive, fun, and confident. Yeah, let's get all excited about the next president who would never in a million years address such social problems.

I'm somewhat apprehensive that this attempt to mention a relevant topic to people who might understand well will also prompt some replies that I'm a hateful, biased person, but if that's what telling the truth leads to, bring it on.

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Are you prone to social causes?

2008-08-21T00:07:19Z

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 - 7 replies

Help an INFJ understand!

2008-08-20T22:14:17Z

As an INFJ I have trouble with some of the P tendencies such as holding out for many different options before making a decision. I am struggling with this...I admire their laid-back style and try to bring some of that into my high-anxiety life, but I can't seem to see decision-making through "P eyes." What's the perceived benefit in keeping multiple options open and delaying decisions? I read something about needing to make the decision with "all available information", but how can you ever have ALL the information...and if you do, hasn't the time to decide probably passed?

I'm not criticizing INFP or any other personality types. I genuinely want to know how these things look through P perspective (including how Js come across!), or if any of you other INFJs have similar experiences/insights to share.

I will cross post this question.

posted in INFP personalities - 11 replies

inner movie

2008-08-20T02:02:47Z

I have always had a second life kind of movie thing going in my imagination, giving roles and stories to the people I see or even buildings and places. Is this something others here experience?

posted in INFP personalities - 5 replies

"Getting over it"

2008-08-18T04:39:19Z

Really glad I found this group; I was 'diagnosed' as an INFP a couple of years ago now and it has explained such a lot about the way I view the world and interact with others. I have just read through a number of threads on this site and learned even more. It's good to know there are other INFPs out there!

Anyway, can anyone advise/empathise on the following:

I split up from my first long-term boyfriend about three weeks ago. He was a great thing in my life in lots of ways: very wise, loving and fun at the beginning of the relationship. Some significant relational issues emerged later (he was slightly obsessive about things occasionally; had temper problems; tended to be a tad narcissistic and not always understand others' point of view when they didn't match his) but I saw it all as a result of his being a slightly damaged ENFP (he came from an abusive and explosive family) and loved him inspite of it and because he appeared to be very committed to me. However, four months before we split up he became very difficult; decided he needed therapy; told me I was too timid and passive, and was often very confrontational or "bullying" about bits of me he didn't like. Instead of making me fight back and be more assertive (which was what he wanted) this just drove me into my shell and made me tense around him. But I still loved him and tried to hang on in there during the therapy and offer him support, all the time wondering where the man who loved me had disappeared to! He paid me less and less attention to the point of neglecting me infront of his friends, finally told me the passion wasn't there any more, and we agreed to split up although I was devastated at the thought that the relationship was ending.

Although the 'rational' part of me can see that he wasn't making me happy, the more developed 'feeling' part of me is experiencing a real anguish now that he is no longer a part of my life anymore and a crisis of trust in my ability to inspire love in others. As far as I can tell he's moved on, and emotionally detached, and I'm finding his attitude difficult, quite painful - even patronising - at the moment because I haven't. He also seems unaware of just how painful the last four months and the fall-out after the break up has been for me (I tried to hide some of the pain I felt while we were still going out because I was concerned for him as I knew he had a lot to deal with regarding the issues revealed by therapy). Three weeks on, I'm still cut up about it and am finding it hard to function normally - keep getting lost in memories, situations where I acted wrongly, and trying to 'fix' the relationship in my head. Even things like eating and doing chores seem too much effort some days! It isn't helped by the fact that I've not got many friends left in the city I'm living in or, as yet, a full-time job (I just finished my PhD). We agreed not to see each other for six months, but we both still participate in the same academic network in which he's much more popular and established than me. I don't think I can cope with seeing him again at the moment so have avoided social occasions where he might be there and I can't help feeling like a recluse as a result, plus it may be damaging me professionally...

I have been able to share my feelings with family and friends at a distance, but I know quite a few of them - family included - would think my reaction is out of proportion to the event so have avoided telling them just how bad I feel for fear of being labelled over-sensitive and self-involved (which may, of course, be true!). But the fact is, I have experienced the break up of this relationship as a crippling blow - both to my self-esteem and emotional security. Others "get over it" but I don't find it so easy and I think it's partly down to being an INFP! How can I 'manage' this pain so it doesn't get the better of me, and get back some courage and confidence, both in my own self-worth and for future relationships?

posted in INFP personalities - 7 replies

Jung @ Heart, Emerging Visions #12, has emerged

2008-07-26T20:15:48Z

Celebrate the Jung-star in us all with

Emerging Visions visionary art ezine #12 - "Jung @ Heart"

http://emergingvisions.blogspot.com

~ share and enjoy ~

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

How were you sure they were THE ONE?

2008-06-25T19:13:05Z

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 - 9 replies

Numbness / Depression / Creativity

2008-05-12T19:08:09Z

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

infp/intp mood swings?

2008-04-26T18:06:40Z

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

"Fun" Relationships

2008-04-22T18:52:05Z

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

What are you listening to?

2008-03-26T20:42:16Z

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?

2008-03-25T18:29:15Z

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

2008-03-25T17:42:05Z

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

Introvertedness and alcohol

2008-03-25T15:53:25Z

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

2008-03-24T02:48:11Z

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

2008-03-18T18:29:46Z

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

working with nostolgia

2008-03-14T05:44:07Z

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

2008-03-12T21:58:32Z

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

2008-02-27T07:22:32Z

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?

2008-02-18T06:08:14Z

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?

2008-02-18T05:02:48Z

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

Literary Magazines

2008-02-08T07:37:14Z

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

2008-02-05T01:55:19Z

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

2008-02-04T16:26:16Z

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

2008-01-22T22:25:21Z

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

2008-01-16T13:59:37Z

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?

2008-01-15T11:57:40Z

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?

2008-01-15T11:29:41Z

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?

2008-01-15T11:24:22Z

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 ?

2008-01-15T09:52:38Z

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

2008-01-14T06:38:56Z

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

2008-01-13T20:31:02Z

http://tribes.tribe.net/distillife

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

Actively remaining single

2007-12-29T03:04:17Z

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?

2007-12-25T21:04:17Z

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

2007-12-15T22:48:01Z

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

2007-11-08T00:33:12Z

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

2007-11-05T09:02:47Z

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..?

2007-11-05T02:10:29Z

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

2007-10-30T10:29:21Z

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?

2007-10-27T18:46:07Z

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...???...

2007-10-26T02:02:17Z

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?

2007-10-26T00:39:22Z

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

2007-10-25T17:12:20Z

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

Writers, what do you write?

2007-10-24T10:41:08Z

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?

2007-09-16T00:17:19Z

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

2007-09-03T06:36:54Z

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

How do you meet your social needs offline?

2007-08-21T19:20:17Z

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... ?

2007-08-20T03:14:16Z

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!

2007-08-15T14:35:48Z

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

2007-08-14T02:49:01Z

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

2007-08-12T23:22:41Z

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

2007-08-11T23:50:33Z

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

2007-08-11T03:06:27Z

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

2007-07-31T22:04:26Z

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

2007-07-01T19:44:21Z

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?

2007-05-31T04:52:59Z

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

2007-05-28T13:33:56Z

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

posted in INFP personalities - 0 replies

New tribe!

2007-05-11T12:25:43Z

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

2007-05-03T05:07:57Z

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

What's Your Superpower?

2007-05-03T01:58:40Z

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