I think I’ve answered variations on this question before. But it’s been a while, so let’s see if I have a different perspective than before.
First, I will say that there are people who do (mostly) understand INFPs. These are usually those who have an INFP in the family, as a close friend, or are in a relationship with an INFP.
As for the rest of the world… There’s quite a bunch of Extroverts and Sensors out there. That’s a good reason people might not understand INFPs.
Want more reasons? 😅 Hmm, let me think…
INFPs are not a very common type
INFPs are quiet and won’t share themselves with just anyone
INFPs enjoy discussing the unusual and lesser-chosen topics
INFPs spend a lot of time in their heads
INFPs want to explore all the what-ifs before moving on
INFPs may think and speak with metaphors and symbols
INFPs may be distracted by the beauty of trees blowing in the wind
INFPs take part in conversations to listen more than to speak
INFPs will feel emotional pain at another’s distress
INFPs can cry about something other people may not understand
INFPs dislike following the crowd without a good reason
INFPs may talk to animals and inanimate objects
INFPs want to understand the reasons behind someone’s actions
I think the most important reason is the first on my list. INFPs are not a common type. If something is less common, then it is less understood. Bottom line, really. Not sure if there is anything mysterious about it. 💗
Thanks for the question. 😊
[Start ID “If Henry’s voice on the phone was a tether, his body is the gravity that makes it possible, his hand gripping the back of Alex’s neck a magnetic force, a permanent compass north.” End ID]
This book is the most romantic thing I have read in my life.
Mate
I want to play a game with you all.
You have to make a new word by changing only one letter of the last word.
Dirt
@mcquistonsource event 02 : december surprise — for chloe [ @markoliver ] ♡
— June is often a mystery, a big ball of complex emotions and motivations, but her heart is honest and true.
NORA AND IRIS. the girls i've been by tess sharpe
her hand slipped around my waist and her hip brushed against mine like she belonged there, and it felt like she did, in every vital part of me.
[insp]
Things that matter are not easy. Feelings of happiness are easy. Happiness is not. Flirting is easy. Love is not. Saying you’re friends is easy. Being friends is not.
David Levithan
The Haunting of Bly Manor Parallel: The Beast in the Jungle (1x09) // Dani & Jamie “the most”
I think this answer depends on the reasons they need to be more social and attentive. It also depends on whether or not the INFP wants to be more social and attentive.
I’m wondering about the word “more” in this question. It hints that an INFP’s current level of attentiveness and social interaction isn’t good enough.
If they’re in a social situation, the INFP will probably be as social as they’re capable. If you don’t want an INFP to become inauthentic, don’t point out that they’re not doing enough.
INFPs are Introverts, which might explain why they may not be as social as an Extrovert. And I also feel that INFPs are naturally quite attentive to others, especially in one-on-one conversations.
So, how can we teach an INFP to be a super alert Extrovert, while allowing them to be true to themselves? Hmm…
Perhaps by just accepting them as they are. If that isn’t enough, you can always find plenty of more-socially attentive individuals amongst the Extroverted types. 💗
Thanks for the question. 😊
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