INFP Relationships

INFPs are skilled in adaptability and creative thinking. They can help others adjust to unforeseen circumstances and keep an open mind to new ideas.

INFPs like having plenty of space to work alone, but they don’t want to be completely alone. They enjoy getting to know their coworkers on a personal level and they especially appreciate when others really listen to what they have to say. However, they value their own independence and may feel like they think or work better on their own. People who work with an INFP should be sure to show gratitude for their hard work and helpfulness.

INFPs also appreciate when others encourage and affirm their thoughts or ideas. INFPs thrive around people who can see the upside of every situation and share in their positive thinking, rather than with those who get stuck on a problem and wallow in it.

INFPs are likely to feel frustrated or shutdown when other people blatantly criticize their ideas, especially if it’s done in a public setting. Colleagues, especially supervisors, may find themselves frustrated if INFPs neglect to follow rigid schedules or strict policies. However, it’s important that those who work with INFPs address problems in a gentle, non-confrontational way, since they generally avoid conflict and may feel stressed if they need to face it on a regular basis in a work environment.

INFPs can be optimistic, thoughtful partners who value time spent with their loved ones. They tend to look for warm people who can show appreciation and offer encouragement on a regular basis.

INFPs tend to be able to trust others fairly easily, meaning that their partner doesn’t tend to need to work very hard to get them to open up emotionally. INFPs’ natural independence means that they are also skilled at giving their partner plenty of personal space and autonomy to make personal decisions and explore new ideas independently. Their natural curiosity, open mindedness, and thoughtfulness also gives them a passion for trying new things and thinking outside the box, which may help in preventing a relationship from feeling or becoming stagnant. They are likely to value patience and kindness from a partner over other qualities like productivity and logic.

Despite their natural strengths, INFPs may not always be the best company for their partner at large events. Their stress can seem a bit contagious and it’s not likely that their partner will have a very good time at something like a major concert if the INFP is anxious or upset at the same time. 

INFPs may also have difficulty being straight forward when sharing their perspective, particularly if they know it may be met with backlash. Instead, they’re more likely to avoid sharing or become overly agreeable. INFPs’ partners should try to ask intentional questions and show empathy to help INFPs feel comfortable enough to share how they’re really feeling. If they face an intense conflict after sharing something that frustrates their partner, they may keep similar feelings to themselves in the future.

INFPs also tend to have a hard time being aware of their own personal needs or setting aside the time and energy to attend to them. They need to make a conscious effort to take time to themselves to think and recognize what they need. By being conscious of and attending to their own needs, INFPs are likely to avoid unnecessary stress that can really harm their relationships.