As clinical psychologist Kristina Hallett, Ph.D., ABPP, previously explained to mbg, your type is determined by where you fall on the four different trait spectrums of the MBTI, which are introverted versus extroverted, intuitive versus sensing, thinking versus feeling, and sensing versus judging. So, an INFJ is someone who is typically more introverted and relies on their intuition to gather information. They also make decisions through feelings and emotions as opposed to logic, and they prefer to approach their life with more structure and scheduling as opposed to flexibility and spontaneity. In relationships, Blaylock-Johnson says INFJs are sensitive to their partner’s needs, great listeners, and excellent communicators. They can, however, be hesitant to open up or even make the first move at first, she adds, given their introverted nature. They can also be sensitive to criticism and conflict, as they often prefer to play peacemaker, she notes. As far as MBTI compatibility goes, Hallett says INFJs are typically most compatible with ENFPs, ENTPs, INFPs, and ENFJs, because partners that share the intuitive and feeling combo (NF) have a greater than 70% chance of compatibility. (Here’s our deep dive into INFJ compatibility.) And if you’re wondering about incompatibility, Blaylock-Johnson and Hallett say ESFPs, ESTPs, ESTJs, ISFJs, and ISTPs may have more difficulty connecting to INFJs. “Organization is another top priority,” Hallett says, adding these people value cooperation and collegiality—sometimes at a slight loss of productivity. They find it “better to ensure full-team buy-in at a slightly slower pace,” she adds. Some well-suited INFJ careers might include mental health professionals, teachers, yoga instructors, or any career where they can make connections and do meaningful work that helps others, according to Hallett. Workplaces that are chaotic, rushed, or conflict-ridden “will create significant struggles for the INFJ,” she adds. “Thriving happens when the INFJ has time for self-reflection and contemplation,” Hallett notes, adding things like meditation, yoga, time in nature, and alone time are all beneficial for these people. Being so creative, they’ll also feel their best when they have outlets for that creativity. Similarly, their intuition is important to them, so they thrive when they can not only trust it but look at it from a compassionate, objective stance. An orderly environment never hurts either, Hallett adds. And in terms of work and relationships, she notes, it all comes back to meaning. “Deep, close relationships, work that has a purpose, and the opportunity for independence and autonomy predict the best possible outcome,” Hallett explains.
