INFP-T vs. INFP-A: Perhaps you haven’t come across much information about the INFP personality type, particularly because it constitutes only around 4% of all personality types. Nevertheless, rest assured that it is an intriguing personality profile. In this article, we will delve deep into the 31 secrets that distinguish Turbulent (INFP-T) from Assertive (INFP-A) Mediators.
To demonstrate this, there are unique characteristics that define these two subdivisions.
For instance, Mediators, as they are often referred to, possess a serene, reserved nature that allows them to explore the boundless possibilities life offers. In essence, their outward calmness doesn’t stifle their fervent desire to journey along diverse paths to reach their objectives.
The key difference lies in whether they are Turbulent Mediators (INFP-T) or Assertive Mediators (INFP-A). Intriguing, isn’t it? If you’re curious to learn more, brace yourself for an exploration of the top 31 secrets of these personality types.
Secrets of the INFP-T Personality Type:
- Every obstacle on the path becomes a learning opportunity.
It is inherent in the INFP personality to seek personal growth, which for INFP-T, is often associated with challenging life experiences. Their frequent sense of personal dissatisfaction and failures serve as catalysts for learning and growth, propelling them toward change rather than causing retreat.
- Idealism is on the rise.
Turbulent Mediators exhibit profound idealism when dealing with situations, driving personal and collective development. This idealism can, at times, become overwhelming and burdensome.
- Self-inflicted pressure is common.
The drive for growth and its unexpected consequences can become overwhelming. However, turbulent mediators tend to impose these demands and the relentless pursuit of improvement upon themselves, a byproduct of setting high goals.
- They are their harshest critics.
Self-criticism is a prominent and intense characteristic of the turbulent personality type, and it tends to manifest indirectly in various aspects of their lives. Unfortunately, this internal criticism can inflict significant harm.
- They automatically strive to overcome their weaknesses.
INFP-Ts are acutely aware of their flaws and weaknesses, prompting them to automatically seek ways to rectify them. While this commitment to self-improvement is admirable, it can be harsh and self-doubting, making the process emotionally taxing.
- Emotions frequently guide their decisions.
Given their empathetic nature, turbulent mediators naturally weigh their decisions with emotional considerations. They may even be inclined to express their emotions more openly, building stronger support networks despite potential initial reservations.
- They place significant value on others’ opinions.
Turbulent Mediators often prioritize the opinions of others, driven by their empathetic disposition. Their desire to contribute to others’ growth leads them to listen attentively and hold others’ opinions in high regard.
- External feedback boosts their confidence.
One of the benefits of placing such importance on others’ opinions is that it provides reassurance to turbulent mediators. External feedback often bolsters their self-esteem, helping them make decisions and take action in challenging situations.
- Stress can become inevitable.
Their extreme idealism and empathy drive their relentless pursuit of change and improvement. While this is commendable for personal and collective development, it can quickly lead to overwhelming stress due to the significant ambition and responsibilities involved.
- Thinking is second nature.
INFP-Ts engage in frequent and deep thinking. The constant quest for self-improvement, coupled with the desire to help others, results in a significant amount of mental energy dedicated to contemplating their actions, interactions, and their impact on others.
- A vivid imagination.
Turbulent Mediators possess fertile imaginations, which they use to envision various scenarios and evaluate their potential outcomes. This creative mental capacity proves highly beneficial and contributes to their ability to achieve remarkable results.
- They connect but may not always deepen connections.
While skilled at establishing connections and expanding their social networks, turbulent mediators tend to be selective when deepening these connections. Building profound friendships takes time and effort, as they are inherently reserved individuals who carefully choose their closest companions.
- They are far from lazy.
Despite occasionally perceiving themselves as lazy, turbulent mediators are anything but. This self-perception may be influenced by their self-imposed pressure for self-improvement. In reality, they work diligently to overcome their weaknesses and continuously strive for personal growth.
- Shyness can be set aside.
Turbulent Mediators can effectively overcome their natural shyness, especially in professional settings that require interaction and mediation with various groups. Professions such as journalism, social work, counseling, and therapy align well with their abilities.
- Exceptional listeners.
Their empathetic nature and genuine concern for others make turbulent mediators outstanding listeners. They are always willing to attentively listen to others, whether for their own benefit or to provide support to those in need.
Secrets of the INFP-A Personality Type:
- They are also adept listeners.
Similar to INFP-T, INFP-A is highly skilled in active listening. However, they approach the feedback they receive differently, valuing it without necessarily allowing it to drastically alter their perspectives.
- They relish being comfortable in their own skin.
Assertive Mediators excel at embracing their authentic selves, a stark contrast to their turbulent counterparts. They prioritize self-acceptance and self-contentment, emphasizing their role as the protagonists of their lives and decisions.
- They epitomize optimism.
Assertive Mediators lean towards a brighter outlook on life. Their innate idealism aligns with an overall positive perspective, consistently painting pleasant scenarios in their mind.
- Mistakes hold less significance.
Unlike turbulent mediators who dwell on criticism and failures, assertive mediators tend to downplay their own mistakes. They accept their flaws and criticism with ease, focusing on positive aspects rather than fixating on negativity.
- They manage their thoughts effectively.
Self-critique exists among assertive mediators, but they carry a lighter emotional burden regarding self-evaluation. They tend to avoid excessive negativity and maintain a more positive outlook on themselves and situations.
- Strong self-confidence.
The optimism and reduced emphasis on external opinions result in pronounced self-confidence among assertive mediators. They handle confrontations and stress with greater ease due to their belief that things will work out in their favor.
- They excel at group dynamics.
Assertive Mediators often take on roles that involve motivating and leading groups. Their self-assured nature, combined with trust in their teammates, leads to effective leadership and goal attainment.
- Challenges in group leadership.
While they excel in group settings, assertive mediators may struggle with balancing team members’ strengths and weaknesses. Their unwavering confidence and positivity can sometimes lead to unclear goals and expectations within the group.
- Emotions may be challenging to express.
These individuals have difficulty expressing their feelings, which can be perceived as emotional detachment or neglect, both in general interactions and romantic relationships.
- Regrets focus on inaction.
Assertive mediators possess a strong resilience and ability to move forward, making them less prone to dwelling on past decisions or regrets. Their focus remains on self-improvement and personal growth.
- They value solitude.
Being content in their own company, assertive mediators prioritize their own perspectives over external opinions. They cherish the freedom to be themselves without concern for judgment.
- Criticisms don’t linger.
Assertive mediators maintain strong self-identities, making them less susceptible to the impact of criticism and external feedback. While open to listening and respecting others’ opinions, such feedback holds less sway over their self-perception.
- Asking for help can be challenging.
Even when they need assistance, assertive mediators find it difficult to seek help due to their inherent stubbornness. This trait can occasionally lead to an unhealthy level of self-reliance.
- Difficulty detecting problems.
Their tendency to keep feelings to themselves, coupled with their optimistic outlook, can create a blind spot for assertive mediators when it comes to recognizing underlying issues or problems.
In conclusion, these two subdivisions, Turbulent and Assertive Mediators, exhibit distinct traits that set them apart. While they reside at opposite ends of the personality spectrum, they also share commonalities. Understanding these differences and similarities can enhance your self-awareness and improve interactions with individuals of these personality types. Which one resonates with you or someone you know? Feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments!