9 signs you’re an INFJ, the world’s rarest personality type

Figuring out your personality type isn’t always a walk in the park. It can be like trying to solve a puzzle that keeps changing.

If you’ve ever felt different, misunderstood, or even out of place, there’s a good chance you might just be an INFJ – the world’s rarest personality type.

Being an INFJ is unique, and often comes with its own set of challenges and advantages. So, if you’re curious about whether you fall into this rare category, I’ve put together 9 signs to look out for.

Continue reading for a quick dive into the intriguing world of the INFJ personality type.

Let’s see if you’re one of the few who wears this unique badge!

1) You’re a walking paradox

One of the most telltale signs of being an INFJ is that you constantly feel like a walking contradiction.

On one hand, you’re an introvert who loves solitude and quiet spaces, but on the other hand, you have a deep desire to connect with others on an emotional level.

You might find yourself dreaming of a quiet night in, yet also yearn for meaningful conversation and emotional intimacy.

This paradoxical nature can sometimes be confusing, not just for those around you, but often for yourself as well.

But don’t worry – it’s just part and parcel of being an INFJ, the world’s rarest personality type.

2) Deeply empathetic

If there’s one thing that stands out about me as an INFJ, it’s my deep sense of empathy.

I remember one time in high school when a friend of mine was going through a tough breakup. While everyone else offered words of advice or quick fixes, I found myself truly feeling her pain as if it were my own.

I couldn’t just offer her a pat on the back and move on. I spent hours with her, listening to her worries, offering emotional support and doing everything I could to understand what she was going through.

This natural ability to connect with others on an emotional level is a distinct sign of being an INFJ. We don’t just sympathise with people, we empathise – feeling their pain, their joy, their fears and their victories as if they were our own. It can be quite overwhelming at times, but it’s also what makes us uniquely us.

3) Value deep connections

INFJs aren’t the type to have a large circle of friends. Instead, they tend to keep a small, tight-knit group of people they trust and can connect with on a deep level.

This isn’t because they’re antisocial, quite the opposite. INFJs crave meaningful relationships and authentic interactions. Surface-level conversations and small talk often leave them feeling unsatisfied and drained.

Instead, they seek out relationships where they can share their thoughts, feelings, and ideas without fear of judgment. It’s not uncommon for an INFJ to have fewer friendships, but the ones they do have are typically strong and lasting.

Interestingly, this is quite similar to elephants who are known for forming long-lasting bonds within their small herds and prioritizing deep, meaningful relationships over quantity.

4) Highly intuitive

As an INFJ, you probably find yourself relying on your intuition more often than not.

You have a knack for picking up on the emotions and motivations of others, even before they’ve fully expressed them. It’s almost as if you have a sixth sense, allowing you to read between the lines and understand what’s really going on.

This ability can be quite useful, helping you navigate social situations with ease and understanding. But it can also be a double-edged sword, leading you to overanalyze situations or become overly invested in the problems of others.

Still, this intuitive nature is one of the defining characteristics of an INFJ. It sets you apart and enables you to approach the world in a unique and thoughtful way.

5) Love for solitude

As an INFJ, you likely have a strong inclination towards solitude. You might find yourself craving alone time to recharge and reflect.

This doesn’t mean you’re antisocial or don’t enjoy the company of others. Quite the opposite, in fact. You probably cherish your relationships greatly, but the energy it takes to maintain them can sometimes be overwhelming.

You need your alone time to process your thoughts, delve into your interests, and simply unwind. It’s during these quiet moments that you truly feel at peace and in touch with yourself.

In a world that often pushes us to be constantly social, this love for solitude can feel out of place. But for an INFJ, it’s a necessary part of maintaining emotional health and balance.

6) Passionate about making a difference

As an INFJ, you’re not just interested in making a living, you’re passionate about making a difference. You want your life to mean something, to have an impact on the world or the people around you.

You’re driven by a deep desire to help others and to contribute to the betterment of society. Whether it’s through your career, your hobbies, or your relationships, you seek out opportunities to make a positive change.

This passion isn’t just about grand gestures or big impacts. It’s about the small acts of kindness, the gentle words of encouragement, and the moments of understanding that can make someone else’s day a little brighter.

Your heart is big and full of compassion, and you’re willing to go the extra mile to show it. This drive to make a difference is one of the most beautiful aspects of being an INFJ.

7) Sensitivity to criticism

I’ve always been the type to take things to heart, especially when it comes to criticism.

I remember a time when a colleague gave me some constructive feedback about a project I was leading. Logically, I knew they were only trying to help, but emotionally, it felt like a personal attack. I spent days replaying their words in my head, questioning my abilities and worth.

This sensitivity to criticism is a common trait among INFJs. We strive for perfection, and when we fall short, it can be deeply unsettling. We often internalize criticism, turning it into self-doubt or insecurity.

While this sensitivity can be tough to manage, it’s also what drives us to constantly improve and grow. It’s a part of our INFJ journey – one that requires self-awareness and acceptance.

8) A strong sense of purpose

If you’re an INFJ, you likely have a strong sense of purpose. You have a clear vision of what you want to achieve in life and the person you want to become.

This isn’t just about career goals or personal ambitions. It’s about your values, your beliefs, and your desire to live a life that is true to who you are.

You’re not one to go along with the crowd or settle for less than what you believe in. Instead, you’re driven by a deep-seated desire to live authentically and to make your mark in the world in your own unique way.

This strong sense of purpose is a defining characteristic of an INFJ, guiding your actions and decisions throughout your life.

9) Desire for authenticity

At the core of every INFJ is a deep desire for authenticity. You crave honest and meaningful interactions, both with others and with yourself.

You value truth, sincerity, and authenticity above all else. Fake or shallow relationships drain you, and you’d rather be alone than in the company of insincere people.

This yearning for authenticity extends to your self-perception too. You’re constantly striving to understand yourself better, to be true to who you are and live a life that reflects your innermost values.

This desire for authenticity is perhaps the most defining trait of an INFJ. It shapes your relationships, your choices, and ultimately, your understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Embracing the rarity

Being an INFJ, the world’s rarest personality type, is not an anomaly. It’s a unique blend of characteristics that sets you apart from the crowd.

It’s about being a walking paradox, having a strong sense of empathy, valuing deep connections, and cherishing your solitude. It’s about being sensitive to criticism, yet being driven by a purpose that outshines all doubts.

And at the core of it all, is a desire for authenticity – in relationships, in actions, and in self-perception.

The famous Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Carl Jung once said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” For an INFJ, these words resonate deeply.

Recognizing these traits within yourself is not just about fitting into a personality type. It’s about understanding who you are at your core and embracing it.

Being an INFJ means being rare, being different – and that’s something truly special. So here’s to embracing your rarity and celebrating the unique individual you are.