Jenn Martinelli Blogging in Boston

During my school days, some of us somewhat obsessively took various personality tests, thanks to a certain psych major. My very favorite of all time is the Meyers-Briggs. I am an INFP, as is my friend Sheilagh (we are also both super-geniuses, but that's a story for another day) - which caused us to do highly upsetting things like come racing into the livingroom to interrupt other friends' studying, announcing "the INFP sisters are here!".

Here are some particularly true points, I think:

INFPs do not like conflict, and go to great lengths to avoid it. If they must face it, they will always approach it from the perspective of their feelings. In conflict situations, INFPs place little importance on who is right and who is wrong. They focus on the way that the conflict makes them feel, and indeed don't really care whether or not they're right. They don't want to feel badly. This trait sometimes makes them appear irrational and illogical in conflict situations.

Um, if you know me, you probably have an example of this.

INFPs are flexible and laid-back, until one of their values is violated. In the face of their value system being threatened, INFPs can become aggressive defenders, fighting passionately for their cause.

Yeah, I can get a little testy when something I think is important is violated or broken - a rule, a law, a personal pet peeve...

INFPs have very high standards and are perfectionists. Consequently, they are usually hard on themselves, and don't give themselves enough credit. INFPs may have problems working on a project in a group, because their standards are likely to be higher than other members' of the group. In group situations, they may have a "control" problem.

Um, yeah, because in a group, basically everyone else is an idiot. Especially if it's for some horrible group work at school. God, I hated that.

Don't worry, there are nice things too:

INFPs, more than other iNtuitive Feeling types, are focused on making the world a better place for people.

Except the aforementioned idiots and anyone who violates my rules.

Generally thoughtful and considerate, INFPs are good listeners and put people at ease. Although they may be reserved in expressing emotion, they have a very deep well of caring and are genuinely interested in understanding people. This sincerity is sensed by others, making the INFP a valued friend and confidante. An INFP can be quite warm with people he or she knows well.

INFPs make very good mediators, and are typically good at solving other people's conflicts, because they intuitively understand people's perspectives and feelings, and genuinely want to help them.

Anyway, I love this stuff. I can't help myself.