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ISFP vs. INFP: Let’s Make It Clear Once and For All


ISFP vs. INFP: Let’s Make It Clear Once and For AllThe ISFP and the INFP personality types share the same dominant function — introverted feeling (Fi). They also share the same inferior function — extraverted thinking (Te). There is a lot of similarities between the two types, but there are also differences.

ISFP vs. INFP: How they are similar

Just like the ISFJ and the INFJ, the ISFP and the INFP share three of the four type preferences — intuition, feeling and perceiving. This means they have a lot of similarities; that’s why it’s not surprising that some people may get confused as to whether they are ISFPs or INFPs. Just look at all these commonalities between the two:

  • They are both very accepting of others and don’t feel the need to tell others what to do.
  • They both value harmony and can be very flexible in their words and actions if that’s what needs to be done for the sake of peace.
  • They both think that worrying too much about their personal appearance or home organization isn’t necessary and may appear messy and disorganized.
  • They are both very loyal people who put their values and principles first.
  • In their personal relationships, they are both likely to put their partners first and may stay in bad relationships for a long time just to avoid confrontation.
  • Both are generally gentle people who appreciate others for who they are, without attempting to change them or force them to be like them.
  • They are both very sensitive — so sensitive that some other types may find it very difficult to deal with them because their feelings get constantly hurt.
  • When unhappy, both tend to withdraw instead of speaking out and solving the problem.
  • They are both introverts and prefer to spend time with just a few close friends.
  • Both prefer a leisurely pace of life, without pressure and stress.
  • As life partners, they are both very romantic people who tend to become totally consumed by their personal relationships — sometimes to the point of ruining themselves.
  • Both are very thoughtful and value other people’s time and effort.
  • They are both very adaptable and appreciate change; they like it when things get a little mixed up in their lives.
  • Both are modest: They don’t like to push themselves forward, don’t brag and somewhat dislike ambitious and competitive types, such as the ENTJ personality type.
  • Both are caring and empathetic people who are truly concerned for others.

ISFP vs. INFP: How they are different

Despite all the similarities, there are some important differences as well.

  • The ISFP is a more down-to-earth type of person while the INFP is more complex and original than the ISFP.
  • The ISFP lives in the here and now while the INFP focuses on the future.
  • The ISFP knows how to enjoy the moment while the INFP often becomes distressed by their own complex thoughts.
  • The INFP finds it difficult to feel happy and content because of their tendency to overanalyze things while the ISFP derives pleasure from simple daily activities and, perhaps, art.
  • The ISFP is more spontaneous and fun loving than the INFP who often can’t relax because of their thoughts.
  • The ISFP is more easygoing than the INFP who sometimes avoids getting close to others out of fear of rejection.
  • The INFP can see the big picture and connection between seemingly unrelated things and events while the ISFP is consumed by what is immediately in front of him or her.
  • The INFP is more idealistic than the ISFP while the ISFP is a more realistic type.
  • Unlike the INFP, the ISFP doesn’t obsess about things he or she can’t control.
  • The INFP constantly searches for hidden meanings everywhere while the ISFP is concerned only about his or her next adventure.
  • The ISFP is more physically active than the INFP and enjoys sports, nature and playing with animals.
  • The INFP is more intellectual than the ISFP and is more into reading and writing.
  • The INFP speaks in an abstract, often vague way while the ISFP’s speech is very concrete and detailed.
  • The INFP is more moody than the ISFP.

If you would like to read more about these two types, check out these links:

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