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What is the isfp personality type


All About the ISFP Personality Type

The ISFP Personality Type

ISFPs are gentle caretakers who live in the present moment and enjoy their surroundings with cheerful, low-key enthusiasm. They are flexible and spontaneous, and like to go with the flow to enjoy what life has to offer. ISFPs are quiet and unassuming, and may be hard to get to know. However, to those who know them well, the ISFP is warm and friendly, eager to share in life's many experiences.

ISFPs have a strong aesthetic sense and seek out beauty in their surroundings. They are attuned to sensory experience, and often have a natural talent for the arts. ISFPs especially excel at manipulating objects, and may wield creative tools like paintbrushes and sculptor's knives with great mastery.

What does ISFP stand for?

ISFP is an acronym used to describe one of the sixteen personality types created by Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers. It stands for Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving. ISFP indicates a person who is energized by time spent alone (Introverted), who focuses on facts and details rather than ideas and concepts (Sensing), who makes decisions based on feelings and values (Feeling) and who prefers to be spontaneous and flexible rather than planned and organized (Perceiving). ISFPs are sometimes referred to as Composer personalities because of their innate sensibility for creating aesthetically pleasing experiences.

ISFP Values and Motivations

ISFPs tend to be tolerant and nonjudgmental, but are deeply loyal to the people and causes that matter to them. They endeavor to accept and support other people, but are ultimately guided by their own core values. They will typically look for ways to be accommodating and may have difficulty dealing with others who are not willing to do the same.

ISFPs are typically modest and may underestimate themselves. They usually do not like to be in the spotlight, preferring instead to take a supporting role, and will avoid planning and organizing whenever possible. Sensitive and responsive, they step in to do what needs to be done and are satisfied by their personal sense of being helpful to others.

How Others See the ISFP

ISFPs can be difficult to recognize because of their tendency to express themselves through action rather than words. They may initially appear distant or aloof, but if you watch closely, you can observe their caring in the thoughtful things they do for others. They are carefully observant of the practical needs of other people, and often step in with quiet, unassuming assistance at just the moment it is needed. ISFPs prefer to take a supportive role and are rarely assertive or demanding of attention. They are typically tolerant and accepting of others.

ISFPs typically have finely tuned artistic sensibilities. They are sensitive to color, texture, and tone, and often have an innate sense of what will be aesthetically pleasing. They are often naturals when it comes to arranging something artistically, and enjoy the process of taking in the sensations around them. ISFPs focus mostly on the experiences of the present moment, and are rarely ambitious, preferring instead to enjoy the simple pleasures of life: friends, family, and sensory delights such as food, music, and art.

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How rare is the ISFP personality type?

ISFP is the fourth most common type in the population. ISFPs make up:

  • 9% of the general population
  • 10% of women
  • 8% of men

Famous ISFPs

Famous ISFPs include Cher, Barbra Streisand, Frida Kahlo, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Bob Dylan, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Jimi Hendrix, Rihanna, and Michael Jackson.

ISFP Quotes

"The work of their hands is usually more eloquent than anything they say."

- Isabel Briggs Myers, Gifts Differing

"The Composers are attuned to sensory variation, which gives them an extraordinary ability to work with the slightest nuances of color, tone, texture, aroma, and flavor. "

- David Keirsey, Please Understand Me II

"It is this type more than any of the others whose style it is to stand by another person (or plant or animal), with no intention to influence it, criticize it, or change it—perhaps not even to interact with it—only to be in its presence."

- Otto Kroeger, Type Talk at Work

Facts about ISFPs

Interesting facts about the ISFP:

  • On personality trait measures, score as Easygoing
  • Among types most likely to report heart disease and hypertension
  • In college, likely to report low levels of assertiveness
  • In essays, projected themselves the fewest number of years into the future of all the types
  • Among the types least likely to stay in college
  • Most likely of all types to report stress associated with finances and children
  • In a national sample, likely to value a work environment which provides security, clear and simple instructions, and no expectation of extra work hours
  • Underrepresented among MBA students and small business owners
  • Commonly found in occupations in health care, business, and law enforcement

Source: MBTI Manual

ISFP Hobbies and Interests

Popular hobbies for ISFPs are those that use their physical or artistic skills, including independent athletics like skiing or swimming, dance, and craft projects. ISFPs also enjoy entertaining in intimate groups and exploring art and nature.

ISFP Personality: 5 Traits, Strengths, Weaknesses & More

The ISFP personality type.

ISFP stands for introverted, sensing, feeling, and perceiving. According to Dario Nardi, Ph.D., personality expert and author of Neuroscience of Personality, ISFPs make up about 4% of the general population, with twice as many females as males.

Nardi describes this type as playful, reflective, action-oriented, and driven by personal values. And as John Hackston, head of thought leadership at the Myers-Briggs Company tells mbg, ISFPs have a quiet, tolerant approach that can lead to them being underestimated by others—and even themselves.

"They're flexible and spontaneous but may find routines and strict rules difficult to cope with," he notes.

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5 key traits of an ISFP:

1.

Quiet

If you're looking for an ISFP in the room, they're likely not going to be the center of attention. According to Hackston, this type can often be found quietly taking in what is going on around them. "ISFPS are generally quiet, kind, tolerant, trusting people who are very aware of the people and things in the world around them, in particular the feelings and needs of others," he explains.

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2.

Driven by personal values

While they may not push their values on you, ISFPs have a strong sense of what matters to them (like freedom, and their own happiness), and they stick to it. "They typically have very strong, deep-rooted inner values, and want to live their own lives in accordance with these," Hackston says.

3.

Emotional

Being a "feeling" (F) type, as opposed to "thinking" (T), ISFPs have a deep emotional world—even if they don't outwardly express it. As Nardi explains, "They tend to have a very strong reflective side and really keep their needs, emotions, values, and so on, close to their chest. Even if they come off nice and relaxed, they're still mostly focused on their own emotional experience."

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4.

Tolerant

ISFPs are pleasant and approachable, thanks to their tolerant nature. Hackston notes that they'll rarely force their views on others—and not because they don't have their own opinions. "They like to do their own thing, in their own time, and feel that other people should be allowed to do the same," he tells mbg.

5.

Artistic

Lastly, Nardi notes that ISFPs have a knack for bringing a creative and artistic flair to everything they do. They're known for their ability to trust their intuition and combine it with their senses, to create something beautiful—whether it be through photography, music, acting, etc. "Some of the greatest, most notable artists of all time are ISFPs," he says.

Hackston adds that this type also often values and feels an affinity with the beauty of the natural world.

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Common strengths:

  • Creative
  • Approachable
  • Tolerant
  • Pragmatic
  • Hardworking (when personally interested or invested)
  • Helpful

Common weaknesses:

  • Disorganized
  • Shy about commitment
  • Can succumb to laziness
  • Can resist authority & structure
  • Emotionally reactive
  • Vengeful

ISFPs in relationships.

If you're curious about ISFP compatibility, these folks can be difficult to get to know, as they take their time forming new relationships, according to Hackston. But once forged, he says, their relationships are extremely important to them. "They will spontaneously show their affection in straightforward, practical ways," he tells mbg, noting that they notice the moods and needs of others and want to be helpful.

Nardi adds that ISFPs have a "really incredible capacity to be present with the other person in the very concrete, physical, emotional way"—but they also have a strong capacity toward retaliation and revenge. "Hell hath no fury like a scorned ISFP," he says.

According to Hackston, ISFPs are often attracted to other ISFPS, and relationships with ESFPs, ISTPs, and ISFJs also often work very well. Nardi says in general, they get along well with other SP (Sensing and Perceiving) types and SF (Sensing and Feeling) types and adds that a relationship between ISFP and an NTP type is "very unlikely to even get started."

And by the way, if you're dating an ISFP, Nardi says the secret to dealing with them when they're upset is to change the physical context, such as going for a walk or a drive. A new physical setting will "quickly take them out of the worry mode and back into something that they trust, which is the joy of the present moment," he explains.

ISFPs in the workplace.

As aforementioned, ISFPs do have a creative streak, even if their career isn't inherently creative. Nardi explains that ISFPs aren't always artists, and do well in business, psychology, social work, and even tech.

"They need some kind of capacity to design—to express themselves and their values. They actually can be huge assets in the workplace when they're listened to, because they have this keen sense of identity, and they're practical and pragmatic," Nardi says.

And Hackston notes that ISFPs also want to be friendly and collaborative, enjoying workplaces where these actions are reciprocated by their co-workers. "They look for an environment that fits with their beliefs," he says, adding they dislike routines and noisy environments, preferring flexibility and spontaneity.

"It is not easy to give a list of suitable jobs for an ISFP, because the best job for an ISFP is one that allows them to follow their passions and beliefs; and these will vary from one to the next," Hackston explains.

How to thrive as an ISFP.

According to Hackston, one of the best things an ISFP can do is think carefully about what they're passionate about—and follow a career that allows them to express it. He adds that they also need to remember they can say no to people. "Maybe keep a to-do list to avoid taking on too much," he adds.

Because this type can be underestimated, Hackston also notes they should try to avoid underestimating themselves, as well as taking what other people say too personally. ISFPs can struggle with self-esteem, Nardi notes.

Nardi also recommends ISFPs figure out the way they learn best, as this type can have the hardest time in a traditional school structure. "I would also say a body-mind practice is great," he adds, explaining that something that brings their brain, spirit, emotions, and body all together (like yoga or martial arts), really keeps them aligned.

The bottom line.

Each of the 16 Myers-Briggs types has its strengths and weaknesses—in the workplace, in their relationships, and more. But the good thing about these personality assessments is, the more we understand about them, the better we're able to work with the cards we've been dealt.

Mediator Personality Type (ISFP)

The mediator man has many friends and acquaintances, and he understands people very well. It is difficult to hide from him whether he is a bad person or a good one, what state he is in.

Always ready to support the company, he is a master at telling compelling stories and is often the center of attention. Usually these are stories about some everyday events. As a rule, in these stories there are always people and a lot of visual, tactile and olfactory details. The narrative is dynamic, intriguing, exciting, accompanied by well-dosed, pleasant emotions. nine0003

"Mediator" likes not only to have fun, but also to eat delicious food, and often knows how to cook well himself. This is a hospitable person. If you are visiting him, he will be happy to treat you: "Help yourself, try it! It's just delicious!" Blurs with pleasure when the guests praise his treat. But as a rule, there is no arrogance and arrogance in his character. The "intermediary" knows how to be extremely appropriate in any company, always showing delicacy and unobtrusiveness. nine0003

It often happens that he amuses the whole company, maintaining an atmosphere of celebration and friendliness, but a scandal starts, something goes wrong - look, he is no longer there. Worldly wise, he always stands aloof from what he does not consider his own, from what is unpleasant to him, with quiet adherence to principles. But don't be fooled by his softness and pliability. At a critical moment, he will be able to fend for himself.

At the first meeting with a woman, the "Mediator" is charming. He jokes, flirts skillfully, knows how to quickly close the distance and move on to informal communication. Soft charm shines through in every movement. nine0003

Men "Mediators" are not indifferent to the female sex. It costs them nothing to win over any woman they like. The "Mediator" is courting beautifully, one might say, professionally, so few can resist his charm. If he is set on marriage, he will always find a suitable girlfriend for himself, and no matter how difficult her character may be, she will be able to get along well with her.

He likes the warmth of family relationships and home comfort. He loves to be served. At the same time, he automatically takes care of his loved ones, carefully monitors not only his health, but also that his family regularly goes to the doctor, is healthy, well-fed, and beautifully dressed. nine0003

The Mediator is endowed with a subtle sense of beauty. He appreciates antiques, can come up with a non-standard interior in his own house, or even work with his hands to make the environment beautiful and cozy. The main thing - it would be for whom to do it! But he does not like orders from others and takes a long time to shirk if he was asked to do something. But when the mood appears, he will do everything himself, and excellently - he has very skillful hands.

True, this does not happen often, because he is lazy. If the “Mediator” cannot decide what to do with him, he is able to indulge in languid bliss on the sofa for hours and days, by nature he is a sybarite, loves to be served so that he does not have to make unnecessary movements. And he takes such care with the real grace of a lazy cat. nine0003

ISFP EXPLAINED: WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ISFP PERSONALITY

ISFP is one of the 16 MBTI personality types and is part of the Artisan temperament group along with ESFP, ESTP and ISTP. Sensitive, observant and creative, the ISFP is an introvert who demonstrates an openness to new experiences and adventures. They are called tactical composers and adventurers and are estimated to make up 9 to 10% of the population. ISFPs live in the world of their feelings and are individualists who are happy to be unique and true to who they feel they are. They have different tastes, they appreciate details that others overlook and pay attention to them. They have a strong subjective sense of what fits and what doesn't from an aesthetic and artistic point of view. nine0003

ISFPs tend to be quiet and casual. They calmly observe and absorb the physical details of their environment, including the people who occupy it. Naturally, they pay attention to how people dress, to their walk and gestures. They have a subtle sense of style and composition, which allows them to synthesize all the details and details they observe into something beautiful and meaningful. In addition, ISFPs usually have very little preparation and planning. They trust their impulses and their ability to react and respond at the right time. They welcome occasional excursions that give them a break from routine and mundane things. nine0003

In addition, the ISFP's communication is more specific in tone, and they demonstrate great skill and technique in the use of instruments. They tend not to be very verbal, but express themselves more strongly through actions and art forms. They are tactile, they like to work with their hands and use their body in practice. They immerse themselves in sensory information such as texture, aroma, and taste.

This does not mean that all ISFPs are artistically gifted artists and musicians. Not all ISFPs are artists in the narrow sense of painting and sculpture. Rather, it is their approach to life that defines their artisan character. They want to explore and let their impulses and instincts guide them and their decisions. They demonstrate an open mind and show little or no desire to control and dictate to others. ISFPs express a mild individualism that often extends to their children. They are ready to give their descendants the freedom to explore and discover life. However, if they have referee children, this can be a problem as such children may feel deprived of structure and order in their upbringing. nine0003

ISFPs are often considered the most common of all MBTI types, second only to ESFPs. ISFPs have a sense of humanity that guides their actions. They care for people in a more local and practical sense, rather than in the more general sense that the Fe types hold. ISFPs seek to relate to others rather than control them, and they tend not to interfere with their parenting style. They tend to give their children a lot of leeway and the freedom to grow and develop on their own. ISFPs demonstrate their love mainly through practical actions and physical affection. Both children and romantic friends know they are loved through their thoughtful gestures and generous offers. nine0003

ISFPs relaxed but active. However, they tend to be preoccupied with activities they enjoy rather than tasks that must be completed. They tend to be spontaneous and dispersed rather than single-minded. Because of this, ISFPs may have a tendency to launch many projects that are left unfinished or delayed for a long period. People with this personality type tend to do things for pleasure more than for any other compelling motivation. They gravitate towards activities that allow them to work without external restrictions, rules and regulations. ISFPs prefer an environment in which they can exercise their creativity and instincts rather than being forced to follow inflexible routines and routines that hold them back and bore them. nine0003

ISFPs are more involved in the process than in the end goal and objectives. Although they are quiet and reserved in the way they express themselves, an ISFP male or female likes to be close to where the action is. They absorb and absorb much of what they observe and experience, which eventually becomes part of their work and creations. As a here-and-now type who is involved in the day-to-day interactions they experience, ISFPs are prone to boredom if they are deprived of a certain amount of stimulation, both creative and physical. Abstract and conceptual theories are less interesting for these types. In addition, ISFPs tend to struggle with traditional forms of education that do not suit their hands-on learning style. nine0003

ISFPs are guided by their personal values. Work should bring remuneration, and money for it is secondary. Ideally, their goal is to do something that brings them personal satisfaction and benefits others. ISFPs can be apathetic and slow to tackle tasks that don't interest them. However, when it comes to projects related to their passion, ISFPs can work tirelessly and immerse themselves in the process. In their own way, ISFPs want to create and experience all that life has to offer, absorbing all of its richness and beauty in the process. nine0003

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