INFP Career Planning
The INFP personality type, also known as the Idealist or Mediator, tends to be compassionate, imaginative, and flexible. They are driven by strong internal values and are often engaged in self-discovery and how they can contribute to personal and social welfare. Understanding this unique personality can be an essential part of the career exploration process.
The Career Exploration Process
1. Setting Goals
The INFP tends to be driven by their inner values and personal mission. Goals must align with their sense of purpose.
- Preferred Method for this Type: Reflection and introspection to ensure that the goal aligns with their values.
- Potential Obstacles: Overthinking or becoming paralyzed by wanting to find the “perfect” goal.
- Tip: Start with broad values and narrow down to specific, achievable goals that align with those values.
2. Gathering Information
INFPs prefer to gather information through personal connections and interactions.
- Preferred Method for this Type: Networking and discussions with people in their chosen field to understand the human aspect of the work.
- Potential Obstacles: Avoiding traditional research or analytical data, leading to an incomplete picture.
- Tip: Balance personal insights with factual data and traditional research.
3. Making Contact
INFPs often prefer one-on-one interactions where they can connect on a deeper level.
- Preferred Method for this Type: Personal meetings and informational interviews.
- Potential Obstacles: Discomfort in large networking events or overly formal environments.
- Tip: Seek out opportunities for personal connections; don’t be afraid to utilize online networking tools.
4. Making Decisions
INFPs often need to feel a deep personal connection to their work and may struggle with traditional decision-making paradigms.
- Preferred Method for this Type: Intuitive decision-making, guided by how the options align with personal values.
- Potential Obstacles: Struggling with indecision if there is no clear alignment with values.
- Tip: Use a logical framework to supplement intuitive decision-making, considering practical aspects like financial stability and work-life balance.
Career Trends for INFPs
INFPs often thrive in careers where they can express their creativity, compassion, and idealism. Trending careers for this type might include:
- Counselors and Therapists
- Writers and Authors
- Environmental Activists
- Art Therapists
- Human Rights Advocates
Potential Strengths of the INFP Personality Type
- Empathy: INFPs are often excellent at understanding others’ feelings and needs.
- Creativity: They are imaginative and can think outside the box.
- Flexibility: They tend to be adaptable and open to new experiences.
- Alignment with Values: Their career choices often reflect a deep personal mission or purpose.
INFPs are often drawn to careers that allow them to express their values, creativity, and desire to help others. Here’s a list of 15 attractive occupations that might resonate with individuals of the INFP personality type:
- Counselor/Therapist: Helping others understand and cope with their emotions.
- Writer/Author: Using creativity and expression to create novels, poetry, or non-fiction.
- Social Worker: Working with vulnerable populations to improve their well-being.
- Human Rights Advocate: Championing the rights and dignity of individuals and communities.
- Art Therapist: Combining artistic expression with therapeutic practices.
- Environmental Activist: Working to protect and sustain the environment.
- Teacher/Educator: Sharing knowledge and inspiring younger generations.
- Non-profit Organization Manager: Leading organizations that align with personal values.
- Occupational Therapist: Helping individuals gain independence through daily activities.
- Librarian: Assisting others in their search for knowledge and learning.
- Musician/Composer: Expressing emotions and ideas through music.
- Graphic Designer: Utilizing creativity to create visual designs and concepts.
- Nutritionist/Dietitian: Helping individuals live healthier lives through diet and nutrition.
- Museum Curator: Connecting people with art, history, and culture.
- Life Coach: Guiding others in personal development and achieving their goals.
These careers often align with the INFP’s intrinsic values of creativity, empathy, and making a positive difference in the world. They provide opportunities for INFPs to work in areas where they can use their unique strengths and satisfy their desire to contribute meaningfully to society.
Conclusion
The INFP personality type’s career planning is deeply intertwined with their values and need for personal connection. By understanding these unique aspects, INFPs can navigate the career exploration process effectively, making choices that fulfill both their professional ambitions and personal ideals.
Ken Meyer
Myers Briggs Master Practitioner and Retired Senior Career Coach at Eastern Michigan University
