The Sentimentalist

INFPs make loyal, romantic partners. They are naturally attracted to authenticity, and seek relationships where all parties can share their full selves. Intimacy is important to INFPs, and they're happiest in relationships where they can share their dreams and vulnerabilities without facing judgement or criticism.

As this type believes in true love, Sentimentalists will often date a range of people in the pursuit of their soulmate. Sometimes, their view on relationships can be steered by stereotypes found in movies and books; they crave that over-the-moon love seen on television screens. Because of this, they can sometimes be idealistic when it comes to their expectations of their partner. That said, once a Sentimentalist realizes that even the best relationships require work, they are invested and loyal partners who are keen to put in the time to truly understand and support their counterparts.

As in all areas of their lives, INFPs want their work life to feel personally satisfying, and do best at jobs that they feel emotionally invested in. Their creative minds lend well to careers where they can oversee a vision for a project or business; however, they are easily overwhelmed by high-intensity, competitive environments. If a Sentimentalist finds themselves in this kind of environment, they need clear instructions, regular encouragement, and established deadlines to succeed. Sensitive to criticism, they avoid situations where they can disappoint their peers or hold up a project.

Typically, Sentimentalists do their best work when they're able to control the creative process, either by spearheading the creative direction for a task or by working independently. Many find work as writers or authors, or else in roles where they can provide services for others.

INFPs are highly empathetic — and usually, this is a great thing. But sometimes an INFP can internalize the emotions' of those around them, leading them to feel overwhelmed or easily burdened by their peers. Their deep desire to help and support others can similarly wear out an INFP, who may struggle to protect their own time or set healthy boundaries.

Ultimately, Sentimentalists are people pleasers, and while they're led by their own value-set and morals, they still want to be liked. This can lead to distress or anxiety when they sense they're disliked. INFPs try to move through the world with kindness and to act with integrity, and can feel anguished when others don't do the same.

Unhealthy Adaptations

• Trying to fix everyone's problems at the expense of their own well-being
• Being hyper-critical of themselves in they make a mistake or disappoint someone
• Avoiding conflict due to an inability to take criticism or feedback in stride
• Overthinking big decisions out of fear of doing the "wrong" thing

INFPs often avoid positions of power; when they are in charge, they make for interesting leaders. On the one hand, their sensitive and empathetic nature make them supportive, nurturing leaders. In management positions, they're able to provide insightful feedback and direction to keep their teams on task. Their creative, big-picture thinking can also be an asset when ideating a departmental vision or new strategic direction for a product or process. As they dislike being the center of attention, they tend to be effective delegators, and are skilled at assigning tasks to those who can best perform them.

On the other hand, Sentimentalists tend to shy away from conflict, and can be indirect out of fear of hurting others' feelings. When working with team members who need ample feedback or constructive criticism, INFPs can sometimes be too avoidant and vague. Their value-driven nature can sometimes obscure their rational thinking, leading them to make decisions from an emotional place rather than a clear-headed one.

True to their name, Sentimentalists are sensitive, artistic, and deeply sentimental — and they enjoy being that way. They're happiest when they're able to comfortably lean into these traits, and surround themselves with people who see their sensitivity as strength, not a weakness. Sentimentalists are at their best when they're listening to or comforting their peers, or else putting their creative minds to use. Exploring the world and finding meaning in new people and places also brings them joy; INFPs make thoughtful, intentional travelers who collect both memories and peers on their journeys.

Healthy Adaptations

• Putting their compassion and sensitivity toward helping loved ones with challenges, while staying boundaries toward their own needs
• Working on a creative project where they can help showcase both their own and others' skills
• Surrounding themselves with value-driven individuals who share their desire for authentic, honest relationships
• Connecting with individuals on a deep level without idealizing or over-romanticizing

INFPs are deeply caring, authentic individuals; as such, they make great friends and are eager to help the people they care about without judgement or criticism. Generally speaking, they like to see others succeed, and care more about the well-being of those around them than they do about their own success. This makes them loyal, compassionate peers who can be trusted to act authentically and kindly in most situations.

Their creative nature is one of their greatest strengths. Artistic at the core, Sentimentalists can channel their creativity toward problem solving and proposing new perspectives on age-old challenges. When motivated, their energy and enthusiasm, paired with their open-minded nature can bring INFPs to find solutions that are both strategic and compassionate.

• Listening and helping friends without passing judgement
• Encouraging those around them to be creative, kind, and compassionate
• Coming up with new artistic solutions or visions
• Sharing their creativity with others through their natural drive and enthusiasm