The Idealistic Protector

Introduction

If you treat people as they ought to be, you help them become what they are capable of being.

— Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Idealistic and principled, INFJs (Advocates) are rarely content to let life simply happen. They want to stand up and make a difference. For these compassionate personalities, success is not measured by money or status, but by fulfillment, helping others, and being a force for good in the world.

They have high goals and ambitions, but don't mistake INFJs for idle dreamers. These types value integrity and are rarely satisfied until they do what they know is right. With a conscientious core, they walk through life with clear values, aiming never to lose sight of what truly matters—not because of others or society, but from their own wisdom and intuition.

Seeking Purpose

Perhaps because their type is so rare, INFJs tend to carry a sense—conscious or not—that they are different from most people. Their rich inner life and deep, persistent desire to find life's purpose can set them apart from those around them. This doesn't mean INFJs can't enjoy social acceptance or close relationships; it just means they sometimes feel misunderstood or at odds with the world.

Fortunately, this sense of being out of step with the world does not diminish INFJs' commitment to making it a better place. These personalities are troubled by injustice and usually value altruism over personal gain. They often feel called to use their strengths—including creativity, imagination, and sensitivity—to uplift others and spread compassion.

Many INFJs see helping others as their life's mission, always looking for ways to intervene and speak up for what's right. They also long to solve society's deeper problems, hoping that unfairness and hardship will one day be things of the past. Sometimes, though, INFJs become so focused on their ideals that they neglect to care for themselves properly—a pattern that can lead to stress and burnout.

Connection with Others (and Self)

INFJs value deep, authentic relationships. Few things bring them more joy than truly knowing others—and being known in return. INFJs prefer meaningful conversation over small talk and tend to communicate in a warm, sensitive way. This emotional honesty and insight can make a powerful impression on those around them.

Thoughtful and often selfless, INFJs pour great energy and care into their relationships, but that doesn't mean they always feel appreciated in return. These types tend to slow down and truly consider how their actions affect others before acting. As a result, they can become frustrated when others don't recognize their good intentions. INFJs are highly sensitive to all kinds of criticism and can take things very personally.

Personal Mission

Many INFJs feel their lives have a unique purpose—a mission they were sent to fulfill on this earth. For them, one of the most rewarding aspects of life is seeking out this purpose and, once they find it, striving to live up to it.

When INFJs encounter inequality or injustice, they rarely give up. Instead, they consult their intuition and compassion to find solutions. With a natural ability to balance heart and mind, these dedicated types are wired to right the world's wrongs, big or small. They must remember, though, to pause and care for themselves, even as they're busy caring for everyone else.