Thank you Nathan! 1. Live with difficult and contentious people 2. Exist or work in environments that require constant reaction. 3. Let their boundaries slide.
Boundaries really are a struggle. I also feel there's a pattern here. If people see that you let a boundary slide. Without even thinking, they will inevitably ask for more. Like a child in a candy store. The parent gives them one. Says one. But they always ask for more. They ask and they ask and they take and they take. The parent firms up, the child cries and this keeps on till someone breaks. I have been trying to get better at boundaries, but I need help. sometimes I feel like ppl expect to be able to walk over me. Are hurt and shocked when I stand. I try to stand but ultimately I get over powered. Im not intimidating, I have very low energy, I hate conflict, I'm easily pleased and I care so much about others. So many of my efforts are met with failure. It's exhausting.
I feel for you, Kalina(?). I also have difficulty with boundaries, but I think this challenge manifests itself in a different way for me. It feels more internal than external. Like I, myself, don't know what my limits are, what is and what isn't okay for me. I just thought about this, while reading your comment: maybe this difference has something to do with gender. I'm assuming you're a woman (by what I also assumed was your name). If that's really the case, not being intimidating is a major disadvantage to impose your boundaries. That's a challenge I'm not familiar with, I'm more like the gentle giant guy archetype. People in general avoid facing me without even knowing me, which in turn provides me with my own kind of challenge. This is all to show how I truly feel for you, I may also have INFJ challenges, but not being someone as easily respected has a major impact on people's behaviour when facing your boundaries. Hugs from Brazil, I wish you the best with yourself and the world around you.
Just remember this, how distasteful and unpleasant it will be to be forced into the mommy role. That will cure this as you see how it impedes our very sacred independence.
About their attraction to dark & dodgy characters. My INFJ girlfriend told me it's mainly an urge to fix or save them, especially when everyone else has given up on them. The desire to make a good person yet out of this bad boy or girl. Not sure you can generalize this, but that's her take on it. :)
Yes, we often think: if we dont help them or love them, nobody will, because others are less emphatic, and we are their last hope. We feel the responsibility to do something AS IF we are the only ones in their enviroment seeing their sorrow (because we are aware that others in their life might not do anything to help them even if they see sorrow).
How an (*cof cof* immature *cof*) INFJ deal with boundaries, by an (*cof* immature) INFJ: - Ok, these are my boundaries. They shall never be moved. - Oh, is this boundarie bothering you? Here, let me move it just a bit. - So that isn't enough huh. You know what? I think I can move it a bit more, I don't really care much about that. - You want me to move that more? I don't think that would be a good idea. Maybe just a little bit, but that's enough. - I- I swear I had not moved this bounderie, was that you? No? Huh, maybe my memory is just getting worse. - How did you get here? - Ok, is ok, just be careful around here and stay in this zone, ok? That area over there is out of limits. - No no no don't go there... ok, I can let it pass this time, just don't do it again. - I told you to NOT do it again. - This is getting way too uncomfortable, could you stop moving around my boundarie zone please? - Ok, I did care about that, who gave you permission to go there...? - I don't like this - I don't like _you_ - That's it, TAKE ONE STEP MORE AND I SWEAR I WILL CUT YOUR FEET OFF - _I think its time to yeet this person out of my boundaries AND life :D_ *_The yeeting was done and the intruder was gone, still the INFJ repeated the cycle way too many times before learning its lesson_* (Pretty much, like Nathan said: Allowing your bounderies to slide is never a good idea)
You kinda....represented us all 😞 I am working on myself to not take so long to "cut people out" and to not take so long to draw the line. We need to be precise and firm! Or else...it's just a waste of time, energy and heart! May God help all us INFJ-s
Well RIP, 1. 3 of my family members are entj estj enfj 2. I worked at a cocktail bar where I get slammed for orders hours on end 3. My boundaries get stepped on daily Looks like I got work to do…
The 3rd point, we should also try our best to set boundaries for others too. It's not a "NEVER should" like this video, but I think it's important to point out that INFJs get really fixated on helping and solving other people's issues, when they never asked for it. That's what happened to me. And Nathan nailed the point that INFJs do attarct "dark" people. Being friends with toxic people is like a trap.
I see this a lot with INFJs. We should first of all take care for ourselves and look if the other person is actually worth fighting for. I nearly always made that distinction. It is judgmental but yes, we do judge people based on our values and it would be hypocritical to deny it. If I see the potential in a person to be ethically correct then I will step in when something bad happens to them. But if I don't see it (judging by their behaviour) then deal with your stuff yourself.
@@PriHL I'm a bit different. I'm mostly driven by.. fixer syndrome. That's usually been the case. My urge to solve things just happens because I was able to come up with solutions. I'm taking our polar Te into account too. It usually works without problem, unless the person I'm dealing with is being difficult. Be it naivety or lack of intelligence, I still try to make them realize without making them feel uncomfortable. However, there'll always be people who are just that unbearable.
1:- It is never able to be avoided, especially if wanting a family, arguments and subjects of disagreement are inevitable. 2:- All environments require reactions, whether at home or work, INFJ's can adjust but still need restrictions so to not overload themselves. 3:- Keep some restrictions and boundaries, also allow time in nature to try and purge the excess emotions that get picked up on during each day, allowing to to compile and fester is never a good thing because that can push you towards an explosive result, which may end up as the Dark Side, which should never be mistaken as the INFJ Rage.
Yes, I fully concur with all three points, especially when it comes to boundaries. I can be a bit of a doormat when it comes to letting people into my personal space.
I meet this guy who likes to stand next to me. He obviously like to use me since I help him a little before. Not to be taken advantage of, I talk about his cigarette/penis addiction to define my boundaries. Priest molestation is another.
It’s strange to me that a certain people can’t or don’t want to understand that we don’t want our time, peace and space interrupted. I don’t like isolation and want to socialize. However, U need my time to recharge and disengage.
@ Nicole Paull - I'm INFJ and my first husband was an ESTJ trial attorney. He treated me like a hostile witness. If I had learned how to stop being so darn nice all the time and had some boundaries, it might have worked. His toughness made him very protective of me, which was good for someone as sensitive as me. I didn't learn to be assertive until I was much older, so that marriage ended in divorce very quickly. Watching things like this video can make you far wiser than I was!
Damn, an ESTJ husband? That seems like an impossible task for most INFJs to handle, but it only shows that with good communication skills, even an unlikely INFJ-ESTJ pairing can work out. 😁
I believe enfjs having Fe as the dominant function suffers greater stress than infjs when there is disharmony or conflicts or “selfish” “immoral” behaviours etc. This is why they can’t stand some types of people who they think only cares about themselves, etc.. Tho, the concept of selfishness in itself is a paradox, but Fe users love to make such cruel assumptions on people who live their lives, apparently, for selfish sinful selves etc.. People who don’t play, “respect”, participate in their social games of perceived “superior ways of life,” will often be shunned, mocked and attacked by the gangs, communities, cults that’s Fe users tend to love forming(and very successful at that). The thing is, secondary Fe is different compared to dominant Fe. Secondary Fe believes the application of Fe is the way to achieve better things in life. While dominant Fe users such as enfj esfj, they tend to believe Fe is the goal and only way of life, regardless of it achieving anything or not. And other people who don’t support this idea is often demonised etc., it’s almost like a religion. Funnily enough, most priests and “mens of gods” are often Fe users.
The problem with being reactive is that it requires Se to take over. This is not difficult to achieve especially if one feels cornered. Se is the limit of the personality. However, the difficulty is the process that follows. You get to face Ni and the constant: What if and How about? It is a nagging voice in your head that considers different scenarios and criticizes. One can choose to distract oneself but the problem is that distractions aren't solutions. Not permanent ones. So, the problem still is on repeat although at the back of your mind. It is like an open tab in the background. And about difficult people. It is a thought process. Knowing that I can also be perceived as such by some (people), I tend to not use that when trying to understand the problem/person in front of me. The focus is always on solving things. It is similar to giving a mathematician an equation to solve. It is unlikely for one to stop when hitting a wall. You just try different methods and consider different angles to solve it.
Hi, here's a supposed INFJ. As usual, you hit the nail on the head and your dry jokes in the midst of all the deep thoughts on the subject always make me laugh, thx for that. Right now I find myself in a job where all these cases are a reality: a conflictive and argumentative team, a chaotic and unpredictable environment, constant changes of approach, a lot of unfinished projects and unrealistic deadlines... total blockage... I feel like drowning the fox and the chicken in the river and eating the grain. And one of the reasons that led me to this situation is my inability to say no when I had to say "NO". Now all that is left for me to do is to abandon the asylum :-)
Me, infj: I need to go live alone in a cave with a few cats, that sounds good. Also me, after marrying an entp who's allergic to cats with a career as a manager at a gas station: this is exactly what I imagined 👁👄👁
My infj friend really needs to the hear the third one because she talks to many dark and negative ppl and drain her own energy because their psychology is interesting sting to her …
3 things INFJs should never do: 1.Commit suicide 2.Take drugs 3.Become a murderer Good luck giving a better piece of advice than this right here Nathan -ISTP
Interestingly, according to Objective Personality here on YT, most school shooters are IxxPs-types with their identity function/introverted decider (Di), whether Ti or Fi, first, & their function that relates to the tribe/extroverted decider (De), whether Te or Fe, in the fourth slot. Even on the Personality Database website, you can see SO MANY murderers, serial killers, school shooters & otherwise violent criminals that are ISFPs. IxxPs, have a need for significance at the top. Ti-users want acknowledgement & recognition from the tribe for their deep logical understanding of certain things. Fi-users want their feelings, their preferences & their values to stand out as significant & important. Unhealthy IxFPs in particular can seek to meet their need for significance, recognition & even fame in extremely toxic ways, like shooting up schools & malls to become notorious & much recognized & talked about. Some of them want their names to go down in history, & they end up doing shocking things just to be seen & known by the world.
Exactly. INFJ is the worst personality type, I would not wish on anyone to be basically cursed like this. Having Te blindspot is horrifying, since Te is the most important function for life. Sometimes I'm not even sure why INFJ's exist. It's like we are made not to survive. I'd probably change my personality type in a heartbeat. It is completely a curse.
I always like to think that we are made to be spiritualists and writers (=englightening other humans with wisdom), since our souls are OLD😬. Plus, we understand metaphysics/religion (Ni) and human nature (Fe), so we just need to make our own theories about it (Ti) and write it down, in order for others to learn something that is not purely material and 3D. Just like Jesus. Sorry, i dont know your belief system, but i will say: Jesus is the person all INFJs should strive to be. Englightened, spiritual and helpful, selfless out of higher knowing, but never naive/tricked. He knows that evil is standing before him and he has emphaty even towards evil.
@@cazbee6126 We do live in a sensors world where Te is the most useful for success, yes. But INFJ's have an issue too, since they are not equipped to strive well not just in this society, but in almost any setting-situation, INFJ's will have the hardest time. Unless given a very special safe place.
@@ruralaura INFJ's can be scientist too, I know from my self Ti very strong, I thought I'm an INTP for a long time. But lack of Si became very apparent later, and also Te. And yes, INFJ's are so not fit in with society, that they really need to look for some unusual, special place to fit in.. but how hard is that to figure out.. instead of living a "normal life". And by normal I don't mean boring or average, but just any type of success a normal person could achieve, an INFJ almost could not.. just cus of non existant Te + extreme sensitivity to social stress. It's like a cocktail to fail at everything, unless we have a special safe place. Even tho, I do admit a very small number of INFJ's may find a lucky place in life where they can have a meaningful life and avoid the automatic suffering.
@@Bobby_101 I think we are among the most beneficial to other types. Society doesn't reward that ... financially or with recognition. We dole out precious wisdoms because we care. Other types care not so much.
This was very accurate. I can’t stand being in an uncomfortable social environment. My cousin lived here for a while and I started off very welcoming but he made my life hell. He constantly lied to the people I care about the most and kept using them and no one would listen to me when I’d tell them who he really was until it was too late and he’d taken thousands of dollars and ran off. My stress level was so high that I kept feeling I was on the edge of kicking him out but then I’d think about how it would upset my family. It was torture. I do get stressed out having to adjust to things that come out of nowhere. I hate surprises, even good ones. The third point is also true and boundaries are difficult to set. I am told all of the time that people can tell me anything and they don’t feel judged. I hear things I’d rather not know sometimes.
Regarding the last part: I too feel my heart break when someone tells me “I feel I can be myself around you”, because inside I’m replying “I certainly do not feel the same way about you, as you find it so easy to critisize me all the time”.
Oh my goodness I feel SEEN. You explained these concepts in a way that makes it easy to understand. I hadn’t even realized that number 2 was a thing for me because I never had the words to convey it, yet here you’ve explained it so beautifully. I sent this to my family. Perhaps they might come to better understand me if they watch it.
Excellent video. I am listening to this from my condo as my neighbour noisily bangs doors and scrapes furniture across the floor with no regard for anyone around and does this through the night which wakes me up... When I addressed it I was verbally attacked and the security said to leave her alone as she has mental issues. So now I live beside this person who purposely tries to upset me and I get physical pains everytime I hear them banging doors in the nighttime.
try to get noise cancelling headphones and do try to brag about how they give you so much peace. make sure this info reaches to her by some means. then she might stop as she cant annoy u anymore
Number 3 is my number one rule :) I see stuff going wrong based on someone's behaviour very quickly and I know that I cannot allow myself the questionable "luxury" of such trouble. People often mistake my unassuming ways as an invitation to be rude / aggressive / mean and that's when they get VERY surprised at how much I will push back or, in more complicated situations, how strategic and undercover I will be to protect myself and make their evil ways lose. And I have been around quite some narcissists and psychopaths. This can also be summarised as: don't fuck with me.
Can you tell me more abt your strategic and undercover ways? If you dont mind. I normally just purposely find ways to get them out of my sight, until they realize that i dont want to associate with them anymore, but there are other ways?
@@suyu536 Don't tell them about your next move, don't tell them what you think, give them as little information as possible and while doing that you can look after yourself and develop what's important for you without their interruption. If the stakes are really high, you can always expose them but this is very dangerous as they're very skilled at turning the victims into perpetrators with their manipulation. So basically just doing your own thing and moving on from them will be the best way. And - don't help your perpetrators under any circumstances. They've been bad to you, why should you be good to them? And they'll do everything again regardless of what they say.
after going through burnout (in which social interaction was a big factor) I've had to learn to set boundaries and I've become quite assertive to the point that I think I might use Ti more than Fe. a tip that can help is to set clear boundaries in the beginning of a relationship when people have no expectations yet so that they won't feel disappointed or hurt later on. it's still very difficult to do, but (at least for me) it's so much harder to set boundaries when they've already been crossed.
Yeah, part of why it’s difficult is because often we are still learning about ourselves and therefore our boundaries and they can also shift and change or fluctuate too. So it requires being in touch with your feelings and not discounting the information they provide as you move through life. That and communicating these things with the other person(s) when you become aware of it
As an infj I am adaptable and attention gets attended to. At service to others is an automatic response. At times I will forget my own needs until I physically respond and usually too late. Being around selfish people who manipulate has casted a shadow of intolerance for skipping into this role again. Ultimately it is upon myself to make sure my needs are met, my cup is full and to know and love thyself. I do think more people should understand the myers Briggs personality types because understanding our differences can bridge differences and allowing people to have freedom to be oneself. Thank you for sharing ❤️
Believe it or not, this has just answered a problem I have been dealing with so a huge thank you. I will now remove myself from the toxic circle I have landed in. My boundaries have been breached and it is time for self - care. I am dreadful about setting boundaries.
Man, what better time could this video pop up? Spot on, Nathan. All of the points are indeed true. I personally resonate with the 1st point so much right now lol it's not even funny. Me, being a sponge, I find myself being affected by my ISTP dad's negativity, even though sometimes it's not even directed at me. Living with an unhealthy ISTP is basically emotional torture, I advise yall INFJs against that.
ISTPs can be true hell for us :) I enjoy discussing with them but they just cannot connect with me on an emotional level - neither do they try. So the Ti gets satisfied but the Fe does never. And yes, they can be very negativistic. I am extremely critical and enjoy complaining so I can deal with that but I know not everyone does. The lack of Fe is something that just doesn't do it for me.
@@PriHL Right? I mean ISTP people are genuinely cool, but it's kind of hard to find ones who won't get angry or shove you away upon addressing things associated with heavy emotions.
@@itsjie962 yeah, emotions are not the thing you go to them for. But they're also a part of life and they can't alway go unaddressed. But discussions not about emotions can be great with ISTPs.
Brilliant! 🙏Thank you sooooo….. much for this very honest, true and real information! Its like reading my mind without me saying a word! I was wondering why I was drained and exhausted after work everyday! Although, I love my job motivating ppl to life a lifestyle of health, fitness and nutrition /wellness Its a very fast paced, multitasking job and dealing with over a hundred ppl a day accommodating needs answering questions making 40+ phone calls daily and selling! All 100% & high technology based! The complete opposite environment of what an INFJ thrives well in regarding hob duties /strengths! I’m great at caring, motivating & letting ppl know I care and want to help them stay accountable with great support /motivation but, at first I didn’t understand my extreme exhaustion & struggles! Now it makes perfect sense! I love the ppl I work with but the job in itself doing many things at once and answering and making calls with needing quick processing outcomes my Goodness draining 🥴
Point 2 explains why I felt so miserable when I was an interpreter, I felt a lot of fear, irritability and anxiety all the time. I fear that I have to be an interpreter agsin because of economical matters 😣
Excellent video to help INFJ’s, particularly those that have not learned these lessons. Your words may haunt some later, as we tend to be people that must learn experientially.
All these three points are so so accurate! About point 1. Oh boy! My younger son is like that. Of course I love him and would certainly die for him, but when he’s in his argumentative mood I can’t just can’t be with him in the same room. There’s always a moment when I just feel too tired and leave.
Maintenance burns us out! People use overstimulation against us.. thank God they don't win too much from it... except well.. losing our mindful eyes near them.
With such a good radar for aberrant behaviours i would have thought we were least susceptible to eg. the charms and manipulations of the narcissist. But very vulnerable to being stuck on the phone for hours listening to a friend/acquaintance download all their cr*p. How do you butt in when being sprayed with that endless verbal diarrhoea? It feels so rude and abrupt to try and wind it up. We need to be taught these techniques at school!
6:32 good point! I often find myself being tossed into the role of counselor but I'd RATHER prefer a less direct approach to helping others (as this can feel VERY draining) such as writing a research paper; be it philosophy, physics or psychology - anything to better understand the world around us :)
Also: people see you for the first time and assume they can talk about their problems, or even worse, talk shit about other people in the first 3 minutes they see you. It must be some special INFJ appeal that people do it but I'm neither your mean girl nor your therapist.
This is on point. Especially the first one made me realise that living with my bf who is ENTP might be draining me much more than I've thought. It's been almost four years already but so many days feel like a neverending fight over nothing. That makes me wonder sometimes if this even makes sense long-term.
Thanks a lot for the video! For part 3., I would say the lack of boundaries for infjs comes from Fe (attention towards other people at the expense of oneself, Fi boundaries unclear) and the appeal for the dark side might come from Ti and Ni: interest and deep search for personal ways of thinking, both functions being introverted, attached to people if Fe is involved
My INFJ friend seems to have much more difficulty with people who conflict with HER rather than people who have conflict, per se, although peace and quiet are very important to her. It's true that she needs to spend a lot of time in peaceful surroundings to feel refreshed.
I didn't choose to live with very challenging people... But I have to for at least some more time. It's... Just life. It may or may not make me stronger but at least when I'm free, I'll see things more clearly - so I hope at least I'll learn from it.
An amazing and clear video. It’s amazing how relevant and accurate I find it with many difficult and breaking life events or experiences I’ve had. Thank you!
Very accurate. These 3 described the young version of me. Most of my former girlfriends fell into #1. #2. Yeah, I still struggle with that. That is exactly what dispatchers do for a living. At my former workplace, all of the dispatchers were ESTJs and they really thrived in that roll, constant fires that needed to be put out. #3...Yeah, I used to be a magnet for people who were a touch unsavory and folks who were a nonstop pity party....no more.
2. Exist or work in environments that require constant reaction. Until introverted intuition and thinking finds algorithms to fit patterns in the apparent randomness. Then it can be satisfying, and although it's still draining it's not nearly as significant at that. I think I developed that skill by working in IT programming for many years. But finding those patterns and discovering it's screws, hinges and latches to develop a functional model is very draining if it's a novel subject to me.
Point 3 - exactly describes our INTJ (me) and INFJ (him) relations with a close friend of mine. And sometimes I really do cross lines in our relationship, although I often don't notice that. Actually, in this case I would say, close communication with people like INFJ (like love or friendship) allows their introverted counterparts to play a pseudo-extroverted role, like, trying to make an INFJ express their emotions, test their notion of righteous and allowable, make them show at least any "signs of life". If I got this movie right, I guess, my friend hates me))
Done this many times and back. When someone I was helping go through difficulties, but they would go overboard, then I would be thinking "enough is enough" and ready to door slam them. When it will be clear that there's nothing more I can do, I leave.... not ever looking back. Sometimes the only regret that I would feel is the "time" I spent trying to fix them which must have been put to more useful endeavors. But, no, feeling free and unburdened is a most welcome reward. Reason and logic always coming in at the right time.😇
You're right about it. I am learning to put boundaries and no longer feel guilty for saying no. I realised peace is better than people asking for help anytime. You can only pour water to others when you have any of your own. Therefore, I am trying to be less accomodating to others. People can be harsh on you, without them realising and I can't do nothing about it. It really hurts, too much that I sometimes get angry about my extreme sensitive nature. However, it should depend on me how I want to perceive difficult people and their nonsense. Staying away from difficult and chaotic people is the only way to go. Also, instead of being extroverted and acting like I can handle things which are thrown at me suddenly and demands immediate action, I am getting comfortable to my own skin and abilities of planning and executing it once at a time. These things make a big difference when it comes to personal growth and happiness.
That was too accurate, I’ve been complaining to my INTP sister about my INTP boyfriend because he’s been oddly argumentative this week, I know it’s due to tiredness. But I prefer my sister over him when he’s tired because at least she’s not arguing with me on everything. Maybe she has learned to cope with someone like me, because she is calm and mildly cranky when she’s tired but I find it adorable.
I've lived with an INTP for 20 years and that petty argumentativeness is irritating, pointless, and tiring. But they're a great type to get hours of relaxing silence out of!
Nice work, thank you! :) 1) Dodged the bullet in rejecting this girl with Borderline personality disorder 7 years ago, haha... 2) Oh damn, I had a job where the phone was constantly ringing and it drained me completely 3) Yes, definitely, I always had problems with this, although I learned to keep dodgy people away :'D
The attraction to those kinds of people is mutual. I love studying dark minds. I hate their actions but that’s why I feel drawn to find out why they do the things they do. That ALWAYS gets me in trouble but I prefer that truth and learning over comfort so I guess I’m doomed in that way.
“They don’t talk about if the INFJ is enjoying that part.” Wow I think you’re the first person to mention that. It’s exhausting at times. I mean it’s wonderful that people feel like they can come to me, but mentally and physically it takes a toll. Because I am absolutely going to listen that 3 hour life story situation. I always will, even when I swear to myself differently. So it’s nice to hear that ‘gift’ has its downsides. ☮️🙌
True. I know that your MBTI shouldn't define you, but since I learned I'm an INFJ-T a few years ago, it's like I subconsciously felt as though I had to be there for people. I'd listen to people's issues, but it was never my favourite thing to do, especially when I'm not emotionally connected/close with that person. I get overwhelmed easily so I try to stay away from people's personal issues because it's the absolute worse feelings for me when I can't help them
@@swisdom9117 You’re so right. One group of letters shouldn’t define you, but they can be helpful. Lately I’ve been trying very hard to stay away from those possible situations myself. It’s not at all easy. To not be able to fix whatever problem has been thrusted upon you is the worst feeling ever. There’s good and bad to every one’s strengths. For me, learning, then reading replies like yours, not only helps my knowledge base. It also make me feel far less alone. Thank you. ☮️
I agree with all of your points here, and I'm always amazed at how well you seem to understand INFJs. 😮 I've read somewhere that emotional pain - getting broken up with or someone being mean to you - registers a "pain" response in the brain in the same way it does with a physical pain. So yes, emotional pain does feel like physical hurt, and I think INFJs (and High Fe users in general) are very sensitive to that kind of pain, so I definitely agree with the first point. I can see the growth potential afterwards, but being in a difficult interaction with someone belligerent is only painful and draining in the moment. Regarding work and point #2; I work at a highschool where I counsel in their career and choices of what they're going to study, and right at the start of the autumn semester - when school is just getting going - there is definitely a lot of chaos, reacting and quick organizing needed. I _Can_ do it, and I've been getting better at it over the years because it's essentially always the same or similar questions, but it's definitely draining for me. I'm glad it's only for a few weeks. If my work was always like that, I don't think I could have kept going. And finally for point 3, I agree that boundaries are very important, and it's taken me many many years to figure out where they lie. I had to get into a few arguments with a good friend of mine before I could really put my foot down and say "No, you know what, I'm not going to do what you're asking of me". I'm still good friends with that person, but they're likely an ESTJ, and as I've realized that, I've also realized why we're so different. 😅 Anyway, like I said, I agree with all points and I think especially Younger INFJs should take these lessons to heart, but sometimes the best - and only - way to learn something is by going through it. But don't start working just anywhere, and really "vet" your friends before you live with them, and find your boundaries and stick to them; doing so is very good for developing self-respect.
2:21, yes. I live part time below a very chaotic and toxic family (they moved in after I did) and it takes SUCH a toll to not have a refuge in what should be my sanctuary. So grateful for the time away so I can recover from hearing their aggressions and dramas at least.
OHHHH I have so much to say about these 3 things Short version: I definitely agree with all of them Long version: 1. The worst part is when you don’t really have a choice but to live with someone like that like a family member 😭 fortunately my immediate family is for the most part drama free, but I remember when I was young and my parents would argue around my younger brother and I, I wasn’t just upset because my parents were arguing I didn’t feel physically well. Even to this day if I’m in a situation with drama and problems or if I have to confront someone contentious, I feel physically sick-like I’m going to throw up. It impacts me a lot more than I’d like for it to :( and sometimes it’s unavoidable. 2. Customer service jobs were my worst nightmare. I definitely do not do well in those settings and while I need some form of stimulation in a job to be excited and not bored, something reactive is not what I’m looking for. 3. This is probably the one I’ve struggled with THE MOST. Boundaries are something I’m still learning how to do. And the thing you said about no one ever asks INFJs how they feel about being ppls personal therapists is SO TRUE. personally, I’m okay with it if it’s just my good friends, but it wears me down over time if it’s someone I’m not really close with. I had that happen to me in high school and I didn’t know what else to do. And yes unfortunately I do tend to attract dodgy people :( I’ve had to completely doorslam someone before for not respecting my boundaries and it was really hard. But definitely a learning moment and I know now that I should never let people cross any lines. This was so good thank you !!
So true. Although I must admit I do appear judgemental to people. In fact I accept most things as options, but among people I like and trust a little, I tend to spit strong opinions, waiting for them to comment, to react, to see who they are, how they behave, if they have an interesting insight. It seems like people like it or hate it. If I'd stop, I would have to stay silent. I think maybe shame I offended someone pushes me to give up on boundaries. Thanks for the useful tips.
I totally agree with the first point. As an INFJ I once lived with an ESTJ friend of mine in college. She was constantly involved in drama and had very intense mood swings. At first, it was easy to help her in resolving these situations. It made me feel like I was being useful. But time and again she started to create more drama just for the sake of it. She was constantly coming to me for comfort and after I told her it was all too draining for me, she started to resent me. I wanted to help her and I was constantly trying to put out her fires even as I knew it wasn't healthy for me. I believed I could handle these situations better than her. My efforts and needs were being ignored. I was always giving and giving and I started to resent her without even realizing it. In the end I found myself being constantly sad and the worst thing was that she never thought anything I ever did was helpful or even necessary. It was like sitting on a roller coaster ride and never knowing what lows or highs you were being taken to next. I hated the uncertainty that always surrounded me. In the end I got so sick and tried of this loop, that I just had to cut her out of my life at any cost. I abandoned her when she was at one of her lowest points and I feel sorry for doing this to her. I'd just had enough of it all and was constantly confused about my feelings and hers. All I knew that if I continued to live with her I would suffocate and drown in this storm of her making. Playing the peacemaker literally sucks the life out of you when u do it for people who love conflict. I learned my lesson the hard way and I am really regretting not watching this video earlier lol. If you are an INFJ I would HIGHLY recommend you to not play the intermediator at all times no matter how tempting it may seem. You need your peace and allowing yourself to be filled up with the emotions of people around you is probably not the best idea.
5:33 I saw a very popular INFJ on a dating site just today taking men to task for being lustful--while a quick look at her profile reveals her to be advertising herself as a playboy bunny. There's that sort of wonky dynamic to Se Inferior, I guess, too; it's not just that they lack firm boundaries--but they often have an itch to set & then dissimulate against their own boundaries.
Exactly! Do I really enjoy being in the listening role!? Still trying to figure that out. And people never understand why I like going to places when they are empty… it is because the “dark” weirdos DO approach or “accost” me. Whether I’m at a park walking, or in the grocery store, at the beach bonfire, or a check stand clerk, a bus driver, my professor, or my boss... Lots of lonely people out there without boundaries. I’m learning how to dodge people in my 30s and saying “no” without guilt or empathy.
2. Is very true, working with the public as I did for a short time in bank branch was being inundated every work day with so many personality types my need for isolation was increased 5 fold. Never did that again. 3. Dark side personalities can be fascinating, but safe so long as you keep the boundaries and remain a question mark in their minds.
This was really insightful. I grew up in a very contentious home environment and you definitely hit the nail on the head. I want my own home so badly because I need a haven, and one room isn't enough lol
As an INFJ who's Father manifested CPTSD and a secretive pain medication addiction (conflicting atmosphere) after being diagnosed with cancer when I was 10 years old, my Father committing suicide when I was 21 after beating cancer when I was 19½, and hurricane Katrina wiping out my community 3 years later, I learned to be comfortable in changing situations, and I even learned to excel in these situations. It was an uncomfortable process, but we don't change/grow when we are comfortable. Why would we cange; which is growth, when we're comfortable. Just because something "feels" bad doesn't make it bad. The unknown/unfamiliar brings about negative feelings, but we learn by making unknowns known and the unfamiliar familiar. This can be done little by little willingly, or all at once unwillingly. Those are the only 2 choices, so I'd suggest putting yourself in uncomfortable/unfamiliar situations and learning to adapt. Don't take things personally from people you don't personally known and personally don't know you. Also, others emotional states are "not" your responsibility. Your emotional state is your responsibility. The best thing you can do for others and to "balance out" is to focus on YOU first and over time you can help others out. This way you are at your best and in an optimal state to help the right people at the right time in the right places in the right ways. Instead of wasting your time, energy, and resources on the wrong people in the wrong ways or at the wrong time.
The more videos I watch about INFJs, the more everything makes sense and I’m more and more relieved and sure I made the right decision. Glad I can call him my Ex now, all of those character traits being combined with narcissism and anger issues are a disaster.
I've often wondered why the counselor stereotypical content doesn't mention that the INFJ actually might not seek out these life stories and confessions. I think it's more that it just doesn't bother them as much, and afterward they've learned something about people that either goes along with what the INFJ knew or doesn't fit with what they thought they knew. Boundaries with the elevator strangers are important, but in the end the boundaries in the INFJ's personal life are the most difficult to maintain or reset if needed. This is why the "door slam" happens. Excellent job on this perspective, and the subsequent information. 😎
This video somewhat helped me understand why I'm like this. I have always known that I am 'slow' but these days this trait is becoming even more obvious as I take on new and more difficult roles with my clients. I want to learn how to process things faster. Now, from here, I know that I need to go read up on my cognitive functions as an INFJ and turn these weaknesses into strengths
The second point really got me. I work in warehousing; I drive reach trucks which can cause serious damage. Since my warehouse tends to be so busy, I literally panic and end up damaging a lot of stuff 😂, I even broke some machine that costed the company 1k, but luckily that didn't comes from my pocket 😅
Currently moving out of my old apartment because i was surrounded by drama and argumentative people !! Glad to know I was able to take a step in a healthy direction :)
My god this is so true, this is about my son the INFJ, he likes his home life to be quiet and smooth. He changed his job until he found one that really suited him, it gives him an intense physical workout while giving him time and quiet to work on his screenplays (he is a garbageman). He has a big mortgage and he lets out part of his home to help with it, and honestly those renters are good guys but a bit dodgy. And my son's boundaries are easily crossed (I as the INFP mother can see it clearly), the rest of us in the family have to make a concerted effort on our part that we respect his boundaries as he is a very gentle person. Oh and as an aside, he is our family guru, he leads us and advises the whole family, he works very closely with his ESFJ dad and they come up with some great collaborations.🥰I shared this video with him.
I'm an INFJ and I'm been living with a ENTP and I know how these two types create a lot of conflict between one and the other, I have no idea how in the internet got the data of these types being compatible when ENTP's are argumentative while INFJ dislike confrontation, because ENTP's are always argumentative, INFJ's will feel drained and may cause conflict with these two types, some data in the internet is subjective, but this video reflects my experience so I agree with this information, ENTP's and INFJ's being compatible is Ironic.
I’m a nurse and it’s not a good job for an INFJ. It’s draining.
Thank you Nathan!
1. Live with difficult and contentious people
2. Exist or work in environments that require constant reaction.
3. Let their boundaries slide.
Boundaries really are a struggle. I also feel there's a pattern here. If people see that you let a boundary slide. Without even thinking, they will inevitably ask for more. Like a child in a candy store. The parent gives them one. Says one. But they always ask for more. They ask and they ask and they take and they take. The parent firms up, the child cries and this keeps on till someone breaks. I have been trying to get better at boundaries, but I need help. sometimes I feel like ppl expect to be able to walk over me. Are hurt and shocked when I stand. I try to stand but ultimately I get over powered. Im not intimidating, I have very low energy, I hate conflict, I'm easily pleased and I care so much about others. So many of my efforts are met with failure. It's exhausting.
I feel for you, Kalina(?). I also have difficulty with boundaries, but I think this challenge manifests itself in a different way for me. It feels more internal than external. Like I, myself, don't know what my limits are, what is and what isn't okay for me.
I just thought about this, while reading your comment: maybe this difference has something to do with gender. I'm assuming you're a woman (by what I also assumed was your name). If that's really the case, not being intimidating is a major disadvantage to impose your boundaries. That's a challenge I'm not familiar with, I'm more like the gentle giant guy archetype. People in general avoid facing me without even knowing me, which in turn provides me with my own kind of challenge.
This is all to show how I truly feel for you, I may also have INFJ challenges, but not being someone as easily respected has a major impact on people's behaviour when facing your boundaries. Hugs from Brazil, I wish you the best with yourself and the world around you.
Just remember this, how distasteful and unpleasant it will be to be forced into the mommy role. That will cure this as you see how it impedes our very sacred independence.
About their attraction to dark & dodgy characters. My INFJ girlfriend told me it's mainly an urge to fix or save them, especially when everyone else has given up on them. The desire to make a good person yet out of this bad boy or girl.
Not sure you can generalize this, but that's her take on it. :)
Yes, we often think: if we dont help them or love them, nobody will, because others are less emphatic, and we are their last hope. We feel the responsibility to do something AS IF we are the only ones in their enviroment seeing their sorrow (because we are aware that others in their life might not do anything to help them even if they see sorrow).
Omg! This is actually true. Trust me I have had my share of regrets! 🤦🏻♀️
Me too! I am always attracted to people who are super fierce or that person hated by everyone lol
We are three times more likely to be murdered because of our savior complex. And we think we can fix anything, especially people.
I agree wholeheartedly.
Today is my birthday, and I am an INFJ. It felt like your video was a kind of present. Thank you so much!
Happy Birthday!!!
@MJR Thank you!
happy birthday, hope you have a great day))
Happy birthday 🎉
Happy late birthday
How an (*cof cof* immature *cof*) INFJ deal with boundaries, by an (*cof* immature) INFJ:
- Ok, these are my boundaries. They shall never be moved.
- Oh, is this boundarie bothering you? Here, let me move it just a bit.
- So that isn't enough huh. You know what? I think I can move it a bit more, I don't really care much about that.
- You want me to move that more? I don't think that would be a good idea. Maybe just a little bit, but that's enough.
- I- I swear I had not moved this bounderie, was that you? No? Huh, maybe my memory is just getting worse.
- How did you get here?
- Ok, is ok, just be careful around here and stay in this zone, ok? That area over there is out of limits.
- No no no don't go there... ok, I can let it pass this time, just don't do it again.
- I told you to NOT do it again.
- This is getting way too uncomfortable, could you stop moving around my boundarie zone please?
- Ok, I did care about that, who gave you permission to go there...?
- I don't like this
- I don't like _you_
- That's it, TAKE ONE STEP MORE AND I SWEAR I WILL CUT YOUR FEET OFF
- _I think its time to yeet this person out of my boundaries AND life :D_
*_The yeeting was done and the intruder was gone, still the INFJ repeated the cycle way too many times before learning its lesson_*
(Pretty much, like Nathan said: Allowing your bounderies to slide is never a good idea)
"i dont like this.. i dont like /you/" hahahaha
This is hilarious yet so relatable xD
On point lol
How theatric. Much appreciated.
You kinda....represented us all 😞
I am working on myself to not take so long to "cut people out" and to not take so long to draw the line. We need to be precise and firm!
Or else...it's just a waste of time, energy and heart!
May God help all us INFJ-s
Well RIP,
1. 3 of my family members are entj estj enfj
2. I worked at a cocktail bar where I get slammed for orders hours on end
3. My boundaries get stepped on daily
Looks like I got work to do…
How are you doing now? Hope you're holding up well. I couldn't handle an ENTP for an hour XD
(oops I did it again...)
The 3rd point, we should also try our best to set boundaries for others too.
It's not a "NEVER should" like this video, but I think it's important to point out that INFJs get really fixated on helping and solving other people's issues, when they never asked for it.
That's what happened to me. And Nathan nailed the point that INFJs do attarct "dark" people.
Being friends with toxic people is like a trap.
I see this a lot with INFJs. We should first of all take care for ourselves and look if the other person is actually worth fighting for. I nearly always made that distinction. It is judgmental but yes, we do judge people based on our values and it would be hypocritical to deny it. If I see the potential in a person to be ethically correct then I will step in when something bad happens to them. But if I don't see it (judging by their behaviour) then deal with your stuff yourself.
@@PriHL I'm a bit different. I'm mostly driven by.. fixer syndrome. That's usually been the case.
My urge to solve things just happens because I was able to come up with solutions. I'm taking our polar Te into account too.
It usually works without problem, unless the person I'm dealing with is being difficult. Be it naivety or lack of intelligence, I still try to make them realize without making them feel uncomfortable.
However, there'll always be people who are just that unbearable.
Saved this to my “What the heck is wrong with my personality” playlist. Great insight, thanks!
change in perspective will be good
Mine is "infj world" 😫
1:- It is never able to be avoided, especially if wanting a family, arguments and subjects of disagreement are inevitable.
2:- All environments require reactions, whether at home or work, INFJ's can adjust but still need restrictions so to not overload themselves.
3:- Keep some restrictions and boundaries, also allow time in nature to try and purge the excess emotions that get picked up on during each day, allowing to to compile and fester is never a good thing because that can push you towards an explosive result, which may end up as the Dark Side, which should never be mistaken as the INFJ Rage.
Yes, I fully concur with all three points, especially when it comes to boundaries. I can be a bit of a doormat when it comes to letting people into my personal space.
I meet this guy who likes to stand next to me. He obviously like to use me since I help him a little before. Not to be taken advantage of, I talk about his cigarette/penis addiction to define my boundaries. Priest molestation is another.
Me too buddy.
It’s strange to me that a certain people can’t or don’t want to understand that we don’t want our time, peace and space interrupted. I don’t like isolation and want to socialize. However, U need my time to recharge and disengage.
@@karendalsadik7119 Indeed.
Agree completely. My ESTJ husband (who is not not afraid of conflict) was listening bemusedly while I watched this. :)
@ Nicole Paull - I'm INFJ and my first husband was an ESTJ trial attorney. He treated me like a hostile witness. If I had learned how to stop being so darn nice all the time and had some boundaries, it might have worked. His toughness made him very protective of me, which was good for someone as sensitive as me. I didn't learn to be assertive until I was much older, so that marriage ended in divorce very quickly. Watching things like this video can make you far wiser than I was!
Damn, an ESTJ husband? That seems like an impossible task for most INFJs to handle, but it only shows that with good communication skills, even an unlikely INFJ-ESTJ pairing can work out. 😁
@@SirenderArts I haven't killed mine....yet xD
ESTJs are not afraid of conflict. They THRIVE on it 😀
@@SirenderArts Yup...been together 28 years now, if you can believe it! Definitely made both of us grow a lot to make it work. :)
We need more content on ENFJs
Yes that would be lovely
While I'd like it too, I think we may be a minority of subs 😂
Lord no. There is enough out there. ESTPs please. Sensors get the shaft
Both ExFJs!
I believe enfjs having Fe as the dominant function suffers greater stress than infjs when there is disharmony or conflicts or “selfish” “immoral” behaviours etc. This is why they can’t stand some types of people who they think only cares about themselves, etc.. Tho, the concept of selfishness in itself is a paradox, but Fe users love to make such cruel assumptions on people who live their lives, apparently, for selfish sinful selves etc..
People who don’t play, “respect”, participate in their social games of perceived “superior ways of life,” will often be shunned, mocked and attacked by the gangs, communities, cults that’s Fe users tend to love forming(and very successful at that).
The thing is, secondary Fe is different compared to dominant Fe. Secondary Fe believes the application of Fe is the way to achieve better things in life. While dominant Fe users such as enfj esfj, they tend to believe Fe is the goal and only way of life, regardless of it achieving anything or not. And other people who don’t support this idea is often demonised etc., it’s almost like a religion. Funnily enough, most priests and “mens of gods” are often Fe users.
The problem with being reactive is that it requires Se to take over. This is not difficult to achieve especially if one feels cornered. Se is the limit of the personality. However, the difficulty is the process that follows. You get to face Ni and the constant: What if and How about? It is a nagging voice in your head that considers different scenarios and criticizes. One can choose to distract oneself but the problem is that distractions aren't solutions. Not permanent ones. So, the problem still is on repeat although at the back of your mind. It is like an open tab in the background. And about difficult people. It is a thought process. Knowing that I can also be perceived as such by some (people), I tend to not use that when trying to understand the problem/person in front of me. The focus is always on solving things. It is similar to giving a mathematician an equation to solve. It is unlikely for one to stop when hitting a wall. You just try different methods and consider different angles to solve it.
"distractions aren't solutions" thank you, i needed to remember this
Somehow I’m an ENTP that live just fine with an INFJ. We’ve both learned how to balance and work out the logical vs diplomacy.
Hi, here's a supposed INFJ. As usual, you hit the nail on the head and your dry jokes in the midst of all the deep thoughts on the subject always make me laugh, thx for that.
Right now I find myself in a job where all these cases are a reality: a conflictive and argumentative team, a chaotic and unpredictable environment, constant changes of approach, a lot of unfinished projects and unrealistic deadlines... total blockage... I feel like drowning the fox and the chicken in the river and eating the grain. And one of the reasons that led me to this situation is my inability to say no when I had to say "NO". Now all that is left for me to do is to abandon the asylum :-)
Me, infj: I need to go live alone in a cave with a few cats, that sounds good.
Also me, after marrying an entp who's allergic to cats with a career as a manager at a gas station: this is exactly what I imagined 👁👄👁
lulz
Summs up: The things INFJs would do/be for the person they love :)
All 3 points are, well, on point, but No. 1- Oh dear God! YES!
My infj friend really needs to the hear the third one because she talks to many dark and negative ppl and drain her own energy because their psychology is interesting sting to her …
"I would even go as far as to say you experience a kind of pain." *Yes. Thank you.* 🥰 Nathan, you see so clearly. It's freeing.
3 things INFJs should never do:
1.Commit suicide
2.Take drugs
3.Become a murderer
Good luck giving a better piece of advice than this right here Nathan
-ISTP
I don't know if it's weird, but I find it kinda cute that you want us to stay alive ☺️
@@fowchiiiliedpuppiesdied I like how you added probably lol
aww, i was actually considering the third, in childhood, the first one.
suicide xddd oh man
Interestingly, according to Objective Personality here on YT, most school shooters are IxxPs-types with their identity function/introverted decider (Di), whether Ti or Fi, first, & their function that relates to the tribe/extroverted decider (De), whether Te or Fe, in the fourth slot.
Even on the Personality Database website, you can see SO MANY murderers, serial killers, school shooters & otherwise violent criminals that are ISFPs.
IxxPs, have a need for significance at the top. Ti-users want acknowledgement & recognition from the tribe for their deep logical understanding of certain things. Fi-users want their feelings, their preferences & their values to stand out as significant & important.
Unhealthy IxFPs in particular can seek to meet their need for significance, recognition & even fame in extremely toxic ways, like shooting up schools & malls to become notorious & much recognized & talked about. Some of them want their names to go down in history, & they end up doing shocking things just to be seen & known by the world.
Exactly.
INFJ is the worst personality type, I would not wish on anyone to be basically cursed like this.
Having Te blindspot is horrifying, since Te is the most important function for life.
Sometimes I'm not even sure why INFJ's exist. It's like we are made not to survive.
I'd probably change my personality type in a heartbeat. It is completely a curse.
I always like to think that we are made to be spiritualists and writers (=englightening other humans with wisdom), since our souls are OLD😬. Plus, we understand metaphysics/religion (Ni) and human nature (Fe), so we just need to make our own theories about it (Ti) and write it down, in order for others to learn something that is not purely material and 3D. Just like Jesus. Sorry, i dont know your belief system, but i will say: Jesus is the person all INFJs should strive to be. Englightened, spiritual and helpful, selfless out of higher knowing, but never naive/tricked. He knows that evil is standing before him and he has emphaty even towards evil.
That's all an issue with society, not with INFJs.
@@cazbee6126 We do live in a sensors world where Te is the most useful for success, yes.
But INFJ's have an issue too, since they are not equipped to strive well not just in this society, but in almost any setting-situation, INFJ's will have the hardest time. Unless given a very special safe place.
@@ruralaura INFJ's can be scientist too, I know from my self Ti very strong, I thought I'm an INTP for a long time.
But lack of Si became very apparent later, and also Te.
And yes, INFJ's are so not fit in with society, that they really need to look for some unusual, special place to fit in.. but how hard is that to figure out.. instead of living a "normal life". And by normal I don't mean boring or average, but just any type of success a normal person could achieve, an INFJ almost could not.. just cus of non existant Te + extreme sensitivity to social stress. It's like a cocktail to fail at everything, unless we have a special safe place.
Even tho, I do admit a very small number of INFJ's may find a lucky place in life where they can have a meaningful life and avoid the automatic suffering.
@@Bobby_101 I think we are among the most beneficial to other types. Society doesn't reward that ... financially or with recognition. We dole out precious wisdoms because we care. Other types care not so much.
These 3 are present in my previous workplace. I was trying to survive so bad. I am so glad that I was able to quit.
This was very accurate. I can’t stand being in an uncomfortable social environment. My cousin lived here for a while and I started off very welcoming but he made my life hell. He constantly lied to the people I care about the most and kept using them and no one would listen to me when I’d tell them who he really was until it was too late and he’d taken thousands of dollars and ran off. My stress level was so high that I kept feeling I was on the edge of kicking him out but then I’d think about how it would upset my family. It was torture. I do get stressed out having to adjust to things that come out of nowhere. I hate surprises, even good ones. The third point is also true and boundaries are difficult to set. I am told all of the time that people can tell me anything and they don’t feel judged. I hear things I’d rather not know sometimes.
Regarding the last part: I too feel my heart break when someone tells me “I feel I can be myself around you”, because inside I’m replying “I certainly do not feel the same way about you, as you find it so easy to critisize me all the time”.
Oh my goodness I feel SEEN. You explained these concepts in a way that makes it easy to understand. I hadn’t even realized that number 2 was a thing for me because I never had the words to convey it, yet here you’ve explained it so beautifully. I sent this to my family. Perhaps they might come to better understand me if they watch it.
Excellent video. I am listening to this from my condo as my neighbour noisily bangs doors and scrapes furniture across the floor with no regard for anyone around and does this through the night which wakes me up... When I addressed it I was verbally attacked and the security said to leave her alone as she has mental issues. So now I live beside this person who purposely tries to upset me and I get physical pains everytime I hear them banging doors in the nighttime.
try to get noise cancelling headphones and do try to brag about how they give you so much peace. make sure this info reaches to her by some means. then she might stop as she cant annoy u anymore
@@nimrarashid552 this is a nicer solution that the ideas I've come up with lol.
@@Christina-CA thanks i lived in conflict so long i kinda know how to manage difficult people lol
the first point is literally the family i live with🙂
Same🙃
Number 3 is my number one rule :) I see stuff going wrong based on someone's behaviour very quickly and I know that I cannot allow myself the questionable "luxury" of such trouble. People often mistake my unassuming ways as an invitation to be rude / aggressive / mean and that's when they get VERY surprised at how much I will push back or, in more complicated situations, how strategic and undercover I will be to protect myself and make their evil ways lose. And I have been around quite some narcissists and psychopaths. This can also be summarised as: don't fuck with me.
Can you tell me more abt your strategic and undercover ways? If you dont mind.
I normally just purposely find ways to get them out of my sight, until they realize that i dont want to associate with them anymore, but there are other ways?
@@suyu536 Don't tell them about your next move, don't tell them what you think, give them as little information as possible and while doing that you can look after yourself and develop what's important for you without their interruption. If the stakes are really high, you can always expose them but this is very dangerous as they're very skilled at turning the victims into perpetrators with their manipulation. So basically just doing your own thing and moving on from them will be the best way. And - don't help your perpetrators under any circumstances. They've been bad to you, why should you be good to them? And they'll do everything again regardless of what they say.
after going through burnout (in which social interaction was a big factor) I've had to learn to set boundaries and I've become quite assertive to the point that I think I might use Ti more than Fe. a tip that can help is to set clear boundaries in the beginning of a relationship when people have no expectations yet so that they won't feel disappointed or hurt later on. it's still very difficult to do, but (at least for me) it's so much harder to set boundaries when they've already been crossed.
Yeah, part of why it’s difficult is because often we are still learning about ourselves and therefore our boundaries and they can also shift and change or fluctuate too. So it requires being in touch with your feelings and not discounting the information they provide as you move through life. That and communicating these things with the other person(s) when you become aware of it
@@ezogh3826 yes that's so true, thank you for your addition!!
Agreed, agreed…. Thx for the vid 💕
As an infj I am adaptable and attention gets attended to. At service to others is an automatic response. At times I will forget my own needs until I physically respond and usually too late. Being around selfish people who manipulate has casted a shadow of intolerance for skipping into this role again. Ultimately it is upon myself to make sure my needs are met, my cup is full and to know and love thyself. I do think more people should understand the myers Briggs personality types because understanding our differences can bridge differences and allowing people to have freedom to be oneself. Thank you for sharing ❤️
Believe it or not, this has just answered a problem I have been dealing with so a huge thank you. I will now remove myself from the toxic circle I have landed in. My boundaries have been breached and it is time for self - care. I am dreadful about setting boundaries.
Man, what better time could this video pop up? Spot on, Nathan. All of the points are indeed true. I personally resonate with the 1st point so much right now lol it's not even funny. Me, being a sponge, I find myself being affected by my ISTP dad's negativity, even though sometimes it's not even directed at me. Living with an unhealthy ISTP is basically emotional torture, I advise yall INFJs against that.
ISTPs can be true hell for us :) I enjoy discussing with them but they just cannot connect with me on an emotional level - neither do they try. So the Ti gets satisfied but the Fe does never. And yes, they can be very negativistic. I am extremely critical and enjoy complaining so I can deal with that but I know not everyone does. The lack of Fe is something that just doesn't do it for me.
@@PriHL Right? I mean ISTP people are genuinely cool, but it's kind of hard to find ones who won't get angry or shove you away upon addressing things associated with heavy emotions.
@@itsjie962 yeah, emotions are not the thing you go to them for. But they're also a part of life and they can't alway go unaddressed. But discussions not about emotions can be great with ISTPs.
Brilliant! 🙏Thank you sooooo….. much for this very honest, true and real information! Its like reading my mind without me saying a word! I was wondering why I was drained and exhausted after work everyday! Although, I love my job motivating ppl to life a lifestyle of health, fitness and nutrition /wellness Its a very fast paced, multitasking job and dealing with over a hundred ppl a day accommodating needs answering questions making 40+ phone calls daily and selling! All 100% & high technology based! The complete opposite environment of what an INFJ thrives well in regarding hob duties /strengths! I’m great at caring, motivating & letting ppl know I care and want to help them stay accountable with great support /motivation but, at first I didn’t understand my extreme exhaustion & struggles! Now it makes perfect sense! I love the ppl I work with but the job in itself doing many things at once and answering and making calls with needing quick processing outcomes my Goodness draining 🥴
Thank you for this comment. I’m glad you liked the video! ~ nathan
Point 2 explains why I felt so miserable when I was an interpreter, I felt a lot of fear, irritability and anxiety all the time. I fear that I have to be an interpreter agsin because of economical matters 😣
So helpful, thank you!!
Excellent video to help INFJ’s, particularly those that have not learned these lessons. Your words may haunt some later, as we tend to be people that must learn experientially.
As an isfj , these advices fits for me perfectly
All these three points are so so accurate!
About point 1. Oh boy! My younger son is like that. Of course I love him and would certainly die for him, but when he’s in his argumentative mood I can’t just can’t be with him in the same room. There’s always a moment when I just feel too tired and leave.
YES my health went downhill after living with an argumentative and rigid personality like my ISTJ husband.
Excellent points!! INFJ approved.
Maintenance burns us out! People use overstimulation against us.. thank God they don't win too much from it... except well.. losing our mindful eyes near them.
With such a good radar for aberrant behaviours i would have thought we were least susceptible to eg. the charms and manipulations of the narcissist.
But very vulnerable to being stuck on the phone for hours listening to a friend/acquaintance download all their cr*p.
How do you butt in when being sprayed with that endless verbal diarrhoea? It feels so rude and abrupt to try and wind it up. We need to be taught these techniques at school!
6:32 good point! I often find myself being tossed into the role of counselor but I'd RATHER prefer a less direct approach to helping others (as this can feel VERY draining) such as writing a research paper; be it philosophy, physics or psychology - anything to better understand the world around us :)
Also: people see you for the first time and assume they can talk about their problems, or even worse, talk shit about other people in the first 3 minutes they see you. It must be some special INFJ appeal that people do it but I'm neither your mean girl nor your therapist.
This is on point. Especially the first one made me realise that living with my bf who is ENTP might be draining me much more than I've thought. It's been almost four years already but so many days feel like a neverending fight over nothing. That makes me wonder sometimes if this even makes sense long-term.
i hope you're okay
Thanks a lot for the video! For part 3., I would say the lack of boundaries for infjs comes from Fe (attention towards other people at the expense of oneself, Fi boundaries unclear) and the appeal for the dark side might come from Ti and Ni: interest and deep search for personal ways of thinking, both functions being introverted, attached to people if Fe is involved
Psychology comes easily to them as a subject but socially difficult as an entry-level employment.
Best refresher course ever. Much needed and appreciated!
After a lifetime of indulging in the behaviors discouraged by this video, I'm in a position to say it's good advice.
You pretty much nailed it,.. but that last one should be the first one as that reinforces the don't live with assholes advice. 😂
My INFJ friend seems to have much more difficulty with people who conflict with HER rather than people who have conflict, per se, although peace and quiet are very important to her. It's true that she needs to spend a lot of time in peaceful surroundings to feel refreshed.
I didn't choose to live with very challenging people... But I have to for at least some more time. It's... Just life. It may or may not make me stronger but at least when I'm free, I'll see things more clearly - so I hope at least I'll learn from it.
An amazing and clear video. It’s amazing how relevant and accurate I find it with many difficult and breaking life events or experiences I’ve had.
Thank you!
Very accurate. These 3 described the young version of me. Most of my former girlfriends fell into #1.
#2. Yeah, I still struggle with that. That is exactly what dispatchers do for a living. At my former workplace, all of the dispatchers were ESTJs and they really thrived in that roll, constant fires that needed to be put out.
#3...Yeah, I used to be a magnet for people who were a touch unsavory and folks who were a nonstop pity party....no more.
Excellent points! I do struggle with all of this.
Existence is pain.
2. Exist or work in environments that require constant reaction. Until introverted intuition and thinking finds algorithms to fit patterns in the apparent randomness. Then it can be satisfying, and although it's still draining it's not nearly as significant at that. I think I developed that skill by working in IT programming for many years. But finding those patterns and discovering it's screws, hinges and latches to develop a functional model is very draining if it's a novel subject to me.
I agree with all of this. Great Video.
If you can see where a situation is going ahead of time you can divert any problems right away.
This video is absolutely spot on, and right on time. Thank you.
Point 3 - exactly describes our INTJ (me) and INFJ (him) relations with a close friend of mine. And sometimes I really do cross lines in our relationship, although I often don't notice that.
Actually, in this case I would say, close communication with people like INFJ (like love or friendship) allows their introverted counterparts to play a pseudo-extroverted role, like, trying to make an INFJ express their emotions, test their notion of righteous and allowable, make them show at least any "signs of life".
If I got this movie right, I guess, my friend hates me))
Done this many times and back. When someone I was helping go through difficulties, but they would go overboard, then I would be thinking "enough is enough" and ready to door slam them. When it will be clear that there's nothing more I can do, I leave.... not ever looking back. Sometimes the only regret that I would feel is the "time" I spent trying to fix them which must have been put to more useful endeavors. But, no, feeling free and unburdened is a most welcome reward. Reason and logic always coming in at the right time.😇
You're right about it.
I am learning to put boundaries and no longer feel guilty for saying no. I realised peace is better than people asking for help anytime. You can only pour water to others when you have any of your own. Therefore, I am trying to be less accomodating to others.
People can be harsh on you, without them realising and I can't do nothing about it. It really hurts, too much that I sometimes get angry about my extreme sensitive nature. However, it should depend on me how I want to perceive difficult people and their nonsense. Staying away from difficult and chaotic people is the only way to go.
Also, instead of being extroverted and acting like I can handle things which are thrown at me suddenly and demands immediate action, I am getting comfortable to my own skin and abilities of planning and executing it once at a time.
These things make a big difference when it comes to personal growth and happiness.
Its scary how accurate this is...
Now i cannot stop thinking about the fox and the chicken and the grain 🤔
That was too accurate, I’ve been complaining to my INTP sister about my INTP boyfriend because he’s been oddly argumentative this week, I know it’s due to tiredness. But I prefer my sister over him when he’s tired because at least she’s not arguing with me on everything. Maybe she has learned to cope with someone like me, because she is calm and mildly cranky when she’s tired but I find it adorable.
I've lived with an INTP for 20 years and that petty argumentativeness is irritating, pointless, and tiring. But they're a great type to get hours of relaxing silence out of!
Nice work, thank you! :)
1) Dodged the bullet in rejecting this girl with Borderline personality disorder 7 years ago, haha...
2) Oh damn, I had a job where the phone was constantly ringing and it drained me completely
3) Yes, definitely, I always had problems with this, although I learned to keep dodgy people away :'D
Great video. Learning about myself has really changed my life
The attraction to those kinds of people is mutual. I love studying dark minds. I hate their actions but that’s why I feel drawn to find out why they do the things they do. That ALWAYS gets me in trouble but I prefer that truth and learning over comfort so I guess I’m doomed in that way.
“They don’t talk about if the INFJ is enjoying that part.” Wow I think you’re the first person to mention that.
It’s exhausting at times. I mean it’s wonderful that people feel like they can come to me, but mentally and physically it takes a toll. Because I am absolutely going to listen that 3 hour life story situation. I always will, even when I swear to myself differently. So it’s nice to hear that ‘gift’ has its downsides. ☮️🙌
True. I know that your MBTI shouldn't define you, but since I learned I'm an INFJ-T a few years ago, it's like I subconsciously felt as though I had to be there for people. I'd listen to people's issues, but it was never my favourite thing to do, especially when I'm not emotionally connected/close with that person. I get overwhelmed easily so I try to stay away from people's personal issues because it's the absolute worse feelings for me when I can't help them
@@swisdom9117 You’re so right. One group of letters shouldn’t define you, but they can be helpful. Lately I’ve been trying very hard to stay away from those possible situations myself. It’s not at all easy. To not be able to fix whatever problem has been thrusted upon you is the worst feeling ever. There’s good and bad to every one’s strengths. For me, learning, then reading replies like yours, not only helps my knowledge base. It also make me feel far less alone. Thank you. ☮️
I agree with all of your points here, and I'm always amazed at how well you seem to understand INFJs. 😮
I've read somewhere that emotional pain - getting broken up with or someone being mean to you - registers a "pain" response in the brain in the same way it does with a physical pain.
So yes, emotional pain does feel like physical hurt, and I think INFJs (and High Fe users in general) are very sensitive to that kind of pain, so I definitely agree with the first point. I can see the growth potential afterwards, but being in a difficult interaction with someone belligerent is only painful and draining in the moment.
Regarding work and point #2; I work at a highschool where I counsel in their career and choices of what they're going to study, and right at the start of the autumn semester - when school is just getting going - there is definitely a lot of chaos, reacting and quick organizing needed.
I _Can_ do it, and I've been getting better at it over the years because it's essentially always the same or similar questions, but it's definitely draining for me. I'm glad it's only for a few weeks. If my work was always like that, I don't think I could have kept going.
And finally for point 3, I agree that boundaries are very important, and it's taken me many many years to figure out where they lie.
I had to get into a few arguments with a good friend of mine before I could really put my foot down and say "No, you know what, I'm not going to do what you're asking of me". I'm still good friends with that person, but they're likely an ESTJ, and as I've realized that, I've also realized why we're so different. 😅
Anyway, like I said, I agree with all points and I think especially Younger INFJs should take these lessons to heart, but sometimes the best - and only - way to learn something is by going through it. But don't start working just anywhere, and really "vet" your friends before you live with them, and find your boundaries and stick to them; doing so is very good for developing self-respect.
2:21, yes. I live part time below a very chaotic and toxic family (they moved in after I did) and it takes SUCH a toll to not have a refuge in what should be my sanctuary.
So grateful for the time away so I can recover from hearing their aggressions and dramas at least.
OHHHH I have so much to say about these 3 things
Short version: I definitely agree with all of them
Long version:
1. The worst part is when you don’t really have a choice but to live with someone like that like a family member 😭 fortunately my immediate family is for the most part drama free, but I remember when I was young and my parents would argue around my younger brother and I, I wasn’t just upset because my parents were arguing I didn’t feel physically well. Even to this day if I’m in a situation with drama and problems or if I have to confront someone contentious, I feel physically sick-like I’m going to throw up. It impacts me a lot more than I’d like for it to :( and sometimes it’s unavoidable.
2. Customer service jobs were my worst nightmare. I definitely do not do well in those settings and while I need some form of stimulation in a job to be excited and not bored, something reactive is not what I’m looking for.
3. This is probably the one I’ve struggled with THE MOST. Boundaries are something I’m still learning how to do. And the thing you said about no one ever asks INFJs how they feel about being ppls personal therapists is SO TRUE. personally, I’m okay with it if it’s just my good friends, but it wears me down over time if it’s someone I’m not really close with. I had that happen to me in high school and I didn’t know what else to do. And yes unfortunately I do tend to attract dodgy people :(
I’ve had to completely doorslam someone before for not respecting my boundaries and it was really hard. But definitely a learning moment and I know now that I should never let people cross any lines.
This was so good thank you !!
I was born into a family of difficult and contentious people. No wonder life is like it is.
So true.
Although I must admit I do appear judgemental to people. In fact I accept most things as options, but among people I like and trust a little, I tend to spit strong opinions, waiting for them to comment, to react, to see who they are, how they behave, if they have an interesting insight. It seems like people like it or hate it. If I'd stop, I would have to stay silent.
I think maybe shame I offended someone pushes me to give up on boundaries.
Thanks for the useful tips.
I totally agree with the first point. As an INFJ I once lived with an ESTJ friend of mine in college. She was constantly involved in drama and had very intense mood swings. At first, it was easy to help her in resolving these situations. It made me feel like I was being useful.
But time and again she started to create more drama just for the sake of it. She was constantly coming to me for comfort and after I told her it was all too draining for me, she started to resent me.
I wanted to help her and I was constantly trying to put out her fires even as I knew it wasn't healthy for me. I believed I could handle these situations better than her. My efforts and needs were being ignored. I was always giving and giving and I started to resent her without even realizing it. In the end I found myself being constantly sad and the worst thing was that she never thought anything I ever did was helpful or even necessary.
It was like sitting on a roller coaster ride and never knowing what lows or highs you were being taken to next. I hated the uncertainty that always surrounded me.
In the end I got so sick and tried of this loop, that I just had to cut her out of my life at any cost. I abandoned her when she was at one of her lowest points and I feel sorry for doing this to her. I'd just had enough of it all and was constantly confused about my feelings and hers.
All I knew that if I continued to live with her I would suffocate and drown in this storm of her making.
Playing the peacemaker literally sucks the life out of you when u do it for people who love conflict. I learned my lesson the hard way and I am really regretting not watching this video earlier lol.
If you are an INFJ I would HIGHLY recommend you to not play the intermediator at all times no matter how tempting it may seem. You need your peace and allowing yourself to be filled up with the emotions of people around you is probably not the best idea.
5:33 I saw a very popular INFJ on a dating site just today taking men to task for being lustful--while a quick look at her profile reveals her to be advertising herself as a playboy bunny.
There's that sort of wonky dynamic to Se Inferior, I guess, too; it's not just that they lack firm boundaries--but they often have an itch to set & then dissimulate against their own boundaries.
That doesn't sound like INFJ behaviour at all!
who?
Exactly! Do I really enjoy being in the listening role!? Still trying to figure that out. And people never understand why I like going to places when they are empty… it is because the “dark” weirdos DO approach or “accost” me. Whether I’m at a park walking, or in the grocery store, at the beach bonfire, or a check stand clerk, a bus driver, my professor, or my boss... Lots of lonely people out there without boundaries. I’m learning how to dodge people in my 30s and saying “no” without guilt or empathy.
As an INFJ, this is 10,000% accurate!
2. Is very true, working with the public as I did for a short time in bank branch was being inundated every work day with so many personality types my need for isolation was increased 5 fold. Never did that again. 3. Dark side personalities can be fascinating, but safe so long as you keep the boundaries and remain a question mark in their minds.
Yes, living with someone who likes drama is a death sentence.
I hate being an INFJ so f'ing much
This was really insightful. I grew up in a very contentious home environment and you definitely hit the nail on the head. I want my own home so badly because I need a haven, and one room isn't enough lol
As an autistic infj this really hits home two days before my problematic esfj nana with Alzheimer’s permanently moves into our house T-T double whammy
Yup 👍🏼 TRUTH Why I love being in public when there are no people around… makes things easier.
He:-Don't be with ENTP
My brother:-Is an ENTP
😢😭⁉️
Problem with INFJs is half of yall ain't INFJs
it shows how sensitive we are.
its weakness but also strengh. hehh... we need good strategy i guess or idk hmm...
As an INFJ who's Father manifested CPTSD and a secretive pain medication addiction (conflicting atmosphere) after being diagnosed with cancer when I was 10 years old, my Father committing suicide when I was 21 after beating cancer when I was 19½, and hurricane Katrina wiping out my community 3 years later, I learned to be comfortable in changing situations, and I even learned to excel in these situations. It was an uncomfortable process, but we don't change/grow when we are comfortable. Why would we cange; which is growth, when we're comfortable. Just because something "feels" bad doesn't make it bad. The unknown/unfamiliar brings about negative feelings, but we learn by making unknowns known and the unfamiliar familiar. This can be done little by little willingly, or all at once unwillingly. Those are the only 2 choices, so I'd suggest putting yourself in uncomfortable/unfamiliar situations and learning to adapt. Don't take things personally from people you don't personally known and personally don't know you. Also, others emotional states are "not" your responsibility. Your emotional state is your responsibility. The best thing you can do for others and to "balance out" is to focus on YOU first and over time you can help others out. This way you are at your best and in an optimal state to help the right people at the right time in the right places in the right ways. Instead of wasting your time, energy, and resources on the wrong people in the wrong ways or at the wrong time.
The more videos I watch about INFJs, the more everything makes sense and I’m more and more relieved and sure I made the right decision. Glad I can call him my Ex now, all of those character traits being combined with narcissism and anger issues are a disaster.
I've often wondered why the counselor stereotypical content doesn't mention that the INFJ actually might not seek out these life stories and confessions. I think it's more that it just doesn't bother them as much, and afterward they've learned something about people that either goes along with what the INFJ knew or doesn't fit with what they thought they knew. Boundaries with the elevator strangers are important, but in the end the boundaries in the INFJ's personal life are the most difficult to maintain or reset if needed. This is why the "door slam" happens. Excellent job on this perspective, and the subsequent information. 😎
We need intj of this.
Oh good lord, it appears to me that I am extremely early.
Good day sir.
Do not exist in a career that requires constant reactivity.... HA, too late! I'm in IT....I think constant reactivity is a standard IT expectation.
This video somewhat helped me understand why I'm like this. I have always known that I am 'slow' but these days this trait is becoming even more obvious as I take on new and more difficult roles with my clients. I want to learn how to process things faster. Now, from here, I know that I need to go read up on my cognitive functions as an INFJ and turn these weaknesses into strengths
The second point really got me. I work in warehousing; I drive reach trucks which can cause serious damage. Since my warehouse tends to be so busy, I literally panic and end up damaging a lot of stuff 😂, I even broke some machine that costed the company 1k, but luckily that didn't comes from my pocket 😅
Currently moving out of my old apartment because i was surrounded by drama and argumentative people !! Glad to know I was able to take a step in a healthy direction :)
My god this is so true, this is about my son the INFJ, he likes his home life to be quiet and smooth. He changed his job until he found one that really suited him, it gives him an intense physical workout while giving him time and quiet to work on his screenplays (he is a garbageman). He has a big mortgage and he lets out part of his home to help with it, and honestly those renters are good guys but a bit dodgy. And my son's boundaries are easily crossed (I as the INFP mother can see it clearly), the rest of us in the family have to make a concerted effort on our part that we respect his boundaries as he is a very gentle person. Oh and as an aside, he is our family guru, he leads us and advises the whole family, he works very closely with his ESFJ dad and they come up with some great collaborations.🥰I shared this video with him.
Hehe :).
Family guru.
Love this, thank you!
I'm an INFJ and I'm been living with a ENTP and I know how these two types create a lot of conflict between one and the other, I have no idea how in the internet got the data of these types being compatible when ENTP's are argumentative while INFJ dislike confrontation, because ENTP's are always argumentative, INFJ's will feel drained and may cause conflict with these two types, some data in the internet is subjective, but this video reflects my experience so I agree with this information, ENTP's and INFJ's being compatible is Ironic.