The warm and unassuming ISFJ personality type loves to help others, even if it means that they go unnoticed. Indeed, these Defenders enjoy working behind the scenes and value consistency and hard work. But does this mean that they can’t be creative?
ISFJs can be creative but it is not their strong suit. The defenders are consistent, observant, and hands-on people; these traits are helpful when making art. However, the ISFJ type typically lacks imagination and assertiveness, so they often do not have the time or drive for creative projects.
So, even though creativity isn’t where the ISFJ type excels, they can surprise us. This post will look at how ISFJ creativity works and where these supportive people choose to express themselves. Read on to learn about Defenders in the arts and how they understand it.
Why Do ISFJs Struggle With Creativity?
Although they can be creative – exceptions always exist – ISFJs are not an inherently creative type. Instead, their strengths lie in their persistence, enthusiasm, and care for others.
Nevertheless, these strengths sometimes backfire. Defenders can get too caught up with their daily lives and routines to focus on creative endeavors. And when they do, they often can’t cope with the pressure of an audience.
ISFJs Overcommit To Their Routines
While some types enjoy spontaneity and an open day planner, ISFJs hate that. Instead, this personality type likes a consistent routine and sticking to tried-and-tested methods. They are traditionalists.
But sticking to tradition is the opposite of creativity. Even though many people have had significant and beautiful ideas from working within a system, most creatives function best outside of it.
Similarly, ISFJs can become distracted surprisingly quickly. Many people might think that the Defenders are some of the most focused people, but that only applies to their focus on their duties. If necessary, an ISFJ will drop everything to help somebody in need.
That means that their projects often take a backseat.
Furthermore, ISFJs also struggle with change. They care deeply about having a reliable and trustworthy schedule. So, what could seem like a minor disruption to another type could ruin an ISFJ’s entire day. How can they be creative under that pressure?
ISFJs Dislike Abstract Concepts
The Defenders like to focus on tangible details and the physical world. So, while this trait makes them observant and surprisingly intelligent people with good memories, they struggle to work with the abstract.
ISFJs don’t enjoy working with theories or the airier parts of their imagination. If they can’t tie an idea to a meaningful experience, they won’t be enthusiastic about it.
So, since creativity requires a lot of abstract thought, that’s another issue where ISFJs come off second best. They’re not stupid, but their intelligence isn’t meant for complex theories.
Likewise, ISFJs often have trouble with interpersonal analysis, too. They can’t easily relate to ideas unless they can engage their feelings on a topic. Because of that, ISFJs don’t excel with the more logical and less precise aspects of art.
ISJFs Have Issues With Self-Confidence
There’s a good reason why people call this type the Defender: ISFJs prefer to support others instead of pursuing personal goals. Or rather, their personal goals are to see their loved ones flourish and succeed.
However, that means that ISFJs can be overly humble. They’re shy and don’t enjoy taking credit, even for their contributions.
Since ISFJs like to stay out of the spotlight and work with others, they regularly have low self-esteem and self-confidence. And because so much creativity needs you to put yourself out there, ISFJs aren’t naturally cut out for it.
Not only that, but the Defenders also take things personally. While they don’t get visibly mad or scared, they’re sensitive people. They hate criticism.
Unfortunately, becoming a successful creative means that you’ll need to accept and work with criticism. On the other hand, many ISFJs consider it a personal attack.
Creative Strengths of the ISFJ
It isn’t all bad for the ISFJs, though – their personality traits also grant them a couple of bonuses. Although most choose not to, the Defenders can channel their hard-working energy and empathy towards creativity.
Defenders Are Self-Motivated
Because they enjoy staying in the background and don’t rely on others, ISFJs have deep wells of self-motivation. Although they prefer clear instructions when available, this type can nevertheless direct themselves and work consistently.
ISFJs also take pride in a job well done. They express themselves through their work, so they naturally want to do the best work they can. That means that when an ISFJ starts being creative, they won’t stop until they’re happy with the results.
They’re not the type to give up quickly, either. Even if a Defender’s project turns out to be far harder than expected, they won’t throw in their towel.
Instead, an ISFJ will push through those frustrations.
Defenders Are Detail-Oriented
Even though they’re not big-picture thinkers, they’re not stupid. ISFJs are remarkably observant people, particularly when it comes to other people.
So, the Defenders can be insightful and attentive. That’s a great help when working on a project involving other people, particularly if they can see the benefits of doing so.
As well as that, the ISFJ’s attention to detail lets them add unique flourishes to their work. While other types might ignore the intricacies of a presentation or piece of music, a Defender will never do that. They’re patient enough to add that perfect touch.
Defenders Are Practical
ISFJs are one of the most balanced types. They’re unlikely to become distracted by pointless ideas and random trains of thought. Instead, they focus on meaningful and achievable goals.
Why does this trait help them be creative? Practicality is vital for creativity because it lets somebody set goals they can accomplish.
The Defenders like hands-on work that enriches others. Not only that, but they have the soft skills required to understand what other people genuinely need. So, their creativity often lies in finding a realistic solution to an interpersonal problem.
Their handiness comes in somewhere else, too. ISFJs like to work with physical things – food, metal, and even on stage. Defenders can be remarkably creative when working with their immediate circumstances instead of abstract ideas.
Are ISFJs An Artistic Type?
ISFJs are not artistic. Instead, their creativity is practical. So, this type doesn’t tend towards painting, composing, or streaming online. But they like working with their hands and bodies – catering, DIY, and acting are more their speed.
Three Famous ISFJ Artists
Despite her fantastic charisma, Beyonce is most likely an ISFJ. She’s succeeded in using her attention to detail and emotional intelligence in writing and performing beautiful, heartfelt music. Indeed, she’s one of the best-selling artists alive today.
Vin Diesel is one of the highest-grossing actors around, and he’s a talented director, too. As a Defender, he excels at teamwork – that’s beneficial when working with his fellow actors and film crew daily.
Halle Berry is also an ISFJ, and she’s had an intense creative career. We can see that her Defender-style perseverance worked excellently for her. From humble beginnings, she’s come to have been regarded as one of the hottest women alive, and her acting career has won several awards.
Conclusion
To conclude, ISFJs prefer not to be creative; they enjoy traditional routines and choose to support their loved ones practically instead of thinking imaginatively. Nevertheless, some exceptions exist. Particular ISFJs channel their attention to detail, perseverance, and practical minds into art and see great success.
