INFPs may come across as liking attention because they may regularly become overly involved in the lives of others. While this may be misconstrued as attention-seeking or self-centered behavior, INFPs are naturally selfless. They shy away from overt displays of attention. Their introverted nature makes them much more comfortable on the sidelines than in the public eye.
As introverts, INFPs don’t like to be the center of attention, and they prefer being alone. They may find it challenging to be on the receiving end of attention. However, they seek validation and reassurance in their relationships because they tend to form deep emotional attachments.
INFP personality types may often feel guilty, awkward, or overwhelmed by too much attention. However, they enjoy feeling appreciated for their continued efforts to help others reach their goals and fill their wants and needs. If you want to know what INFPs are really like, we’ve got you covered. We’ve also outlined what you can do to show your appreciation to an INFP in your life.
Are INFPs Self-Centered?
INFP personality types are not self-centered. In fact, INFPs are the exact opposite! People who fall into the INFP category are naturally empathic and selfless and will always put others before themselves. They are inclined to want to help others, even at their own expense, and often feel drawn to people who need help and direction.
INFPs may come across as seeking attention because they enjoy having deep and meaningful relationships with others. When someone with the INFP personality type feels a strong connection with someone, they are more likely to seek validation and confirmation that the other person reciprocates this intimacy or bond.
This attention-seeking behavior is primarily limited to those closest to them. They enjoy being reminded of how these people feel about them. Although this may seem self-centered, INFPs crave this validation and reassurance because they are fiercely protective of their emotions.
INFPs And Their Emotions
The ‘F’ in INFP stands for Feeling. This characteristic of an INFP personality is primarily due to an INFPs ability to connect on an emotional level with others and their ability to mirror or mimic the emotions of others. They tend to reflect emotions because they have a strong sense of empathy.
INFPs work hard to make others happy and go out of their way to make sure that the emotional needs of others are met. However, they often forget to pay attention to their own emotions and will conceal their true feelings around others.
When an INFP feels safe and has a deep connection with someone, they may feel more inclined to share their thoughts and emotions with that person. But unless they have an intimate relationship with someone, they will be protective of their true feelings and guard their emotions with their life.
Once an INFP shares their emotions with someone, they may seem to crave more attention than before. While these behaviors are often confused with attention-seeking behaviors, INFPs are actually looking for reassurance. They want to know that their emotions and feelings are reciprocated and can become agitated or unhappy when they feel that someone close to them isn’t as attentive as they once were.
INFPs are also highly perceptive, so they can assess the emotions of others more quickly than other personality types.
Because of their sensitive nature, INFPs can quickly see through feigned interest or shallow attention. This personality type is more interested in genuine connection than a brief demonstration of attention. So they prefer to stay out of the limelight when it comes to others.
INFPs Are Introverted
Just as the ‘F’ in INFP stands for Feeling, the ‘I’ stands for Introversion. INFPs are naturally introverted. This doesn’t necessarily mean that these personality types are shy. Instead, they prefer to spend time alone to unwind and relax.
INFPs tend to feel drained after lengthy social exchanges or interactions. Being around others may cause them to feel exhausted and overwhelmed. They are much happier when they can be alone with their thoughts and process their feelings and emotions independently.
Because of their introverted nature, INFPs generally don’t like to draw attention to themselves. These individuals would instead blend in than stand out and prefer to shower others with attention than receive it themselves.
Although INFPs love to help others, they may feel awkward or shy when showered with compliments or attention. While it may seem like INFPs help others for their own gain, these personality types prefer to go unnoticed and help others out of a naturally philanthropic mindset. They have a deep-rooted sense of humanity and perform good deeds with selflessness.
How To Show Appreciation To INFPs
Suppose you want to show appreciation to an INFP without overwhelming them with attention. In that case, there are easy ways to show them that you care.
Firstly, INFPs appreciate deep connections with others. This connection should come from a genuine want for a relationship. Remember, INFPs can quickly see through an insincere display of attention! By forming a close and personal bond with an INFP, you will be able to show them that you care without making them feel like the center of attention.
You can also show appreciation to an INFP by helping them. INFPs tend to put others’ needs and wants ahead of their own. So, to show an INFP that you care about their well-being, you can help fulfill their wants and needs.
Because they find it difficult to help themselves, they will appreciate the effort and concern from a close friend, partner, or family member.
Conclusion
INFP personality types are naturally selfless and will sacrifice their own wants and needs in place of others’. They tend to be more introverted and shy away from attention rather than seeking it out.
INFPs may seek validation and reassurance in close relationships, which can sometimes be misconstrued as attention-seeking behaviors. It’s important to know the difference and learn how to show appreciation for an INFP without showering them with unwanted attention.
