ISFP personality type

The ISFP personality type, which makes up about 9% of the population, relates to the world through the senses.  Their sensory approach to life drives their hobbies, career choices and relationships. But not in the way you might think.

The present moment is an ISFP’s happy place. Like true zen masters, ISFPs have been living in the Now since long before Eckhart Tolle made it cool. Though they may seem carefree and even self-indulgent at first glance, the ISFP personality type takes life very seriously. All of their exploits are driven by their deeper values. Their core beliefs are the winds that direct the sails of their decisions.

Unlike the more logical types, such as the ISTJ and INTJ, the ISFP is not interested in planning a secure future. Their main goal in life is to build identity in the here and now. They are creating a collage of experiences that align with their values. For the ISFP personality type, the beauty is in the process rather than the final product. And if there is one thing ISFPs know about, it’s beauty.

The ISFP eye for aesthetics

The ISFP personality type has a natural eye for aesthetics. They are the hands-on artists who transform everyday objects and spaces into a sensory delight. Whether their creation is in the form of visual art, music, or interior design, it is sure to titillate the senses. ISFPs also have a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature.

The ISFP personality type at work

The ISFP personality type will often choose a career that allows them to be creative and work with their hands. They might also choose jobs that afford them the freedom to focus on their personal pursuits. They are the adventure sport enthusiasts who moonlight as bartenders. Or the jazz singers who bookkeep during the day.

Some of the best jobs for ISFPs include:

– Interior designer
– Musician
– Carpenter
– Chef
– Cosmetologist
– Preschool teacher
– Florist
– Dental hygienist
– Fitness trainer
– Firefighter

ISFP Relationships

Like most introverts, ISFPs prefer quality over quantity in relationships. Loyal and committed, they value lifelong friendships. Though they are friendly, it’s difficult to befriend an ISFP who has already established his inner circle. If you are lucky enough to already be a member of an ISFP’s core clan, consider yourself privileged. She will stick by your side for better or worse.

An ISFP is highly perceptive of others. When they look at you, it might seem as if they are staring into your soul. Don’t worry, it’s only because they are. 😉

Their sensitive nature means that ISFPs are always considerate of the feelings of others. Since they hate conflict, ISFPs do their best to preserve harmony in their relationships. However, in the face of criticism, an ISFP may loose his or her temper.

The ISFP personality type tends to be service oriented in relationships. They prefer to “show” instead of “tell” when it comes to expressing their love. “Doers” to the core, ISFP lovers show their affection by doing nice things for you. Changing the oil on your car translates to “I love you”. An elaborately prepared meal means “I care”. ISFPs also show their love by being considerate of your needs. If you need space, they will gladly give it to you. They expect the same in return.

The ISFP need for space

The ISFP personality type is strongly independent. They need time alone to reflect. Solitude allows them to hold their experiences up to the light of their core values. Since the ISFP is the most experimental and adventurous of all the introverted types, they are often mistaken for extroverts. Those who don’t understand them will be confused by an ISFP’s sudden need to withdraw.

Don’t try to change them

ISFPs receive a lot of flack for the way they live their life. Others often nag them to be more practical, and focus on the future. If you know an ISFP, appreciate them for who they are. They are sensual artists who bring a lot of beauty to this world.

Here are some famous ISFPs you might have heard of:

Famous ISFPs

Avril Lavigne
Brad Pitt
Barbara Streisand
David Beckham
Brittany Spears
Lady Gaga
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Ulysses S. Grant
Paul McCartney
Prince

What about you?

Are you an ISFP, or do you know one very well? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences related to the ISFP personality type.

Xo,

Michaela-Signature