Introverts and extroverts are the two extremes of the personality spectrum. And, as you might expect, they differ in a lot of ways. While some people may be certain of their personality type, others may find the process more of a struggle. After all, we are complex creatures with many aspects to our personalities!
INFPs and ENFPs are two personality types that are commonly confused. These two Myers-Briggs types share the same four mental functions, but they use them in a different order.
- INFP function stack: Introverted Feeling (Fi), Extroverted Intuition (Ne), Introverted Sensing (Si), Extroverted Thinking (Te)
- ENFP function stack: Extroverted Intuition (Ne), Introverted Feeling (Fi), Extroverted Thinking (Te), Introverted Sensing (Si)
If you want to learn more about the Myers-Briggs functions, their website is an excellent resource.
INFP and ENFP differences
The differences between INFPs and ENFPs can be difficult to spot because these personality types are so similar. However, there are some key distinctions between the two.
The fundamental difference between these two types is that INFPs are driven by their values and ENFPs are driven by their ideas. For the INFP, everything starts with their own personal values. They make decisions based on what they believe is right or wrong.
The ENFP, on the other hand, is driven by their ideas. They’re constantly generating new ideas and seeing potential in things that others might miss. Of course, this doesn’t mean that INFPs don’t have great ideas, or that ENFPs don’t care about personal values.
Both types have their own strengths and weaknesses. The INFP is a great listener and is always there for the people they care about. They have a strong sense of morality and are great at seeing the big picture.
However, they can be a bit idealistic and may not always be practical. The ENFP is very energetic and enthusiastic. They’re always looking for new opportunities and are great at coming up with innovative ideas. However, they can be a bit impulsive and may not always think things through.
INFP and ENFP similarities
Because both of these personality types share the same set of functions, they have a lot in common. In fact, ENFPs are often considered to be the most introverted of all the extroverted types. These overlapping traits can make it quite difficult to determine whether someone is an INFP or an ENFP.
Both INFPs and ENFPs are creative, compassionate and idealistic. They’re both interested in making the world a better place.
They go about this in different ways. The INFP is more likely to be focused on personal relationships and helping others on a one-to-one basis. The ENFP is more likely to be focused on making changes on a larger scale.
In general, both INFPs and ENFPs are quite good at avoiding conflict. But this can sometimes mean that they avoid dealing with difficult issues. When it comes to relationships, both of these types are looking for a deep connection. They want to find someone they can share their true selves with.
INFPs and ENFPs both have a playful sense of wonder and excitement about the world that never seems to fade. They enjoy making things more fun and interesting. This makes them the perfect pair for a close friendship.
Signs you may be an INFP:
- You enjoy spending time alone: INFPs recharge their energy by spending time alone. This doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy being around others, but they need time alone to reflect and charge their social batteries.
- You like to think before you speak: INFPs often take time to think about their responses before speaking. They don’t feel the need to be the life of the party and often prefer to listen more than talk.
- You’re exhausted after social events: ENFPs often feel energized after being around others, but INFPs often feel exhausted. This is because introverts need time to recharge, and being around others for an extended period can quickly drain them.
- You like to plan things out: INFPs often like to plan things out in advance, while ENFPs are more spontaneous.
- You feel uncomfortable around strangers: INFPs often feel uncomfortable around strangers and prefer to stick with people they know well. They often find small talk difficult and prefer deeper conversations.
- You’re a perfectionist: INFPs are often perfectionists. They want everything they do to be perfect, and this can often lead to them feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
- You have strong moral values: INFPs have strong moral values and often stand up for what they believe in. They can be very idealistic and may have difficulty compromising.
Signs you may be an ENFP:
- You’re the life of the party: ENFPs are typically more outgoing and enjoy being around people. They often have no problem talking to strangers or being the center of attention.
- You’re always looking for new opportunities: ENFPs are always looking for new opportunities. They get bored easily and need to constantly be doing something new.
- You’re a good leader: ENFPs often make good leaders because they can motivate others and are comfortable taking charge. They are also typically very articulate and can easily communicate their ideas.
- You’re very flexible: ENFPs are often very flexible and adaptable. They don’t like routine and prefer to keep things interesting.
- You’re easily distracted: ENFPs can be easily distracted by their many ideas and interests. This can make it difficult for them to focus on one task for an extended period.
- You feel energized after being around others: ENFPs find energy in being around others and often feel invigorated after social events.
- You’re not a perfectionist: ENFPs typically don’t strive for perfection like INFPs do. They may have high standards, but they are more likely to be okay with things not being perfect.
Determining whether you’re an INFP or ENFP
For some people, knowing their personality type comes easy. They take a personality test and instantly resonate with one type over all others. However, for others, knowing their personality type can be more difficult.
If you’re having difficulty determining whether you’re an INFP or an ENFP, it may be helpful to take a deep dive on your dominant function. Let’s explore how the two types differ when it comes to their dominant function.
INFPs use the dominant function of Introverted Feeling (Fi). This function is concerned with emotions, morality, and values. They’re very attuned to what they’re feeling in the moment, and they make decisions based on their personal feelings and values. They’re usually very good at reading other people’s emotions, and they’re often drawn to careers that involve helping others, such as social work or counseling.
ENFPs, on the other hand, use the dominant function of Extraverted Intuition (Ne). This function is concerned with ideas, concepts, and patterns. ENFPs are always looking for new possibilities and ways to see the world.
They’re less in touch with their own emotions, and they make decisions based on what they see and observe in the world around them. This can sometimes make them seem insensitive or impersonal, but it’s also what allows them to be so creative and innovative.
They’re usually very good at seeing the big picture and are often drawn to careers that involve brainstorming and coming up with new ideas, such as marketing or advertising.
So, which type are you? If you find yourself more in tune with your own emotions and values, you’re probably an INFP. If you’re more focused on the outer world and finding patterns in your external environment, you’re probably an ENFP. Either way, both types are highly creative and compassionate, so there’s no wrong answer!
Author Bio: Crystalyn is a writer, an introvert, and a highly sensitive person. She is passionate about personal growth and helping others see their potential. When she is not writing, you can find her gardening, reading, and spending time with the people close to her. You can connect with her through her website, MelloWoman.com.
