ISFP - The Artist
People with an ISFP Personality Type are frequently described as quiet, easy-going, and peaceful.
They are receptive and modest but take criticism personally.
Artists adapt easily to change but don't enjoy leadership roles.
With Introverted Feelings as their dominant function, Artists use personal feelings and subjective values when making decisions.
With Extraverted Sensing as their top extraverted function, Artists are Perceivers who like gathering facts and are highly observant and detail-oriented.
Artists like exploring new ideas with their Introverted Intuition and objective reasons from their Extraverted Thinking lowest function.
They are process-oriented, spontaneous, and flexible.
Artists are introverted, preferring time alone to think things through.
| Process Information: | Gather Facts |
| Decision Making: | Self Values |
Dominant Function - Introverted Feeling
- ISFPs care more about personal concerns than objective, logical information.
- People with this personality type deal with information and experiences based on how they feel about them.
- ISFPs have their value system and create spontaneous judgments based upon how things fit with their idea.
Auxiliary Function - Extraverted Sensing
- People with ISFP personalities are very in tune with the world around them.
- They are very much attuned to sensory information.
- They are keenly aware when even small changes take place in their immediate environment.
- Because of this, they often emphasize aesthetics and appreciate the fine arts.
- They are focused on the present moment, taking in new information and then taking action.
- They have a strong sense of their immediate surroundings, often noticing small details others might overlook.
- When remembering events from the past, they can recall strong visual imagery, and sights, smells, and sounds can evoke powerful memories associated with those senses.
Tertiary Function - Introverted Intuition
- This function tends to run in the background, feeding off the extraverted sensing function.
- As ISFPs take in details about the world, they often develop "gut feelings" about events and situations.
- While they generally do not like abstract concepts or ideas, this introverted intuition function may lead them to experience epiphanies about themselves and others.
Inferior Function - Extraverted Thinking
- One weakness that ISFPs may have is in organizing, although they may use this function more prominently in certain situations.
- This function is about looking for the most efficient way to do something.
- An ISFP might become focused on being precise about the details and finding the most effective way to express an idea.
Traits
- ISFPs are artistic, loyal, and harmonious.
- They are kind, friendly, sensitive, and quiet.
- They have an easygoing attitude. They tend to accept other people as they are.
- While they are quiet and reserved, they are also known for being peaceful, caring, and considerate.
- They strive to connect with others who share similar ideals.
- They dislike conflict and criticism because they seek harmony and are generally irritated when their personal space has been invaded.
- A weakness of the ISFP is their tendency to be cynical, which does not translate well onto others.
- ISFPs primary function is Introverted Feeling, which allows them to know what they value and make judgments based on these values.
- They live in a world full of sensation possibilities and have a robust value system that they constantly strive to meet in their own lives.
- Their auxiliary function is Extraverted Sensing, making them "earthy" people who love aesthetic beauty.
- ISFPs like to focus on the details.
- They spend more time thinking about the here and now rather than worrying about the future.
- They tend to be "doers" rather than "dreamers."
- They dislike abstract theories unless they can see some practical application for them and prefer learning situations that involve gaining hands-on experience.
- They prefer to live in the moment so that the big picture may be omitted from the ISFP's goals.
- They like to keep their options open, so they often delay making decisions to see if things might change or if new options come up.
- ISFPs will generally be inclined to choose careers that allow freedom for creativity and display their personal goals.
- They prefer flexibility and do not fare well with schedules.
- They learn best in a hands-on approach and may be bored with traditional methods emphasizing abstract thinking.
- Logic is secondary to the ISFP. They are uncomfortable dealing with objective systems.
- They prefer subjectivity and love music and the arts.
Strengths
- Very aware of their environment
- Practical
- Enjoys hands-on learning
- Loyal to values and beliefs
Weaknesses
- Dislikes abstract, theoretical information
- Reserved and quiet
- Strong need for personal space
- Dislikes arguments and conflict
Friendships
- ISFPs are friendly and get along well with other people.
- Still, they typically need to get to know you well before they open up.
- You can be a good friend to an ISFP by supporting an acceptance of who they are.
- ISFPs can be light-hearted and fun.
- Still, they are also quite intense at times.
- Recognize that there will be times when your friend wants to share and when they want to retreat to a more personal space.
Personal Relationships
- ISFPs are introverted. They tend to be reserved and quiet, especially around people they do not know well.
- They prefer spending time with a close group of family and friends.
- ISFPs are very private and keep their true feelings to themselves.
- In some cases, they may avoid sharing their thoughts, feelings, and opinions with other people, even their romantic partners.
- Because they prefer not to share their innermost feelings and try to avoid conflict, they often defer to the needs or demands of others.
- ISFPs have strong values but are not concerned with trying to convince other people to share their point of view.
- They care deeply about other people, particularly their closest friends, and family.
- They are action-oriented and tend to show their care and concern through action rather than discussing feelings or expressing sentiments.
Partner Relationships
- ISFPs are very considerate in relationships, often to the point that they continually defer to their partner.
- Because they are usually not good at expressing their feelings and needs, you must make an effort to understand your partner.
- When making decisions, ensure that your partner's voice is heard and their feelings are given equal weight.
Parenting
- ISFP children tend to be perfectionists and can be their own harshest critics.
- Because they place such high expectations on themselves, they often underestimate or undervalue their skills and talents.
- If you are a parent to an ISFP child, you can help your child by encouraging them to be kind to themselves and recognize their value.
Career Advice
- People with ISFP personalities love animals and have a strong appreciation for nature.
- They may seek jobs or hobbies that connect them with the outdoors and animals.
- Because ISFPs prefer to focus on the present, they often do well in careers concerned with practical, real-world problems.
- Jobs that offer great personal freedom and autonomy are especially appealing to ISFPs.