ISFP Personality

ISFP personality types are artistic souls who possess a deep reservoir of feeling from which they draw abundant creative inspiration that is channeled into their own unique form of expression. They are often unconventional with a taste for things that are quirky or unusual. ISFPs are not followers of the pack but rather independent pilgrims who explore on their own personal journeys, delving deep in a process of discovery both internal and external. They are liberal spirits who resist being labeled, boxed in, or defined by others. They dislike restrictions and limitations and require space and freedom to be what they feel is a true and authentic expression of who they are.

ISFPs are soft-spoken idealists with lots of heart and a sensory sensitivity that gives them a profound awareness of the world around them. They have refined tastes and a keen aesthetic sense and appreciation for quality. Beauty, texture, form, symmetry, harmony as experienced through all their senses resonates with them on a heightened scale. Even if not an artist or designer themselves, ISFPs are still likely to have an extremely well-developed sense of what they like and don’t like (indeed, they often have a uniqueness of taste that others tend to envy). For this reason it is especially important for the ISFP that they have the freedom to shape their personal environment as they see fit. ISFPs should not be made to conform to some standardized solution or routine.

ISFPs are warm and friendly people who have an easy going and quiet enthusiasm to experience life’s adventures. They go with the flow and maintain a flexible attitude preferring to keep their options open rather than adhere to a fixed path or approach. Organization and planning ahead may be challenging for the ISFP who tends to act “in the moment” and let their feelings and instincts guide them. They have little interest in theories and abstract concepts that have no practical or concrete applications.

ISFPs can be difficult to get to know especially in social settings where they can become uncomfortable. They are not much concerned with how others perceive them and can become oblivious to social expectations and niceties. They follow their own sense of moral or ethical values even if it differs or runs counter to the values of their community or group. They extend the same freedom of expression to others that they expect for themselves. They do not desire to control or impose themselves upon others but instead encourage others to embrace their individuality and unique gifts.

ISFP Relationships

In relationships, the ISFP is easygoing, devoted, and patient. ISFP people are responsive to the needs of their friends and family and can provide the emotional support that will assuage and bring comfort to others in distress and pain.

ISFP’s accommodating nature can put them at risk for their compassion being taken for granted by others. Their dislike of conflict makes them reluctant to express their anger directly because they want to preserve harmony sometimes at their own expense. The ISFP is tolerant and uncritical, and adapt easily to their surroundings. They like to go with the flow and enjoy life from moment to moment. An ideal partner for an ISFP is one who takes the time to show spontaneous gestures of affection, and appreciates the ISFP’s kind and helpful nature.

ISFP Careers

ISFPs desire an occupation that allows them to operate autonomously and independently. Typically they enjoy hands-on activities, and often gain satisfaction when they have creative control over the work they do. An ideal job for an ISFP allows them to admire the results of their handiwork in a context that feels significant and consistent with their values.

ISFPs like a positive, cooperative work environment that is not fast-paced where they can work quietly, with support when they need it. Because ISFPs are so tuned to their physical surroundings, it’s often important to them that their work space is aesthetically pleasing.

ISFPs generally prefer to keep a low profile and do not seek to be in the spotlight. They typically avoid positions that require them to speak publicly or lead large groups. Although they often prefer to work independently, when they do work with others, ISFPs want their colleagues to be flexible, supportive, and loyal to the team.

Fashion Designer
Interior Designer
Cosmetologist
Artist
Landscape Architect
Jeweler
Carpenter
Chef
Tailor
Graphic Designer
Mechanic
Forester
Surveyor
Gardener
Florist

Nurse
Massage Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Veterinary Assistant
Dental Hygienist
Physical Therapist
Fitness Trainer
Optician
ER Physician
Physician Assistant
Dietitian
Pharmacist
Office Manager
Paralegal
Insurance Appraiser

Botanist
Geologist
Preschool Teacher
Social Worker
Translator
Special Education Teacher
Teacher’s Aide
Air Traffic Controller
Police Officer
Firefighter
Residential Counselor
Animal Trainer
Retail Manager
Recreation Worker
Bookkeeper

ISFP Statistics

ISFP is the fourth most common type in the population.
9% of the general population
10% of women
8% of men
Among the highest persisters in college.
In national sample “Leisure Activities,” overrepresented in “Watching TV 3 or more hours per day” and “Watching TV for leisure”
Underrepresented in “Reading,” “Working out/exercising,” “Writing,” “Appreciating art,” and “Taking classes, going to school.”
Academic subject preferred: practical skills.
Lowest of all types in national sample liking work environments with “Variety of tasks”
1 of 3 highest types in favoring “Loyalty & security,” “Making the job as simple as possible,” and “No expectation of extra hours”
Include among top 3 desirable work characteristics “Clear structure” and “Independence & achievement.”
In national sample, greatest dissatisfiers in the work environment were “Promotions,” “Job security,” and “Salary.”
In national sample, among those with lowest income and unlikely to leave job.
Ranked 15th of 16 types in using emotional coping resources and 16th using physical coping resources; ranked 15th in total resources.
In national sample, ranked highest in “Ever had heart disease/hypertension.”
In national sample, highest in coping with stress by “Trying to avoid stressful situations,” “Getting upset or angry and not showing it,” “Sleeping,” and “Watching TV.”