Why Do INFJs Fear Change
Embracing change is a common struggle for many, but for the introspective and intuitive INFJ – the rarest of the Myers-Briggs personality types – it can be particularly challenging. Infamous for their strategic planning and deep emotional connections, INFJs often find themselves at odds with the unpredictable nature of change.
They much prefer meticulous planning and structured lifestyles. They feel in control when they can anticipate and plan for the future, but change can throw these plans off balance. So let’s explore 5 Reasons INFJs Fear Change so much.
Why Do INFJs Fear Change
1. Fear of Losing
Control INFJs are often highly organized individuals who take solace in structure. They like to live their lives according to a well thought out plan, a map of sorts that provides them with a sense of control and security. Each decision they make is usually based on careful thought and foresight, with meticulous consideration given to how it aligns with their long term objectives.
This is not simply a preference for order; it's an integral part of their approach to life that helps them maintain equilibrium and direction. Change, however, is a direct challenge to this structured paradigm.
When change occurs – particularly when it's unexpected or beyond their control – it can cause a disturbance in the carefully crafted plans that INFJs depend on. Their "map" is suddenly altered, and the path they had laid out for themselves may no longer apply.
This disruption can be deeply unsettling, stripping away their sense of control and leaving them feeling unanchored. Their instinctive response may be to resist the change, to try and hold onto the familiar structure they've built, even when circumstances are pushing them in a new direction.
That said, it's also important to recognize that this fear of losing control doesn't mean INFJs are incapable of adapting to change. In fact, they can be remarkably resilient once they've had a chance to process their new circumstances and adjust their plans accordingly.
2. Introverted Intuition
One of the core traits of an INFJ is their Introverted Intuition. This function allows them to perceive and understand the world in an internal, abstract way. They often look beyond the surface of things to find deeper meanings and connections, forming a complex internal framework of how they believe the world operates.
It’s like an internal compass that guides them through their decisions and interactions. However, when change enters the picture, it has the potential to disrupt this carefully constructed internal worldview. Change may introduce elements that don't fit into their existing understanding of things, or it may force them to reconsider their beliefs and perceptions entirely.
This disruption isn't just disconcerting; it can be profoundly unsettling. INFJs may feel as if the rug has been pulled out from under them, leaving them scrambling to rebuild their internal understanding of the world.
Adding to this complexity is the often abstract and intuitive nature of their thought processes. INFJs typically don't just accept changes at face value. Instead, they need to understand them in depth, to see how they fit into the larger scheme of things.
This can mean that the process of adapting to change is slower and more challenging for them, as they're not just dealing with the external manifestations of change but also its deeper, more hidden implications.
3. Desire for Harmony
Harmony is a key pursuit for INFJs, shaping their interactions and their understanding of the world. This personality type values peace, balance, and unity, both in their personal lives and in their interactions with others.
Their primary goal is often to create an environment where everyone feels understood, valued, and at ease. This desire for harmony extends to their internal world as well, influencing their thoughts, emotions, and decisions. When confronted with change, however, the harmony INFJs have carefully cultivated can be disrupted.
Change is inherently unpredictable and can lead to outcomes that cause discord. Whether it's a shift in their work environment, a move to a new city, or a major life event, these changes can unsettle the balance that INFJs strive for. The resulting discord can trigger a fear response, as they scramble to restore the harmony they've lost.
4. Overthinking
INFJs are profound thinkers. Their inner world is rich with thoughts, ideas, and introspections. While this deep thinking is often a strength, enabling them to perceive the world in a unique and detailed way, it can also be a source of anxiety when they are faced with change.
This is because INFJs have a tendency to overthink, especially when confronted with uncertainty. When a change arises, an INFJ's mind may start to spin with questions and scenarios. They may dissect every facet of the change, consider every possible outcome, and spend significant time dwelling on how it will impact them and others.
While this thorough analysis can sometimes be beneficial, providing them with a detailed understanding of the situation, it can also lead to unnecessary stress and worry if it spirals into overthinking. This overthinking can amplify their fear of change.
They may start to imagine worst-case scenarios or focus excessively on potential negative outcomes, which can further increase their anxiety around the change. This can also sometimes lead to a state of paralysis, where the fear of potential consequences prevents them from moving forward and adapting to the change.
5. Perfectionism
At the core of every INFJ lies a strong set of values and principles that guide their actions and decisions. They are often idealistic, with a deep-seated belief in the potential for a better world and a strong drive to make that vision a reality.
This commitment to their ideals is a defining characteristic of INFJs, shaping their identity and their interactions with the world. However, change can often bring with it a sense of uncertainty, including uncertainty about how it might impact their ability to uphold their values.
When faced with change, INFJs may fear that they will have to compromise their ideals or act against their principles. This fear can be particularly acute for INFJs because their values are not just beliefs to them, they're integral to their identity.
For instance, a change in their work environment might force them to work in ways that don't align with their principles, or a shift in a relationship might put their values to the test. In such situations, INFJs might fear not just the change itself, but what it represents – a potential threat to their authenticity and their commitment to their values.
While this fear can be deeply unsettling, it's also important for INFJs to remember that change doesn't necessarily mean compromise. It might challenge them, but it can also strengthen their values and reinforce their commitment to their ideals. Change can provide opportunities to adapt and grow, and even to apply their values in new and meaningful ways. But tell us do you think you have a fear of change.