Does ENFP and INFP match? What is the difference between ENFP and INFP compatibility?

By Patrick Banks

Posted 4 months agoGROWTH

Many similarities suddenly appear when comparing the ENFP (extrovert) and INFP (introvert) personality types. While it’s difficult to believe that a bubbly, outgoing personality could have similar traits to that of a quiet, reserved personality, the truth is they share a very similar vision of the world around them!  

This is because they share the iNtuitive, feeling, and perceiving personality components. As a result, they both strive for harmony and happiness in their immediate circles and believe the world can be a better place for everyone. Both deeply intuitive, their choices and ideals are often colored by their emotions; however, they can also see the ‘big picture’ in situations. 

So do these similarities make them the perfect match for each other? Isn’t that what we desire in a partner, someone with the same outlook on things? The answer is yes, in part, but while these personalities have many similarities, they also have some crucial differences which can either make or break a relationship.

ENFP vs. INFP

To understand the differences between these personality types, we need to dig deeper into what makes each personality unique. Firstly, the ‘E’ in ENFP stands for extrovert, which, as you know, means they enjoy the company of people, are often the social butterfly, and in many cases, the light and soul of the party. They don’t mind being in the social spotlight, and as a rule, you won’t find them hiding in a darkened corner of the room in social situations. 

Not so with the INFP personality, here the ‘I’stands for introvert and for excellent reason. Introverts are quiet individuals, preferring to enjoy life from behind the proverbial scene. They don’t enjoy large social gatherings, preferring smaller groups of friends where they can interact without the spotlight blinding them!  

Does ENFP and INFP match? This difference in their approach to social settings is often the deal-breaker for relationships, where one side thrives around people, and the other prefers their own company. 

It also provides a clear picture of how each personality approaches everyday life and thus flags the differences between these personalities that often get missed in the first flush of a new relationship. 

Does ENFP and INFP match?

Taking the Blinkers Off

Here are some key differences between the ENFP and INFP personalities.

  • ENFPs love adventure and take risks.
  • INFPs are cautious, preferring to calculate the risk first.
  • ENFPs are everybody’s friend and love social gatherings.
  • INFPs are more reserved and don’t allow others to get too close at first.
  • ENFPs are often distracted and are easily bored.
  • INFPs remain focused and follow a task through to the end.
  • ENFPs are impulsive and speak without first contemplating the consequences.
  • INFPs prefer to reflect and think about a response long before they speak. 

Same Goal Different Path

When it comes to the differences between the ENFP and INFP personalities, additional differences appear in the enthusiasm and energy they have for life. While both personalities have a deep desire to influence the world positively, each does so in their own way. 

ENFPs actively search for new and innovative ways to make a difference. The future to them is filled with exciting possibilities, and helping others achieve their best lives is often their main passion and focus. 

ENFPs 

  • They encourage others to take action and be the best they can be.
  • They prefer making their own decision and rebel against authority.

INFPs

The INFP is the intellectual rather than social butterfly; while they may not be comfortable in social gatherings, they are totally at home with their own thoughts. There they can contemplate how to achieve the harmonious environment they crave and ponder the many rights and wrongs of the world. 

  • They offer sound and helpful advice to others.
  • They enjoy thinking about the meaning of life.

Relationship Stressors 

Wondering if ENFP and INFP match is worth keeping in mind that there are many excellent qualities in both the ENFP and INFP personalities, but certain stress-inducing factors can negatively impact each. Once these stressors start to affect the relationship, they can cause us to become anxious, worry excessively and even withdraw. 

It’s also worth mentioning that what causes stress for one personality type may not cause stress for another; it ultimately depends on the personality type itself.

However, understanding how each personality reacts to specific stressors can eliminate friction or help you avoid pairing up with the wrong personality type, thus allowing you to be the best version of yourself. 

ENFP Stressors 

  • Distrust
  • Rigid routine
  • Thoughtlessness
  • Feeling forced to commit or make a decision
  • Being alone 

INFP Stressors

  • Insufficient time allowed for being alone
  • Harsh criticism
  • Large social gatherings 
  • Lack of routine

Common Ground 

Does ENFP and INFP match? With so many differences between the seemingly similar ENFP and INFP personalities, you would be forgiven for thinking that a relationship between the two would be off the cards. 

After all, the extrovert desires adventure, spontaneity, and excitement, while the introvert prefers their own company, approaches life cautiously, and prefers to think before taking action.

One couldn’t be more different from the other, yet some excellent introvert personality types are ideally suited for the ENFP personality. 

Below are some introvert personality types that complement the ENFP personality on many levels. 

  • INFJs

Warm, dedicated, sensitive with excellent communication skills are some descriptives used to describe the INFJ. They prefer long-term relationships and are great listeners. On the flip side, they dislike conflict and tend not to be completely open. 

  • INTJs

Independent, loyal, and supportive, the INTJ personality is a great match for the ENFP. However, their communication style can sometimes feel abrasive or too direct and critical. ENFPs need to ensure they communicate how the INTJs words make them feel. 

  • INFPs

Romantic, empathetic, loyal, compassionate, and non-judgemental, the INFP is a wonderful match for the ENFP. In a supportive relationship, the INFP is quite content to throw their introverted insecurities to the wind and enjoy socializing. Just be sure to encourage them to follow their dreams rather than forsake them to make you happy. 

Conclusion

Searching for an exact carbon copy of yourself when seeking a long-lasting, fulfilling relationship is not only unrealistic; it’s also impossible and probably boring! The truth is, the key to relationship bliss is simply to find someone that resonates with your fundamental core, in other words, someone whose personality harmonizes with yours. Personality types aside, learning about each other’s differences and how to jump those relationship hurdles is the fundamental difference between a good or bad relationship! 

About the author Patrick Banks

Patrick is a Berlin-based dating advisor, motivational speaker, a huge fitness and vegan diet enthusiast and the main editor at Wingman Magazine, specialised in men's health. His ultimate goal is to share with men around the world his passion for self-development and to help them to become the greatest version of themselves. He believes a healthy body and successful social interactions are two main keys to happiness.

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