INFPs are everywhere. Possibly, one of your close friends is an INFP or you are one yourself. However, did you know they come in different shades? One of these shades is the INFP 5w6.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how they are different from other INFPs, their strengths, and weaknesses, and how they can grow as individuals.
How are INFP 5w6 Different From Typical INFPs
INFP 5w6s do not wear their hearts on their sleeve. They are analytical and confident in themselves. This is not typical of INFPs. Stereotypical INFPs are feelers who are sensitive.
Because of their strong introverted feeling function (Fi), they also have strong internal values that they live by. INFPs are creative and spontaneous. They love a good adventure and can be very spontaneous. INFP 5w6s are a bit different.
They are more concerned about the effect these adventures can have on their lives. While this personality type is just as creative, their creativity is more geared towards problem-solving.
The presence of type 5 also makes them less emotional while type 6 makes them more pessimistic. While this is true, this personality type is very independent and might look a lot like INTPs.
Here’s a table that shows the differences between typical INFPs and INFP 5w6s.
INFP 5w6 | Typical INFPs |
Less Emotional | More Emotional |
More Cautious | More Spontaneous |
More Pessimistic | More Optimistic |
Independent | Prone to People-Pleasing |
Strengths of the INFP 5w6
1. Balanced
INFP 5w6s are very balanced. Here’s why. The introduction of type 5 adds a lot of logic to this personality type.
So, while their Fi function will still have a crucial role in their decision-making process, logic is also a factor.
In some cases, INFP 5w6s might use separate logical and emotional pathways for decisions they make.
For example, they might use emotions while dealing with loved ones and logic when making career choices.
2. Career focuses on Self-Sufficiency
INFP 5w6s are genuinely concerned about their careers. After all, this is their best option if they want to obtain self-sufficiency.
Thus, unlike other INFPs who prioritize their passions, this personality type will choose a career path that guarantees contentment and offers stability. Working with the government or at an educational institution will be attractive to this type.
3. Less Sensitive to Criticism
Because they are less emotional, INFP 5w6s are also less sensitive to criticism or constructive feedback. Thus, they are more likely to use it to improve their lives.
Less sensitive doesn’t mean they aren’t sensitive at all. This just means they can get over it quickly or understand it’s not a personal attack.
4. Loyal
Type 6 is nicknamed the loyalist because of their unquestionable loyalty to those they love. If their wing is strong, INFP 5w6s will also have strong streaks of loyalty to those they love.
This can make them go to great lengths to ensure they are happy and feel supported. However, the extent to which this is done depends on the strength of their wing.
Also, they will never be as loyal as a core type 6.
5. Analytical
This trait is present because of their main enneagram type 5. INFP 5w6s use their intuition to properly analyze situations.
However, whatever they analyze passes through their introverted feeling function. This allows them to understand how they feel about this new information.
Because of their analytical nature, it is not surprising that they can be mistaken for INTPs or ENFPs.
6. Curious
INFPs are curious people. This is further heightened by type 5. They want to know more about life and their passions.
Thus, this personality type can spend hours researching things they care about. However, because of their wing, they might not engage in risky endeavors.
However, their love for new things or ideas will be clear for all to see.
7. Observant
This follows their curious nature. INFP 5w6s will be very observant. Thus, they might notice small quirks and changes that others might miss. This might involve people’s gestures, moods, and tones.
This ability mimics the extroverted feeling function in a way. However, it is all down to the type 5’s need to investigate and understand new things.
Weaknesses of the INFP 5w6
1. Detached
One of the biggest issues INFP 5w6s face is detachment. It’s easy to see why. INFPs are introverts. Type 5 is also introverted. So, they might detach themselves from their loved ones.
This isn’t because of a lack or absence of love. Being alone gives them time to pursue and enjoy their hobbies.
Because they are introverts, it’s also a way for them to recharge and conserve their energies. However, it can put a strain on their relationships.
2. Fearful
Type 5 and type 6 are in the fear triad. This makes this personality type a very fearful person. They might be afraid of confrontation or a loss of their source of livelihood.
They might also be particularly scared of other things such as dying or losing their loved ones. Their fear can lead to anxiety and depression amongst other things.
3. Skeptics
As earlier stated, INFP 5w6s are pessimists. They will also be worried about new ideas and approach issues from a worst-case perspective.
While being a skeptic has its benefits, it can be very frustrating especially if it hinders good ideas. While this is true, how skeptical this type will depend on how strong their wing is.
4. Prone to Paranoia
If their wing is especially strong, they will display some flaws of type 6. One of them is paranoia. INFP 5w6s will be scared of being put at risk.
When taken to the extreme, this can make them paranoid about every situation. If this happens, it can be very stressful for their close friends and family.
5. Risk-Averse
Finally, INFP 5w6s sheds some of the spontaneous nature of INFPs. They become more cautious and take fewer risks. In worst-case scenarios, they might be scared of taking any risks at all.
This issue is mostly motivated by type 6. So, if their wing is weak, this level of this weakness will be reduced.
Growth Tips for INFP 5w6
- While you love being alone, people also need to talk to you. Try to strike a balance.
- Being fearful never wins a war. Be prepared to be brave in certain situations.
- Optimism doesn’t always end in disappointment. Sometimes, you can also win.
Fictional/Anime Characters that are INFP 5w6
- Barry “The Flash” Allen (Dc Extended Universe)
- Hiro Shishigami (Inuyashiki)
- Sakutarou Hagiwara (Bungou to Alchemist:Shinpan no Haguruma)
- Yoo Gyu-Wool (Obey Me)
- Rocky (Don’t Breathe)
- Halkenburg Hui Guo Rou (Hunter X Hunter)
- Joan Leaven (Cube)
- Shibasaki Roma (D-Frag!)
- Yuu Mashiro (number24)
Celebrities/Famous People that are INFP 5w6
- Anton Chekhov
- Hugh Laurie
- Masahiro Sakurai
- Kōki Uchiyama
- John Cusack
- Colin Jost
- Graham Chapman
- Sam Mendes
- Mirai Shida