INFP💞INFP
INFP + INFP
Introduction
Every relationship holds the potential for conflict and the potential for growth. What sets same-type relationships apart is the possibility of profound mutual understanding, as well as the possibility of going to extremes. Same-type relationships can be remarkably comfortable and supportive. Sameness is a blessing when someone knows you so well that they help you see yourself better. However, same-type relationships can also become a curse of deep dysfunction, if the worst aspects of the personality type are allowed to continue unchecked.
Thus, same-type couples should be vigilant about getting stuck in a rut of unhealthy patterns. They should make a conscious effort to challenge each other and steer themselves in the direction of relationship growth, via addressing the personal problems that hold back that growth. In other words, personal development and relationship health are particularly intertwined in same-type pairings. I will list common problems to look out for in each pairing based on functions. Remember that different people are at different stages of type development (consult the Type Development Guide for more detail). Not everyone will exhibit the same level of dysfunction, and some unhealthy patterns are easier to address than others.
Negative patterns to be aware of:
Unhealthy Fi: unstable or messy lifestyle; unable to understand experiences that one can’t relate to; can’t function well when preoccupied with own concerns and easily misled by intense feelings and emotions; moralistic, judgmental, or self-righteous in evaluating people and social situations
Unhealthy Ne: entertains new ideas but lacks follow-through; difficulty choosing the right path to pursue; wastes time on unproductive interests; prefers fantasy to reality
Unhealthy Si: unhealthy physical habits; impractical approach to problems; unable/unwilling to be consistent and reliable in behavior and decision making; clinging to comfort zones inhibits positive change
Unhealthy Te: lack of objectivity during conflict; careless disregard for rules, facts, and logic; aims to win arguments rather than find common ground; unreasonably critical of everything when extremely stressed/unhappy
Ways to use your functions better:
Fi: practice proper self-care - attend to your emotional needs in a timely manner, talk out your feelings, and accept help as necessary; take more interest in each other’s inner world because it will help you understand your own better; remember that passing judgment too quickly hurts people’s dignity and hinders true understanding, so be willing to hear more sides to the situation in order to discover a better approach
Ne: talk about your aspirations and dreams so that you can support each other in pursuing them; tackle challenges and problems together by helping each other brainstorm ideas and solutions; participate more in each other’s hobbies and interests; maintain better work-life balance to ensure that you don’t neglect any responsibilities
Si: remember that good physical habits allow you to perform better in your tasks; remember that small details can make or break your plans, so approach situations with a more practical and methodical mindset; remember that introducing routine and discipline into your life will help you achieve your goals more smoothly; remember that the reason people feel stuck in a rut is because they resist change, so try to embrace change whenever it is necessary for progress
Te: when you’re hurt or upset, ask for time to process as necessary, then return to problems with a clearer head; allow people the freedom to be who they are and have their own thoughts, beliefs, and opinions; differences of opinion should be dealt with through calm matter-of-fact discussion or agreeing to disagree; when you’re unhappy, instead of ruminating, get back in touch with who you really are, what you need, and distance yourself from things that aren’t healthy for you