While some love interacting on social media and may like the attention, there are also people like me — someone who hadn’t posted a thing publicly for a year!
When I post, it’s often set to “Only me,” so no one can see what videos I love re-watching.
Don’t look for me, my friends. Let me enjoy my quiet time on my feed.
This is how I have managed my social media for the past few years — scrolling from the shadows. And yes, I’m an INFP.
Now, if you wonder whether an INFP likes attention or not, I would say, of course not! But in general, it’s quite a contradiction.
So in this post, let’s talk about whether INFPs are truly humble beings or simply self-centered attention seekers in disguise.
I don’t like the term “attention seeker”, but if you’re still reading, this is what you probably want to know. And I’ll do my best to provide an unbiased explanation.
Here we go:
Do INFPs want attention and be in the spotlight?
Simply put, if the attention people give appreciates INFP’s talents and contributions, then yes, getting attention and recognition is one of the best rewards an INFP can get.
INFPs are devoted to doing sincere work. Often, they take their projects personally, especially regarding their creativity. Outputs come from the heart, and as much as possible, results don’t reach the surface half-baked.
So yes, if INFPs take all those time and effort to produce quality, they obviously want to take the credit and get some 3-minute spotlight.
They want to be praised for the work they performed flawlessly. Who doesn’t?
However, here’s the other side of the coin: INFPs hate attention if they firmly believe their win is from sheer luck, pity, or unfair advantage.
As an INFP, I personally have several achievements in life that have garnered surprise, congratulations, and people expressing how they’re proud of me.
However, I’m someone who doesn’t talk about my achievements too often.
Sadly, there’s a crippling thought keeping me from being happy about myself. It’s that most of my achievements come from sheer luck. It’s not that I’m pulling strings to win or rank high in competitions, but I believe I’m not as good as they thought.
To be honest, I don’t think I can repeat the same achievement they’re so happy about. What if they tell me to do it again, and I do not win? People’s expectations scare me.
Others think I’m just humble. But the truth is, I feel like I’m a fraud.
Cruel, right?
Unfortunately, this harsh self-criticism happens among many INFPs, too. We downplay our talents too often and blow our confidence. Dang, it’s a bad habit.
But I can’t blame INFPs. Because these Dreamers know what perfection looks like, falling short of what’s ideal and still winning feels like dishonesty. In these cases, attention is the last thing they want.
Are INFPs self-centered people?
Do you think people can be both compassionate and self-centered? They sure can.
And INFPs? They tread across both worlds. They can be self-centered, but let’s be clear, they are definitely not selfish people. There’s a difference.
Many define self-centeredness as thinking only about themselves and not reciprocating others’ needs. These people may lack perspective and appear inconsiderate.
Meanwhile, INFPs can be too giving, overthinking about others’ struggles, and can sacrifice much for their loved ones. Only that, when abused or intentionally harmed, these empaths know better to disengage from the situation and save themselves.
It causes a lot of internal friction in INFPs, but in the end, they will choose freedom and authenticity, breaking free from people who put them in a bind.
Being an introverted Feeler (Fi), INFP’s dominant cognitive function explains how they consult everything to their morals and values. They view the world not simply for what it is, but ask themselves, “What does this mean to ME” or “How does this affect ME?”
They’re not self-centered in a way that hogs the spotlight. But they have a strong sense of self, and they’re protective of it. So guarded. They will often think about how everything they encounter can relate to or impact them.
INFPs love attention from their significant others… but maybe, not too much.
INFPs don’t reveal themselves easily to just anyone. So if they unmask their mysterious charades in front of you, you’ll get access to their random, quirky, and top-tier romanticism.
Relationships with them are deep and intimate. Not getting enough attention and affection from their lovers? Devastating. They immediately feel unvalued and ignored.
Sometimes, unhealthy or immature INFPs can be a handful because they require much attention from their partners. Clingy at its best!
But to relationships who can navigate this “clinginess” of INFPs, the rewards are astounding. Support, loyalty, and encouragement never run out for their partner’s endeavors.
As they mature, they may require less attention and ask for less time, but they sure will remain wanting your eyes set only on themselves. They can be jealous lovers who are sensitive about you giving attention to others.
But do INFPs like to be alone at times?
They do. INFPs can also need space and time to recharge their social batteries. They want a time for their independence and autonomy. Asking them for too much attention can make them feel unfulfilled, especially if it means sacrificing their tasks and goals.
Conclusion
Now, do INFPs like attention?
INFPs are highly independent individuals who may hesitate to seek attention because they don’t want to look vulnerable or needy. They prefer working quietly and diligently behind the scenes rather than seeking to be the center of people’s praises.
But at the same time, it won’t hurt to receive compliments for what they did right.
INFPs may feel uncomfortable or resistant to attention that feels inauthentic. They prefer genuine, heartfelt recognition and an honest appreciation for what they do.
While in intimate relationships, they have tendencies to ask for much attention. So you better be ready.
Are INFPs attention-seeking people? What do you think?
That’s it. Thanks for reading. 🙂
-M.Mathias
You may also like:
- 6 Reasons Why INFP Distance Themselves
- INFP Authenticity as Both Power And Weakness
- INFP Privacy: 6 Reasons Why INFP Keep Things Private
