a personal reflection of being an infj
Finding out I’m an INFJ-A — the Advocate — didn’t exactly surprise me. It just made some things click. It’s like reading a description of yourself and thinking, "Yep, that explains a lot." After leaving my last job, I had a bit of space to think about what I really need from work — and life — and how much of that ties back to who I am.
Meaning Matters
I’m not someone who can just clock in and out without caring. I need to feel like what I’m doing means something. At Company N, I had that. There was a clear mission, and even on tough days, I felt like I was part of something that mattered. In my most recent job, though, that was missing. I showed up, did the work, but none of it felt like it added up to anything real. And that kind of disconnection wears you down fast.
Idealism Is a Double-Edged Sword
I care a lot — probably too much sometimes. I want things to be meaningful, thoughtful, better. That makes me strive for more, but it also sets me up for disappointment when reality doesn’t quite match the vision. It’s something I’m learning to manage — to still aim high, but not let it break me when things fall short.
Good People Make All the Difference
I don’t need a huge social circle at work, but I do need people I can connect with. At Company N, I worked with a design team that really got it — kind, open, supportive. We had each other’s backs. That made such a difference. It reminded me how important it is to be around people who lift you up, not drain you.
Keeping My Feet on the Ground
I tend to live in my head, always thinking ahead or imagining possibilities. But I’m learning to stay grounded too — to appreciate the small wins, the imperfect steps, the things that don’t always go to plan. It’s a work in progress.
Taking a Breather Isn’t Quitting
Right now, I’m not ready to jump into the next job hunt. And that’s okay. I’m taking some time to recharge, figure things out, and be honest with myself about what I really want next. I’ve learned that slowing down doesn’t mean giving up — sometimes it’s the smartest thing you can do.
So no, I don’t have everything figured out. But I do know this: I want to work on things that matter, with people who care, in a space that feels real. And I’ll wait for that — or build it — when the time is right.