INFJs are incredible people. Unique and rare, it can sometimes feel quite lonely being an INFJ. Well, things can get even lonely. Did you know that there are two variations of the INFJ? That is the INFJ-T and INFJ-A. They are also known as the assertive INFJ and turbulent INFJ.

At first look, there’s no difference between these types. In fact, they have and use the same cognitive functions. However, their last letter is crucial when reacting to situations and various circumstances in life.

So which one are you? Let’s consider some of their differences.

INFJ-T and INFJ-A- Understanding the Differences

Both variants of the INFJ lead with the same core cognitive functions. This is Introverted Intuition, Extroverted Feeling, Introverted thinking, and Extroverted sensing. As earlier stated, the main difference between both variants is in their last letter.

This last letter determines how they react to various situations that they face. To understand this better, I have broken down their differences across several categories.

Have a look

INFJ-T and INFJ-A When Dealing With Conflicts

While the INFJ is a core introvert, you will notice differences between the INFJ-T and INFJ-A when dealing with conflicts.

The INFJ-A will generally be more outspoken than their counterparts. They might be quick to tell you if they feel offended by a certain action that you have taken. They are also more likely to settle the matter quickly.

INFJ-Ts are more likely to slowly withdraw from the problem. They might reach certain assumptions about the conflicts they face and might refrain from conflicts and people they have a problem with.

You are more likely to be door slammed with minimum warnings from the INFJ-T than INFJ-A.

INFJ-T and INFJ-A When Dealing With Tough Times

The approach to tough times by both types is also very different. INFJ-As are more likely to be optimistic while facing tough times. They are more likely to think that things will turn out just fine.

They will also likely downplay the seriousness of the problem and try to find a solution to it. The INFJ-T, on the other hand, is going to be more pessimistic about the situations they face in life.

They are also likely to feel a lot of self-pity and exaggerate the problems they are facing. INFJ-Ts are going to struggle to push themselves to come out of a rut.

To get the best out of themselves, both variants need to find a balancing act. While optimism might be needed in some circumstances, it might be important to be realistic sometimes.

By finding the balance between optimism and being realistic, you become a healthier INFJ.

INFJ-T and INFJ-A’s Reaction to Emotions

INFJs are often considered to be empaths. This means they feel their emotions and those of others deeply.

INFJ-As are more likely to react to the problems and emotions they feel. This means that INFJ-A is more likely to aggressively face their issues. They are also going to be very protective of their loved ones and their emotions.

INFJ-T are more likely to show emotional support to others than aggressively trying to solve the problem. When faced with sad emotions, they are most likely to withdraw and spend time alone with their feelings.

In the end, INFJs are introverts. This means that their level of aggression will not be on the same level as the ENTJs and ESTPs.

The Need to be Independent

The need to be independent is also an area where INFJ-Ts and INFJ-As are going to be different. INFJ-As are more likely to strive for greater independence.

This might mean that they rely on themselves more. They might also not take other people’s opinions seriously. This is because they tend to want to be in control of their lives.

INFJ-T, while also wanting to be unique and different will be less independent than their counterparts. They are going to seek the opinions of those closest to them and apply if it seems reasonable.

Thus, INFJ-Ts are more likely to be people-pleasers than their counterparts. However, INFJ-As are more likely to make rash decisions.

In Relationship and Romance

The INFJ-T and INFJ-A take very similar paths when it comes to relationship and romance. However, INFJ-A will be more expressive about how they feel early on in the relationship. They want to always know where they stand in a relationship.

They will also want to be sure that their partners are ready to stay committed to them for the long haul.

INFJ-T, on the other hand, are more likely to be vague about their feelings and intentions. This might make their partners feel confused and stressed in the early part of their relationship.

The natural partners of the INFJ-A will be the ENFP. They are also compatible with ENTPs and ENTJs to a lesser degree. The natural partners of the INFJ-T are the ENTJ. They are also compatible with the ENTP.

Enneagram Types

INFJ-T and INFJ-A are more likely to be type 4s than any other type. However, if there is a shift from type 4, INFJ-As are more likely to be type 1s or Type 5s. This is because of their need to be independent and to express themselves.

INFJ-Ts, on the other hand, are more likely to be type 9 or type 2. This is because of the increased likelihood to be laid back and more accepting of people.

However, the main enneagram type for INFJ is enneagram 4.

INFJ-T and INFJ-A’s General Outlook on Life

INFJ-A’s outlook on life is going to be a positive one. They are going to be more social than their counterparts. INFJ-As are going to have goals and a grand vision. They are most likely going to be considered extroverted introverts.

INFJ-Ts, on the other hand, are going to have a laid-back approach to life. They are going to be more withdrawn and value harmony.

They are also going to be more emotional. INFJ-Ts are more likely to be resentful and hold grudges over others than their counterparts

The key for both variants is to pursue their strengths and avoid their weaknesses.

Quick Differences between INFJ-T and INFJ-A

INFJ-T	INFJ-A
They are more likely to be pessimistic	They are likely to be more optimistic
They value harmony and appreciation in the workplace	They are more creative and want to express themselves in the workplace
They are more laid back	They are more outgoing
They are more introverted	They are more extroverted
They are more compatible with ENTJs	They are more compatible with ENFPs

Career Choices

Both variants will naturally require the same environment that a typical INFJ will want to succeed. They will want a workplace that is harmonious, structured, and open to new ideas and actions.

However, the INFJ-A will be more inclined to careers that allow them to showcase their creativity and express their thoughts clearly. They want to be heard and valued in any profession or organization they belong to.

INFJ-T will more interested in a harmonious workplace where everyone is respected and valued. They want to know that they are contributing to something worthwhile.

For both variants, value and appreciation are important for them to enjoy their careers.

Best Career Options for INFJ-A

• HR manager
• Clinical psychologist
• Physician Assistant
• Physician
• Psychiatrist
• Writer

Best Career Options for INFJ-T

• Photographer
• Writer
• Social worker
• Clergy
• Editor
• Graphic Designer

So are you INFJ-T or an INFJ-A? Regardless of where you fall, the important thing is using your strengths to the full.