INFP and ISTP: Compatibility, Love, Marriage, and Romance

While not the best match for relationships, INFP and ISTP compatibility is possible if the two take a fun and attentive approach to their pairing. At their best, the functions of each can balance and create a lasting partnership based on similar lifestyles and spontaneity.

The straight-talking, live-for-today ISTP and the more reserved, contemplative INFP may seem like a mismatched pair. The two personality types share some common ground, however, in their mutual need for personal time and space and the desire for a healthy degree of spontaneity in their schedules. These similarities in their approach to life may help them create an ideal relationship that might seem improbable at first glance.

General Compatibility of INFP and ISTP

INFP/ISTP pairings rate low in compatibility, generally speaking. The two personality types perceive and interact with the world in very different ways. This makes the potential for conflict high. INFP/ISTP relationships have a better chance for long-term success when both partners are aware of this, and they both work to minimize conflict when possible and deal with it productively otherwise. The ability to do so makes these opposing personality types compatible.

The Sensing Perceiver ISTP has a very straightforward approach to relationships, perhaps more so than any other Myers-Briggs personality type. They desire, above all, a partner with whom to enjoy the ride of life, wild curves and all. ISTPs don’t worry much about forging deep and meaningful connections with their significant others, preferring a practical relationship built on shared experience. This is how they define successful relationships.

On the other hand, INFP types are Intuitive Feelers and are more likely to view their relationships through an idealistic lens. Ideally, introverted feeling types look for partners with whom they can build deep connections. They also like to share similar values.

Compatibility	Possible Conflicts
Both prefer loose schedules	They have vastly different conversational styles
Both need time alone	They hold very different values
Both desire spontaneity	ISTP’s practicality can come into conflict with INFP’s idealism
Neither is bothered by a disorganized environment	ISTP may seem cold to people-oriented INFPs

Three reasons why INFP and ISTP can be Good for Each Other

Despite their obvious and significant differences, ISTP types and INFP types can actually be good for one another. Here are a few of the reasons why:

• ISTP can help INFP narrow their perspective when doing so would be advantageous
• INFP can help ISTP remember the importance of individuals and their feelings
• Both understand each other’s need for rejuvenating solitude

ISTPs are practical people drawn to solving problems at the nuts-and-bolts level. Conversely, INFPs tend to think in more general, overarching terms. The ISTP can help the INFP personality type think more practically and in greater detail about their idealistic notions when doing so would be helpful. This can help them make better decisions in life.

Caring for people is of the utmost importance to INFP types and is a very low priority for ISTPs. ISTP types care for people on some level, to be sure, but their personalities tend to prioritize things over people. A relationship with an INFP can help remind the ISTP of the importance of others and their feelings when making decisions. As an intuitive feeling type, INFPs are empathetic enough to help their ISTP partners through tough times.

There is also some overlap in the pace of life between the two. As they’re both Introverts, INFP and ISTP types will understand and appreciate their partner’s need for time alone. Quiet time in their spare time is a must for this pair.

Three Reasons why INFP and ISTP might not be Good for Each Other

With only two of four personality traits in common, there are plenty of potential reasons why an INFP and ISTP relationship may prove problematic.

• Two perceivers will tend to procrastinate and put off making important decisions
• The thinker may hurt the feeler with blunt words (effective communication is lacking)
• Sensors tend to focus on the past and present, Intuitives on the future

In an ISTP/INFP relationship, there’s a risk that two perceivers will tend to procrastinate and even put off making significant decisions. Such behavior can lead to mutual frustration and relationship stagnation.

ISTPs value straight-talk above nearly all else and have difficulty understanding the value of tact. The likelihood of the ISTP hurting or offending their INFP partner with blunt talk early in the relationship approaches one hundred percent, and how the couple chooses to deal with this may well be the determining factor in whether the relationship continues.

Finally, ISTP and INFP types are bound to have difficulty understanding each other’s decision-making processes, as Sensors tend to focus on the past and present. At the same time, their intuitive partners look to the future for guidance and inspiration.

INFP and ISTP Communication

Communication is key in any healthy relationship, and the ISTP/INFP relationship is no exception. Because INFP/ISTP types have vastly different communication styles, both partners will have to make concessions to enjoy a meaningful relationship.

Styles of communication are rooted deeply in how one perceives and interacts with the world. It isn’t easy to adapt one’s communication for mutual benefit, but it’s nonetheless possible, as countless INFP/ISTP couples can attest. Effective communication can be built. It’s just figuring out what works best through real-life experiences. For example, if household chore diving is an issue, the ISTP should work on bringing it up in a way that the INFP won’t see as a critical attack. The INFP partner will need to work on hearing the concern without becoming emotional about it.

Where are they Strong, and Why?

When it comes to communication, the INFP/ISTP relationship is typically only strong in its potential to provide each partner with the opportunity to grow as a communicator. The fact is, INFP and ISTP types have almost diametrically opposed, though not altogether insurmountable, differences in their communication styles.

Where do they have Problems, and Why?

The ISTP/INFP relationship is almost certain to be fraught with communication problems. The ISTP’s preference for straight-talk can come across as blunt or even hurtful to their feeling counterpart.

Conversely, the INFP’s tendency to monitor the emotional tone of every conversation can prove trying to the ISTP, who doesn’t take things as personally. INFPs also focus more on ideas than practical applications, another trait that frustrates the ISTP. This is where the communication styles really clash.

How might INFP and ISTP Improve Communication?

To communicate meaningfully, the ISTP and INFP will both need to make concessions from time to time. This begins with each understanding of how the other personality type communicates. Only then can either partner make the adjustments necessary to effect a productive back-and-forth and foster a thriving relationship.

The ISTP will need to learn the value of tempering the straight-talk they so treasure with a helping of tact. Only by keeping in mind their partner’s feelings can the ISTP hope to achieve meaningful communication.

On the other hand, the INFP will need to meet their partner halfway, so to speak, and not take things so personally. It’s important to note that the sensitivity of an INFP isn’t a bad thing. Intuitive types are simply this way. They love deep connections with people but tend to read and analyze constantly. But they’ll need to resist monitoring every word of every conversation for tone and subtext and trust that their partner sometimes means what they’re saying, no more and no less.

Where do INFP and ISTP Connect, and Why?

Considering the fundamentally different ways ISTP and INFP types see and interact with the world, shared hobbies and interests may be the primary way ISTPs and INFPs connect. Without something in common, something about which each partner is relatively passionate, the ISTP and INFP aren’t likely to find a lot on which to build a friendship or relationship. Not having a ‘connecting piece’ can cause rifts between couples and create space by default. This pair’s introverted function makes this more likely.

While ISTP and INFP types share little in common, they can still connect as introverts and perceivers. Each will understand the other’s need for quiet, rejuvenating time alone and for “going with the flow” when it comes to scheduling. Simply put, there is a match up with their daily life lifestyle. Although it’s unlikely you’d find them bungee jumping, taking classes for fun, watching a movie at home, or hanging out with small circles of friends, can be bonding experiences for the INFP and ISTP couple.

INFP vs. ISTP: Values

As is the case with their communicative styles, ISTP and INFP types share little, if any, common ground regarding values. The former sees the world as a series of experiences to be had and problems to be solved practically. They’re always searching for a pragmatic solution. The latter sees life as a learning experience, a source of personal growth, and an opportunity to theorize. One value they do share is a desire for harmony.

Three things an ISTP Values

1. Practical solutions to problems
2. Honest, straightforward communication
3. Adventurous spirit

ISTP types value solving problems practically and can become frustrated with their INFP counterpart’s tendency to overgeneralize and idealize. The ISTP sees the value in detail and may find it hard to understand his counterpart’s focus on the overarching theme.

As discussed earlier, the ISTP values straight talk, even at the expense of politeness. They prefer information that can be backed up by hard evidence and/or personal experience.

Living for the moment and enjoying new experiences are important to the ISTP, so they’ll likely appreciate a partner with a “can-do” adventurous nature.

Three things an INFP Values

1. People and their feelings
2. Theorizing and thinking abstractly
3. Deep connections with friends and partners

Unlike ISTP types and their focus on practical solutions to problems, INFPs make people and their feelings the deciding factor in most decisions. INFPs often see their ISTP counterparts as cold and dispassionate, as they tend to prioritize things over people.

INFPs tend to think abstractly about their connection to the world, much more so than their ISTP counterparts. They spend far more time theorizing than problem-solving.

In contrast to ISTP types, who desire little more from a partner than someone with whom to enjoy their lives, INFPs look to find or establish a deep, meaningful connection with their significant other.

How do their Values Match Up?

ISTP and INFP types share little to nothing in the way of fundamental values. An ISTP/INFP couple who find they do share a common value likely do so for different reasons.

While this mismatch in values may seem, and sometimes is, a recipe for relationship disaster, it is also an opportunity for mutual growth. A couple who shares every value in common will likely learn little from one another, whereas a couple with different values who communicate effectively has the potential to grow both as individuals and as a couple.

Love Language/Love Style

Though INFP types have an easier time expressing emotion than their ISTP counterparts, both types have their own ways of expressing love.

Ways INFPs Show Their Love

The INFP is affectionate by nature and will show their love almost constantly by:

• Checking in to see how their partner is doing
• Unexpected hugs and acts of affection
• Small acts of service

Quick to express affection, the INFP shows love through a constant, proactive affirmation of their feelings. Always one to focus on other people and their feelings, the INFP wants to make their partner feel loved.

Ways ISTPs Show Their Love

ISTP types show their love in a variety of ways. Though not particularly romantic in nature, ISTPs show their love in the following ways:

• Quality Time
• Acts of Kindness/Service
• Physical touch

People of few words and guarded emotions, ISTPs show love in primarily nonverbal ways. For an ISTP, the simple act of spending quality time with someone is an affirmation of their love.

Practical problem solvers, ISTP types also show their love through acts of service. If they can solve a problem for their counterpart, they are more than happy to do so. Finally, the ISTP relies on physical touch to express love.

ISTP and INFP in Bed

Both INFP and ISTP see sex as an opportunity to connect deeply with their partners. In fact, sex is one of the very few areas in which the ISTP/INFP dynamic seems initially more advantageous than deleterious. The passionate sexual energy of the ISTP combined with the INFP’s desire to connect deeply through physical love is likely to lead to some great sex.

INFP and ISTP Couples/Marriage

INFP Male and ISTP Female

This couple must be careful about their communication, lest the ISTP female is put off by her counterpart’s reliance on feelings. Conversely, an INFP male may see an ISTP female as overly aggressive in their speech.

There’s no reason this relationship can’t be a productive, healthy one, though, as long as both partners are self-aware and committed to tempering their communicative styles.

INFP Female and ISTP Male

There’s a danger this couple will fail to launch, so to speak. Males are already prone to prioritizing things over people, and ISTP males take this tendency a step further. To the INFP female, the ISTP male may appear cold and shallow.

While this couple is by no means doomed, the INFP female/ISTP male relationship is likely to be fraught with misunderstanding.

INFP and ISTP Conflict

Every relationship experiences some degree of conflict, which is undoubtedly true in the case of ISTP/INFP relationships. The vastly different ways these two personality types view and interact with the world are bound to result in some relationship troubles.

Possible areas of Conflict between INFP and ISTP

With their nearly opposed views of life and the world, the ISTP/INFP relationship is bound to experience some level of conflict. Disharmony may arise between partners in an ISTP/INFP relationship for the following reasons:

• Different communicative styles
• A common tendency to procrastinate
• ISTP’s tendency to provide unwanted help/criticism

As mentioned earlier, communication is a possible (almost guaranteed) source of conflict between INFP/ISTP romantic partners. The INFP may be put off by their counterpart’s focus on things over people, and the ISTP is likely to find their INFP partner’s emphasis on the big picture naive.

A tendency toward procrastination is another source of potential conflict between ISTP and INFP types. Both personality types tend to put things off and are generally okay with a disorganized environment. Eventually, one of the partners will likely become frustrated as they struggle to “play catch up” with overdue obligations.

A third possible area of conflict between INFP and ISTP types is the ISTP tendency to offer unwanted help or criticism. Even when offered in a spirit of love, the ISTP’s communicative style will often come off as critical and judgemental to their feeling perceiver partner.

How can INFP and ISTP Resolve Conflict?

In a relationship as potentially mismatched as the INFP/ISTP pairing, both partners must work to understand and adapt to the personality of the other. The ISTP needs to appreciate the INFP tendency to put people and their feelings first and see it as a constant reminder that, while things are important, people are more so.

INFP/ISTP couples can also resolve conflict by improving their own self-awareness. By being aware of their own potentially conflict-causing behavior, each partner can monitor and adjust their approach to their partner accordingly.

How can INFP and ISTP Build Trust?

Because these two types see the world so differently, the ways they build trust differ also. For the practical ISTP, trust is built through shared experience and time. ISTP types are not prone to overthinking about their relationships, nor do they necessarily desire deep emotional connections with their significant others. Because of this, trust is built over time on the bedrock of shared experiences.

The INFP, on the other hand, wants to build trust by establishing and maintaining a deep connection with its partner. A far cry from the ultra-practical ISTP, the INFP builds trust not through shared experience but by getting to know their partner at the deepest level possible.

The ISTP may be initially put off by the INFP’s desire to get inside their heads and hearts, but in ISTP/INFP relationships, the trade-off is most often worth the discomfort. Once INFP feels they know their partner inside and out, they will be a pillar of support and encouragement for their other half.

INFP and ISTP Friendships

Considering how little they have in common, an ISTP/INFP friendship can be a challenge. Without common interests and hobbies, the two types will likely find they have very little to say to one another.

INFP vs. ISTP: Approach to Friendship

The feeling and perceiving INFP approaches friendship very differently than do ISTP types. As with their romantic relationships, INFPs desire deep, meaningful friendships. Often, an INFP will have only a few very close friends, as opposed to many casual ones.

On the other hand, ISTP types don’t require profound connections with their friends. For the ISTP, a friend might be anyone with whom they can share a good time. They likely have more friends than their INFP partner, but probably not as many close friends. You’ll never find them in the role of the ‘needy friend.’ An ISTP is much too reserved on an emotional level for that.

INFP and ISTP Friendship Dynamics

Although ISTP and INFP types approach friendship in different ways, there is still a chance of them becoming good friends. While it usually takes a shared interest or hobby to connect these two wildly different personality types initially, ISTP and INFP can form meaningful and lasting friendships.

What Makes them Good for Each Other as Friends?

If an ISTP and INFP can get past their initial and not insignificant differences, they can be very good for one another as friends. The ISTP can help the INFP deal with the world more practically when necessary, and the INFP can help temper the ISTP’s tendency to leave people out of the equation when making decisions.

Could they be Close Friends?

Thanks to the INFP’s penchant for forming meaningful friendships and the ISTP’s ability to seize the moment, there is every possibility that the seemingly incompatible ISTP and INFP can develop a healthy, mutually beneficial friendship.

What are some areas that might cause them Problems as Friends?

ISTP and INFP friendships falter for many of the same reasons ISTP/INFP relationships do. Without a degree of proactive understanding, the ISTP and INFP will likely find one another tiresome, if not downright exhausting.

What’s more, with a shared tendency to put things off, there’s a possibility that the ISTP/INFP friendship will die of mutual neglect.

That said, a common self-awareness, a sensitivity to the other’s feelings, and a shared interest or two are all it takes for an ISTP/INFP friendship to thrive.