The INFP 1w2 Personality: Balancing Idealism and Compassion

The INFP 1w2 personality blends the thoughtfulness of INFPs with the sense of responsibility of the Enneagram Type One and the altruism of Type Two. Naturally, INFPs who identify as 1w2s on the Enneagram test tend to be even more principled, helpful, and empathetic than most other individuals with this MBTI type.

Read on to learn more about the INFP 1w2 personality type, including its key characteristics, fears, approach to romantic relationships, and more. Let’s begin!

INFP 1w2 Personality: 3 Common Characteristics and Behaviors

The main characteristics that define the INFP 1w2 personality are moral integrity, empathy, and idealism. Because of the influence of the Enneagram Type 1, these INFPs tend to be more proactive and assertive than most; while there’s still dreaminess about them, they are inclined to channel their compassion into action instead of merely daydreaming of a better world.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of their key personality traits:

• Idealism. Both INFPs and Ones are idealistic types; the former type loves to fantasize about a perfect world, whereas the latter constantly strives for improvement and perfection. As such, INFP 1w2s usually have a clear vision of how to make the world a better place and find purpose in embodying their idealism in practical ways, such as activism.
• Empathy. INFPs are compassionate individuals, and the influence of the Enneagram Type 2 only strengthens their empathy. Because of this, INFP 1w2s tend to feel called to help others in any way they can. However, their boundless empathy also makes them prone to the savior complex.
• Moral integrity. Nothing matters more to INFPs than their values. This, paired with Type One’s conscientiousness, explains why INFP 1w2s usually have a robust moral compass and strive to live in alignment with it. However, this also means they can be quite rigid and judgmental of those who act in ways they deem unethical or unjust.

INFP 1w2 vs. INFP 1w9

While INFP 1w2s and INFP 1w9s share the same Enneagram type, the difference in their Enneagram wings creates a subtle yet clear distinction between them. Those with the 1w2 personality tend to be more active and focused on others, whereas those belonging to the 1w9 type are more passive and detached.

The table below illustrates the main differences between INFP 1w2 vs. 1w9 personalities:

INFP 1w2 Core Fears & Desires

The core fears and desires of INFP 1w2s are closely tied to the themes of morality, service to others, and authenticity. Let’s discuss them in greater detail.

Core Fears of INFP 1w2

Here are the core fears of INFP 1w2s:

• Failure. The fear of failure in INFP 1w2s isn’t necessarily tied to making mistakes; it has more to do with their ideals. Like all Ones, these INFPs have (often impossibly) high standards for themselves, and they fear falling short of them. As a result, they can be rather self-critical.
• Immorality. INFP 1w2s fear acting in ways that go against their ethical standards. They have a strong sense of right and wrong and don’t want to be perceived as morally corrupt, dishonest, or unjust. Because of this fear, they may judge themselves even for the smallest slip-ups in actions and decisions.
• Inauthenticity. All INFPs value authenticity, meaning INFP 1w2s, too, fear betraying or losing themselves. Because of this, they are less prone to people-pleasing than most people who relate with the Type Two. They strive to help others out of genuine interest rather than to gain approval or recognition.

Core Desires of INFP 1w2

The core desires of INFP 1w2s include:

• Love. Due to the influence of Type Two, INFP 1w2s yearn to be loved and accepted by others. However, they aren’t the type to compromise their values or morals to earn acceptance; they want to be valued for who they truly are.
• Integrity. Every INFP 1w2 desires to be a good person, and even if they may not admit it, they want others to see them as kind, just, and morally upright. Because of this, they always strive to do the right thing and stay true to themselves.
• Positive impact. INFP 1w2s strive to leave a positive mark on the world, which is why they go above and beyond to help others and support the causes they believe in. Their desire to make the world a better place often influences their career choices.

On this note, let’s discuss the best and worst careers for INFP 1w2s.

What Are the Best and Worst Career Choices for INFP 1w2?

The best career choices for INFP 1w2s are those that they feel passionate about, as this personality type prioritizes meaningfulness and passion over financial gain and status. A career that lacks purpose and doesn’t inspire them can easily leave them drained, increasing the risk of burnout.

Ideally, INFP 1w2s should pursue careers that allow them to help others or positively impact the world. Creative jobs are also very suitable for this type, as many INFPs have an artistic streak. While they can work well individually, these personalities often thrive in jobs that allow them to collaborate with like-minded individuals.

INFP 1w2s make empathetic, helpful coworkers and inspiring leaders. They approach leadership roles with a sense of responsibility and fairness. Moreover, they strive to lead by example, and although they can be very compassionate, they’re also firm when it comes to work ethic and standards.

Best INFP 1w2 Careers

Here are some examples of the best INFP 1w2 careers:

• Nurse
• Teacher
• Counselor
• Social Worker
• Environmental Scientist

Worst INFP 1w2 Careers

INFP 1w2s aren’t likely to thrive in jobs that require them to work in an overly competitive environment, require moral compromise, involve strict rules, or provide little room for creativity.

Below are some examples of the worst careers for INFP 1w2s:

• Auditor
• Lobbyist
• Sales Manager
• Corporate Lawyer
• Advertising Executive

INFP 1w2 in Love: What They Are Looking For in Relationships

In love, INFP 1w2 personalities are devoted, attentive, and sincere. Since they prioritize authentic bonds and emotional intimacy in relationships, they aren’t interested in surface-level connections. They crave depth, so they’re typically drawn to people who enjoy heart-to-heart conversations and value genuine commitment.

These individuals appreciate integrity, sensitivity, and kindness in others, and their ideal partner is someone who encourages them to be a better person and respects their values. Because authenticity is one of their core values, they tend to gravitate toward people who are honest and comfortable with emotional vulnerability.

In relationships, INFP 1w2s want to be treated with respect and appreciation; they expect their significant others to see who they are deep down and honor their individuality. And if there’s one relationship deal-breaker for these personalities, it’s control; INFP 1w2s could never be happy with someone who insists on changing them or attempts to limit their freedom.

Best & Worst Romantic Matches for INFP 1w2

The best romantic matches for INFP 1w2s tend to have the following Enneagram test results:

• Type 2, as Twos are also supportive and nurturing, which helps create a balanced relationship where both partners feel loved and valued
• Type 4 because Fours match INFP 1w2s’ emotional depth, and also value authenticity
• Type 9 since INFP 1w2s appreciate the calm and accepting nature of this type

Meanwhile, the worst romantic matches for INFP 1w2s usually include the following Enneagram types:

• Type 3 because Threes are image- and status-conscious, which INFP 1w2s may interpret as a lack of authenticity
• Type 5 since Fives can be somewhat emotionally detached
• Type 8, as Eights can be domineering and aren’t comfortable with vulnerability

3 Powerful Strategies for INFP 1w2 Personal Growth and Healing

The three strategies that can help INFP 1w2 unleash their full potential include practicing self-compassion, prioritizing self-care, and spending time with like-minded individuals. These strategies can also help them heal from an unhealthy state, which usually manifests as feelings of guilt, self-criticism, and perfectionism.

#1. Practice Self-Compassion

Although INFP 1w2s have no shortage of compassion for others, they often struggle to accept themselves. Since they hold themselves to very high standards, they tend to judge themselves harshly even for minor mistakes.

Developing and practicing self-compassion, therefore, is key to their growth and healing; if there’s one thing they can benefit from, it’s replacing their inner critic with positive self-talk.

#2. Prioritize Self-Care

INFP 1w2s are prone to focusing so much on helping others that they forget they need to take care of themselves, too. For this reason, it’s critical that they prioritize activities that help them replenish their energy, such as meditation, relaxation techniques, or hobbies that energize or inspire them.

#3. Surround Yourself With Like-Minded People

Because INFP 1w2s usually give more than they receive, finding people who truly get and appreciate them is essential to their emotional well-being. Although introverted, they flourish around people who share similar views and values. Creative workshops and volunteer organizations are excellent examples of places where INFP 1w2s can meet like-minded people.

INFP 1w2 Famous People & Celebrities

As creative, thoughtful, and proactive individuals, INFP 1w2s usually gain prominence for their talents, activism, or unique worldview.

Here are some of the most well-known INFP 1w2 celebrities and famous people:

• Dallas Green, Canadian musician also known as City and Colour, who co-founded the post-hardcore band Alexisonfire
• Nancy Fraser, American philosopher, critical theorist, and socialist feminist
• Hunter Doohan, American actor best known for starring in Your Honor and Wednesday
• Stephenie Meyer, American novelist and film producer who gained recognition for writing the Twilight series
• Joey Carbstrong, Australian animal rights activist

INFP 1w2 Fictional Characters

Below are some examples of INFP 1w2 characters in fiction:

• Jenny Kord (Blue Beetle). Jenny has a heart of gold and a moral compass of steel. Like a typical INFP 1w2, she always chooses to do the right thing, even when it means she has to go against her family.
• Madeline Robin (Christopher Robin). Even as a child, Madeline displays the typical INFP 1w2 traits: she’s warm and kind but principled.
• Eugenia 'Skeeter' Phelan (The Help). Like most INFP 1w2s, Eugenia is independent in both thought and action. She strives to break free from societal expectations and isn’t afraid to take risks to do what is right.

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Final Thoughts

The INFP 1w2 personality type is quite rare, given that most people with this MBTI type identify as Twos, Fours, or Nines in the Enneagram system.

Unlike most INFPs, these individuals take action to improve the world, fearlessly yet gently advocating for their beliefs. Anyone who has had the chance to meet an INFP 1w2 can attest that if there’s one thing that makes this type stand out, it’s their ability to effortlessly combine unyielding conviction with compassion.