But it can have a downside, too — a lingering aftertaste with an unpleasant bite. The INFP is known as the Idealist, the Mediator, and the Healer of the Myers Briggs theory. INFPs are deeply individualistic and walk to the beat of their own rhythm. They see the world through an imaginative lens, and live rich, personal inner lives. INFPs are guided by an unwavering desire to be authentic and stand firmly by their values. Through careful introspection, and attention to their own emotions, they become compassionate to the plights of others.
Write out this action plan “cheat sheet” and put it somewhere you will see it. It is shared across not just humans, but all animals. It stems from our amygdala, the emotion center of our brain, and it serves a primitive and adaptive function not just in our day-to-day, but also in our survival as a species.
Just because something staves off hunger or boredom doesn’t mean that it’s nourishing. Eating handfuls of sawdust will stop you from being hungry and most wood is technically non-toxic when consumed, but that doesn’t mean it’s offering you any nutrients. Personal (or self) growth revolves around how you continue to evolve as a person. In contrast, service generally means the things that we do for other people’s well-being.
Have you ever experienced that overwhelming sense of emptiness, of longing for something that you can’t quite put your finger on? It’s a feeling that consumes you from the inside out, leaving you restless and unsettled. You try to distract yourself, to fill the void with temporary fixes, but nothing seems to ease the ache in your heart.
This deep yearning can manifest in different ways – a constant sense of dissatisfaction, a feeling of being adrift or lost, or even physical symptoms like fatigue or insomnia. It’s as if there is something missing, something essential that you can’t name but that you desperately need to find.
Questions or concerns about the preceding article can be directed to the author or posted as a comment below. I asked Jessica to talk more about her experience with her mother. Do you know that feeling when you look into the abyss and it calls to you?
Change how you think by altering the language you use. In the absence of physical presence, hearing someone’s voice can bring immense comfort and joy. Record a voice message where you express your longing and share heartfelt sentiments. You could even add a melody or a short song that reminds you of them or symbolizes your emotions.
Often, this feeling stems from a deeper emotional or spiritual need that is not being met. It could be a longing for connection, for purpose, or for a sense of belonging. Whatever it is, the pain of not knowing can be excruciating, leaving you feeling isolated and misunderstood.
Exploring the Unknown
So how do you cope with this intense yearning for something undefined? The first step is to acknowledge and accept the feeling, rather than pushing it away or trying to ignore it. Allow yourself to sit with the discomfort, to explore where it might be coming from.
Journaling, therapy, or talking to trusted friends or family members can help you unravel the layers of emotion and uncover the root of your yearning. It may be a buried trauma, an unmet need from childhood, or a desire for change or growth in your life.
Finding Meaning and Fulfillment
Once you have a better understanding of what is causing your deep longing, you can begin to take steps towards addressing it. This might involve making changes in your life, seeking out new experiences, or connecting with others who share similar feelings.
Remember, it’s okay to feel lost and unsure at times. The journey to finding meaning and fulfillment is often a winding and challenging one, but by acknowledging your yearning and taking steps to address it, you are already on the path towards healing and growth.
