What do you think?
Rate this book
The INFJ Revolution: Reclaim Your Power, Live Your Purpose, Heal the World
The term “INFJ” might mean little to most people, but to anyone who identifies with this personality type these four letters represent self-discovery, self-acceptance, and a radical new understanding of what it means to be introverted, Highly Sensitive, and empathic. But although ever-growing numbers of INFJs are waking up to the power of our intuitive gifts, we continue to struggle mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in a culture that does not value intuition.
Lauren Sapala explores the roadblocks that are still holding many INFJs back and tackles the most important questions for INFJs today. How can we find our purpose? Where and why do we give away our power? And how can we use our unique gifts and innate passion in order to create a better world? Only by moving beyond limiting mindsets and beliefs can INFJs move forward to fulfill our purpose as the healers of the world, and then reclaim our power and step into the role of the leaders we were always meant to be.
Lauren Sapala explores the roadblocks that are still holding many INFJs back and tackles the most important questions for INFJs today. How can we find our purpose? Where and why do we give away our power? And how can we use our unique gifts and innate passion in order to create a better world? Only by moving beyond limiting mindsets and beliefs can INFJs move forward to fulfill our purpose as the healers of the world, and then reclaim our power and step into the role of the leaders we were always meant to be.
181 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2019
131 people are currently reading
574 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Sapala
14 books376 followersLauren Sapala is a writing coach who specializes in coaching introverted, intuitive writers. She founded the WriteCity writing groups in Seattle and San Francisco and currently blogs about writing and creativity at www.laurensapala.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 25, 2019
I forget when I first came across Lauren's work. It was shortly after I moved from India to the United States 7 years ago. This was a time when I was doing writing workshops in San Francisco & excavating my true artistic self.
I remember how I followed Lauren's blog religiously (still do) and was ALWAYS inspired by it (I am an INFP writer) It was only after I had "known her" through her blog for a few years that I ever got in touch with her. Over the last few years, we've become online friends and her process for intuitive writers has greatly influenced my own way of working. In fact, it's been a huge catalyst in finally helping close up my own creative wounds.
So, I am so excited to talk about this, her new book for INFJs, INFPs and highly sensitive people. This is Lauren's most vulnerable, evocative book yet! It takes us deep into the heart of the gifts of intuitive feelers. It helps us see our own resilience, beauty & purpose.
This book will feel like a soothing balm to your lost, fragmented soul. It will feel like a lens that corrects your distorted perception of yourself. You are not "weird" or a misfit but a highly sensitive person who has many gifts to offer this world!
Reading this book left me feeling inspired, strengthened by its message & feeling that our true revolution as INFJs and INFPs is within reach if we only step out and connect with each other! Both inspiring and practical! A Must-Read!
I remember how I followed Lauren's blog religiously (still do) and was ALWAYS inspired by it (I am an INFP writer) It was only after I had "known her" through her blog for a few years that I ever got in touch with her. Over the last few years, we've become online friends and her process for intuitive writers has greatly influenced my own way of working. In fact, it's been a huge catalyst in finally helping close up my own creative wounds.
So, I am so excited to talk about this, her new book for INFJs, INFPs and highly sensitive people. This is Lauren's most vulnerable, evocative book yet! It takes us deep into the heart of the gifts of intuitive feelers. It helps us see our own resilience, beauty & purpose.
This book will feel like a soothing balm to your lost, fragmented soul. It will feel like a lens that corrects your distorted perception of yourself. You are not "weird" or a misfit but a highly sensitive person who has many gifts to offer this world!
Reading this book left me feeling inspired, strengthened by its message & feeling that our true revolution as INFJs and INFPs is within reach if we only step out and connect with each other! Both inspiring and practical! A Must-Read!
June 6, 2022
Okay, this book is so spot-on it’s uncanny. It’s like the author forcefully sat me down for an interview, untied my tongue, probed with all the right questions, carefully manipulated me to pour my soul out, then drafted all my thoughts in a paper… and publish it.
Sheee-it. Every INFJ would be horrified of that.
Why may I say?
Well, as the book say, we don’t open up easily, sometimes even to ourselves. We set boundaries (imagine Great Wall of China) and isolate ourselves. We avoid like a clockwork to the point sometimes we give away our powers or authority to escape confrontations and protect ourselves. And when we do find ourselves in very compromising situations, we do our most unique slash bizarre trait – we shut down. We’re so much good at that that once we find ourselves being crossed by someone, anyone, they will not even be a memory. They will not even be a thin air or a shadow. We block them and they’d be non-existent. Period. It’s like anxiety reduction strategy.
However, we listen. We receive. We absorb. We’re empaths. And when an INFJ finds the “right” people based on our standards (provocatively, I’d say), we’ll be open and trusting. We’ll share, be more patient, care endlessly and love deeply. So finding “our” people is like finding needle on a haystack.
INFJ is the rarest personality type in the world. From 7.9 billion across the population, only 2% are INFJs. So rare that whenever I encounter an INFJ, I’m like; “Holy cow. Let’s talk it out. I’m sure you have never-ending questions, you always want to be enlightened, or you’re so curious about minute details you’re about to combust.” By far, I’ve only met 2 people like me. Gladly, both of them are constantly in “my people” circle.
I have taken the MBTI test countless of times. I’ve even taken it intermittently, like decades apart. And always the same result: INFJ.
Welp, guess I’m a true blooded INFJ, and I embrace my INFJness. I’m weird. I’m gray. I have extraordinary qualities others will never understand unless I let myself “out there”. I always see the good in everything. Hell, I even think serial killers still has one tiny piece of goodness in them (I think most of them love their own kids). And from the words of some of my non-INFJ friends, I’m enigmatic, easily misunderstood, yet definitively stands out.
Though there are still, IMO, negative traits I wish I could change. Like the way I feel and think too much. It’s borderline depressing. The way I isolate myself sometimes – from people, from stuff, from the world, literally. How I bottled up so easily, yet when it needs to be popped open, I or someone I trust need to drill a hole rather than use a bottle opener. These are all suffocating, causes enormous stress, and can even get lonely too. Which is why I’m glad I found this book. It helped me understand myself when I’m at my highs and lows.
By the way, did that Multipotentialite Test – I’m a Mixed-Style. It’s in the middle between Simultaneous-Sequential spectrum. LOL, but pretty much accurate the way I mix up work.
To my fellow INFJs who can pull the coldest poker face when needed, read this. You’ll feel much better.
Sheee-it. Every INFJ would be horrified of that.
Why may I say?
Well, as the book say, we don’t open up easily, sometimes even to ourselves. We set boundaries (imagine Great Wall of China) and isolate ourselves. We avoid like a clockwork to the point sometimes we give away our powers or authority to escape confrontations and protect ourselves. And when we do find ourselves in very compromising situations, we do our most unique slash bizarre trait – we shut down. We’re so much good at that that once we find ourselves being crossed by someone, anyone, they will not even be a memory. They will not even be a thin air or a shadow. We block them and they’d be non-existent. Period. It’s like anxiety reduction strategy.
However, we listen. We receive. We absorb. We’re empaths. And when an INFJ finds the “right” people based on our standards (provocatively, I’d say), we’ll be open and trusting. We’ll share, be more patient, care endlessly and love deeply. So finding “our” people is like finding needle on a haystack.
INFJ is the rarest personality type in the world. From 7.9 billion across the population, only 2% are INFJs. So rare that whenever I encounter an INFJ, I’m like; “Holy cow. Let’s talk it out. I’m sure you have never-ending questions, you always want to be enlightened, or you’re so curious about minute details you’re about to combust.” By far, I’ve only met 2 people like me. Gladly, both of them are constantly in “my people” circle.
I have taken the MBTI test countless of times. I’ve even taken it intermittently, like decades apart. And always the same result: INFJ.
Welp, guess I’m a true blooded INFJ, and I embrace my INFJness. I’m weird. I’m gray. I have extraordinary qualities others will never understand unless I let myself “out there”. I always see the good in everything. Hell, I even think serial killers still has one tiny piece of goodness in them (I think most of them love their own kids). And from the words of some of my non-INFJ friends, I’m enigmatic, easily misunderstood, yet definitively stands out.
Though there are still, IMO, negative traits I wish I could change. Like the way I feel and think too much. It’s borderline depressing. The way I isolate myself sometimes – from people, from stuff, from the world, literally. How I bottled up so easily, yet when it needs to be popped open, I or someone I trust need to drill a hole rather than use a bottle opener. These are all suffocating, causes enormous stress, and can even get lonely too. Which is why I’m glad I found this book. It helped me understand myself when I’m at my highs and lows.
By the way, did that Multipotentialite Test – I’m a Mixed-Style. It’s in the middle between Simultaneous-Sequential spectrum. LOL, but pretty much accurate the way I mix up work.
To my fellow INFJs who can pull the coldest poker face when needed, read this. You’ll feel much better.
September 29, 2019
I could not put this book down! As usual, Lauren hit it out of the park! If you're an introvert Lauren's insights will seem eerily familiar. You'll feel like you've met a kindred spirit that understands the deep depths of your introverted soul.
Not only does this book provide fantastic insights and relatable stories, but it also offers motivation and inspiration to seek out your true self and live a life that fits who you really are.
Being an entrepreneur myself, I found Part III of the book especially helpful in learning how to use my gifts to help the world heal. It was a boost of motivation to help me persevere through the difficult journey of starting your own business and creating your life.
Must read for introverts! And nevermind that, read ALL Lauren's books. I haven't been disappointed yet with her work.
Not only does this book provide fantastic insights and relatable stories, but it also offers motivation and inspiration to seek out your true self and live a life that fits who you really are.
Being an entrepreneur myself, I found Part III of the book especially helpful in learning how to use my gifts to help the world heal. It was a boost of motivation to help me persevere through the difficult journey of starting your own business and creating your life.
Must read for introverts! And nevermind that, read ALL Lauren's books. I haven't been disappointed yet with her work.
May 31, 2024
⭐️4.4/5⭐️
Disgustingly relatable and frighteningly accurate.
Disgustingly relatable and frighteningly accurate.
February 6, 2020
It’s a good book for anyone who’s struggling to figure out their INFJ identity, but I didn’t find it particularly helpful for me personally.
October 1, 2019
Having read this author’s other books, both fiction and nonfiction, and as a fellow INFJ, there was no way I wasn’t going to order this book. My expectations were high and my expectations were more than fully met in the reading. With my pencil busy marking sections that resonated with me and starring and ticking my ‘me toos’ I settled into a relaxed reading rhythm knowing I was in good, caring and sensitive hands, which would guide me through the characteristics of INFJness and build to a core message of meaning, meaning I just knew I would want to embrace.
This book on INFJs is very different to others I’ve read, because Lauren shares her own life experiences and insights in a profoundly personal way, from right under her skin, which all INFJs and INFPs are going to really appreciate. It’s packed with reassurances, affirmations, encouragements and brave new ideas for those, like me, who always felt like an outsider at school and beyond, who always questioned life and searched for meaning, not content with working in a formal environment where everyone needs to learn their place and get by that way - a job for a job’s sake. I wanted variety, I wanted to try different things, just like the author. I wanted to find my life purpose, to do something that fulfilled me – life had to have significant meaning and I had to find mine even if it engendered some tough times.
Like the author I only found out my INFJ personality type later in life. In the UK the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator testing is not widely talked about or used as a self-development aid, so it was a stroke of luck that I was increasing my online interactions for my existing passion for art and my new passion for writing which led me to the test. For me, it was at a critical juncture during a midlife crisis that morphed into a significant transition phase in my life. As the author points out, when the life of an INFJ/INFP is no longer working for them, there can be a sudden dramatic turning point in which the person dumps what isn’t working so fast no one sees it coming, not even the INFJ/INFP themselves. This happened to me and it all fits with Lauren’s descriptions and explanations. I even almost trained to be a counsellor, another area of life which INFJ/INFPs are drawn to, as Lauren describes.
I could go on and on with the similarities. I learned that I too had been hooked by narcissistic people at different times in my life, that I too wanted a true soulmate to fall in love with, in an all or nothing way, that I too was labelled as too sensitive, that I too was a risk taker – something I’d never even acknowledged in myself because I’ve always thought of it as vital survival action where the emotions take over come what may, with no bravery involved at all. There is so much in Lauren’s book to discover, so much to learn about oneself as an INFJ, so much to look forward to where we can support one another, encourage one another – not to put INFJ/INFPs on some kind of pedestal through our rarity, but having felt marginalised and somewhat isolated for so long to finally accept ourselves and work with what we are and what we’ve got to give. I urge any INFJ/INFP to read this book.
This book on INFJs is very different to others I’ve read, because Lauren shares her own life experiences and insights in a profoundly personal way, from right under her skin, which all INFJs and INFPs are going to really appreciate. It’s packed with reassurances, affirmations, encouragements and brave new ideas for those, like me, who always felt like an outsider at school and beyond, who always questioned life and searched for meaning, not content with working in a formal environment where everyone needs to learn their place and get by that way - a job for a job’s sake. I wanted variety, I wanted to try different things, just like the author. I wanted to find my life purpose, to do something that fulfilled me – life had to have significant meaning and I had to find mine even if it engendered some tough times.
Like the author I only found out my INFJ personality type later in life. In the UK the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator testing is not widely talked about or used as a self-development aid, so it was a stroke of luck that I was increasing my online interactions for my existing passion for art and my new passion for writing which led me to the test. For me, it was at a critical juncture during a midlife crisis that morphed into a significant transition phase in my life. As the author points out, when the life of an INFJ/INFP is no longer working for them, there can be a sudden dramatic turning point in which the person dumps what isn’t working so fast no one sees it coming, not even the INFJ/INFP themselves. This happened to me and it all fits with Lauren’s descriptions and explanations. I even almost trained to be a counsellor, another area of life which INFJ/INFPs are drawn to, as Lauren describes.
I could go on and on with the similarities. I learned that I too had been hooked by narcissistic people at different times in my life, that I too wanted a true soulmate to fall in love with, in an all or nothing way, that I too was labelled as too sensitive, that I too was a risk taker – something I’d never even acknowledged in myself because I’ve always thought of it as vital survival action where the emotions take over come what may, with no bravery involved at all. There is so much in Lauren’s book to discover, so much to learn about oneself as an INFJ, so much to look forward to where we can support one another, encourage one another – not to put INFJ/INFPs on some kind of pedestal through our rarity, but having felt marginalised and somewhat isolated for so long to finally accept ourselves and work with what we are and what we’ve got to give. I urge any INFJ/INFP to read this book.
December 3, 2020
"Whenever anyone asked me how I was or how things were going for me, I just had a really hard time answering that question in any sort of coherent way. Because, inside, in the deepest depths of my soul, where I spend roughly 40 to 70 percent of my time, things were tumultuous. I was always going through something huge, even if nothing seemed to be happening on the outside.
Even when nothing is happening I’m usually sunk so deeply into my inner world that I am only half in this one."
Leí por primera vez este libro en 2019 y esta semana sentí la necesidad de leerlo otra vez, y era lo que necesitaba.
Desde que escuché a Lauren SapalaLauren Sapala en un podcast sobre INFjs y leí su libro The Infj Writer: Cracking the Creative Genius of the World's Rarest Type, sentí una conexión muy fuerte con ella. En sus libros me siento vista, entendida, como parte de un todo y ratificada en lo que siento en mi fuero interno de que lo que hago importa (aunque a veces necesite que alguien me lo recuerde, y los libros de Lauren son maravillosos en este sentido).
Es un libro súper recomendado para todas las personas que se identifican como INFJs/ introvertidas/intuitivas/Altamente Sensibles/empaths.
January 21, 2021
Lauren Sapala is a great resource for INFJ/INFP personality types. I got so much from her blog articles and found this book inspiring and informative. I would recommend her to any INFJ who is interested in personal growth (aka, all of us!).
July 1, 2020
Qué libro tan maravilloso! Pienso que todo INFJ debe leerlo. La autora describe con tanta fidelidad las características de los INFJs! Pone en el papel las situaciones, sentimientos, experiencias que todo INFJ ha vivido. Al leer el libro uno va entendiendo mejor por qué es como es. Todo lo que la autora escribe acerca de la intuición y espiritualidad de los INFJs es tan real, aunque la ciencia no lo pueda explicar.
December 28, 2019
I really appreciated the insights Lauren shared from her experiences as an INFJ/P and empath.
One of the sections was incredibly affirming: corporate places feel wrong.
I have never had a "dream job" growing up, except to be a writer, and part of this is because experiences are more important to me than any one expertise, or prestige. When Lauren described the job parts of her life, how business start-ups were her "jam" and then felt the need to duck and dodge once they started implementing security locks (whether figurative or literal, I understand what this means in a real way).... I felt as though someone gave me a key with a permission slip dangling from it. I have realized that I love helping things and/or people begin and be empowered, but then once the official rules and regulations start rolling out, so must I.
The "job" part of this book is only one angle.
The entire inner life of an INFJ can indeed make a person feel like they have multiple personality disorders, and while Lauren does not dismiss the need for people to address those issues too if needed, she certainly allows and encourages that what the world considers a personality disorder is oftentimes in the case of an INFJ-P/empath/HSP simply our listening to our intuitions and bodies. It is okay, and in fact it is encouraged, that we harness our strange and in love go forth in the world with it.
There are many other topics discussed in this book. I do recommend this book to any of the misfits out there, as I am fairly certain this is the book for you.
One of the sections was incredibly affirming: corporate places feel wrong.
I have never had a "dream job" growing up, except to be a writer, and part of this is because experiences are more important to me than any one expertise, or prestige. When Lauren described the job parts of her life, how business start-ups were her "jam" and then felt the need to duck and dodge once they started implementing security locks (whether figurative or literal, I understand what this means in a real way).... I felt as though someone gave me a key with a permission slip dangling from it. I have realized that I love helping things and/or people begin and be empowered, but then once the official rules and regulations start rolling out, so must I.
The "job" part of this book is only one angle.
The entire inner life of an INFJ can indeed make a person feel like they have multiple personality disorders, and while Lauren does not dismiss the need for people to address those issues too if needed, she certainly allows and encourages that what the world considers a personality disorder is oftentimes in the case of an INFJ-P/empath/HSP simply our listening to our intuitions and bodies. It is okay, and in fact it is encouraged, that we harness our strange and in love go forth in the world with it.
There are many other topics discussed in this book. I do recommend this book to any of the misfits out there, as I am fairly certain this is the book for you.
March 10, 2020
As an INFJ, I have always struggled to be understood...and I have struggled to understand myself in this generally non-intuitive world we live in. I often felt out of place, odd, like I didn't fit in. I found myself trying to conform my 'square peg self' into the world's round holes. But I just never really fit, no matter how much it looked like I did to the outside world. Reading this book was like looking in a mirror. To see ME reflected back to myself, to know that at least one other person in this world understands me at my core, what a gift! I first read Lauren's "The INFJ Writer," which helped me understand why the traditional writing advise I've always been given (and continue to get) just does not work for me. Knowing how much that book has helped me move forward in my writing, I eagerly jumped at the chance to read this one. What I love about this book is that it's not only about what it's like to be an INFJ, but it also has information to help reclaim your intuition and how to *be* in this world geared exactly opposite of how we are wired. It's wonderful to realize there are a whole lot of others out there like me - INFJs, empaths, HSPs...I highly recommend this book to fellow intuitives out there.
May 12, 2020
Years ago I took the Myers Briggs test and discovered I was an INFJ. "Oh cool," I thought. And filed that information away.
Almost a decade later, I took the test again to reconfirm -- yup, still an INFJ. I read The INFJ writer several months before reading this book, and as a copywriter and writing coach for business owners, this spoke to me on a soul level.
I'd put The INFJ Writer at the top of the list of books that changed my life. The INFJ Revolution takes the tie.
Just 20 pages into it and I was sad that the book had an ending. Imagine that, feeling sad for the end of a book before even reading the thing! This is THAT good.
The interesting thing about INFJs, is that even though we're rare — we're attracted to each other. Many of my clients and closest friends are INFJs, ENFJs, INFPs, and ENFPs.
This book served as confirmation and validation -- I am absolutely on the right path.
Almost a decade later, I took the test again to reconfirm -- yup, still an INFJ. I read The INFJ writer several months before reading this book, and as a copywriter and writing coach for business owners, this spoke to me on a soul level.
I'd put The INFJ Writer at the top of the list of books that changed my life. The INFJ Revolution takes the tie.
Just 20 pages into it and I was sad that the book had an ending. Imagine that, feeling sad for the end of a book before even reading the thing! This is THAT good.
The interesting thing about INFJs, is that even though we're rare — we're attracted to each other. Many of my clients and closest friends are INFJs, ENFJs, INFPs, and ENFPs.
This book served as confirmation and validation -- I am absolutely on the right path.
June 27, 2022
I wasnt really sure abt this book tho. Some of it really resonate with me as an INFJ. But some of it are quite contrary to my own. That makes me question my INFJ"ness" eventho i can always relate to anything regarding to an infj and never once got anything other than infj when i do online assessment from various sources. For instance, when she said that infj are a born risk takers and not apt to mediocrity, i feel the otherwise. I dont like taking risk and deal with uncertainty(I hate it), and somehow i do enjoy my mediocre life. I wonder whether it is due to my coping mechanism that were acquired throughout my life, or is it because of my enneagram type number 6 who desire stability among others. However, im dissapointed to say that this book didnt really has anything special to me. Or maybe it was just me who was expecting too high
September 23, 2019
If you are an INFJ or an INFP, look no further. Lauren has written a guidebook of sorts for infusing a greater depth of understanding of the intuitive personality types and sharing ways to throw a whole lot more light into your life. She has found a way to put into words the things so many of us experience in the day-to-day, but cannot define, nor label. I’m chalking this one up a book for the soul. If you’re an intuitive type - buy the book. You’ll be glad you did!
October 7, 2019
A breath of fresh air, a long and cleansing exhale
Lauren Sapala writes with such passion that I am always inspired. My favorite part of this work is what she says about holding our power. Her emphasis on energy and emotion and how uniquely INFJs can receive and be affected by energy and emotion has validated so much for me and I don’t doubt she does the same for so many others. She inspires me to use these gifts for myself and others! Highly recommend all her work!!
Lauren Sapala writes with such passion that I am always inspired. My favorite part of this work is what she says about holding our power. Her emphasis on energy and emotion and how uniquely INFJs can receive and be affected by energy and emotion has validated so much for me and I don’t doubt she does the same for so many others. She inspires me to use these gifts for myself and others! Highly recommend all her work!!
January 19, 2025
Okay, let’s start with the basics: I thought I’d picked up a guide to understanding the INFJ personality type. I was expecting something insightful, practical, and maybe even a little inspiring. Instead, this book turned out to be… a lot of Lauren Sapala talking about Lauren Sapala.
I did highlight a few interesting quotes that made me pause and reflect a little, which is what bumped this book up from 1 star to 2. And the overall idea of empowering INFJs to embrace their creativity and unique traits is a good one. It’s just that the execution felt repetitive, meandering, and way too focused on the author’s personal experiences. At times, it felt more like sitting in on her therapy sessions than reading a book that was meant to help me.
Plus, the author makes some sweeping generalizations about INFJs, and a lot of them didn’t resonate with me at all. For example, she claims that INFJs might “fall in love with multiple people.” No, thanks. That’s not me, and honestly, it made me feel really disconnected from the rest of her generalizations. Plus, she treats personality traits like gospel, completely ignoring any of the research or critiques that debunk some of these ideas. A little nuance would’ve gone a long way here.
The structure was another issue. The book felt like a long, drawn-out biography disguised as a guide. I don’t mind personal anecdotes if they’re relevant and insightful, but there were just too many here, and they didn’t always land. If you strip away all the personal stories and repetitive claims, there’s not much left. A few pages of actual substance, maybe?
And the creativity “advice” definitely didn’t resonate with me. Sapala suggests that creativity can only thrive in unstable environments, which I just don’t buy. My best creative moments happen when I’m grounded and calm, not when chaos is swirling around me.
If you’re already pretty self-aware, you won’t find much here that’s new or groundbreaking. At best, it’s an interesting glimpse into one person’s experience as an INFJ—but whether or not you connect with that experience is a whole other story.
I did highlight a few interesting quotes that made me pause and reflect a little, which is what bumped this book up from 1 star to 2. And the overall idea of empowering INFJs to embrace their creativity and unique traits is a good one. It’s just that the execution felt repetitive, meandering, and way too focused on the author’s personal experiences. At times, it felt more like sitting in on her therapy sessions than reading a book that was meant to help me.
Plus, the author makes some sweeping generalizations about INFJs, and a lot of them didn’t resonate with me at all. For example, she claims that INFJs might “fall in love with multiple people.” No, thanks. That’s not me, and honestly, it made me feel really disconnected from the rest of her generalizations. Plus, she treats personality traits like gospel, completely ignoring any of the research or critiques that debunk some of these ideas. A little nuance would’ve gone a long way here.
The structure was another issue. The book felt like a long, drawn-out biography disguised as a guide. I don’t mind personal anecdotes if they’re relevant and insightful, but there were just too many here, and they didn’t always land. If you strip away all the personal stories and repetitive claims, there’s not much left. A few pages of actual substance, maybe?
And the creativity “advice” definitely didn’t resonate with me. Sapala suggests that creativity can only thrive in unstable environments, which I just don’t buy. My best creative moments happen when I’m grounded and calm, not when chaos is swirling around me.
If you’re already pretty self-aware, you won’t find much here that’s new or groundbreaking. At best, it’s an interesting glimpse into one person’s experience as an INFJ—but whether or not you connect with that experience is a whole other story.
February 16, 2024
I had this great feeling while reading the book and not sure how I got to reading it in the first place. I am pretty sure it's a self-help book, intensely spiritual and quite repetitive, but I guess there is some sort of positive energy to it and maybe it is showing me that I shouldn't be just logical all the time and make weird decisions and feel all the emotions as it adds and improves creativity. The author was really honest just putting ugly sides of herself in the book.
I got a bit sick because my family got sick for quite a long time and reading this was a blast for this period. I am happy with the last unicorn recommendation in the book and it gives me hope that there are people who appreciate science and feelings at the same time, who go out there to experience the unknown. But I am not exactly sure how to find those people exactly myself and I am afraid that the INFJ classification is too vague and wide and encomposes a large portion of the creatives, but even among those I don't feel particularly accepted. The online spaces I find don't feel promising to me, the irl spaces usually seem even more depressing.
A lot of artists I follow and my creative process is through feeling patterns and not following the conventional understanding of good. It feels very validating and an affirmation to read this. I like the way this type seems to appreaciate the duality and irrationality of life.
This made me and in general the infj content on youtube to want to put my experiences on a larger scale and contextualize them in a different way and actually put words to stuff. I am not sure if it is wacky, but it feels right for now and maybe in the future I will discover a more reliable system and as I continue learn about myself through various ways and learn about different approaches to psychology and self-empowerement I will write a future a little more full than I expected.
I got a bit sick because my family got sick for quite a long time and reading this was a blast for this period. I am happy with the last unicorn recommendation in the book and it gives me hope that there are people who appreciate science and feelings at the same time, who go out there to experience the unknown. But I am not exactly sure how to find those people exactly myself and I am afraid that the INFJ classification is too vague and wide and encomposes a large portion of the creatives, but even among those I don't feel particularly accepted. The online spaces I find don't feel promising to me, the irl spaces usually seem even more depressing.
A lot of artists I follow and my creative process is through feeling patterns and not following the conventional understanding of good. It feels very validating and an affirmation to read this. I like the way this type seems to appreaciate the duality and irrationality of life.
This made me and in general the infj content on youtube to want to put my experiences on a larger scale and contextualize them in a different way and actually put words to stuff. I am not sure if it is wacky, but it feels right for now and maybe in the future I will discover a more reliable system and as I continue learn about myself through various ways and learn about different approaches to psychology and self-empowerement I will write a future a little more full than I expected.
June 13, 2020
I’ve known about Lauren Sapala for a few years and read The INFJ Writer as well as Firefly Magic, both great insights for INFJ’s (which Sapala is), INFP’s (I’m in this group) and Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP) that don’t fit in either group, but still don’t quite fit into our highly sensor/point A to B society that Western culture is built on. Both of her books spoke to me on a personal level, and the same applies to this newest book, based on how society has shifted to where the INF’s have become essential in a world that is in a period of transition.
First, Sapala dives into why INF’s suppress their natural ways and try to conform to the way society is, and end up hurting themselves through isolation and ending up in bad situations, and the consequences from those actions. She then gives tips in how to take the power back and embrace the intuitive personality and how things start to open up. Finally, she talks about how we can use our traits and skills to help and heal the world from what it feels like an endless wave of darkness and despair, and ways to empower ourselves as well. Throughout, Sapala uses anecdotes from her own experience and her interactions from clients to give a broader idea and does repeat ideas a couple of times to really drill it into your head. While it’s helpful and a lot of it spoke to me, I couldn’t quite grasp some of the concepts on a deep level, but maybe I just need to give it a second read, but I think part of it is that I’m not an INFJ, and that personality type is prioritized over the INFP (which I don’t blame Sapala for at all).
If you’re an INF looking for a way to get out of what feels like a cage of your own making from society, this is a good starting point.
First, Sapala dives into why INF’s suppress their natural ways and try to conform to the way society is, and end up hurting themselves through isolation and ending up in bad situations, and the consequences from those actions. She then gives tips in how to take the power back and embrace the intuitive personality and how things start to open up. Finally, she talks about how we can use our traits and skills to help and heal the world from what it feels like an endless wave of darkness and despair, and ways to empower ourselves as well. Throughout, Sapala uses anecdotes from her own experience and her interactions from clients to give a broader idea and does repeat ideas a couple of times to really drill it into your head. While it’s helpful and a lot of it spoke to me, I couldn’t quite grasp some of the concepts on a deep level, but maybe I just need to give it a second read, but I think part of it is that I’m not an INFJ, and that personality type is prioritized over the INFP (which I don’t blame Sapala for at all).
If you’re an INF looking for a way to get out of what feels like a cage of your own making from society, this is a good starting point.
February 2, 2024
honestly i barely got anything out of this book. it's more of a memoir, and that's not what I was looking for. I was looking for a really neuro-scientific and brain-functioning guide to being an INFJ but got this instead. not saying it's a horrible book, but I didn't enjoy it, and I skipped through a lot of her story-telling in order to get the actual information (about cognitive functions and that), which was only 20% of the book. it wouldn't be bad for an adult INFJ looking for a book they can relate to, but then again I didn't relate to most of the things she wrote about nor was I necessarily inspired by her story. im surprised i even managed to get to the end of the book lol cuz it was super boring.
im also recently not as into the personality type stuff as I was 2 or 3 weeks ago, so that might be why ive lost interest in this book so easily
I also tend not to revolve my life around being an INFJ, i really just do the personality type research in order to better understand different types of people, their brain functions, lifestyles, etc. might also be a factor as to why i didnt like this book
im also recently not as into the personality type stuff as I was 2 or 3 weeks ago, so that might be why ive lost interest in this book so easily
I also tend not to revolve my life around being an INFJ, i really just do the personality type research in order to better understand different types of people, their brain functions, lifestyles, etc. might also be a factor as to why i didnt like this book
August 18, 2020
When I read Lauren Sapala's _The INFJ Writer_ I felt understood for once in my life, and I'm not even an INFJ. She carefully explores and explains what makes INFJs and INFPs specifically (and to a lesser degree NFs in general) tick. In _The INFJ Revolution_ she widens her scope so the book encompasses more than writing and the creative process and covers such topics as personal and professional relationships, power dynamics, empathy and narcissism, and how to use our inherent skills to shape our lives into a more satisfying whole.
Her writing is easy to read, thoughtful, offers examples and anecdotes so it's easy to picture the concepts she covers, and above all, it manages to be both comforting and inspiring.
This book will appeal to INFJs, INFPs, Highly Sensitive people, empaths, and creatives. If you aren't any of these things, this book will give you insight into how the mind and intuition of someone with these qualities operates.
Her writing is easy to read, thoughtful, offers examples and anecdotes so it's easy to picture the concepts she covers, and above all, it manages to be both comforting and inspiring.
This book will appeal to INFJs, INFPs, Highly Sensitive people, empaths, and creatives. If you aren't any of these things, this book will give you insight into how the mind and intuition of someone with these qualities operates.
July 27, 2020
Další ze série knih o jednom z osobnostních MBTI typů - o mém. Ačkoliv se mi vždycky zdálo, že klasifikace typu melancholik/sangvinik/flegmatik/cholerik na mě tolik nesedí, co se týče MBTI testu, ten o mně vypovídá mnohem více. Ráda tyto typy knih čtu, ale zaměřuji se právě jen spíše na ty, kde hraje roli právě pouze můj daný osobnostní typ.
Největší výhodou této knihy shledávám v tom, že čtenáři neposkytuje už tolik ohranou základní charakteristiku INFJ. Tu si člověk může najít na leckterém webu. Spíše nám autorka předkládá její osobní zkušenosti a příběhy. Jedná se o velmi pěkně napsanou knihu s inspirativními myšlenkami, ale musím strhnout jednu hvězdičku za to, že se mi zdálo, že některé skutečnosti se v knize mírně opakovaly.
Knihu doporučuji všem INFJ, kteří už jsou nabažení základní charakteristikou svého typu a chtějí něco nového, neokoukaného a zajímavého. Já si z knihy zvýraznila plno pasáží a musím uznat, že to bylo dobré čtení.
Největší výhodou této knihy shledávám v tom, že čtenáři neposkytuje už tolik ohranou základní charakteristiku INFJ. Tu si člověk může najít na leckterém webu. Spíše nám autorka předkládá její osobní zkušenosti a příběhy. Jedná se o velmi pěkně napsanou knihu s inspirativními myšlenkami, ale musím strhnout jednu hvězdičku za to, že se mi zdálo, že některé skutečnosti se v knize mírně opakovaly.
Knihu doporučuji všem INFJ, kteří už jsou nabažení základní charakteristikou svého typu a chtějí něco nového, neokoukaného a zajímavého. Já si z knihy zvýraznila plno pasáží a musím uznat, že to bylo dobré čtení.
January 24, 2021
If you don't know much about personality types, I recommend you to dig deeper here and find more about them yourself: https://www.16personalities.com/perso....
The book is written from the perspective of an authors own life experiences with some of theory about personality types, especially INFJ.
There were some great chapters in the book about self-growth and entrepreneurship. It helped to understand a bit better what this personality type is seeking and how it operates the best in these fields. Examples where enriching and near my own experiences, so they perfectly fit in my worldview.
One of the most favorite quotes from the book - "We can create an energy packet that is just waiting to be opened by anyone who stumbles across it."
If you are an INFJ or INFP or just want to know more about this type and how they operate, this book is great for that.
The book is written from the perspective of an authors own life experiences with some of theory about personality types, especially INFJ.
There were some great chapters in the book about self-growth and entrepreneurship. It helped to understand a bit better what this personality type is seeking and how it operates the best in these fields. Examples where enriching and near my own experiences, so they perfectly fit in my worldview.
One of the most favorite quotes from the book - "We can create an energy packet that is just waiting to be opened by anyone who stumbles across it."
If you are an INFJ or INFP or just want to know more about this type and how they operate, this book is great for that.
October 30, 2020
I had heard about the MBTI several years ago but only decided to learn about it a year ago. Finding out that i'm an INFJ and subsequently reading about what that means has been helpful in understanding myself and feeling understood and this book and this writer have been huge in this discovery process. I had so much fun reading this book! I don't know where to begin except to say that if you're new to discovering you're an INFJ (or INFP) or even if you've known for a while, i bet that you'll find several 'YES!' moments for yourself while reading 'The INFJ Revolution'.
April 9, 2021
This book was an excellent read. I got through this book so quickly because it was so easy to identify with the author's stories. The stories are so open and real. I really appreciate the author for taking the courage to write this book, the lessons I learnt in this book will impact my life forever. I could identify with so much of this book, for the first time in my life I didn't feel alone. I truly recommend this book to every INFJ, especially any INFJ's who have struggled with understanding or accepting their identity, or just felt lost in a world that doesn't understand the INFJ personality.
November 10, 2020
I'm an INFP but found this book so, so helpful still! There is lot's of helpful info for INFPs and I just found it so relatable! There's nothing like getting a peek inside someone's mind who thinks very similarly to you to make you feel seen and like you're not alone. I also found the book really inspiring. There were many parts that I related to so much that I actually highlighted to come back to (something I never do) I will definitely be rereading this book again when I need to feel "normal" in a world that definitely is not geared towards us INFs
April 22, 2020
Another win for Lauren Sapala
As an INFP, so much of what Sapala writes resonates with me and I am constantly learning more about who I am through her writing. She’s given me permission to be myself, to accept my eccentric and weird nature, and to embrace everything I believe in, even when most other people don’t understand me. Sapala is a true gift to the INFJs and the INFPs of the world and I am forever grateful.
As an INFP, so much of what Sapala writes resonates with me and I am constantly learning more about who I am through her writing. She’s given me permission to be myself, to accept my eccentric and weird nature, and to embrace everything I believe in, even when most other people don’t understand me. Sapala is a true gift to the INFJs and the INFPs of the world and I am forever grateful.
July 5, 2024
Great book! I enjoyed the last couple of chapters the most. It was interesting to see into how other INFJs experience the world. The book makes me want to lean into sides of myself I’ve disregarded for a while. I especially love Sapala’s message of the importance of embracing one’s inner voice and intuition to create something beautiful and insightful that will lift up others and “heal the world.”
December 16, 2020
This was an amazing read AND ride. I no longer feel like an outcast; I finally feel understood. If you are an INFJ, INFP, an empath, or highly sensitive person—this book is for you. My fellow sensitive types, we have a mission, and Lauren makes our mission clear in The INFJ Revolution.
We need more, Lauren! 🖤🤟🏼
We need more, Lauren! 🖤🤟🏼
March 2, 2023
If you are an INFJ, this is a must-read. I couldn't relate to everything she attributes to being an INFJ, but I identified with most. I've been studying personality type for decades and the author gave me some new insights about myself and INFJ's in general. Bravo to her for focusing on such a specific target audience.
July 22, 2024
i love books like this because they remind me of my personality functions and why i think/act the way i do. when i read a book similar to this freshman year, i remember feeling enlightened....def didn't feel that way with this book (i don't think i learned much that was new), but i could relate to it a lot and that was great.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews