INFP Reflections Blog
By Paul Dunning
Mahatma Gandhi once said that “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”
This quote accurately describes my INFP version of happiness.
To be happy I have to be in harmony with others. There is no way I can enjoy myself if significant other people are not at least in full agreement and at best enjoying themselves as well.
Some of the most peaceful and rewarding moments I have experienced are when I am in harmony with nature. The simple act of sitting quietly and observing seems to blend my spirit with my surroundings.
I can’t be happy in a social setting that has a disharmonious atmosphere. Even if the reason for the discord has nothing to do with me, I still experience the negativity.
After reflecting on this, I realize that for me to be happy I have to be in harmony with myself. My body and mind need to agree on what that is, my emotions and logic must align, and my thoughts and actions should be coordinated. Unless I believe in my heart that it’s the right thing to do I will resist doing it.
But, I can’t influence everything so I only try to have harmony in what is important.
Further reading for INFPs and others:
For more thoughts on communicating well, read Introduction to Type and Communication.
If you live in the USA, Introduction to Type and Communication is now available on Kindle.