Navigating the Cognitive Functions: An INFP's Journey to Balance Fi, Ne, Si, and Te

As an INFP, I have always been fascinated by the intricacies of my cognitive functions: Fi, Ne, Si, and Te. The idea of developing and balancing these functions is both an art and a science, and I have been exploring this topic for months.

Understanding the Core of My Cognitive Functions

My journey began when I realized the profound influence of my upbringing on my cognitive functions. Growing up in a home with strong ESTJ and Fundamentalist beliefs, I was often taught that feelings were inherently bad and untrustworthy. This led to a significant dissociation from my Fi and Ne, which are central to an INFP's identity.

Recognizing the importance of mental health, I now make a concerted effort to give Fi and Ne the space they deserve. By acknowledging and integrating these functions, I am better equipped to navigate my personal and professional life.

Using Cognitive Function Cards for Personal Development

To aid in my understanding and integration of these cognitive functions, I have turned to a set of "Inner Active" cards. These cards are used in therapy to help clients identify and visualize their "parts" or aspects of their inner self. Each card represents a function or trait, allowing me to personify my cognitive functions and better understand their dynamics.

I selected eight cards, two for each function, to represent the poles of each trait. For my dominant Fi, I chose a woman in her art studio (representing the healthy side of Fi) and a morose teenager (representing the darker side). For my inferior Te, I picked a congenial manager explaining his org charts and the same manager angry with a bullhorn, representing the contrasting sides of Te.

Organizing the Functions and Tracking Progress

I organize these cards on a bulletin board using binder clips. Each function is represented, with the dominant pole placed at the top. The four functions are arranged left to right according to the order I am experiencing them. This visual arrangement helps me to see where I am at any given moment and makes it clearer when I need to make changes.

For instance, if the angry manager (representing Te) is at the top of the stack, I know I need to address that aspect of myself. Conversely, if the artist in the studio (representing Fi) is absent or overshadowed, I may need to focus on rekindling these aspects. This system has proven to be incredibly useful in maintaining balance and addressing any imbalances that arise.

Personifying My Functions for Enhanced Insight

In my personal world, the functions Fi, Ni, and Si are personified by women, while Te is represented by a male figure. This personification has added a layer of depth and understanding to my relationship with these functions. For example, the young girl exploring a cave with hidden treasure represents my Ne, juxtaposed with the frantic, overwhelming woman who symbolizes my Ne in an unbalanced state.

This visualization helps me to recognize and address these dynamics more effectively. It also provides a sense of continuity and growth, as I can see the evolution of these aspects of myself over time.

Conclusion

While I may not have all the answers, my journey to balance Fi, Ne, Si, and Te has been enriching and insightful. By using cognitive function cards and maintaining a visual representation of these aspects, I have gained a better understanding of myself and my cognitive processes. May this journey bring balance and clarity to your own life as well.