The perfect way to celebrate the INFJ in your life
Today was a beautiful day through and through. So grateful because my husband nailed it for me. Alhumdulillah. I used to have my birthday on Facebook and removed it several years ago and wow, what a relief! I am one of those people who would rather take a day off from work or school than show up on my birthday for fear of being overtly recognized, surprised or celebrated through extroverted standards and not feeling brave enough to say "no thank you". Then along came @susancainauthor and her ingenious message to the world about "quiet" and the rest of us.
This morning, I prayed Fajr and rested followed by a quiet morning answering some emails. I was feeling a mix of happiness and longing for family connection in Virginia but I continued working till my daughter was up.
My husband wished me a happy birthday first thing in the morning and then took us out for breakfast at my favourite place, which we hadn’t been to in several months. We talked, laughed, and took pictures upon coming home.
My daughter was in on the surprise at home and told me to hold her hand as she took me upstairs where I came to see the most perfect arrangement of all the things I wanted and adore.
Beautiful flowers, a Seerah book, the most calming himalayan salt lamp (which I pointed at a store some weeks ago and he remembered), my favourite chocolates, and to top it all off, a hand written scroll with the perfect penmanship and distressed edges, just like in movies. Oh, my, heart.
Throughout the morning, I received only a handful of messages from just the closest family in my life and I was perfectly content. For me, it’s never about the quantity of messages or how often someone keeps in touch, I always prefer low-key celebrations, and even more so on birthdays.
Gift Ideas
When it comes to gifts, a handwritten note is extra special for INFJs .. the ones with real and honest feelings, du’as, thoughts, memories, or hopes written inside .. not the greeting cards with a standard message and signature.
Stationary of any kind such as journals or planners would be an excellent gift along with pens.
If you know of a book that the INFJ in your life would love to read or has an interest in, consider getting it for them, and personalize it with a handwritten message inside along with the date. We love date stamps and are natural collectors.
If you are really close to an INFJ, consider what kind of getaway or experience they might enjoy. My husband took us to an adventure farm with a specialty honey shop where he got me lavendar honey and it was one of the best Saturdays we have had all year. Lots of adventure and a beautiful drive for a fun day together, while giving me a chance to explore and enjoy tasting my new favourite honey. An eclectic airbnb would not be a bad idea at all. :)
Give a donation on their behalf to a special cause. One of my dearest friends did this for me and I can never forget the tears of happiness and love I cried that day. INFJ’s are always about having a mission and bigger purpose in life. This kind of gift connects them to that higher purpose.
Calming and cozy gifts. This is easy to do and means a lot. Any form of adding more warmth to your INFJs' life will be much appreciated. Think socks, candles, lamps, throw, robe, slippers, and so on.
Quality time and good conversation at a favourite restaurant. I’m sure this can apply to any personality type but any time you are channeling depth and spirituality with an INFJ, they are feeling at their best with you. And who can say no to good food.
Tools or supplies make excellent gifts as well. INFJ’s love to learn and often have a natural creative side that comes out every so often. Think of their creative hobbies and get something in that range such as new paints, a sewing machine, woodworking, knitting, a creative class, clay, gardening tools, cooking tools, etc. Along with this, making a handmade item if you have a creative skill would be deeply appreciated and always a keepsake.
A beautiful friend and her two lovely daughters brought up a bouquet of lavender from their garden along with handmade cards and gifts and I was in awe at how I felt so known and seen in that moment. There is something irreplaceable about knowing what someone loves and then sharing that very thing with them.
Things to avoid for an INFJ would be anything like a totally unplanned surprise party, or coming into their space without their consent (huge no-no as this may be a bigger breach of trust than you might think) and decorating things for them for a party they are not aware of.
I hope these simple ideas are helpful to you in showing the INFJ in your life that you understand them. I’d love to know any other ideas you have to add to this list!
Till next time,
Asma
