As an INFP-A, I’ve spent years cycling through hobbies like they’re going out of style. I’ve dropped hundreds of dollars on art supplies I used once, signed up for dance classes I quit after two weeks, and started more journals than I care to admit.
And here’s what I learned: finding the right hobbies for INFP personalities isn’t about trying everything.
It’s about understanding how your brain works and choosing activities that align with your dominant cognitive functions—introverted feeling (Fi) and extraverted intuition (Ne).
According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, INFPs make up only about 4% of the population.
We’re the dreamers, the idealists, the ones who need hobbies that don’t just pass time but actually mean something. We’re not looking for activities to check boxes. We’re looking for hobbies that feed our souls, align with our values, and give us space for self-discovery.
So after years of trial and error (and a lot of abandoned craft supplies), I’ve compiled this list of 25 hobbies that actually work for INFPs. Not theory. Not guesswork. Real activities that align with how we’re wired.
TL;DR: Best Hobbies for INFPs
Best hobbies for INFPs are creative, meaningful, and allow for self-expression. Top picks include:
Creative Expression: Writing (poetry, fiction, journaling), painting, drawing, digital art, photography, music (playing or creating), filmmaking, crafting (origami, jewelry-making, knitting)
Introspective Activities: Reading, meditation, yoga, journaling, collecting meaningful items, daydreaming/worldbuilding
Connection Activities: Theater, dance, cosplay, book clubs, language learning, volunteering
Nature-Based: Hiking, gardening, nature photography, camping, foraging
Why these work: INFPs have introverted feeling (Fi) as their dominant function and extraverted intuition (Ne) as their auxiliary function. This means we need hobbies that allow deep emotional processing, creative exploration, and meaningful expression. We thrive when activities align with our values and give us space to be authentic.
The biggest mistake INFPs make: Investing too much money and emotion upfront. Start small, test the waters, and commit to a schedule before buying all the gear.
Now let’s dive into the full list.
Read also:
- What Is INFP? Complete Guide to the Mediator Personality Type
- How INFPs Express Creativity (and why it matters)
Understanding INFP Personality Hobbies: Why We’re Different
Before I dump 25 hobby ideas on you, let me explain why INFP interests are different from other personality types.
Our dominant function is introverted feeling (Fi).
This means we process everything through our internal value system. We don’t just want hobbies—we want passion projects that reflect who we are at our core.
If an activity doesn’t resonate with our authentic self, we’ll lose interest fast.
Our auxiliary function is extraverted intuition (Ne).
This is why we’re constantly chasing new possibilities and seeing connections everywhere. It’s also why we cycle through hobbies.
Our Ne is always whispering, “But what about that other thing?”
Here’s the problem: Fi wants depth. Ne wants variety.
These two functions are constantly battling in our heads.
That’s why the best hobbies for INFPs either satisfy both functions or give us structured ways to explore without abandoning everything.
I learned this the hard way.
In 2019, I spent $400 on oil painting supplies.
I was convinced I’d finally found my calling.
Three months later, those supplies were collecting dust.
Why?
Because I jumped in with pure Fi passion but no Ne structure.
I had no schedule, no external accountability, no plan for sustained interest.
The hobbies that stuck for me over the years are the ones where I found ways to balance depth and variety.
The 25 Best INFP Hobbies (Organized by Category)
Creative Writing: The Ultimate INFP Hobby
1. Fiction Writing
If you’re an INFP who hasn’t tried creative writing, start here. Seriously. Writing fiction lets you build entire worlds, explore complex emotions, and express your Fi in its purest form. I’ve been writing fiction since I was 12, and it’s the only hobby I’ve never abandoned.
Start small: Write 300 words a day for two weeks. Don’t edit. Just write. You can write short stories, novels, fan fiction—whatever calls to you. The key is consistency over perfection.
Time commitment: 30 minutes to 2 hours daily
Budget: Free (just need a notebook or Google Docs)
2. Poetry
Poetry is concentrated emotion. For INFPs who feel everything deeply, poetry gives you a way to process those feelings without needing a 300-page novel. I write poems when I’m overwhelmed—it’s faster than fiction and just as cathartic.
Try poetry challenges like writing one poem per week based on a prompt. Or just write when the mood strikes. There’s no wrong way to do this.
3. Journaling
This is different from creative writing. Journaling is pure Fi work—processing your thoughts, exploring your values, documenting your personal growth. I’ve kept journals on and off for 15 years. The entries I stuck with longest were when I gave myself prompts like “What made me feel alive today?” instead of just “Dear Diary…”
4. Blogging
Blogging combines writing with Ne exploration. You can write about multiple topics, experiment with different styles, and connect with readers who share your interests. Just remember: start with topics you genuinely care about, not what you think will get traffic.
Visual Arts: INFP Creative Hobbies That Don’t Require Words
5. Painting & Drawing
INFPs often gravitate toward traditional art forms. The key here is to not compare yourself to others. I can’t draw realistic portraits to save my life, but I love abstract watercolors. Find your style. Start with basic supplies—a sketchbook and cheap acrylics or watercolors run about $20-30.
6. Digital Art
If you have a phone or tablet, you can start digital drawing immediately. Apps like Procreate (iPad) or free options like Krita give you unlimited canvas space without the mess. I started digital art in 2023 with just my phone’s note app and a cheap stylus.
7. Photography
Photography is perfect for INFPs because it combines our love of beauty with our need to capture meaningful moments. You don’t need expensive gear. Start with your phone. Focus on subjects that matter to you—nature, people, abandoned buildings, whatever resonates.
Join photography challenges on Instagram or join local photography groups for structure and accountability.
8. Collaging & Mixed Media
This is underrated. Collaging lets you combine images, textures, and meanings in ways that feel deeply personal. It’s also more forgiving than drawing—no “mistakes,” just artistic choices.
Budget: $15-30 for magazines, glue, and a sketchbook
Performing Arts & Self-Expression
9. Theater & Acting
Acting lets INFPs explore different personas and emotions in a structured environment. If you’re too introverted for full-on theater, try improv classes. I did improv for six months in 2020, and it pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way.
10. Dance
Many INFPs see dance as pure emotional expression. Some of us only dance alone in our rooms (that’s valid). Others join classes. Either way, dance gives your body a way to express what words can’t.
11. Cosplay
Cosplay combines costume design, crafting, acting, and fandom love. For INFPs who geek out over fictional characters, this hobby lets you literally embody those characters. Start small—one character, one outfit. You don’t need professional-grade costumes.
Musical Pursuits
12. Playing an Instrument
Music is deeply emotional for most INFPs. Learning an instrument gives you a skill-based outlet for those emotions. I quit piano as a kid because my teacher was rigid, but I picked up ukulele at 28 and loved it because I could learn at my own pace.
Don’t get discouraged by the learning curve. Give yourself 3-6 months of consistent practice before deciding if it’s for you.
13. Singing
Singing requires zero equipment. It’s just you and your voice. Even if you only sing in the shower, it’s a valid hobby. If you want structure, try apps like Smule or join a local choir.
14. Music Production & Remixing
With free software like GarageBand or Audacity, you can create music without knowing how to play an instrument. This is perfect for INFPs who love music but get frustrated with the mechanics of traditional instruments.
Crafts & Hands-On Activities
15. Knitting, Crochet & Fiber Arts
These crafts are meditative and productive. You end up with something tangible (scarves, blankets, hats) while your mind wanders. I started knitting in 2021 during lockdown, and it became my go-to relaxing hobby for mindfulness activities.
Starting cost: $15-25 for yarn and needles
16. Origami & Paper Crafts
Origami requires minimal supplies but gives you that satisfying feeling of creation. It’s also portable—bring paper anywhere. Try 30-day origami challenges to build consistency.
17. Jewelry Making
Designing jewelry lets you create wearable art. Start with simple beading or wire-wrapping. Once you get the basics, you can sell pieces on Etsy if you want to turn it into a side income.
Nature-Connected Hobbies
18. Gardening
INFPs have an earthy, simplistic quality that draws us to nature. Gardening gives you a living project that grows over time. Start small—a few herbs on your windowsill or a small vegetable garden.
I converted part of my yard to raised beds in 2022. Watching plants grow from seeds I planted is ridiculously satisfying.
19. Hiking & Nature Walks
Getting into nature isn’t just exercise—it’s spiritual for INFPs. You don’t need intense mountain hikes. Even walking through a local park works. The goal is disconnecting from digital noise and reconnecting with yourself.
20. Nature Photography
Combines photography with outdoor time. Bring your camera (or phone) on hikes and capture landscapes, plants, or wildlife. This gives your walks a creative purpose.
21. Foraging & Plant Identification
Learning to identify edible plants, mushrooms, or medicinal herbs turns walks into treasure hunts. Get a good guidebook or use apps like iNaturalist. Always double-check identification before eating anything.
Intellectual & Learning-Based Hobbies
22. Reading
Obviously, right?
But here’s the key: INFPs need to read what we love, not what we think we should read.
I spent years forcing myself through “important” books before realizing I’m happiest reading fantasy, sci-fi, and psychological fiction.
Join book clubs (online or in-person) to add social accountability and discussion to your reading habit.
23. Language Learning
Research shows INFPs have natural advantages in language acquisition because of how our brains process meaning and emotion.
I’ve dabbled in Spanish, Japanese, and French over the years.
Apps like Duolingo give you structured daily practice.
Time commitment: 10-30 minutes daily.
Budget: Free with apps, or $10-30/month for paid courses
24. Collecting Meaningful Items
INFPs collect for sentimental reasons, not monetary value. Coins with history, vintage books, crystals, vinyl records, art prints—whatever resonates with you.
The key is that each item tells a story or connects to your values.
I collect vintage postcards.
Each one represents a moment in someone else’s life, and that connection to human history feels meaningful to me.
Giving Back
25. Volunteering
INFPs are driven by values and making a difference.
Volunteering at animal shelters, food banks, literacy programs, or environmental organizations gives you purpose-driven activity that aligns with your Fi.
Choose causes you genuinely care about.
Don’t volunteer for resume-building—do it because it matters to you.
How to Actually Stick With INFP Hobbies (Lessons from 15 Years of Cycling)
Here’s the reality check: Most of these hobbies won’t stick. And that’s okay.
INFPs cycle through interests. It’s how our Ne works. But if you want to develop real skills and not just bounce from hobby to hobby, here’s what I’ve learned works:
1. Put Hobbies on a Schedule
Pick one hobby. Commit to a specific, realistic schedule. “I will write for 30 minutes every Tuesday and Thursday evening” is better than “I’m going to write every day.” Flexible but regular.
2. Limit Your Investment
Don’t buy all the gear upfront. Start with basics. If you stick with the hobby for 3 months, then invest more. I learned this after my oil painting disaster.
3. Join External Communities
Online communities, local classes, or accountability partners give you external structure. Your Ne needs novelty, but your Fi needs depth. Communities provide both—you can explore within a structured framework.
4. Let Yourself Walk Away
This is crucial.
If a hobby isn’t serving you anymore, it’s okay to stop.
You’re not a quitter. You’re an INFP with evolving interests.
Some hobbies are seasonal. Some are lifelong. You won’t know which is which until you try.
I abandoned painting, but I kept writing. I tried pottery once and hated it. I did improv for six months and loved it but didn’t continue. All of these were valuable experiences.
5. Combine Hobbies
This is the Ne hack.
Can’t choose between photography and hiking? Do nature photography.
Love writing and drawing? Try graphic novels or illustrated journals.
Combining hobbies satisfies both your need for depth and your need for variety.
Common INFP Hobby Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)
Pitfall #1: The Hobby-Hopping Shame Spiral
You start a hobby, get excited, drop it after two weeks, feel guilty, and then that guilt prevents you from trying new things. Stop it. Hobby-hopping is built into your personality. Accept it and build systems around it.
Pitfall #2: Comparing Your Process to Others’ Results
You see someone’s Instagram-perfect artwork or published novel and think, “I’ll never be that good.” Listen: They didn’t start there. And more importantly, your goal isn’t perfection—it’s self-expression and personal growth.
Pitfall #3: Treating Hobbies Like Work
INFPs hate rigid structures, but we also need consistency. The balance is finding hobbies that feel playful even when you’re working at them. If a hobby starts feeling like an obligation, reassess why you’re doing it.
Pitfall #4: Isolating Too Much
We’re introverts, yes. But even introvert hobbies benefit from occasional community. Join online forums, take a class once a month, or just share your work with one trusted friend. Connection feeds our creativity.
Which INFP Hobbies Should You Try First?
If you’re overwhelmed by this list, start here:
If you want immediate emotional release: Journaling or poetry (15 minutes, free)
If you want skill-building with visible progress: Drawing or knitting (30-60 minutes, $20-30)
If you want physical activity with introspection: Yoga or hiking (30-90 minutes, free or low-cost)
If you want social connection with creativity: Book clubs or theater (varies, usually free or low-cost)
If you want digital creative outlets: Photography with your phone or digital art (flexible time, free to start)
Pick one. Commit to two weeks of consistent practice (even just 20 minutes). Then reassess. If it feels forced, try something else. If it feels energizing, keep going.
Final Thoughts: Your Hobbies Don’t Define You (But They Can Reveal You)
Here’s what I wish someone had told me 15 years ago: Your hobbies don’t have to be perfect. They don’t have to become careers. They don’t have to impress anyone.
Hobbies for INFP personalities are about artistic expression, self-discovery, and personal growth. They’re about finding activities that let you be authentically you—whatever that looks like right now.
I’ve tried probably 40+ hobbies over the years. Some lasted a weekend. Some lasted years. A few became lifelong practices. All of them taught me something about myself.
So try things.
Drop things.
Pick them back up.
Combine them.
Whatever you do, don’t let perfectionism or guilt keep you from exploring.
Your INFP brain needs variety and depth.
Give it both.
Now go pick one hobby from this list and start today.
Not tomorrow.
Today.
Even just 15 minutes.
That’s how every hobby journey begins—with one small action.
P.S. — I’m not a therapist or professional MBTI coach. I’m just an INFP-A who’s lived this journey and made every mistake in the book. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and trust your own Fi to guide you.