Close

Divorce Survival Tips for ISFP Personality Types

The ISFP personality is introverted, sensing, feeling, and perceiving.

ISFPs tend to be creative, unique, passionate individuals with open minds and sensitive souls. Because they dwell so much on their emotions, they are prone to stress and, in some cases, problems with low self-esteem. Fiercely private yet warm and down-to-earth, ISFPs can be hard to get to know, but they usually have a devoted (yet small) circle of friends who cherish their empathy and loyalty.

Learn about the Myers-Briggs test and the other 15 personality types.

Tips for handling divorce as an ISFP

Safeguard your temper

ISFPs are thoughtful and perceptive, and due to their sensitive nature, they don’t always take criticism well. Remember, however, that any criticism your ex hurls your way is a symptom of the failed marriage, not a symptom of your failure as a human being. 

When you feel your blood begin to boil during interactions with your soon-to-be-ex—during settlement negotiations, for example—step back from the situation. Take three deep, calming breaths. If at all possible, return to the negotiating table later, when your mind has cleared.

Make a to-do list for your divorce

Long-term planning is not a strength for ISFPs, who tend to live sensually and in the moment. But divorce is a detailed process with lots of paperwork, dates, and deadlines, and you don’t want to miss any of those dates or deadlines. So, find a way to get yourself organized. We’ve got some free resources for you: Check out the Hello Divorce pre-leaving checklist, settlement agreement checklist, and post-divorce checklist for starters.

Stay in touch with the outer world

The emotional pain of divorce can push some introverts to retreat even further into themselves. It’s okay to step back from society for a while, and we encourage you to prioritize your downtime. (See below.) But don’t lose touch with the outer world completely. 

As you grieve and heal, consider joining a divorce support group where you can meet other people in similar situations. The interaction just might give you a lift, and many support groups are online these days — which means you can connect with others without having a face-to-face meeting.

Prioritize your downtime

Although ISFPs love and cherish their friends and family, they need time by themselves to rest and rejuvenate. Well-meaning friends and family may reach out to you even more than usual at a time like this. They may invite you to talk, hang out, or go out. 

But a rigorous social calendar is likely not what you want or need right now. Thank them for their efforts, and know they’re not trying to crowd you; they’re only trying to help. Then, proceed with your alone time, where you get to just relax and be yourself for a while.

Express yourself creatively

As an ISFP, creativity is an integral part of who you are. You’re undoubtedly going through some heavy stuff right now, so use your talent for self-expression as a creative release. Grab your journal and write. Grab your sketchbook and draw. Dance around in your kitchen to music that moves you. (You might enjoy Hello Divorce’s Spotify playlist) Releasing pent-up emotions will lighten your load and set the stage for better times to come.

Recommended reading for ISFPs

Conclusion

Divorce is a  heavy load for an ISFP, which is why we created Hello Divorce. We strive to make your divorce journey lighter and more bearable by providing a one-stop shop that features access to caring professionals, carefully engineered divorce software, and free online resources. 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Head of Content
Communication, Relationships, Personal Growth, Mental Health
As Hello Divorce's Head of Content, Katie is dedicated to breaking down the stress and mess of divorce into clear, helpful content that delivers hope rather than fear. Katie most often writes about the emotional toll of divorce, self-care and mindfulness, and effective communication. Katie has 20+ years of experience in content development and management, specializing in compelling consumer-facing content that helps people live better lives. She has a Master's in Media Studies from the University of Wisconsin. Katie lives in Texas with her husband and two adorable cats, and you can find her hiking and bird watching in her free time.