u/LayerUponLayerUpon

I have been thinking lately about a subject frequently discussed among INFJs: the feeling that others typically misunderstand or even avoid us. This has been a constant perception of mine in almost every group I've joined. However, one thing that isn't talked about as eagerly is our own role in this dynamic (which may well be a blind spot or a trait one must struggle with for a lifetime): the tendency to be appalled by "normal" life and "normal" people.

As time goes by and I get to know myself better, it becomes increasingly interesting to observe myself objectively within different social dynamics: work, family, religious community etc. There is one theme that pervades almost every interaction: I am very impatient with people in real life, and I get easily annoyed by their flaws. I frequently ask myself: Why can't I enjoy life—in all its stupidity—the same way others do? Sometimes, I can't even maintain a poker face to pretend that the things they say or do are acceptable to me. Or I am unable to find anything interesting to say and spark a conversation. Consequently, I feel I am perceived as a dull and monotonous person or, even worse, as arrogant and grumpy.

I can't tolerate people who brag, laugh too loudly, enjoy superfluous small talk, are overly flattering, are lazy and irresponsible at work, yawn heartily in front of others, bask in the limelight, take credit for work they haven't done, fail to acknowledge others' contributions to a project, treat those from disadvantaged backgrounds as invisible or unworthy of investment, or deny that there are people out there who were given less chances to find inner peace.

However, when my Fe is activated (perhaps after a deep conversation or after receiving proof that I am appreciated), I generally become much more tolerant of these very same traits. Unfortunately, I am rarely able to tap into that "well of generosity" without some external help.

So I am asking you: Have you ever found a real solution to this issue, other than simply deciding you don't need people in your life? Have you been able to accommodate others' personalities and quirks with more ease?

After 2 years of birth control and some disordered eating and stress, I had hypothalamic amenorrhea for one year. I recovered my period one year ago, but my cycles have been long and irregular ever since. Most of them have lasted over 40 days. However, I do not have PCOS, as my endocrinologist concluded.

Has anyone else dealt with this problem? And have your cycles ever become regular?

For women with osteoporosis, especially younger women, how did your body change after following the strength training and diet recommendations from your doctors? Did you lose or gain weight, notice changes in your appearance or body composition, or feel physically better or worse overall? I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in my 30s and I’m curious about other people’s experiences.