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The Enneagram

As a certified Enneagram Coach, I use the Enneagram extensively in my coaching and trainings. While it isn't a required component of my sessions, I encourage its use. I find it enormously helpful and have seen it accelerate insight and growth. It has had a deep and powerful impact on my life, and I love sharing it with others.

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The following is an overview of the Enneagram:

A Brief History of the Enneagram

The Enneagram’s origins are highly debated. The symbol itself—a nine-pointed geometric figure—dates back to early philosophical and spiritual traditions. Although the exact origins are unclear, the Enneagram was notably explored by the Sufis in the Middle Ages and later by various mystics and scholars.

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The modern Enneagram system was significantly shaped in the 20th century. Oscar Ichazo, a Bolivian philosopher, and Claudio Naranjo, a Chilean psychiatrist, were instrumental in bringing the Enneagram into contemporary psychology. Ichazo developed the concept of the nine personality types, while Naranjo integrated these ideas with modern psychological theory, enriching and expanding the Enneagram framework.

The Nine Enneagram Types: In-Depth Descriptions

Type One

Gifts

Integrity: Reformers are deeply committed to their values and principles, striving to live ethically and improve the world around them.

Discipline: Their high standards and self-control lead them to work diligently and achieve their goals with precision.

Insight: They have a keen eye for detail and are often able to spot inefficiencies or areas for improvement that others might miss.

Challenges

Perfectionism/Correctness: Their quest for flawlessness or doing things the correct way can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction, both with themselves and others.

Rigidity: Type Ones may struggle with flexibility, becoming overly critical or judgmental when things don’t meet their standards.

Self-Criticism: They can be harshly self-critical, which may lead to stress and burnout as they continuously strive for an ideal.

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Overview: Type Ones are characterized by their principled and ethical nature. They possess a strong sense of right and wrong and are driven by a desire to improve themselves and the world around them. They strive for perfection and hold themselves and others to high standards. They are often conscientious and dedicated to their values. Their inner critic can be harsh, leading them to be overly critical of themselves and others when they fall short of their ideals. At their best, Type Ones are wise, discerning, and have a deep sense of integrity. When reactive or unaware, they can become rigid, judgmental, and overly self-restrictive.

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Type Two

Gifts

Empathy: Type Twos are exceptionally good at understanding and responding to the needs of others, creating deep and supportive relationships.

Generosity: Their willingness to give of themselves and their resources makes them reliable and caring friends and partners.

Encouragement: They have a knack for motivating others and helping them feel valued and appreciated.

Challenges

People-Pleasing: Their desire to be loved can lead to neglecting their own needs and boundaries, resulting in burnout and resentment.

Dependency: Type Twos may become overly dependent on others’ approval, leading to feelings of inadequacy if they don’t receive the validation they seek.

Manipulation: In their effort to be indispensable, they may use flattery or other means to secure affection or recognition.

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Overview: Type Twos are often warm, empathetic, and caring individuals who thrive on making others feel appreciated and valued. They are motivated by a deep-seated need to feel essential in the lives of others. Twos are often generous and willing to put their own needs aside to support those they care about. They can have difficulty acknowledging their own needs and might struggle with setting boundaries. At their best, they are nurturing and supportive, fostering deep, meaningful connections. When reactive or unaware, they may become people-pleasing, manipulative, and overly involved in others’ lives to gain approval and validation.

 

Type Three

Gifts

Drive: Achievers are highly motivated and goal-oriented, often achieving great success in their personal and professional lives.

Charisma: Their confidence and ability to adapt to various situations make them persuasive and effective leaders.

Efficiency: They are adept at setting and reaching goals, often finding innovative ways to improve their performance and outcomes.

Challenges

Image-Consciousness: Their focus on success and recognition can lead them to prioritize appearances over authenticity.

Workaholism: Achievers may become so focused on their accomplishments that they neglect personal relationships and self-care.

Fear of Failure: Their deep-seated fear of failure can drive them to overwork or avoid risks, limiting their potential for growth.

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Overview: Threes are dynamic, goal-oriented, and driven individuals who seek success and recognition. They are highly motivated by a desire to excel and be recognized for their accomplishments. Type Threes are often charismatic and excel in their pursuits, whether in their careers, personal life, or other areas. They are adept at presenting themselves in the best possible light and can adapt their image to fit various situations. At their best, they are inspiring and effective leaders. However, they can become overly focused on their image and achievements, leading to competitiveness, deceitfulness, and a constant need for external validation when they are reactive or unaware.

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The Symbol

The Enneagram symbol is a geometric figure that represents the nine different personality types in the Enneagram system. The symbol is composed of three main parts: a circle, a triangle, and a hexagon (or irregular hexad). ​

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Here's a breakdown of each component:

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The Circle

The outer circle of the Enneagram represents unity, wholeness, and the idea that all the different personality types are interconnected and part of a larger system. It symbolizes the entirety of human experience and the continuum of consciousness.​

The Triangle (Inner Equilateral Triangle)

The inner triangle connects points 3, 6, and 9. It represents the Law of Three, a concept that suggests that three forces (active, passive, and neutral) are necessary for any process or creation. In the context of the Enneagram, these points (3, 6, and 9) are thought to represent fundamental aspects of reality or the triadic nature of human experience (such as thinking, feeling, and doing).​

 

The Hexad (Irregular Hexagon)

The hexad connects the remaining six points in a sequence: 1, 4, 2, 8, 5, and 7. This shape is often associated with the Law of Seven, which is a concept referring to the process of change and transformation. The sequence reflects a pattern of energy or movement, and within the context of personality, it represents the dynamic interplay between different types.

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Understanding the Enneagram Symbol in Practice

The nine points on the Enneagram circle correspond to nine distinct personality types, each with its own way of perceiving and interacting with the world. These points are numbered 1 through 9 and arranged in a clockwise manner around the circle.

Each type is connected to two other types by lines, which indicate potential directions of Ego stability/growth or Ego uncertainty/stress. For example, Type 1 is connected to Types 4 and 7, indicating where a Type 1 might move under certain conditions.

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Overall Significance

The Enneagram symbol, with its intricate geometry, illustrates the complexity and interconnectedness of human personality. It is used not only to identify an individual's dominant type but also to provide insights into personal development, relationships, and spiritual growth. The figure symbolizes the potential for transformation and balance.

Type Four

Gifts

Creativity: Type Fours have a rich inner world and a strong sense of aesthetics, leading to unique and innovative ideas and expressions.

Depth: They are capable of profound emotional insights and can offer deep understanding and empathy to others.

Authenticity: Their desire to be true to themselves fosters an environment of genuine self-expression and individuality.

Challenges

Self-Indulgence: Their focus on their own emotional experiences can lead to self-absorption and difficulty in maintaining practical responsibilities.

Envy: They may struggle with feelings of envy when they perceive others as having something they lack, leading to dissatisfaction.

Isolation: Their need for personal significance can result in feeling misunderstood or disconnected from others.

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Overview: Type Fours are introspective, creative, and emotionally expressive. They seek to understand their own unique identity and to experience life in a deep, meaningful way. They often feel a sense of being different from others and are drawn to exploring their emotions and artistic expressions. Fours value authenticity and personal depth, often experiencing feelings of longing and melancholy. At their best, they are self-aware and inspirational, contributing unique perspectives to the world. When reactive or unaware, they can become self-absorbed, overly sensitive, and prone to feelings of envy and inadequacy, superiority, or swings between both.

 

Type Five

Gifts

Insight: Type Fives have a natural ability to analyze and understand complex concepts, contributing valuable knowledge and perspective.

Independence: Their self-reliance and intellectual curiosity allow them to explore and innovate without needing external validation.

Objectivity: They are often able to approach situations with detachment and impartiality, providing clear and logical solutions.

Challenges

Detachment: Their tendency to withdraw from emotional engagement can lead to feelings of isolation and difficulty in forming close relationships.

Overthinking: Fives may become bogged down by excessive analysis or researching, resulting in procrastination or indecision.

Privacy: Their need for privacy can sometimes lead to secrecy or aloofness, making it difficult for others to understand their true needs or intentions.

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Overview: Fives are perceptive, analytical, and curious individuals who seek knowledge and understanding. They are motivated by a need to be capable and to understand the underlying principles of the world. Type Fives tend to be independent and value their privacy, often withdrawing into their thoughts and research. They are skilled at analyzing complex concepts and have a deep appreciation for learning. When at their best, they are insightful and innovative, making significant contributions through their understanding. When reactive or unaware, they can become overly detached and fearful of being overwhelmed or drained by their own or others’ needs.

 

Type Six

Gifts

Loyalty: Sixes are steadfast and reliable, providing strong support and commitment to their relationships and responsibilities.

Preparedness: Their ability to anticipate problems and plan accordingly makes them excellent at managing risk and ensuring security.

Support: They are often seen as dependable and trustworthy, creating a safe and stable environment for others.

Challenges:

Anxiety: Their tendency to anticipate potential problems can lead to excessive worry and fear, impacting their overall well-being. This ability to anticipate potential problems can also lead to reckless, impulsive action to avoid or defeat fear.

Skepticism: Type Sixes may struggle with distrust and self-doubt, affecting their ability to fully engage with others and new experiences.

Indecisiveness: Their desire to avoid mistakes can lead to hesitation and difficulty in making decisions, especially under pressure.

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Overview: Sixes are committed, responsible, and security-oriented individuals who value stability and reliability. They seek a sense of security through loyal relationships and support systems. Type Sixes are known for their dedication to their communities and their ability to anticipate potential problems. They often struggle with anxiety and some Sixes may hold back while others may jump in headlong to avoid acknowledging that anxiety and fear are right around the corner. Sixes deeply value trust and can have mixed feelings about those in authority. At their best, they are trustworthy and supportive, fostering strong, reliable connections. When reactive or unaware, they can become overly anxious, indecisive, and skeptical, often seeking safety in rigid structures and becoming distrustful of others.

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Type Seven

Gifts

Optimism: Type Sevens have a positive outlook and a zest for life, often inspiring others with their energy and enthusiasm.

Versatility: Their ability to embrace new experiences and ideas makes them adaptable and resourceful in various situations.

Joyfulness: They have a knack for finding and creating joy, contributing to a lively and engaging environment.

Challenges

Escapism: Their tendency to avoid pain or discomfort can lead to escapism, causing them to overlook important issues or responsibilities.

Scattered Focus: Sevens may struggle with commitment, becoming distracted by new opportunities and failing to follow through on projects.

Impulsiveness: Their desire for excitement can result in impulsive decisions or scattered behavior, impacting their long-term stability.

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Overview: Sevens are spontaneous, energetic, and optimistic individuals who seek excitement and new experiences. They are motivated by a desire to enjoy life and avoid pain or limitations. Type Sevens are often fun-loving and adventurous, with a knack for finding the silver lining in any situation. They have a wide range of interests and are adept at multitasking. At their best, they are joyful and inspiring, bringing enthusiasm to those around them. However, when reactive or unaware, they can become scattered, impulsive, and avoidant of deeper issues, focusing instead on constant stimulation and distraction.

 

Type Eight

Gifts

Strength: Eights are assertive and decisive, often taking charge and driving positive change with their confidence and leadership.

Protectiveness: They are protective of those they care about, ensuring their well-being and advocating for their needs.

Courage: Their willingness to confront challenges and stand up for their beliefs makes them powerful and influential leaders.

Challenges

Domineering: Their strong need for control can lead to domineering or confrontational behavior, potentially alienating others.

Impatience: Type Eights may become impatient or intolerant of perceived weakness, leading to conflicts and strained relationships.

Vulnerability: Their fear of being vulnerable or appearing weak can hinder their ability to connect on a deeper emotional level.

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Overview: Eights are assertive, confident, and decisive individuals who value autonomy and power. They are motivated by a desire to maintain control and to assert their influence over their environment. Type Eights are natural leaders who are not afraid to confront challenges and take charge of situations. They are often protective of those they care about and value strength and resilience. At their best, they are empowering and courageous, driving positive change. When reactive or unaware, they can become confrontational, domineering, and overly aggressive, driven by fear of being weak or controlled.

 

Type Nine

Gifts

Calm: Nines have a natural ability to create a sense of tranquility and harmony, often diffusing conflicts and bringing people together.

Acceptance: Their open-minded and accepting nature allows them to appreciate diverse perspectives and foster inclusivity.

Adaptability: They are often flexible and willing to go along with others’ preferences, making them easy to get along with.

Challenges

Avoidance: Their desire to avoid conflict can lead to procrastination or avoidance of important issues, resulting in unresolved problems.

Inertia: Nines may struggle with inertia and complacency, finding it difficult to initiate change or take decisive action.

Neglect of Self: Their focus on maintaining peace can cause them to neglect their own needs and desires, leading to feelings of dissatisfaction.

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Overview: Type Nines are easygoing, accepting, and accommodating individuals who seek to maintain harmony and avoid conflict. They are motivated by a desire for inner and outer peace and often have a calming presence. Nines value comfort and tend to go with the flow, seeking to minimize tension and create a sense of unity. They are supportive and able to see multiple perspectives, making them effective mediators. At their best, they are serene and harmonious, promoting tranquility in their surroundings. When reactive or unaware, they can become complacent, disengaged, and resistant to change, avoiding conflict to the point of neglecting their own needs and desires.

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Understanding your Enneagram type can offer profound insights into your behavior and relationships. It can also guide you in personal development and improve your interactions with others. Dive deeper into each type, discover your own Enneagram profile, and start your journey toward greater self-awareness and growth.

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Interested in exploring more about your Enneagram type? Schedule a typing session to start your Enneagram journey.

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