What is the Enneagram?
The Enneagram is a model of human personality that divides people into nine different types based on their core beliefs, fears, and motivations. These types are represented by a geometric figure called an enneagram, which shows how the different types are interconnected and how they relate to one another. The Enneagram is often used as a tool for personal and spiritual development, as it can help people understand their own personality and how it affects their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
The Enneagram is a complexed and nuanced personality typing system that consist of nine different types, and it can be a useful tool for personal growth and development. According to the Enneagram, each person has a specific personality type, which is determined by the way they see and interact with the world. The nine types are represented by the points on the Enneagram symbol, which is a circle with nine points arranged in a specific pattern. There are also 2 lines that connects to each type and they connect with two other types - one line connects to the type during health (Direction of Integration/Growth), and the other line connects to the type when one is under pressure (Direction of Disintegration/Stress).
In addition to the nine main Enneagram types, the system also includes "subtypes" and "wings." The subtypes are variations within each Enneagram type that are determined by an individual's dominant instincts (for self-preservation, social interaction, or sexual attraction). The wings are the two adjacent Enneagram types that are most closely related to an individual's dominant type, and they can influence an individual's behavior and thought processes.
The 9 Types
Type 1 - The Reformer
People with this personality type tend to be responsible, ethical, and perfectionistic. They have high standards for themselves and others, and can be critical and judgmental when those standards are not met. They are often hardworking and reliable, and take their responsibilities seriously. They may struggle with feelings of anger and resentment, and can have a hard time relaxing and letting go of their perfectionistic tendencies. For more Type 1 information here
Type 2 - The Helper
People with this personality type tend to be caring, generous, and empathetic. They are often attuned to the needs of others and strive to help and support them. They can be very giving and selfless, but can also struggle with codependency and a lack of boundaries. They may have a hard time recognizing and expressing their own needs, and can become overwhelmed by the needs of others. For more Type 2 information go here
Type 3 - The Achiever
People with this personality type tend to be ambitious, success- oriented, and adaptable. They are driven to achieve and often have a strong need for recognition and validation. They can be very motivated and disciplined, but can also be overly concerned with their image and what others think of them. They may struggle with feelings of inadequacy and a fear of failure, and can be overly focused on achieving external success. For more Type 3 information go here
Type 4 - The Individualist
People with this personality type tend to be creative, sensitive, and introspective. They are often self-aware and in touch with their emotions, but can also be moody and self-absorbed. They may struggle with feelings of emptiness and a lack of a sense of identity, and can be sensitive to rejection and criticism. They may also have a tendency to compare themselves to others and feel envious of those who seem to have a clearer sense of self. For more Type 4 information go here
Type 5 - The Investigator (ME!)
People with this personality type tend to be introspective, perceptive, and intellectual. They are often highly independent and value their privacy and solitude. They are also often curious, analytical, and good at problem- solving. They tend to be very self-sufficient and are generally not very emotionally expressive. They may struggle with feelings of detachment and aloofness, and can sometimes have a hard time connecting with others emotionally. For more Type 5 information go here
Type 6 - The Loyalist
People with this personality type tend to be loyal, responsible, and hardworking. They are often reliable and seek security, but can also be anxious and indecisive. They may struggle with self-doubt and a fear of loss or rejection, and can have a tendency to worry excessively. They are generally very good at following rules and procedures, but can also have a hard time expressing their own opinions and standing up for themselves. For more Type 6 information go here
Type 7 - The Enthusiast
People with this personality type tend to be spontaneous, adventurous, and fun-loving. They are energetic and enthusiastic, and often have a wide range of interests and activities. They may struggle with a fear of missing out and a tendency to avoid difficult emotions, and can become scattered and overwhelmed by the many possibilities available to them. They may also have a hard time focusing on and completing tasks, and can be prone to procrastination. For more Type 7 information go here
Type 8 - The Challenger
People with this personality type tend to be confident, decisive, and assertive. They are powerful and self-assured, and are often natural leaders. They may struggle with a tendency to be domineering and confrontational, and can have a hard time admitting when they are wrong. They are often protective of those they care about and are not afraid to take risks and challenge authority. For more Type 8 information go here
Type 9 - The Peacemaker
People with this personality type tend to be easygoing, accommodating, and nonviolent. They are peaceful and unassuming, and often strive to maintain harmony and avoid conflict. They may struggle with a fear of being engulfed or controlled by others, and can have a hard time standing up for themselves and expressing their own needs. They are often very good at mediating conflicts and bringing people together, but can also become passive and complacent. For more Type 9 information go here
Resources
Tests
Websites
- The Enneagram Insititute
- Chestnut Paes Enneagram Academy
- Eclectic Energies
- The Personality Database
- 9types
Podcasts
- Enneagram Five
- Enneagram 2.0 with Beatrice Chestnut and Uranio Paes
- Enneagram Typecast
- Tom Lahue
- The Sleeping at Last