As part of our overall health, being transparent about what is holding us back and uncovering our personal roadblocks are some of the best things we can do for ourselves, for our families, and in the workplace. The Enneagram does just that. It is a personality tool that helps us get emotionally healthy.
There are many personality systems that tell us who or what we are, but the Enneagram is very different. It tells us the WHY behind our motivations, tells how we are triggered, and reveals subconscious fears that are keeping us from moving forward. It doesn’t put you in a box but shows you the box you have been in. It then gives you steps for how to get out.
The Enneagram is made up of nine different types. Everyone has one core type as their dominant personality. Here is a brief overview of them:
Type 1: The Moral Perfectionist
These people are driven by wanting to be seen as good, moral, and ethical. They have high standards and always strive to do things the right way. They are typically orderly, methodical, and diligent. They tend to have an inner critic that is relentless and always showing them how they can improve. They bring structure to the world.
Type 2: The Supportive Advisor
They are driven by wanting to feel needed. They are the “helpers” of the world and always look for ways they can be supporting other people. They are relationship driven and are observant of the needs of others. They give a lot of themselves and tend to struggle with setting healthy boundaries. They are genuinely caring individuals who are in tune with the ways they can serve others.
Type 3: The Successful Achiever
Successful Achievers are driven by accomplishments and wanting to be seen as successful in everything they do. At times they can be workaholics and believe that they are only as good as what they achieve or how they are perceived. They are image conscious and may put effort into being physically fit, being in style, and having the appearance of having it all together. Threes see what can be and go after big goals to accomplish things in life.
Type 4: The Romantic Individualist
The Fours are driven by wanting to be unique and different. They have their own twist on things such as the kind of car they drive, their clothing style, and their home decor. They are deeply in tune with their emotions and struggle with feelings of being insignificant. They tend to believe the lie that they are fundamentally flawed while the rest of the world has it together. Fours have the amazing ability to see beauty in things that others miss, and they appreciate art and nature more than others.
Type 5: The Investigative Thinker
Type Fives are driven by the need to be knowledgeable and informed. They want to be clear minded and don’t want obligations placed on them by others. They do a lot of research and gain their self-esteem from their intellect and the ability to be self-sufficient. They are aware of the amount of energy they have and are mindful of when they need to recharge. Because of this, they can be stingy with their time and their conversations. At their best, they are objective, insightful experts in their chosen field.
Type 6: The Loyal Guardian
Sixes are centered around relationships, loyalty, and feeling a sense of belonging. They lean on having a trusted authority figure. They do not have to be in charge but find security in someone who is. They can struggle with anxiety and always thinking about the worst-case scenario. At their best, they are engaging and loyal and dedicated to people and groups.
Type 7: The Entertaining Optimist
Type Sevens are the life of the party and exhibit optimism, energy, and enthusiasm. They are driven by fun experiences and wanting to be seen as an outgoing person. They like to be involved in everything and have a true fear of missing out. They also fear being trapped in emotional pain and having to address their feelings. They tend to respond with humor to avoid emotions. When emotionally healthy, they bring life to others, are creative, and help people see possibilities they may miss.
Type 8: The Protective Challenger
Eights bring an intensity and energy to the world. They have an honest, blunt communication style and proudly call it like it is. They go after what they want and will not back down when challenged. They have a strong need to speak up against injustice and will fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. They can be excessive and intimidating, and struggle to restrain their anger. They can be protective, compassionate leaders who take charge and make an impact in the world.
Type 9: The Peaceful Mediator
Nines want to keep peace and have harmony in all of their relationships. They like a calm atmosphere and want to avoid conflict at all costs. They are great listeners, are patient, and take time in everything they do. They fear being overlooked and desire to know that they matter to others. When they are emotionally healthy, they are great connectors and able to mediate and restore harmony.
Once you know where you lie on the spectrum, you can work with your strengths to bring fulfillment and happiness to your life and relationships.
If you’re unsure of your Enneagram number, go to Moniquescrip.com to take a free test to uncover your personal roadblocks.
Bio: Monique Scrip is a wife, mom of 3 boys, and certified Enneagram leadership coach. She is the owner of Monique Scrip Coaching, where she works alongside business owners and individuals to train them in leadership and overcoming roadblocks.
