Every few years, a new personality assessment emerges that resonates so profoundly it feels almost magical. For quite some time, the spotlight was on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). However, in recent months, social media has been abuzz with discussions about the Enneagram types. If you’re now keen to dive deeper into the Enneagram descriptions, you’ve come to the right place.
A Brief Overview
The Enneagram Institute, founded in 1997 by experts Don Richard Riso and Ross Hudson, aims to provide insights into self-awareness and interpersonal understanding. To uncover your type, you can take the Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator (RHETI). But before you do, let’s explore the nine distinct Enneagram types.
The Nine Enneagram Types
Much like other personality assessments, the Enneagram identifies how individuals perceive and navigate the world around them. Understanding your own perspective can lead to healthier relationships with both yourself and others. It’s important to note that while you may identify with one primary type, you might also exhibit traits from others.
Here are the nine types:
- Type 1: The Reformer
- Rational and idealistic, Reformers are principled, purposeful, and perfectionistic. They love structure, often keeping planners and striving for intentionality in their relationships. However, they can be overly focused on flaws and struggle to enjoy life when things aren’t precise. Others may perceive them as critical.
- Careers: Teacher, Business Coach, Guidance Counselor.
- Type 2: The Helper
- Caring and interpersonal, Helpers are known for their generous and nurturing nature. They thrive on being needed, which can lead to possessiveness. Their sensitivity often makes them more emotional than other types.
- Careers: Psychotherapist, Doula, Social Worker.
- Type 3: The Achiever
- Driven and success-oriented, Achievers are adaptive and image-conscious. They inspire others with their charm and confidence, often embodying the role of a cheerleader.
- Careers: Marketer, Entrepreneur, Surgeon.
- Type 4: The Individualist
- Sensitive and somewhat withdrawn, Individualists are dramatic and introspective. They are highly creative and emotionally connected.
- Careers: Actor, Personal Trainer, Hair Stylist.
- Type 5: The Investigator
- Known for their intense and cerebral nature, Investigators are curious and innovative. They relish solitude and constantly seek knowledge.
- Careers: Engineer, Author, Mathematician.
- Type 6: The Loyalist
- Committed and security-oriented, Loyalists value familiarity and safety. While they can be anxious, they are also compassionate and dependable.
- Careers: Health and Safety Engineer, Security Guard, Police Officer.
- Type 7: The Enthusiast
- Fun-loving and spontaneous, Enthusiasts are social butterflies who adapt easily to new environments. Their positive energy is infectious, though they can also be easily distracted.
- Careers: Artist, Travel Writer, Publicist.
- Type 8: The Challenger
- Natural leaders, Challengers are self-confident and decisive. They advocate for their beliefs but can become confrontational when seeking control.
- Careers: Lawyer, Politician, Director.
- Type 9: The Peacemaker
- Easygoing and good-natured, Peacemakers are non-judgmental listeners who value stability and home life. However, they risk complacency.
- Careers: Social Worker, Psychiatrist, Librarian.
Rare and Challenging Types
According to a study on Enneagram distribution, Type 8 (The Challenger) is the rarest, followed by Type 5 (The Investigator) and Type 2 (The Helper). The most common type is Type 9 (The Peacemaker). While every type has its challenges, many believe that being a Type 4 can be particularly tough due to their heightened sensitivity.
Understanding Your Enneagram Wing
Your wings are the numbers adjacent to your primary type. For instance, if you identify as Type 3, your wings would be Type 2 and Type 4. One may be more dominant than the other, and you can discover which by taking an online test that analyzes your scores.
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Summary
The Enneagram provides a fascinating framework for understanding personality types. Each of the nine types offers unique insights into behavior and relationships, making it a powerful tool for personal growth and connection. Whether you identify with a specific type or find elements of several, the Enneagram can enhance your self-awareness and interpersonal interactions.