what is the enneagram?

in the realm of conscious leadership and personal development, the Enneagram stands out as a profound tool for self-awareness and interpersonal growth. Rooted in ancient wisdom and refined through modern psychology, the Enneagram delineates nine distinct personality types, each offering unique insights into our motivations, behaviors, and relational dynamics. unlike other popular typing systems like the meyers-briggs, disc, or big 5, i love the enneagram because of its inherent focus on our core motivations, not just how we show up in different situations. it’s why i became an enneagram specialist.

understanding the enneagram

At its core, the Enneagram is a map of human consciousness, illustrating the diverse ways individuals perceive the world and react to it. The term "Enneagram" derives from the Greek words "ennea" (nine) and "gramma" (something written or drawn), symbolizing a nine-pointed diagram that represents the interconnectedness of these personality types.

Each of the nine types is associated with specific patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, shaped by underlying core fears and desires. By identifying our primary type, we gain clarity on our habitual responses and can embark on a journey toward personal transformation and authentic leadership.

the nine types

1. The Reformer

   Principled and purposeful, Reformers strive for integrity and perfection. They possess a strong sense of right and wrong, often advocating for change and improvement. While their commitment to high standards is commendable, they must be mindful of becoming overly critical or inflexible. 1’s can become very perfection-oriented and obsessive around rules.

2. The Helper

   Caring and interpersonal, Helpers are driven by a desire to be needed and appreciated. They are generous and supportive, often putting others' needs before their own. However, they should be cautious of neglecting self-care and becoming overly dependent on external validation. 2’s can quickly lose themselves while being focused on helping others.

3. The Achiever

   Success-oriented and pragmatic, Achievers are adaptable and excel in setting and accomplishing goals. They are image-conscious and driven by a need for affirmation. It's essential for them to ensure that their pursuit of success aligns with their authentic selves, rather than merely seeking societal approval. 3’s are often seen as the archetypical ceo.

4. The Individualist

   Sensitive and introspective, Individualists seek to understand their identity and are often attuned to the deeper aspects of the human experience. They value authenticity and may feel unique or different from others. Balancing their rich inner world with external realities can help them avoid feelings of melancholy or envy. with 4’s, emotion rules.

5. The Investigator

   Perceptive and cerebral, Investigators are driven by a desire to understand and master their environment. They value knowledge and autonomy, often withdrawing to process information. While their analytical minds are a strength, they should be aware of potential isolation or detachment from emotions. 5’s are amazing at generating clear and concise summaries of complex topics.

6. The Loyalist

   Committed and security-oriented, Loyalists are responsible and value trust. They are adept at anticipating problems and creating contingency plans. However, their vigilance can sometimes lead to anxiety or indecisiveness. Building self-confidence and embracing uncertainty can be transformative for them. if you have a plan a - 6’s will already have plans b, c, and d ready to go.

7. The Enthusiast

   Spontaneous and versatile, Enthusiasts are driven by a desire to experience life to its fullest. They are optimistic and future-oriented, often seeking new adventures. While their zest for life is invigorating, they should be mindful of overextending themselves or avoiding deeper issues. 7’s are your perfect party planner - but will often have three other parties to attend at the same time.

8. The Challenger

   Self-confident and assertive, Challengers are natural leaders who value control and autonomy. They are protective and can be confrontational when defending their beliefs or loved ones. Recognizing the strength in vulnerability and fostering collaboration can enhance their leadership. 8’s are the true ‘shoot, then aim’ personality type.

9. The Peacemaker

   Receptive and agreeable, Peacemakers strive for harmony and avoid conflict. They are adaptable and supportive, often mediating between others. It's important for them to assert their own needs and desires, ensuring they don't become complacent or disconnected from their true selves. i’m a 9, through and through.

the enneagram in conscious leadership

Conscious leadership prioritizes self-awareness, authenticity, and a commitment to personal and collective growth. The Enneagram serves as a valuable framework for leaders to understand their intrinsic motivations and how these influence their leadership style.

• Self-Awareness: By identifying their Enneagram type, leaders can recognize their strengths and potential blind spots. This awareness fosters personal growth and enhances decision-making.

• Empathy and Team Dynamics: Understanding the diverse Enneagram types within a team allows leaders to appreciate different perspectives and communication styles. This insight promotes empathy, reduces conflicts, and cultivates a cohesive work environment.

• Personal Development: The Enneagram highlights areas for growth, encouraging leaders to move beyond automatic behaviors and embrace more conscious, intentional actions.

starting down the path…

The journey with the Enneagram is both enlightening and transformative. It invites individuals to delve deep into their psyche, uncovering patterns that have shaped their lives and leadership styles. By embracing this tool, leaders and organizations can cultivate environments rooted in understanding, empathy, and conscious growth.

As with any model, it's essential to approach the Enneagram with curiosity and openness, recognizing it as a guide rather than a definitive label. Engaging with experienced facilitators and coaches (like myself) can further enrich the exploration, ensuring that the insights gained translate into meaningful action and development.

so… what’s your type?

thanks for being here.

interested in learning more about the enneagram or conscious leadership? reach out!