We did a fascinating Enneagram survey about how the different Types were coping with the pandemic. We began sending it out in March, towards the beginning of COVID. Maybe you participated and were wondering about what we learned. The results were fruitful, interesting and plentiful. We are just beginning to sort out the next phase of the project – STAY TUNED.
Here’s just a little taste of the feedback we gained about practices and resources helpful in the midst of COVID. These are great suggestions no matter what your type.
An amalgamation of a few of the ideas we heard:
TYPE 1:
- Scheduling time for things I want to do, not just what I have to do.
- Getting outside. Focusing on what I can control – making plans and thinking through all of my choices/options.
- Meditation and prayer.
TYPE 2:
- Trying to be helpful in the small ways that I can be.
- Being outside, creative adventures with kids.
- FaceTime get-togethers with friends.
TYPE 3:
- Making sure I have balance between work and relaxation.
- Clearing out my head by going to the dog park.
- Scaling back expectations. Gratitude.
TYPE 4:
- Journaling. Walking in nature. Deep talks with close friends and loved ones.
- Rituals.
- Stepping up to my regular duties. Showing up.
TYPE 5:
- Making collages, planting my garden.
- Exercise. A break from my head and physical exhaustion.
- Eating healthy. Positive self-talk. Reading as a distraction from thinking.
TYPE 6:
- Journaling. Writing down what I’m feeling – written down, it’s never as bad as it was in my head.
- Staying away from too much media and social media.
- Staying connected to the relationships I can count on.
TYPE 7:
- Live streaming yoga classes – need to feel the live connection and energy exchange.
- Watching funny shows or movies. My happy vacation playlist.
- Making plans.
TYPE 8:
- Sleep. Routine. Working out. Prayer.
- A project list and to do list are helpful to keep me going when I feel useless. Starting a garden.
- Audiobooks.
TYPE 9:
- Being honest with myself and others about my feelings and thoughts.
- Moving my body.
- Maintaining lists to keep my focus and not numb out.
As we continue to navigate this crazy terrain, we hope these ideas get you thinking and help you act in ways that support each of you.
You’ll be the first to hear about our “next steps” with all this data we gathered.
Until then, take great care of yourself, your family and your colleagues. And let us know what you find most helpful.
