The Enneagram is a compelling model that helps us identify how we view, experience, and act in the world. Once you use this powerful and practical tool to find your Enneagram type, it’s hard to ignore its impact. For many, discovering ourselves more deeply, with our eyes wide open, is life-changing. I’ve been teaching and using the Enneagram in my personal and professional life for over three decades. Seriously, just the other day I discovered more about a particular type’s perspective that surprised me. It’s exciting that I keep learning more about myself and others. Someone once told me that the Enneagram is holographic in nature, I think it’s a solid analogy. Studying self and others is a lifelong journey. Often, I want to take a break, then I remember it’s a gift to be on this road with so many amazing people. If you are reading this, you’re probably on the journey too.
Along the self-discovery/self-development road, you’ll find that a great deal of transformation happens if you are intentional about the work. For those already familiar with the Enneagram, here is one insight /developmental approach for each type, and I’d love to know what’s been helpful for you.
Type 1 (The Perfectionist)
Relax just for today. See how many times you can accept yourself a little bit more. When self- or other judgment arises, and it will, gently remember there is perfection and imperfection in each moment. Breathe and remember it’s a natural occurrence.
Type 2 (The Giver) What if, just for today, you ponder, “What do I want?” Remember, you might just be able to give yourself what you need — you know, like you do for others. Take a moment to remember that others’ needs don’t have to be met by you alone, and you can always ask for what you want. Maybe you’ll get it, maybe not, but what if you got it sometimes?
Type 3 (The Performer)
Wander through the day noticing that not everything on your to-do list is so important that it needs to be done now; that things are moving quite nicely without your effort. There’s great stuff on your list, things that deserve to be done, but it’s so important to remember: the sun came up, and it set, and you didn’t have to do one thing.
Type 4 (The Romantic)
Today, notice it’s a special day just as it is. Maybe today is a little boring, or maybe it’s charged with emotion. Either way is OK. Remember, both have their uniqueness when you notice that one moment, special or not, will flow into the next.
Type 5 (The Observer)
Reach out to someone you care about, someone new, or a former friend. Chat about how life is going for them and for you. See if you get an energy charge from it. Observe that the energy it takes to connect might not deplete you; you might be surprised.
Type 6 (The Loyal Skeptic)
Today, focus on accepting your concerns and realize that doubt can be normal. In my estimation, it’s a part of the whole situation. Fear is sometimes helpful, just not all the time, and not when you believe that your fears are 100% true or allow them to close you off to a positive outcome or possibility. You can use your doubt to doubt the doubt. It’s always useful to me as a fellow Six. Remember what we resist persists.
Type 7 (The Epicure)
Ok, time to go in slow motion for the day. Perhaps you could make a short to-do list and follow it to a T, notice your thoughts as they jump around and want to imagine the future, and gently bring yourself back to the task and moment at hand. There’s no need for “next” today. I wonder what you’ll find.
Type 8 (The Boss)
Make today a gentle day. See if you can self-monitor your energy, intensity, and impulses. Use the appropriate amount for whatever the day brings. See if you can release the need to control prematurely. Look at life from the vantage point of innocence.
Type 9 (The Mediator)
Just for today, you are focused, clear, and in sync with what you want and need to do today. Watch for the need to divert yourself from you and your agenda, no need to be stubborn. Rather, set some boundaries so that both your agenda and others’ agendas are met.
This is just a small glimpse into how the Enneagram can help us continue to understand ourselves more deeply.
Did any of these suggestions resonate with you? Did something surprise you or make you see yourself in a new way? I’d love to hear what you discovered.
Mary Anne Wampler
PRINCIPAL, TRANSFORM, INC.