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ENNEAGRAM

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ENNEAGRAM

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A Guide to Self-Understanding

 

On the journey of self-discovery, a variety of methods and tools can serve as powerful guides. One of the most insightful among them is the Enneagram. But what exactly is the Enneagram? How can it support us in gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves—and of others? In this blog, we’ll explore the profound layers of this ancient yet ever-relevant system for mapping human personality and inner dynamics.

 

The Origins of the Enneagram

 

The Enneagram has roots in ancient traditions, but its modern use emerged in the 1960s and 1970s. Its exact origin remains a subject of debate, though it is widely accepted that the system is influenced by Sufi mysticism, Judaism, Christianity, and modern psychology.

The word "Enneagram" comes from the Greek “ennea,” meaning “nine,” and “gramma,” meaning “figure” or “drawing.” It refers to the nine points of the star-shaped diagram used to represent the nine Enneagram personality types.

 

The Nine Personality Types

 

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Enneagram is the way it categorizes individuals into nine core personality types, each with its own motivations, fears, character traits, and behavioral patterns. These types are often represented by the numbers 1 through 9, each symbolizing a distinct set of tendencies and qualities. For example, Type 1 is often described as the Perfectionist, while Type 9 is known as the Peacemaker. Discovering your own personality type can be a powerful revelation, shedding light on how you perceive yourself and engage with the world around you..

 

Self-Exploration Through the Enneagram

 

The Enneagram goes beyond simply defining personality types—it also offers a path toward personal growth and self-understanding. By identifying your core personality type, you can begin to explore the thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors that shape your way of being. Through this awareness, you can start to address areas where you face challenges and cultivate your natural strengths.

 

Relationships and the Enneagram

 

Another fascinating dimension of the Enneagram is its application to interpersonal relationships. By understanding other people's personality types, you can better grasp their motivations, reactions, and needs. This can lead to more harmonious relationships by reducing misunderstandings and fostering effective communication. For example, a Type 2, known as the Helper, may be more inclined to recognize and support the needs of a Type 5, who is often seen as introverted and reserved.

 

Using the Enneagram in Various Contexts

 

The Enneagram has applications across a wide range of fields, from therapy and personal coaching to human resources management and organizational development. Many companies use the Enneagram as a tool for leadership development and team building, helping employees better understand one another and enhance their collaboration. Additionally, it is widely used in educational settings to improve relationships between teachers and students, and to encourage personal growth among learners.

 

A Journey Toward Self-Knowledge

 

The Enneagram offers a fascinating path to self-knowledge and understanding of others. By learning about the nine personality types and exploring our own patterns of thought and behavior, we can embark on a rewarding journey toward personal growth and deeper, more meaningful relationships with those around us. Whether you're looking to improve your personal life, professional path, or relationships, the Enneagram can be a powerful tool to guide you along the way.

​

Application of the Enneagram:

  • Career Orientation  

  • Skills Assessment  

  • Foundation for Personal and Professional Coaching  

  • Team Management  

  • Mediation and Negotiation  

  • Recruitment

​

The Enneagram is a tool for anticipation, communication, acceptance, growth, and transformation.​​​​​​

What is an enneagram made of?

 The Circle

Cercle.jpeg

  • The circle is the symbol of repetition.

  • Common symbol of unit and cyclic process

  • Corresponds to linear thinking

The Triangle

  • The Triangle symbolic representation of the 3 complementary forces.

  • Symbol representing the Trinity in different religions

  • Corresponds to spiritual thought and unity

The Exade

  • The Exade figure with 6 points which connects points 1, 4, 2, 8, 5, 7

  • Symbol based on the number 7

  • because when we divide 1/7 it gives 0.1428571 to infinity

  • The sequence 142857 is always the same when dividing by 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 9

Some examples:

  • 1/7= 0.142857 2/7= 0.285714 - 4/7= 0.571428 - 5/7= 0.714285 - 6/7= 0.857142 - 8/7= 1.142857 - 9/7= 1.285714

How is personality broken down?

 

In Enneagram terms, personality is defined as follows:

Dominanter Enneatyp

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Hauptflügel

Sekundärer Flügel

Desintegrations-Enneatyp

Integrations-Enneatyp

The Map is not the Territory

 

At birth, and in our first years of existence, our survival depends entirely on our environment, about which we know little and over which we have little or no influence.

It is from our experiences and perceptions as a child that our understanding of the world will begin to be built. Our perceptions according to our experiences are only illusions because they have been shaped by your environment. Would your beliefs and values be the same if you had grown up elsewhere in the world?

 

The levels of existence of the personality

 

The human personality is mainly deployed on three levels:

 

  1. The Unconscious (the essence): which is the center of habit expressing all of our potentials and our blockages

  2. The physical body is the envelope that houses the central consciousness (body/mind are part of the same system).

  3. The conscious (ego): which is the seat of doubt, analysis, criticism, judgment and reflection.

 

Understanding the Levels of Existence of Personality

 

ESSENCE

Before the influence of the environment

in perfect harmony

Without internal conflicts, nor with others

Feeling of fullness and completeness

BODY

Creation of dependency

Adapt and live with the imposed reality.

Silencing your intuitions and feelings

The child must come out of his imagination

EGO

We create the illusion that we need something external to feel complete and whole.

Generation of desires and fears

Die Existenzebenen der Persönlichkeit verstehen

Installation of the

defense mechanisms search for love mark, installation of belief, setting up of meta, program to satisfy values

Perception of the environment

and its dangers

Structuring what is perceived as chaos.

Survival Strategy

and adaptation

Interpretation of the world

and loss of authenticity

What we must be

What we must do

installation of dependency to avoid rejection from peers/society

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INSTINCTIVE CENTER: 8 9 1

  • Physical and psychological survival

  • Spontaneous acts

  • Physical coordination

  • Energy to act

  • Creativity in action

  • Comparison of past and present

  • Anger

THE REPTILIAN BRAIN

What the main door and this center have difficulty in following a clear plan and sticking to it. This part of the brain would be mainly responsible for some primary behaviors such as hatred, fear, hostility towards those who do not belong to the same group of belonging as oneself, the survival instinct, territoriality, the need to live in a group, trust in a Leader.

MENTAL CENTER: 5 6 7

  • Reasoning, logical analysis

  • Study of possibilities

  • Choices and decisions

  • Planning

  • Creative imagination

  • Future

  • Fears

THE NEOCORTEX

This center is there to think and reflect.

He seeks to have information and

to rationalize life.

Very future oriented.

This future, which is unknown and unpredictable, constantly plunges them into fear. Internally, they can often feel isolated and confused.

The search for meaning, or for meaning, is often privileged

EMOTIONAL CENTER: 2 3 4

  • My emotions

  • My wants & needs

  • Adapting to the emotions of others

  • Emotional Creativity

  • In the present moment

  • Who am I?

  • Picture

THE LIMBICON BRAIN

The emotional center places the relationship with others at the heart of life. This is indeed the heart that is in question. With it, it is about feeling.

It is the place of emotions and affectivity, the engine of desires and relationships.

It works in the present moment and in this here, and now poses the question of identity:

The hierarchy of centers

1. THE FAVORITE CENTER

Which we tend to use, including in situations, it is not the best choice.

2. THE CENTER REPRESSED

That we underuse, not calling on him, in cases where he would be best able to respond

3. THE SUPPORT CENTER

Which we underuse and which is the

third center enjoying an

intermediate status

the characteristics of the types

The Nine Personality Types:

 

  • Nine central motivations.

  • Nine ways to manage our vital energy.

  • Nine different world views

  • Nine very different ways of interacting with this one common to all

 

Each of the nine types identified, gives its limitations, these ways of thinking and acting. Each style privileges, certain information, and leaves others aside, in an unconscious way, limiting itself to a version of reality limited by blinders.

 

The Enneagram highlights these unconscious limits which will generate irrational fears and a "compulsion", a fierce desire to avoid at all costs what we are afraid of.

This compulsion will structure the whole personality, the whole relationship with others: the way of behaving, the way of communicating, the expectations, the sources of motivation...

 

No profile is considered better than another:

 

  • Each has its advantages, its strengths, its heels.

  • Everyone has a correct perception of some part of reality.

  • Everyone also has their limitations, their pitfalls, their illusions.

 

Knowledge of our deep motivations which are the basis of our perceptions, our thoughts, our emotions and our behaviors, allows personal development.

Harmonious relationships with our loved ones, by perceiving and appreciating the differences and similarities between them, then become possible for us.

Type 1 : The Perfectionist

​

Interpretation of childhood :

​

  • Constraints received during childhood : “Be perfect”.

  • Perceptions of parents’ expectations of them as being higher than what they can give or accomplish.

  • Positioned too early as having to behave like an adult by their parental environment.

  • May sometimes have to take charge of an immature parent.

  • Memories of needs, desires and anger that were repressed, implicitly or explicitly, by their parents.

  • Unable to express or manifest their emotions, they repressed them.

  • They realize that they could only obtain recognition, tenderness and affection by showing themselves very kind and perfect, that is, by meeting their parents’ expectations.

 

Their childhood impressions, whose dominant aspect resides in the very strong demands coming from the parental environment, can lead to contradictory attitudes of a rebellious child or a submissive child.

 

Main belief :

​

The main beliefs can be formulated as follows :

​

  • I will never be good enough

  • I am not up to the task

  • I have no right to value myself

  • I exist to establish what is right

  • There is only one right way to do things

  • I know what is just and good

​

Type 1 avoids mistakes at all costs and displays perfectionistic behaviours in life.

 

General characteristics :

​

  • Centre préféré. ----------> Instinctive center (inward)

  • Orientation.     ----------> High ideals – personal rigor

  • Compulsions.   ----------> Avoidance of conflict

  • Fears.             ----------> Being corrupt, Immoral, Bad

  • Desires.          ----------> To be upright

  • Passions.        ----------> Internalized anger

  • Virtue.           ----------> Patience

  • Fixation.        ----------> Perfectionism

  • Higher ideas. ----------> Perfection

​

Profile 1 believes that they have value and that they can only be loved if they are someone good and reliable who behaves correctly, with integrity, and who seeks to improve.

 

Decisions and activities :

 

  • Profile 1 plunges into action when they know what must be done.

  • They consider that there is only one right way to do things.

  • They look for the right decision for a long time, then the right method to implement it.

  • They work hard to do what must be done with commitment, seriousness, order and conscientiousness.

  • They feel responsible. The result is obviously never perfect.

  • Profile 1 often remains dissatisfied.

  • Profile 1 has difficulty taking pleasure or expressing their desires as long as the work is not finished.

​

Relationships and communications :

 

  • In a relationship, Profile 1 seeks to be as perfect as possible.

  • Attached to perfection, they expect from others the same rigor and effort that they impose on themselves.

  • They tend to use words like : (“You must”, “one must”).

  • If others do not act as they should, they feel a strong inner anger that they try to contain.

  • Their annoyance shows in their nonverbal language (gaze, clenched jaw, etc.).

  • They are not tolerant with themselves even if they do not admit it.

  • In their relationship, they have an ideal image of their partner and make great efforts for them to conform to it.

  • The awareness of their own imperfections causes them anxiety.

  • They are convinced that they must do something to be the perfect partner.

​

Inner life :

 

Profile 1 spots errors and what needs correcting in the world. They are even more severe with themselves than with others. They often have a critical inner voice that reproaches them for their smallest shortcomings. They are very sensitive to negative judgment from others.

​

Profile 1 who perhaps wants to be someone good, the champion of morality and justice. They justify their anger when it is expressed. They control or repress their desires and emotions.

​

Profile 1 is split between moralizing criticism and a flood of repressed feelings. This split sometimes manifests in their behaviour, which can be very different depending on whether they are with people who might judge them or alone or with strangers.

​

Disintegration of personality :

 

The type 1 in strong disintegration can be resentful and have difficulty forgiving; they can become misanthropic, intolerant, and have increasing difficulty in the company of others.

​​​

Integration of personality :

​

​Type 1 learns to forgive themselves and others. They become tolerant; they evaluate rather than judge and convey their values by example while continuing to maintain their work capacities and their high moral sense.

​

Some classic attitudes of profile 1 :

 

Profile 1 : The Perfectionist :​

​

  • Anger that accumulates toward oneself

  • A little critical voice permanently

  • Meticulous, they sniff out errors

  • Feeling of dissatisfaction

  • Tendency to judge or call into question

  • Inflexible

  • Intolerant

  • Irritable

  • In moral superiority

Type 2 : The Altruist

​

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: "Be pleasing."
    Need to feel indispensable.
    Meeting others’ emotional expectations.
    Seeking recognition and approval from the opposite-sex parent.
    Grows up in an environment where affection and helping others are valued.
    Critical towards themselves and others when they feel they don’t meet emotional expectations.
    Seeking Acceptance and approval.
    Life experiences and social influences reinforce altruistic traits.

 

As they grow, these individuals often turn to a need to feel indispensable, to ensure that others need them, and to meet others’ emotional expectations.

 

Core belief:

 

The main beliefs can be formulated as follows:

​

  • I could never be loved the way I want to be.

  • I want to be loved.

  • Others’ needs are more important than mine.

  • I have trouble not helping and saying no.

  • I give my trust quite easily.

  • I want to feel recognized in the eyes of others.

​

Type 2 avoids at all costs recognizing their own needs and displays altruistic behaviors in life.

​

General characteristics:

 

  • Preferred center.    ---------->  Emotional center (turned outward)

  • Orientation.          ---------->  Generosity and attention to others

  • Compulsions.         ---------->  Pleasing others, being indispensable

  • Fears.                   ---------->  Not being loved, being rejected

  • Desires.                 ---------->  To feel loved, needed, and appreciated

  • Passions.               ---------->  Pride (linked to the feeling of being the helper)

  • Virtue.                  ---------->  Humility

  • Fixation.               ---------->  Need for approval, flattery

  • Higher ideas.        ---------->  Unconditional compassion

 
Profile 2 believes they have value and can be loved if they are attentive, generous, and devoted to others' needs. They are convinced their identity is built through their ability to help and support those around them.

 

Decisions and activities:

 

  • Profile 2 wants to help others.

  • Spots people’s potential.

  • Helps through advice, directly or by leveraging their network.

  • Does not seek the spotlight and prefers to be the right-hand of someone important and powerful.

  • Profile 2 struggles to stay alone or inactive.

  • Makes decisions by prioritizing emotions and human factors.

  • May sometimes be seen as illogical.

​

Relationships and communication:

 

  • In a relationship, Profile 2 is always available to help the important people in their life.

  • They are present, helpful, compassionate, and warm.

  • They seek to please, to be loved and approved, even to be seen as indispensable.

  • They merge with others and, like a chameleon, adapt easily to different personalities.

  • They want their help to be effective. If the other person doesn’t benefit from it, they may withdraw suddenly.

  • In romantic relationships, Type 2 tries to maintain control by meeting their partner’s needs.

  • They push others to be their best.

  • They may be jealous and protective.

​

Inner life:

 

Type 2 is proud of what they do for others and of not needing help themselves. Even if they absolutely don’t want to admit it, they feel others aren’t grateful enough for what they do. At times, they suffer from feeling their independence is compromised by the help they give, and they express this through anger.

​

Disintegration of personality:

 

​Type 2 in deep disintegration may manipulate others to make them dependent on them; they see others as ungrateful and try to guilt them for their lack of recognition.
 

Integration of personality:

​

​Type 2 learns to love themselves and thus help others selflessly. They become truly supportive and encouraging. They are humble, joyful, and deeply generous.

​

Some classic attitudes of Profile 2:

 

​Profile 2: The generous altruist:

​

  • Anticipe les besoins, fier de servir

  • Attiré par les gens influents, cherche la protection est toujours disposé à les aider

  • Contrôle en aidant, en donnant

  • Ce sont utilisés, contrôlé, victimes, martyr

  • A besoin d'être nécessaire mais désire la liberté, craint la vraie intimité

  • Possessif, jaloux, encourage la dépendance des autres

  • Séducteur, cherche à plaire pour être aimé et approuvé

Type 3: The Performer

​

Interpretation of childhood:

 

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Do what it takes to succeed”, “Be the best.”

  • Constant need to prove oneself through achievements.

  • Meeting performance expectations to gain approval and affection.

  • Development in an environment where success, efficiency, and competitiveness are valued.

  • Critical toward themselves and others when they feel they fall short of success standards.

  • Constant search for external validation and recognition.

​

Life experiences and social influences reinforce their competitive and ambitious traits.
As they grow, these individuals turn toward a need to constantly prove themselves, reach high goals, and demonstrate their worth through performance.

​

Core belief:

​

  • I must succeed to be loved and respected.

  • My image and performance determine my value.

  • Failure is not an option because it would mean I'm not enough.

  • I must always perform and set the example to earn admiration.

  • I cannot afford to fail because it would compromise my identity.

 

Type 3 avoids showing vulnerability at all costs and adopts an unshakable facade of success.

​

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.      ---------->  Action center (outward-oriented, success-focused)

  • Orientation.             ---------->  Ambition, efficiency, and excellence

  • Compulsions.            ---------->  Pursuing success, being admired, and competitive

  • Fears.                      ---------->  Failure, being perceived as mediocre or useless

  • Desires.                   ---------->  To be recognized, admired, and valued

  • Passions.                  ---------->  Pride, obsession with image

  • Virtue.                     ---------->  Authenticity (in integration, becoming sincere)

  • Fixation.                  ---------->  Obsession with performance and image

  • Higher ideas.           ---------->  Excellence and success

 

Profile 3 believes their value is measured by their achievements and the image they project, building their identity around accomplishments.

​

Decisions and activities:

​

  • Profile 3 is constantly driven by ambition and the pursuit of success.

  • Spots opportunities to excel and stand out.

  • Sets ambitious goals in both professional and personal life.

  • Prefers to hide weaknesses behind a successful image.

  • Makes decisions based on expected outcomes and the recognition they want to obtain.

  • Prioritizes action and efficiency, focusing choices on achieving measurable goals.

​

Relationships and communication:

​

  • Profile 3 often appears charismatic and dynamic, seeking admiration from those close to them.

  • Adapts their behavior according to the situation to meet others' expectations.

  • In a relationship, 3 wants to be seen as high-performing and inspiring, masking vulnerability behind success.

  • May sometimes be competitive or overly concerned with how their relationship appears to others.

​

Inner life:

 

Type 3 is proud of their accomplishments and defines themselves by their ability to succeed.
Behind the image of success lies an inner tension driven by fear of failure and a need for validation.
In pursuit of performance, they mask deep insecurity about their true worth.

​

Disintegration of personality:

 

  • Under pressure, 3 may become overly obsessed with their image, detaching from their emotions.

  • They may manipulate others' perceptions to maintain success, becoming cold or calculating.

  • Fear of failure may push them into excess, where appearance takes precedence over authenticity.

​

Integration of personality:

 

  • Type 3 learns to reconnect with their true emotions and accept their vulnerabilities.

  • They become more authentic, able to celebrate success without obsessing over it.

  • They develop self-confidence based on inner excellence rather than external image.

​

Some classic attitudes of Profile 3 – The Performer:

​

  • Ambitious and success-oriented: Constantly seeks to achieve high goals and excel.

  • Polished image: Highly concerned with appearance and how others perceive them.

  • Versatile: Able to adapt behavior based on context to maximize chances of success.

  • Competitive: Often measures success by comparing themselves to others.

  • Concerned with failure: Avoids any situation that could harm their image of success.

  • Charming and charismatic: Uses charm to attract admiration and approval.

  • Dynamic and energetic: Always seeking new challenges and opportunities to succeed.

Type 4: The Artist – The Romantic

​

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Be different”, “Express your uniqueness.”

  • Need to feel unique and deeply understood.

  • Meeting expectations for emotional expression to receive affection, sometimes conditional.

  • Development in an environment where self-expression is either valued or misunderstood.

  • Feels unique and distinct from others.

  • Critical toward themselves and others when they feel they are not living in alignment with their deep identity.

  • Constant search for identity and recognition of their uniqueness.

  • Tendency to feel isolated or misunderstood in social interactions.

  • Need to express themselves authentically, to cultivate their inner world, and to stand out through their sensitivity.

​

Core belief:

​

  • I need to feel unique to be loved and recognized.

  • My identity and intense emotions determine my value.

  • I cannot be ordinary, or I lose the essence of who I am.

  • I need to express my sensitivity to remain true to myself.

  • I fear never being truly understood or being rejected for my difference.

  •  

Type 4 avoids conformity at all costs, preferring to assert their uniqueness, even if it means the pain of being misunderstood.

​

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.       ---------->  Emotional and introspective center (inward-oriented, focused on authenticity)

  • Orientation.             ---------->  Search for identity, sensitivity, and emotional expression

  • Compulsions.            ---------->  Explore and express emotions, assert difference

  • Fears.                      ---------->  Banality, uniformity, and losing individuality

  • Desires.                    ---------->  To be authentic, unique, and deeply understood

  • Passions.                  ---------->  Envy, often linked to comparison or idealization

  • Virtue.                     ---------->  Equanimity (in integration, becoming emotionally balanced and serene)

  • Fixation.                  ---------->  Obsession with authenticity and the quest for a unique identity

  • Higher ideas.           ---------->  Authentic self-expression and acceptance of one's uniqueness

 

Profile 4 believes their value lies in the depth of their inner world and their ability to live and express an authenticity that sets them apart.

​

Decisions and activities:

​

  • Profile 4 is constantly driven by the pursuit of authenticity and the expression of their emotional world.

  • They seek opportunities to express their creativity, often in artistic or personal domains.

  • They set goals tied to the exploration of their identity and the search for intense emotional experiences.

  • They prefer to engage in projects that resonate with their true self, even if it means taking an unconventional path.

  • They make decisions based on inner feelings and the need to differentiate themselves authentically.

​

Relationships and communication:

​

  • In a relationship, Profile 4 is sensitive, empathetic, and seeks authentic connections.

  • They adapt their behavior to express their uniqueness, but may withdraw if they feel misunderstood.

  • In a romantic relationship, Type 4 wants to be recognized for their emotional depth and ability to live intensely.

  • They may swing between openness and withdrawal depending on how understood or validated they feel.

​

Vie intérieure :

​

  • Type 4 is proud of the richness of their inner world and their capacity to feel deeply.

  • Behind this pursuit of authenticity sometimes lies an inner struggle with feelings of incompleteness.

  • In search of identity, they oscillate between exaltation and melancholy, always trying to give meaning to their existence.

​

Désintégration de la personnalité :

​

  • Sous pression, le type 4 peut sombrer dans une tristesse exacerbée et se replier sur lui/elle-même.

  • Il risque de se complaire dans la mélancolie ou l'auto-sabotage, se sentant constamment incompris(e) et isolé(e).

  • La peur de perdre son individualité le pousse à se déconnecter de la réalité et idéaliser une version de lui-même.

​

Disintegration of personality:

​

  • Under pressure, Type 4 may fall into heightened sadness and retreat into themselves.

  • They risk indulging in melancholy or self-sabotage, feeling constantly misunderstood and isolated.

  • Fear of losing their individuality may push them to disconnect from reality and idealize a version of themselves.

​

Some classic attitudes of Profile 4 – The Artist – The Romantic:

​

  • Creative and expressive: Seeks to express uniqueness through art or other creative means.

  • Introspective: Deeply in touch with emotions and seeking meaning.

  • Heightened sensitivity: Reacts intensely to emotional stimuli, both positive and negative.

  • Authentic: Refuses to conform to norms, values uniqueness and self-expression.

  • Identity-seeking: Always searching for their “true self”, swinging between exaltation and melancholy.

  • Empathetic: Understands and feels others’ emotions, sometimes at the cost of losing themselves in their own feelings.

  • Romantic and idealistic: Tends to idealize love and relationships, with nostalgia and a desire for deep connection.

Profile 5: The Observer

​

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Be reserved”, “Learn to observe before acting.”

  • Need to understand the world and build a rich inner universe.

  • Meeting expectations for intellectual competence to receive affection, sometimes conditional.

  • Grows up in an environment where knowledge and autonomy are valued, and affection is scarce.

  • Often feels different from others due to a strong interest in observation and understanding.

  • Critical of themselves and others when they feel they are not informed or competent enough.

  • Constant search for knowledge and independence.

  • Tendency to feel isolated or misunderstood in social interactions.

  • Need to withdraw to reflect, analyze, and preserve energy.

​

Early influences reinforce their desire to protect themselves and create an inner space where knowledge outweighs emotion.

Core belief:

​

  • I need to accumulate knowledge to be competent and autonomous.

  • My value depends on my ability to understand and master my environment.

  • I cannot afford to be overwhelmed by emotions or external demands.

  • I must keep my distance to preserve my energy and integrity.

  • I fear being overwhelmed or losing my freedom by getting too involved with others.

 

Type 5 avoids feeling overwhelmed at all costs and chooses isolation to protect their inner world.

​

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.      ---------->  Intellectual center (inward-oriented, focused on understanding)

  • Orientation.            ---------->  Search for knowledge, curiosity, and autonomy

  • Compulsions.           ---------->  Increasing knowledge, observing and analyzing, maintaining emotional distance

  • Fears.                     ---------->  Being overwhelmed or invaded by emotions and external demands

  • Desires.                  ---------->  To understand the world, master their environment, and preserve independence

  • Passions.                ---------->  Obsession with information, sometimes at the expense of interpersonal relationships

  • Virtue.                    ---------->  Insight (in integration, becoming generous in sharing knowledge)

  • Fixation.                 ---------->  Obsession with knowledge and emotional withdrawal

  • Higher ideas.         ---------->  Wisdom and clarity in understanding the world

 

Profile 5 believes their value lies in their ability to observe, analyze, and understand reality, building their identity around intellect and autonomy.

​

Decisions and activities:

 

  • Profile 5 is constantly driven by the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the world.

  • Spots opportunities to deepen their skills and specialize in a specific area.

  • Sets goals related to acquiring deep knowledge and expertise.

  • Prefers to observe and analyze before acting, often retreating to a personal space.

  • Makes decisions based on logic and the need to preserve autonomy.

​

Relationships and communication:

​

  • In a relationship, Type 5 appears reserved and distant, preferring to observe rather than engage emotionally.

  • Adapts behavior to preserve independence and limit intrusion into their world.

  • In a couple, Type 5 seeks to maintain an intellectual connection while keeping personal space.

  • They may engage or withdraw depending on their need for protection and desire to share knowledge.

 

Inner life:

​

  • Type 5 is proud of their ability to observe the world objectively and accumulate knowledge.

  • Behind their detachment lies a fear of being overwhelmed by emotional expectations.

  • Driven by a need for understanding, they oscillate between passion and learning while shielding themselves from outside demands.

​

Disintegration of personality:

​

Under pressure, Type 5 may become excessively detached and isolate even further, refusing any interaction.
They withdraw into themselves, hoarding knowledge without sharing, cutting ties with others.
Fear of being overwhelmed may drive them to fully disconnect from the world, reinforcing a sense of solitude.

 

Integration of personality:

​​

  • Type 5 learns to share their knowledge and gradually open up to others.

  • They become more generous by spreading their insights and engaging in intellectual exchanges.

  • They develop self-confidence based on recognizing their value beyond mere information accumulation.

  • They find balance between solitude and interaction while preserving their need for autonomy.

​

Some classic attitudes of Profile 5 – The Observer:

​

Intellectual and curious: Seeks to understand the world in depth.
Reserved: Favors observation and analysis over emotional engagement.
Autonomous: Values independence and preservation of personal space.
Analytical: Makes decisions based on logic and observation.
Detached: May seem distant due to a strong need not to be overwhelmed.
Wise: Able to see the world with clarity and offer insightful analysis.
Introverted: Prefers time alone to recharge and deepen knowledge.

Profile 6: The Loyalist

 

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Be careful”, “Watch out”, “Don’t trust people.”

  • Need to feel safe and to find their place within a group.

  • Meeting expectations for vigilance and loyalty to receive affection, sometimes conditional.

  • Development in an environment where safety is uncertain and vigilance is emphasized.

  • Often feels vulnerable and uncertain due to mixed signals about trust.

  • Critical of themselves and others when they feel they haven’t been cautious or loyal enough.

  • Constant search for reliable reference points and support.

  • Tendency to feel anxious or suspicious in social interactions.

  • Need to ensure their environment is safe and predictable.

​

Early influences reinforce their desire to protect themselves and to build a support system to feel secure.

​

Core belief:

​

  • I need to be surrounded by reliable people to feel safe.

  • My value depends on my ability to anticipate danger and remain loyal.

  • I cannot afford to let my guard down, or I will be vulnerable.

  • I must always check that those around me are trustworthy.

  • I fear being abandoned or betrayed if I don’t remain vigilant.

​

Type 6 avoids feeling unsupported at all costs and chooses to surround themselves with trusted figures to guard against insecurity..

​

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.          ---------->  Security center (outward-oriented, focused on vigilance)

  • Orientation.                ---------->  Search for stability, loyalty, and support

  • Compulsions.               ---------->  Staying alert to danger, anticipating risks, and guarding against insecurity

  • Fears.                         ---------->  Abandonment, betrayal, and insecurity

  • Desires.                      ---------->  To be surrounded by reliable people and a predictable environment

  • Passions.                    ---------->  Anxiety and a tendency to doubt

  • Virtue.                       ---------->  Courage (in integration, becoming confident and calm in uncertainty)

  • Fixation.                    ---------->  Obsession with safety and excessive mistrust

  • Higher ideas.             ---------->  Faithfulness and the ability to build solid, trusting relationships

 

Profile 6 believes their value lies in their ability to anticipate danger and surround themselves with people they can count on, building their identity around loyalty and the search for safety.

 

Decisions and activities:

​

  • Profile 6 is constantly driven by the need for safety and stability.

  • They spot opportunities to strengthen connections and verify the reliability of their environment.

  • They set goals related to risk prevention and the consolidation of support networks.

  • They prefer to analyze situations by looking for signs of loyalty and security before taking action.

  • They make decisions based on how much they trust those around them and how safe the environment feels.

 

Relationships and communication:

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  • In a relationship, Type 6 appears vigilant and loyal, seeking to establish strong, reliable bonds.

  • They adapt their behavior to ensure that those around them are trustworthy.

  • In a couple, Type 6 wants to feel reassured and protected while also offering loyalty and commitment in return.

  • They may oscillate between engagement and withdrawal depending on the perceived level of safety in the relationship.

​

Inner life:

​

  • Type 6 is proud of their ability to anticipate danger and maintain a reliable support network.

  • Behind their vigilance may lie intense anxiety driven by fear of abandonment or betrayal.

  • In search of safety, they waver between trusting others and being suspicious, constantly seeking reassurance.

 

Disintegration of personality:

​

  • Under pressure, Type 6 can become distrustful and anxious, withdrawing and doubting others’ loyalty.

  • They may isolate themselves, accumulating suspicion and fear to the point of paralyzing action.

  • Fear of abandonment can lead to excessive behaviors like withdrawal and isolation.

​

Integration of personality:

 

  • Type 6 learns to trust and recognize that security can also come from mutual commitment.

  • They become more confident, overcoming doubt and relying on their own resources and solid relationships.

  • They develop self-confidence that allows them to accept uncertainty without falling into anxiety.

  • They find balance between vigilance and openness while maintaining their need for security.

​​

Some classic attitudes of Profile 6 – The Loyalist:

​

  • Loyal and vigilant: Seeks to establish strong, reliable bonds.

  • Cautious: Always alert to potential dangers.

  • Anxious: Tendency to doubt and anticipate problems.

  • Suspicious: May sometimes be distrustful of others.

  • Responsible: Takes the protection and safety of others seriously.

  • Collaborative: Seeks to be surrounded by trustworthy people.

  • Thoughtful: Analyzes situations before acting to avoid risks.

  • Committed: Shows loyalty and support to those who provide reassurance.

Profile 7: The Epicure

​

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Enjoy life”, “Don’t dwell on pain.”

  • Need to live varied experiences and to constantly seek pleasure.

  • Meeting expectations of enthusiasm and creativity to receive affection, sometimes conditional.

  • Lives in an environment that values adventure, freedom, and optimism, with few rigid constraints.

  • Often feels different from others due to an intense desire to live and a thirst for novelty.

  • Critical of themselves and others when they feel they are not spontaneous or open to experience.

  • Constant search for stimulation, pleasure, and adventure.

  • Tendency to avoid pain and restrictive situations, preferring to focus on the positive.

  • Need to preserve freedom and avoid feeling trapped in routine.

​

Early influences reinforce their desire to fully enjoy life and flee from any form of constraint or boredom.

​

Core belief:

​

  • I need to live joyful and varied experiences to be happy.

  • My value depends on my ability to enjoy life and seize every opportunity.

  • I can’t afford to stay in pain or boredom, or I’ll feel trapped.

  • I must always seek new adventures to avoid stagnation.

  • I fear being stuck in a routine that limits my freedom.

​

Type 7 avoids at all costs feeling trapped or deprived of freedom and actively seeks out positive and stimulating experiences.

​

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.     -------->  Experience (outward-oriented, focused on pleasure and novelty)

  • Orientation.           -------->  Pursuit of optimism, adventure, and stimulation

  • Compulsions.          -------->  Constantly seeking new experiences, avoiding pain and boredom

  • Fears.                    -------->  Being trapped in routine, lacking options, facing pain

  • Desires.                 -------->  To live a life rich in positive experiences and freedom

  • Passions.               -------->  Enthusiasm, euphoria, and sometimes overstimulation

  • Virtue.                  -------->  Moderation (in integration, able to savor the present without fleeing reality)

  • Fixation.               -------->  Pleasure-seeking, novelty, and refusal to face life’s negative aspects

  • Higher ideas.        -------->  Joy of living and the ability to turn every experience into growth

​

Profile 7 believes their value lies in their ability to live fully and turn every moment into a source of pleasure and adventure, building their identity around freedom and the pursuit of positive sensations.

 

Decisions and activities:

​

  • Profile 7 is constantly motivated by the need for variety and stimulation.

  • Spots opportunities to live new experiences and open up to the unknown.

  • Sets goals linked to exploration, adventure, and the pursuit of pleasure.

  • Prefers to dive spontaneously into new projects rather than stay stuck in monotonous routine.

  • Makes decisions based on the desire to maximize pleasure and preserve freedom.

 

Relationships and communication:

​

  • In relationships, 7 appears warm, communicative, and enthusiastic, seeking to share joyful moments.

  • Adapts their behavior to maintain a light, stimulating atmosphere while avoiding conflict or constraints.

  • In a couple, Type 7 seeks to live shared adventures while preserving freedom and spontaneity.

  • Depending on their perception of stimulation versus stability, they oscillate between commitment and need for independence.

​

Inner life:

​

  • Type 7 is proud of their ability to see the world with optimism and turn every experience into opportunity.

  • Behind their enthusiasm lies a fear of pain and boredom, which they counter by chasing novelty.

  • In pursuit of satisfaction, they oscillate between joy and avoidance, striving to keep their mind alert and their heart light.

Disintegration of personality:

​

  • Under pressure, Type 7 may become scattered and systematically flee the negative aspects of reality.

  • They get carried away by excess, avoid responsibilities, and engage superficially in multiple activities.

  • Fear of being trapped or facing pain pushes them to adopt escapist behaviors.

  • Excessive distractions only reinforce a chronic sense of dissatisfaction.

​

Integration of personality:

​

  • Type 7 learns to accept reality, integrating both positive experiences and more difficult moments.

  • They become more grounded, capable of savoring the present while facing life’s challenges with courage.

  • They develop self-confidence that allows them to enjoy life without rushing toward escape.

  • Integration helps them find balance between freedom and commitment.

  • They manage to balance stimulation and stability while preserving their need for pleasure and freedom.

 

Some classic attitudes of Profile 7 – The Epicure:

​

  • Optimistic and enthusiastic: Constantly seeks the bright side of things and shares joy.

  • Spontaneous and adventurous: Loves diving into new experiences and exploring the unknown.

  • Versatile and curious: Interested in many topics and doesn’t limit themselves.

  • Avoids pain: Tends to avoid negative or restrictive situations.

  • Creative and inspiring: Able to turn any experience into inspiration.

  • Dynamic and energetic: Always in motion, seeks varied activities to feed their enthusiasm.

  • Communicative and sociable: Enjoys interaction and loves sharing joyful moments with others.

Profile 8: The Protector

 

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Be strong”, “Don’t show your weaknesses”, “Never let anyone control you.”

  • Need to take control of their environment to avoid being vulnerable.

  • Meeting expectations of strength, authority, and independence to receive conditional affection.

  • Grows up in an environment where they felt the need to assert themselves to avoid domination.

  • Often feels different from others due to a strong-willed temperament and a need for power.

  • Critical of themselves and others when they perceive weakness or lack of courage.

  • Constant search for independence and control over situations.

  • Tendency to assert themselves, make quick decisions, and protect the vulnerable.

  • Need to control their surroundings to avoid being hurt or betrayed.

 

Early influences reinforce their need to be strong, depend on no one, and never be dominated.

​

Core belief:

​

  • I need to be strong to survive and earn respect.

  • My value depends on my ability to take control and protect what matters.

  • I cannot afford to be vulnerable, or I will be attacked.

  • I must always assert my presence and never let anyone dominate me.

  • I fear being betrayed or controlled by others if I don’t take the lead.

 

Type 8 avoids powerlessness at all costs and chooses to assert themselves forcefully to protect themselves and those they deem worthy of respect.

 

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.          ---------->  Instinctive center (outward-oriented, focused on power and action)

  • Orientation.                ---------->  Pursuit of independence, justice, and authority

  • Compulsions.              ---------->  Take control, dominate to avoid vulnerability

  • Fears.                         ---------->  Being weak, dependent, or controlled by others

  • Desires.                      ---------->  To be strong, respected, and master of their destiny

  • Passions.                    ---------->  Excess and will to power

  • Virtue.                       ---------->  Temperance (in integration, learning to balance strength and sensitivity)

  • Fixation.                    ---------->  Obsession with control and power

  • Higher ideas.              ---------->  Justice and the protection of core values

 

Profile 8 believes their value lies in their ability to take charge, impose their will, and never show weakness. They build their identity around strength, determination, and justice.

 

Decisions and activities:

​

  • Profile 8 is constantly driven by the need for control and independence.

  • They spot opportunities to assert leadership and ensure everything is under their control.

  • They set goals related to protecting what matters and consolidating their authority.

  • They prefer to act quickly and decisively rather than wait and observe.

  • They make decisions based on instinct, willpower, and a strong sense of justice.

 

Relationships and communication:

​

  • In relationships, 8 appears powerful, protective, and direct, seeking to establish a dynamic of control.

  • They adapt their behavior to ensure no one exploits or manipulates them.

  • In a couple, Type 8 wants a relationship based on loyalty and mutual respect, without compromising freedom.

  • They may oscillate between intense commitment and testing the other person’s strength and reliability.

​

Inner life:

​

  • Type 8 is proud of their ability to assert themselves and command respect.

  • Behind their confidence lies an unconscious fear of vulnerability and difficulty trusting others.

  • In search of power, they alternate between brute strength and protection, defending those they love while maintaining emotional distance.

​

Disintegration of personality:

​

  • Under pressure, Type 8 can become excessively domineering and aggressive, imposing their will at all costs.

  • They may shut off emotions and see the world as a battlefield where only the strong survive.

  • Fear of betrayal may lead them to distrust and overreact to any perceived attempt at control or manipulation.​

​

Integration of personality:

​​

  • Type 8 learns to temper their need for control and recognizes that strength also lies in accepted vulnerability.

  • They become more balanced, capable of using power to build rather than dominate.

  • They develop confidence that allows them to delegate without fear of being weakened.

  • They find balance between power and wisdom while remaining a natural leader and protector of the values they hold dear.

​

Some classic attitudes of Profile 8 – The Protector:

​

  • Strong and assertive: Seeks to impose themselves and never be dominated.

  • Protective: Defends those they consider vulnerable or loyal.

  • Dominant: Naturally takes the lead in situations and groups.

  • Direct and outspoken: Speaks their mind, even if it shocks others.

  • Uncompromising: Does not accept injustice or weakness in themselves or others.

  • Energetic and passionate: Pours all their energy into what they undertake.

  • Distrustful: Protects themselves by maintaining total control over their environment.

  • Charismatic: Has a strong presence and natural influence over others.

Profile 9: The Mediator

​

Interpretation of childhood:

​

  • Constraints received during childhood: “Be quiet”, “Don’t make waves”, “Adapt to others.”

  • Need to preserve harmony and avoid conflict.

  • Meeting expectations of calmness and acceptance to receive affection, sometimes conditional.

  • Grows up in an environment where tensions and disagreements may be minimized or ignored.

  • Often feels different from others due to a natural ability to adapt and see multiple perspectives.

  • Critical of themselves and others when they perceive unnecessary conflict or tension.

  • Constant search for inner peace and serenity.

  • Tendency to avoid confrontation by blending into the environment.

  • Need for a stable and reassuring environment to thrive calmly.

​

Early influences reinforce their desire to preserve balance and avoid anything that could disrupt inner or outer peace.

​

Core belief:

​

  • I need calm and harmony to feel good.

  • My value depends on my ability to soothe tensions and maintain balance.

  • I cannot afford to enter into conflict or I’ll lose my serenity.

  • I must always try to understand others and avoid direct confrontation.

  • I fear being rejected or dragged into struggles that disturb my tranquility.

 

Type 9 avoids discord at all costs and chooses to step back or delay to prevent any form of confrontation.

 

General characteristics:

​

  • Preferred center.         ---------->  Instinctive center (inward-oriented, focused on harmony and balance)

  • Orientation.               ---------->  Pursuit of peace, serenity, and acceptance

  • Compulsions.              ---------->  Avoid conflict, adapt to others, and minimize personal needs

  • Fears.                        ---------->  Being excluded, losing harmony, and having to face tension

  • Desires.                      ---------->  To find inner balance and a peaceful environment

  • Passions.                    ---------->  Inertia and procrastination in the face of tension

  • Virtue.                       ---------->  Engagement (in integration, learning to assert oneself without fear)

  • Fixation.                    ---------->  Tendency to avoid conflict and fall into passivity

  • Higher ideas.             ---------->  Acceptance and the ability to create authentic harmony

 

Profile 9 believes their value lies in their ability to maintain a climate of peace and mutual understanding, building their identity around harmony and stability.

​

Decisions and activities:

​

  • Profile 9 is constantly motivated by the need for tranquility and balance.

  • They spot opportunities to create smooth, peaceful relationships.

  • They set goals related to stability and harmony rather than competition or power.

  • They prefer to go with the flow rather than initiate radical changes.

  • They make decisions based on what seems least conflicting and most pleasant for everyone.

 

Relationships and communication:

​

  • In relationships, 9 appears conciliatory, understanding, and adaptable, seeking to avoid disputes.

  • They adapt their behavior to soothe tensions and satisfy everyone.

  • In a couple, Type 9 seeks a smooth relationship where each finds their natural balance.

  • They may oscillate between commitment and passivity depending on the level of perceived pressure or conflict.

​

Inner life:

​​

  • Type 9 is proud of their ability to create a climate of peace and harmony around them.

  • Behind their gentleness often lies difficulty expressing personal desires and taking a stand.

  • In search of stability, they oscillate between satisfaction in a peaceful setting and unconscious frustration from not asserting themselves.

​

Disintegration of personality:

​

Under pressure, 9 may become apathetic, avoiding conflict even when taking a stand is necessary.
They risk cutting off from their own needs and escaping into distractions to avoid problems.
Fear of disrupting harmony may lead them into chronic indecision and a refusal to fully engage in their own life.

​

Integration of personality:

​

They learn to express their opinions and recognize that self-assertion does not destroy harmony — it strengthens it.
They become more active, able to take initiative without fear of tension.
They develop self-confidence that allows them to fully exist without blending into the background.
They find balance between gentleness and assertion while remaining true to their need for peace.

 

Some classic attitudes of Profile 9 – The Mediator:

​

  • Peaceful and conciliatory: Seeks to avoid conflict and maintain a calm atmosphere.

  • Empathetic and understanding: Able to put themselves in others’ shoes and see multiple perspectives.

  • Avoidance of tension: Prefers to turn away from conflict rather than face it.

  • Easily adaptable: Blends into situations and accepts others’ points of view.

  • Tendency to procrastinate: Puts off important decisions to avoid confrontation.

  • Gradual engagement: When they learn to assert themselves, they become effective and inspiring mediators.

  • Harmonious and composed: Fosters a serene and caring environment.

  • Risk of passivity: May struggle to assert their needs and prefer to let others decide.

 

Discover Your Dominant Profile:

​

Instructions:

​

  1. Read each question carefully along with its three possible answers.

  2. Choose the answer that best matches you (A, B, or C).

  3. Record your answers in the results table, assigning one point to the corresponding Enneagram type.

  4. Total your points and identify your dominant profile.

 

Questionnaire

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