The 9 Enneagram Personality Types


enneagram personality types

Enneagrams are a popular way to categorize personalities. There are nine types, each with its own set of values, goals, fears, and ways of interacting with others and the world in general. Most people take the 9 Enneagram personality types online to know their type. Knowing your Enneagram type can help you learn more about yourself. You'll understand your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as what you can do to improve your personal and professional. The nine Enneagram types are listed below.

Discover All About the 9 Enneagram Personality Types

The Enneagram helps people in better understanding themselves and others. It describes nine distinct personalities using numbers ranging from 1 to 9. Below are detailed descriptions of the types.

Type 1 – The Reformer

Ones are optimistic, considerate, and possess a high level of integrity. They are defined at their core by their perceptions of right and wrong, as well as their commitment to doing things "right." They are individuals who act with self-discipline, persistence, and the ability to postpone gratification for a better future. 

Their positive character traits are as follows: 

  • They have the following great attributes:
  • They are organized, hardworking, and efficient.
  • They know exactly what the world needs.
  • People find them very helpful
  • They respect honesty, justice, and order. 
  • They do the right thing because it is the right thing to do, not because someone else tells them to.

Meanwhile, the following are the weaknesses of Ones:

  • They tend to be perfectionist.
  • They find it difficult to accept undesirable reality.
  • They are extremely critical of oneself and others
  • They can be overly emotional or arrogant

Type Ones succeed when they can create order and organization, particularly when they have the freedom to change the current processes, thanks to their firm grasp of reality and pragmatic value system. Enneagram types are self-controlling and conscientious. Becoming a lawyer, judge, social worker, doctor, or guidance counselor seems to be perfect for them. 

Type 2 – The Giver

Twos were sympathetic, supportive, and caring. They are driven to make those around them feel loved and at ease. That is why they are referred to as helpers and givers. Twos are quick to offer whatever they have, whether it is their time or affection. They enjoy being involved in the lives and needs of those around them.

It can be difficult for Twos to respect their own borders and openly ask for what they want. Twos frequently pretend that they have no needs of their own until they become upset as a result of feeling uncared for.

Some positive traits shown by The Givers are as follows:

  • They are generous with their love, time, and resources.
  • They are filled with compassion, especially for the lonely and marginalized.
  • They are excellent at sensing what other people require and determining how to meet those requirements.
  • With their open and charming demeanor, they are appealing to almost anyone.
  • They create warm and inviting homes for themselves and others.

Apart from the positive traits, twos also has some weaknesses listed below: 

  • Twos rely on the approval of others.
  • They can be arrogant at times.
  • Twos frequently ignore their own needs.

Type Twos thrive in circumstances where they can make new friends and help others. They enjoy developing strong working relationships and putting their skills and abilities to use for the benefit of those around them. They can be selfless and hardworking, sacrificing their own time to assist those around them. As a result, non-profit leader, counselor, nurse, teacher, and humanitarian are ideal jobs.

Type 3 – The Performer

Threes are motivated, reliable, and innovative. They are high-energy individuals who believe in themselves and their abilities. Threes want to be successful as defined by their culture, family, or social circle. To achieve this goal, they perform in ways that will garner them praise and attention, which is why they are often referred to as "Performers."

Threes are excellent at getting things done, but they struggle to access their own feelings and develop a sense of self apart from how others perceive them. In their desire to be seen as successful, they may become workaholics, dishonest, and even begin to pretend to be someone they are not.

Here are some strengths attributed to Enneagram Type 3:

  • They are practical, productive, and effective.
  • They can adapt quickly and easily to new situations.
  • They are always able to make new friends and make a good first impression.
  • They inspire others and lead a team to victory.
  • They can remain calm when working under pressure.

Weaknesses associated with the Enneagram 3 personality type include:

  • Focusing too much on personal appearance.
  • Having a difficult time accepting failure.
  • Being insensitive or excessively competitive.

Type Threes prefer situations where they can constantly set and achieve new goals. They enjoy meeting new people and using their relationships with others to help them achieve their goals. They are likely to enjoy working as a marketer, advertising consultant, entrepreneur, or investment banker. 

Type 4 – The Individualist

Fours are reflective, expressive, and unique. They value being honest to themselves and defining themselves by what sets them apart from others. Fours are in tune with their emotions and are at ease with the full range of human emotions. They have the incredible potential to uncover the world's hidden beauty and help others see it as well.

Even though Fours are aware of what they are feeling at any given time, they can become lost in their emotions and struggle to connect with the rest of the world. As a result, they may become moody, withdrawn, and overly dramatic.

Their positive character traits are as follows: 

  • They are highly empathic and understand how to communicate with others on an emotional level. 
  • They can deal with the tragic and dark without becoming overwhelmed.
  • They have a vivid imagination.
  • They understand how to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Meanwhile, the following are the weaknesses of Fours:

  • They tend to run away from tough problems instead of solving them.
  • They are fixated on what they lack
  • They are overly self-centered
  • They react strongly and emotionally to adversity.

Fours enjoy expressing themselves creatively and interacting with coworkers. Fours are emotional and creative thinkers. They are also genuine and thought provoking, challenging those around them to connect with themselves more deeply. With these characteristics, they can be a successful actor, artist, photographer, writer, and designer. 

Type 5 – The Observer

The number five is cerebral, detached, and sober. They want to understand the world while also protecting their privacy and independence so that they can live their lives on their own terms. Before they make a move, they like to analyze the world, dissect it, get to the bottom of things, and feel like they truly understand everything there is to understand.

Some positive traits shown by The Observers are as follows:

  • They are capable of quickly cutting through complex intellectual ideas and problems.
  • They maintain their cool during a crisis.
  • They are very socially aware and insightful about many things. 
  • They have outstanding boundaries and have no difficulties respecting the boundaries of others. 
  • They are dependable and good at keeping things private.

Apart from the positive traits, twos also has some weaknesses listed below: 

  • Difficulty in understanding other people's emotions
  • Possibility of being perceived as judgmental
  • Separating or isolating themselves from others

Type Fives prefer situations that give them space to think and reenergize alone, while also encouraging them to use their unique skills. They enjoy jobs that allow them to constantly learn and grow, such as being a scientist, computer programmer, scientist, or mathematician. 

Type 6 – The Loyalist

Sixes are dependable, faithful, and dedicated. They prefer to stay with people and ideas that make them feel safe in a potentially dangerous world. Sixes are gentle and cautious, and they excel at anticipating potential problems. They are steadfast, methodical problem solvers and devil's advocates

While Sixes are excellent at making projects practical and feasible. They are prone to overreacting and worrying about the future.

Here are some strengths attributed to Enneagram Type 6:

  • They are dependable, trustworthy, and accountable.
  • They are consistent and persistent.
  • They are more concerned with supporting the group than with being the center of attention.
  • They are very brave when it comes to defending their loved ones.
  • They remain realistic and weigh all options before making any decisions.

Weaknesses associated with the Enneagram 6 personality type include:

  • Possibility of expecting the worst or being pessimistic
  • Fear of making important or significant life decisions
  • High levels of anxiety and self-doubt

Sixes enjoy being in a place that values their abilities and provide them with security. They prefer stable jobs that allow them to form strong relationships and make sound decisions, such as banker, professor, police officer, caregiver, and paralegal.

Type 7 – The Idealist

Sevens are extroverted, energetic, and ecstatic about the possibilities of life. The world is a place of adventure for Sevens. They live for the joy of the unknown. Sevens are fun-loving, entertaining people who like to turn every defeat into a victory. Sevens, as good as they are at inviting others to enjoy what life has to offer, struggle to recognize the painful aspects of life.

Their positive character traits are as follows: 

  • They have the ability to lift people's spirits wherever they go. 
  • They are great at seeing the big picture. 
  • They don't take everything too seriously. 
  • They are great at making plans that are enjoyable for everyone. 

Meanwhile, the following are the weaknesses of Sevens:

  • They can’t make long-term plans.
  • They are easily bored.
  • They are thought to be self-centered or vain.

Sevens enjoy innovative, exciting work that allows them to pursue new opportunities on a regular basis. As a result, they are best suited for jobs such as photographer, bartender, travel writer, and interior designer.

Type 8 – The Challenger

People with the number eight have a lot of energy, intensity, and willpower. They exude strength and toughness and view challenges as an opportunity to demonstrate their toughness. They relish open conflict and do not back down easily. Eights frequently have a fierce desire to protect the vulnerable and weak, but they struggle to admit their own weakness or vulnerability.

Some positive traits shown by The Challengers are as follows:

  • They are concerned with truth and justice and are willing to defend the weak.
  • They are certain of their decision-making abilities.
  • They are unconcerned about what others think of them.
  • They have a charismatic leadership style.

Eights are independent and courageous. They are capable of making difficult decisions while remaining rational and fair. They are always strong advocates and leaders. As a result, they are well-suited to positions such as financial advisor, advertising executive, politician, and business owner.

Type 9 – The Peacemaker

Nines are laid-back, down-to-earth, and selfless. Nines desire peace in their surroundings. That is why they are often referred to as peacemakers and mediators: they strive to create a world free of conflict around themselves. It is simple for Nines to see and value the perspectives of others. It makes them fantastic listeners.

Nines try to get along with everyone by withdrawing and allowing others to go first. Nines, on the other hand, can be quite stubborn when forced to leave their comfort zone.

Their positive character traits are as follows:

  • They are welcoming and non-judgmental.
  • They are considerate and kind;
  • They provide a safe space for people to be themselves.

Weaknesses associated with the Enneagram 9 personality type include:

  • Having trouble dealing with personal conflict with others
  • Having a proclivity to mitigate problems

Type Nines prefer environments that encourage them to help others. They prefer slower-paced jobs that allow them to interact with others. They are also good listeners and would do well in a position that allows them to use their passion for peace-making. Diplomat, psychiatrist, editor, counselor, and veterinarian are ideal jobs for them.

The 9 Enneagram Personality Types is a personality development system that enables you to get to know yourself better. The Enneagram helps you become more self-aware, gain a better understanding of your inner world, and understand what's going on inside you so you can change your behavior in the outside world.