Enneagram Overview

• Enneagram describes 9 personality types shaped early in life
• Each type reflects a core motivation and worldview
• No type is inherently better or worse
• Types are not determined by gender
• Each type can express itself in many different ways
• Wings come from adjacent types and add traits
• Example: Type 4 with a Type 3 wing may be more outgoing and recognition-seeking
• Stress can shift behavior toward another type’s patterns
• Example: Type 7 may resemble Type 1 rigidity
• Security can shift behavior as well
• Example: Type 7 may take on Type 5 simplicity and focus

The Types

• Type 1: The Perfectionist — ethical, disciplined, improvement-focused; avoids fault
• Type 2: The Helper — caring, supportive, relationship-driven; avoids own needs
• Type 3: The Performer — success- and image-oriented; avoids failure
• Type 4: The Romantic — sensitive, creative, introspective; avoids feeling ordinary
• Type 5: The Investigator — analytical, private, knowledge-focused; avoids dependence
• Type 6: The Loyalist — security-oriented, cautious, prepared; avoids uncertainty
• Type 7: The Enthusiast — spontaneous, optimistic, experience-seeking; avoids pain
• Type 8: The Challenger — assertive, strong, protective; avoids vulnerability
• Type 9: The Peacemaker — calm, agreeable, harmony-seeking; avoids conflict

The Triads

• Gut Triad (8, 9, 1) is driven by anger and instinct
• Type 8 expresses it outwardly, Type 9 suppresses it, Type 1 internalizes it
• This triad is body-based and action-oriented
• Heart Triad (2, 3, 4) is driven by emotion and identity
• Type 2 focuses on others’, Type 3 on image, Type 4 on inner
• This triad processes life through relationships and self-image
• Head Triad (5, 6, 7) is driven by fear and mental processing
• Type 5 withdraws, Type 6 anticipates threats, Type 7 avoids through distraction
• This triad relies on thinking and mental frameworks

Deadly Sins

• Type 1 (Anger): strives for perfection; frustrated by flaws in self and others
• Type 2 (Pride): overfocuses on others’ needs and neglects their own
• Type 3 (Deceit): builds an image of success that can blur with identity
• Type 4 (Envy): feels something essential is missing and longs for wholeness
• Type 5 (Avarice): conserves energy, time, and resources to maintain independence
• Type 6 (Fear): anticipates threats and seeks security and guidance
• Type 7 (Gluttony): seeks stimulation to avoid discomfort and limitation
• Type 8 (Lust): pursues intensity, control, and strength while hiding vulnerability
• Type 9 (Sloth): avoids conflict and loses connection to personal priorities