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Why the Enneagram Helps You Grow (More than Myers-Briggs)
Using personality typology systems to understand yourself and others
Discovering the Myers-Briggs Typology Indicator was like uncovering a secret room in my house. It illuminated how I interacted with others and used my energy. It revealed why I made decisions based on values rather than pure logic. More importantly, it helped me understand those around me better. Instead of pegging a colleague as cold, I came to see him as high on the thinking continuum. Rather than feeling disrespected by friends who arrived late, I viewed them as the spontaneous, less time-bound types.
The MBTI provides insights into career choices and relationships. It helps team members see one another’s strengths and areas of friction. As a guide for understanding and engagement, the MBTI is an invaluable tool.
And then, I learned about the Enneagram. Fourteen books and several classes later, I cannot get enough of the potential growth we gain from this instrument.
Rising in popularity in professional organizations, counseling centers, churches, and corporate settings, it complements the Myers-Briggs somewhat yet expands beyond the MBTI system in significant and valuable ways.
The Enneagram comprises nine personality types and 27 variants. Originally conceived from the teachings of Oscar Ichazo and Claudio Naranjo, it offers perceptions along with pathways to growth.
Tap into the value of the Enneagram
As a tool, the Enneagram mirrors to us the good and the not so good. When we identify our type, we feel both seen and a bit exposed. Its purpose is not simply to categorize us but to indicate our core motivations and defenses. As we begin to resonate with a particular type, we see the tendencies and triggers in addition to the gifts and blessings.
The nine types (as described by the Integrative9 and related sources)
Type 1: Strict Perfectionist (Good / right, avoid anger)
Type 2: Considerate Helper (People-centered, avoid needs)
