So, what’s the enneagram anyway?
For those of you who may be unfamiliar, the enneagram test is a personality test. It categorizes people into 9 different types: the reformer, the helper, the achiever, the individualist, the investigator, the loyalist, the enthusiast, the challenger, and the peacemaker. So, basically, you take the test and it will classify you as a type. You’ll often hear these types referred to by the names mentioned above, or by their numbers (1 through 9). By knowing your own type, you can learn more about yourself and how you interact with others. By learning about the types of those around you, whether it be friends, family members, or coworkers, the enneagram can help teach about how we all relate to one another.
Enneagram obsessed.
I am a recent (as in the last 6 months) lover of the enneagram. It’s something that I found interesting and I took the test. I also made my husband take it as well! I started following some accounts on Instagram related to the enneagram so I could learn more. Then it was actually a tool my therapist used with me to help me dive deep into better understanding myself and my needs, as well as the needs of others in my life. Something that I’ve learned along the way with the enneagram is that the test isn’t everything. There are many different types of tests and you can have strong traits relating to multiple types. It can be a fun challenge to explore finding your true type, which I worked on with my therapist. For the longest time, I thought I was a 2 (The Helper), but I am actually a Type 1 Wing 2. So, what does that mean? A type 1 is known as “the reformer,” but often people who are Type 1 Wing 2 are referred to as “the advocate.” So it’s like having the typical traits of a Type 1 (the reformer) with some Type 2 (the helper) tendencies.
How is this helpful?
I have found the enneagram to be such a useful tool in getting to know myself. It has made me understand the way I think and also has helped me to understand the reactions I have in certain situations. I am much more self aware now than I ever was before. It’s also been great for my relationships because it makes me understand those around me. My husband is a Type 3 (The Achiever) and by learning that about him it helped me to understand him better as a person. By being able to understand his motives and personality better, it’s honestly helped me to get less mad at him over trivial things!
I strongly encourage everyone to dive into the enneagram as a tool to better yourself, as well as improving your relationships with others. There are several books, podcasts, and Instagram accounts devoted to the enneagram, which I have found to be so resourceful.
