Behind the Scenes of Enneagram Type 8

Enneagram type eight is known for their boldness, powerful presence, and “get it done,” attitude. But there is much more to these “challengers,” as they are sometimes called. Let’s go behind the scenes of enneagram type 8 to find out what they are really all about.

The Aggressive Stance

It’s no surprise that the type eight is in the aggressive stance. They are outwardly aggressive and express their thoughts and opinions openly. This type is not afraid of a fight, in fact they crave the intimacy and intensity a conflict can create.

The aggressive stance also reveals the dominant and repressed intelligence centers of type eight. Because they are in the aggressive stance, eights are doing dominant, and feelings repressed. The thinking center falls in-between, supporting their doing center.

Since the doing center is dominant for eights, this means they act first without considering feelings or thinking about what repercussions their actions may cause. Thinking happens after the action has been done. Feelings are last for type eight.

Being feelings repressed, makes it hardest for type eights to be empathetic. They say what they think, do what they want, and really don’t care about your feelings. They also don’t care what other people think about them, and don’t waste time worrying about feelings in general.

Types in the aggressive stance are also future focused. For type eight, this looks like pushing their goals and powering through obstacles. This forward focus also enhances their need to repress feelings and protect themselves from vulnerability (their worst fear).

The Anger Triad

Eights are in the anger triad, also known as the “gut triad,” meaning they react quickly and with gut instincts. They know what they want, and usually the most efficient way to get it. Because they bypass feelings, they can be cutthroat, and offensive without meaning to be.

Eights are close to their anger. They express it outwardly and don’t hold back. The other numbers in this triad express anger in a less obvious ways. The type eight lives up to its name as “The challenger,” and definitely walks boldly into every situation.

This kind of confidence and honesty makes the type eight intimidating to most. They are also natural leaders and known for protecting the underdog, as well as those they love. Type eights at their best use their domineering personality for good, helping others and impacting the world.

Why we love type 8

No one will tell you the truth like an eight. Though their honesty may hurt at times, you can be confident in always knowing where you stand with them. Their communication style is direct, succinct, and full of clarity and conviction.

When they are in your corner, you can’t lose. It is like having a superhero stand behind you and lift you up! They will fight for you, stand up for you, sometimes even fight the battles in your honor if need be. They have a sweet nurturing side for those they love, and the protection of a Mama bear.

The intensity of type eight is admirable. They work tirelessly for what they need to in a practical and passionate way. Eights have a willingness to act and do hard things without giving up.

When the timing is right, eights even know how to loosen up and have a little fun. We love seeing this side of them!

What Does Type Eight Need From Us?

Eights respect people that standup for themselves and radiate confidence. They also appreciate clear, concise communication. Since they don’t beat around the bush, they don’t want you to either. They also don’t want to waste time guessing, or playing games.

Eights don’t care for flattery, but desire honest appreciation of the many things they do. Acknowledge the contributions they make and the hard work they do to make your life better.

Become a safe, trustworthy space for your type eight to feel supported in. Typically eights build walls of protection around anything that feels like vulnerability and need a comfortable place to put some of that. They do have a hidden softer side.

Grab This Type Eight Printable Here!