How to get ready for Spring! Here in Idaho, Spring always comes late. Though the sun is shining, snow still covers my lawn and threatens to fall from the sky yet again. But there is an eager anticipation for change, possibilities, and newness growing inside me. How will I make this Spring more meaningful than the last? You may also be wondering how to get ready for Spring! While it’s been chilly (still in the 20 degrees here), my mind has been running wild with ideas, plans, and projects. This is typical, I am a type 6, after all. We tend to use that head space to think… and plan and overthink. Since the head center of intelligence is my primary center, I take in the world this way. The “Six” Way I tend to see things through logic and facts, but that isn’t how I process or interact with the world. I use the other two intelligence centers equally to encounter things in my life: feeling and acting. So I’m taking in lots of information, and then responding with feelings and actions. Productive thinking comes last for me. Knowing this about myself really helps me understand how I move and show up in the world. It also helps me be a better planner for the things I want in my life. I am also anchored to the present, so if I don’t plan ahead, life will just happen to me. I am always in the present moment, giving my undivided attention where I’m at. Thus can be wonderful, but it has its downside like all “time-anchor points.” I might spend too long enjoying a conversation connecting with someone, and forget that I needed to start dinner for my family. Most of the things I get done, only get get because they are right in front of me… in the present. I am always putting out the “current fire.” I want to share with you one of the things that helps me a lot, and maybe it will help you too. Having a place to write down plans, projects, ideas, and even reflections- this takes all of my issues and gives me a reference point! Because I am not future oriented, or past oriented, I need to write stuff down. It also helps my analytical/anxiety side to see things all laid out in an organized plan. So what am I sharing with you? A way to get ready for Spring (or anything)! I have created a beautiful planner that is designed to help me (or you) stay on track! It has reflection/ journal pages, monthly and weekly planning pages, and my favorite section is the project planning section. This is what I really wanted to share with you. The project section is split into two parts: project list pages- where you simply make a list of all the project ideas you have. The second part: project planning pages- this is where you dedicate an entire page to planning something from your list in detail. I am so excited about this because it is an idea that I have found really works for me. I am such a list person! And of course, a planner and “pros and cons” writer! This allows me to do all of that is one place, and come out with an actionable plan that isn’t just based on how I feel in the moment. I hope you will check it out! Planner Video You can grab an instant download of the planner here. If you want the paperback version shown in the video, get it here! Thanks for reading, and HAPPY PLANNING! Please let me know what you think of the planner and how you are using it! I would love to know what you like best about about it!
3 Tips for Introducing Your Kids to The Enneagram I had the opportunity to teach my first enneagram class to kids today. It is quite different from teaching adults. What I loved most was their curiosity and their open innocence. This is exactly why kids learn faster than adults. They follow their curiosities and they aren’t afraid to ask questions. Let’s talk about 3 tips for introducing your kids to the enneagram. Why we shouldn’t type them Kids are still developing, and their brains are thought to keep on developing until they are twenty-five! Isn’t that just amazing!? Along with growing up, they are testing out strategies, finding their own patterns and coping mechanisms that could look like any enneagram number. Usually type is hard to identify before age eight, in general… twelve is more likely for a type to be more clear. But the main issue here (not only with children, but all people in general) typing others robs them of the journey that is rightfully theirs. The journey of discovering who you are is highly individual in nature, and can only truly be discovered by the individual. Coaches, friends, adults, and parents can be encouraging guides, but they need to remain in that “coach” role. The coach of a team doesn’t step in and shoot the basket for the team member. He stands on the sidelines with words of encouragement. The coach watches with acute awareness- the strengths and weaknesses of the players, guides them to reaching their goals, and allows them to discover what kind of player they really are. 2. How can you guide your kids to discover their type? It starts with what you already do naturally, watching them, observing their character, behaviors, and what motivates those behaviors. When you become a student of your child, a world of opportunities open up for you in that relationship. As we know, all children are different and have different needs based on their unique make-up. You’ve probably been attuned to this since they were babies. One wanted to bounce and dance to get to sleep, and the other wanted slow back rubs and quiet singing. You will probably start to see patterns emerge. However, don’t be too quick to label these patterns as their type, like we talked about earlier. It is important that your child feels ownership of the type they relate with most. Once you understand the enneagram types well yourself, you can begin asking questions in regular conversation about what type your child relates to. I have a simple 10 question quiz for each type that works really well for kids. (grab all 9 types here). In fact, I used it with the students in my class to help them discover their types. It only takes a couple of minutes, and is great to refer back to later on. It’s important to listen with a loose agenda. You don’t want to push too hard into discovering their type. that kind of pressure will definitely make certain types shut down. Let it be a fun experience, and one you are always coming back to with openness and acceptance. Allow them to lead. After talking about all the types, they might be naturally interested (I have found this with my own kids). Let them lead the conversation and ask questions about what you see in them. I recommend revisiting the topic often to see how they are changing and developing. By the tween and early teen years you will definitely get a sense on what type they are. 3. The benefits of knowing your child’s type I cannot stress enough how helpful it is to know the types of your kids. As stated earlier, we know that all of our kids are different, but understanding their enneagram type is almost like a cheat sheet for how to parent them. For example, my type 5 son needs his personal space BIG TIME. He also needs more breaks from social interaction, and busy-ness. If I didn’t know all of these things are because he is a type five, I might force him into unnecessary pain and discomfort. Fives are known for having the least amount of energy on the enneagram, they are also a withdrawn type, and like their privacy. We have often dropped this son off at home many times after being out of the house for a few hours, because it wipes him out. This kind of understanding honors your children and deepens your relationships with them. Just think… if your parents had understood your needs better when you were growing up. It makes a huge difference. I’m not saying it is perfect… far from it. The enneagram is just a tool. We still have a lot of work to do as humans, but it definitely helps us understand each other better. To get a full overview of each enneagram type, check out the basic packet of all 9 types: I hope you’ve enjoyed learning a little bit about how to approach the enneagram with your kids. It can be an amazingly rewarding experience. I would love to hear how you use the enneagram in your family. You might also like: The 5 words each enneagram type needs to hear most Love and the Enneagram Is the year starting to slip away from you? Get back on track with this ultimate planning journal: Organized Inspiration! It is designed to help you get your goals, dreams, and idea on paper… and then make a plan to accomplish them! My favorite section is the Project Planning Pages. This is where you can write down all the details of your project to make sure it gets done! Grab it now, by clicking the photo below: This awesome planner is also available on amazon if you prefer to order a hard copy (instead of digital download) grab the planner in hard copy here
3 Tips to a Better Community Did you know that belonging to a community and engaging well, is part of personal self-care? It might seem counter-intuitive, after-all isn’t community about others? Yes, and no. Community is about the whole, you and them. This reciprocal relationship is vital to our personal well-being and success in life. Our deepest longings have to do with being known, accepted, heard, and loved. None of these things can happen without community. You can’t do life well all on your own. So let’s talk about 3 tips to a better community. Tip #1: Learn your enneagram type The oldest wisdom tells us that first we must know ourselves before we can understand the world around us, or the people in it. How can we expect others to understand us, if we don’t even understand ourselves? You are probably familiar with the following quotes: “Know thyself.” -Socrates “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” -Aristotle “Can you remember who you were, before the world told you who you should be?” -Charles Bukowski These quotes all point in the common direction of discovering who you are. The best way to do that, is through the wisdom of the enneagram. Unlike other personality typing systems, the enneagram looks deeper than behavior. The enneagram is based on your inner motivations, which only you know, or are aware of. Many of us might act the same way on the outside, but inwardly we are motivated by very different things. Understanding your own motivations, means you know why you do the things you do. The puzzle of the world begins to make sense because you can finally see where, and how you fit into place. Not only will the enneagram explain your motivations, but your key longings, your core fears, the way you connect with others, and many other deeper meaningful aspects of the human condition. The enneagram is the beginning of the journey of a lifetime. Still aren’t sure what your type is? Grab the enneagram quiz packet!- all nine types! Once you discover your true self, you begin to interact with others in new ways. Why? You are more self-aware. This makes you see the patterns you get caught in, the ways you pull back, or push forward, and how you are harmful or helpful in any given situation. Seeing yourself clearly, allows you to grow and improve the way you do life. Tip #2: Intentionally working on your own weak spots Sorry, there is no shortcut. If you want to improve your relationships and engage better in your community groups, you actually have to work on things within yourself that are not serving you or others. As we just pointed out, your awareness is heightened through knowing yourself. The enneagram is like a map, showing you paths available to you. You can use these paths to grow, to avoid your typical pitfalls, to lean in to your strengths, and to overcome weak spots. Start by asking yourself good questions. Why do I feel this way? What is motivating me? Is there something I am missing? Am I jumping in, when I should be holding back? Who am I doing this for? If I don’t do this, what will happen? Am I over-thinking? Am I getting stuck in the past, and forgetting to move forward? What feelings are behind this action? Is it okay if I don’t pursue this? Will this action harm someone? Invite a friend to join you on your journey. Only you know what your true motivations are, the thoughts inside your head, and the feelings inside your heart. However, a good friend can be crucially important to walk alongside you, as you dedicate yourself to working on hard things. Share what you are struggling with, and become accountability partners for each other. Through this sharing you will experience growth, as well as opening up a space of vulnerability for your friend to feel comfortable growing along with you. Tip#3: Take it to your group/community I once heard this story about how a boat party works that really made me think about the way community works: First, the largest, heaviest boat drops anchor. This boat serves as a building block for other boats to tie up along either side. The lines are tied as tightly as possible to minimize motion between the boats. It is important for the joining boats to alternate sides as they join to keep the balance. With the anchor in the middle, there is equal tension and the least amount of swing. Now that all the boats are tied together, they become like one large vessel. They are connected so well, that people can walk from one to the next, as if it is the same boat. I’m sure you see what I’m getting at. You can be the one who drops anchor first. Knowing yourself, gives you the wisdom to lead others, connecting them in ways they never would have dreamed. You can be the building block of your group, keeping the balance, advising through equal tension, keeping space for everyone who wants to join. This is what community can look like. And if you don’t see yourself as the anchor, maybe it’s your friend who you’ve been sharing your journey with. I love the picture of coming up alongside another boat, and tying yourself to them tightly. It’s a statement of “where you go, I will go. Whatever may come, I will be beside you. We belong together.” If that’s not beautiful community, I don’t know what is. “People are most impacted by being known and accepted.” Let someone know today, that you see them, that they matter, and that they are loved and known by you. Think of how big your “boat party” could stretch if you begin with an open heart and a hand outstretched in kindness. I hope these 3 tips help you engage better in your own personal communities, and that your life is enriched along the journey. Blessings! You might also like: Everyone Needs the Enneagram! It’s okay How do you Create Space For Your Spiritual Practice? Interested in learning more about the enneagram and sharing it with others? Check out these beautiful print outs below. There is one for each type, or you can grab the bundle of all nine types! These are available to you as instant digital downloads, so you can start using them right away! Enneagram Type 1 Printable Enneagram Type 7 Printable! See all 9 types in the shop by clicking here. Grab the whole set! Great for sharing with friends or groups! Yes! I want all 9 types!
How do you make decisions based on your enneagram type? Have you ever thought about what goes into making a decision? It happens automatically. We make thousands of decisions everyday, without giving much thought to the process. Did you know that even how you make decisions is based on your enneagram type? Let’s dive in to the realm of decision making, and why we decide the way we do. Firstly, it’s important to know what the word “decide” really means. The word, decide, basically means, “to kill off.” Does this surprise you? Let’s go deeper. The first part of the word (or the prefix) “de,” simply means “off.” But the other part of the word, “cide,” is found in words like: homicide, suicide, and genocide, and means “to cut,” or “kill.” So together we come up with a succinct definition: “to kill off.” Does this definition ring true for you and your experience of deciding? Do you think about decisions as killing off all the other options, and moving forward in the direction you have chosen? Whether you think of it this way or not, this is actually what is happening when you decide something. When you say “yes” to one thing, it means you are saying “no” to something else. You are “cutting off” other opportunities in order to give your, “yes.” This is the cost of making a decision. Now how does the enneagram come into play with decision making? Our decisions are closely related with our key motivations and how we process information. Each enneagram type will subconsciously follow a pattern of decision making based on these two components. If you are looking to improve your decision making habits, this is a great place to start. By being aware of our patterns, we can then decide to change them. So how do you make decisions based on your enneagram type? Enneagram Type 1 When it comes to decision making for ones, they want to make the right choice. This is the key motivation behind almost every decision that a type one makes. They are usually pretty quick decision makers, and know instinctively what the right choice is, based on their own set of personal standards and systems they have set up for themselves. However, they can get into trouble with how they process information. Ones are primarily anchored to the present, and also have a repressed thinking intelligence center. This means that ones can get stuck in their head, over-thinking, or over-criticizing themselves and the decision. Enneagram Type 2 Twos are greatly motivated by how received they are by others. This impacts their decision making because they want to please the people around them, as well as receive their love and approval. They make most decisions based on the perceived needs of others, and rarely consider their own wants or desires. This self-neglect gets them into trouble. They might even end up resenting others for not reciprocating care. Enneagram Type 3 Threes are motivated by success, or even the appearance of success. This influences their decision making by what they allow, and do t allow. They are also extremely driven, and value efficiency, which adds another element into decisions. If the decision reflects well on them, helps them achieve their goals, and can be done effectively – it is a definite yes for threes. They get into trouble when decisions become more about pretense, than authenticity. Deception can look grey to threes, as long as they are getting the results they want, they may be unaware at what cost. Enneagram Type 4 Fours are motivated by deep longings to be significant. This colors their decisions through self-expression, as well as how they show up in the world. Fours would never want to appear fake or phony. Their decisions center around their truth and their own identities. However, fours get stuck in the decision making process of actually moving forward. Since fours are anchored to the past (being in the withdrawn stance) they have trouble moving into action. Fours are “doing repressed.” They are great about dreaming up fanciful ideas, and beautiful plans, but sometimes the follow through just isn’t there. Enneagram Type 5 Fives are motivated by a desire to be capable, as well as to gain knowledge. Their decision making process involves extensive research, as well as logically processing, and thinking through how well they can prepare. Fives are usually steady decision makers who don’t take risks. They are measured, and weigh out possible outcomes. Similarly to type fours, fives are in the withdrawn stance and sometimes struggle with taking a plan into action. They love the research part of decision making, and may spend all their time dedicated to learning more and more about the current topic. Fives are not quick decision makers, and need time to process feelings and facts around the decision. Enneagram Type 6 Sixes are motivated by security and safety. They are also concerned with what is best for the whole group. These motivations are at the core of how sixes make decisions. Will it be safe? Will everyone benefit from the decision? Sixes want to make sure their decisions will be supported, as well as connecting in a relational way. However, sixes get stuck in over-thinking and anxiety when it comes to making a decision. They doubt themselves, and their own instincts toward making the right decision. They will often seek guidance outside themselves before making a decision, asking a trusted friend, or looking up answers from other trusted sources. Enneagram Type 7 Sevens are motivated by satisfaction, and enjoyment. They are usually up for anything and always want to be included. When it comes to decision making, their first instinct is, “yes, let’s do it!” They might over-extend themselves, by agreeing to do everything. They are quick decision makers, and clever enough to sometimes make this work for them. However, sevens may experience burnout easily by taking on too much and doing too much. They need to carefully consider what they are saying yes to. Being in the aggressive stance, sevens are very action oriented, but also feelings repressed. It’s important to slow down, and consider the feelings around decisions. Enneagram Type 8 Eights are motivated by not being controlled, and by justice. They are quick decision makers, and know instinctively what needs done, and they do it. This type has confidence in their decision making skills and has no trouble telling others what the decision is. It is easy for them to see clearly, without a lot of time needed for discussion, or planning. However, eights sometimes bulldoze over others in their quick powerful decisions. They are also in the aggressive stance, meaning they take in the world through instincts/ the body, and support their decisions with thinking; completely skipping over feelings. Some of their decision making also occurs as a result of them not wanting to be controlled. Enneagram Type 9 Nines are motivated by inner and outer peace. They might have the hardest time with the decision making process. Nines often “merge” with those around them, agreeing to what everyone else wants in order to keep the peace. They also have a hard time prioritizing actions. All tasks and decision can look of equal importance to a type nine. Nines are in the withdrawn stance, which looks like distraction for them. Instead of doing the important task, or making that important decision, a type nine might keep busy doing other things instead of those main tasks. This shows their tendency toward being “doing repressed,” and greatly affects their decision making. A reminder app, or special “to do” planner can be helpful for nines. Wasn’t that fun? I hope you enjoyed learning about how each enneagram type handles the decision making process. We are all so different! Isn’t it fascinating? Want to know more about each enneagram type? Check out the 9 types enneagram packet. This packet includes a page for each enneagram type, covering all the basics to understand that type! grab the packet! Bring the enneagram to your group! Start seeing better connections, more compassion for each other, and clear understanding. The enneagram improves relationships of all kinds. Check out the offerings below: enneagram for beginners course All 9 Types Quiz
Harry Potter and The Enneagram (types 5, 6, &7) We are continuing our series on Harry Potter and the enneagram with types 5, 6, & 7! I am enjoying this series extensively and I hope you are too! Seeing the types through fictional characters often helps us see ourselves more clearly, and others too. It’s that aha moment of, “ oh, so that’s what a type 5 is like!” Severus Snape: Type 5 I see Professor Snape as a classic Enneagram Type 5. He is one of the most skilled and educated wizards of his time. His extensive research and knowledge/love of knowing, “how to bottle death,” etc. show his dedication and five-like qualities. There isn’t a potion too challenging for him, or an herb he doesn’t know. Snape is more than “book smart.” Remember, he’s the half-blood prince? Type five falls into the withdrawn stance on the enneagram. This means that Snape and all fives, are looking back in the past, dwelling on things gone. We definitely see this with Snape. His whole life is about the past. Promises he made to those long gone, wrongs done to him, and memories both good and torturous are what occupy his present. He doesn’t allow himself to get close to anyone, keeping his heart guarded and his emotions locked away. His dedication is to the cause, the only thing he has left of the one he loves. Neville Longbottom: Type 5 Neville Longbottom, a favorite if mine, becomes obsessed with Herbology. Fives often choose a topic at a time and go deep until they know everything there is to know about it. Neville is found in the library among the plant books, and has received high praise from Professor Sprout, the Herbology teacher. He excels in this class because it becomes a passion and curiosity for him which he must learn to the best of his ability. Fives are also known to be rule followers. Neville abides by the rules, and expects others to also. When he discovers Ron, Hermione,and Harry sneaking out after curfew, he demands that they stop breaking rules. He’s also concerned about them as a whole, Gryfindor House, losing house points due to the rule breaking. Lastly, fives tend to be observers rather than joiners. they have a keen understanding for things going on around them, but prefer remaining in the outside. This distance from others is a way to keep themselves safe, as well as preserve energy. Remus Lupin: Type 6 In general, Remus Lupin is just a “likable” guy. He’s authentic, doesn’t try too hard, and actually cares about teaching the students. He is well prepared, practical, and responsible. These are all typical six qualities, and make him a great teacher. The Fear Triad (head triad) Professor Lupin lives out of a unique type on fear. He is hiding the fact that he is a Werewolf, and he fears above all else, losing control and hurting others. He can’t trust himself, because he actually becomes something dangerous. This feels very six-ish. But don’t let the Werewolf identity muddy the waters too much. Being in the fear/head triad, Lupin is hyper-vigilant at times, defensive, and at his worst, self-defeating and rigid. He has good intentions, but is wary of things he can’t trust or control. Loyalty The type six is well known for this trait of loyalty. Lupin has this in spades. In every inner circle he is a part of, he shows nothing but loyalty to the group. From James Potter’s group of friends growing up together, to The Order of the Phoenix, to Hogwarts, and to Harry and his family, Lupin is a constant grounded pillar of dependency and trustworthiness. He obviously holds this standard as the highest of values. In addition to his loyalty, Lupin is also compassionate, witty, and supportive. It makes sense why he was relied upon as a friend, leader, and teacher. He gives Harry hope and direction when he needs it; he is the friend and leader that stands up with preparation when others are not ready. Ron Weasley: Type 6 Similarly to Professor Lupin, Ron Weasley showcases loyalty as his best quality. He becomes fast friends with Harry, and instantly is dependable and thoughtful. Throughout the series, Ron is reliable, steadfast, and stands up for his friends. As a head type, we see him use his critical thinking skills many times to get the trio out of a tough spot. In the first book, we see it in the “best game of wizards chess ever played!” He sees what needs to be done and takes action. Other times, his doubts, anxieties and fears get the best of him. The forbidden forest with the spiders, the devil’s snare that he just can’t relax into, are both perfect examples. Sixes are known for “over-thinking.” Being smack in the middle of the head triad, makes Ron especially prone to taking in information with thinking and getting stuck there. Sirius Black: Type 7 Sirius seeks the most out of every situation. He hates being alone, as most sevens do, and has the advantage of turning into a dog whenever he wants. I think all sevens would love this idea! Dogs represent much of what a seven is all about: joy, companionship, and adventures! FOMO (fear of missing out) is the real deal for type sevens. Sirius risks being seen in dog form in order to say goodbye to Harry. Did I mention sevens are huge risk takers? They are fearless, future oriented thinkers. At their best, they are wise confidants. Harry seeks advice from Sirius numerous times. The big disconnect for type sevens are emotions. They don’t mind the positive emotions, but anything painful or perceived as harmful to them, sevens avoid at all costs. Sirius went in an opposite direction from his family, but he rarely speaks of it. It’s as if he wants to pretend those hurtful things are not a part of him. Instead, he plunges forward into dangerous heroism in hopes of defeating Voldemort. Ginny Weasley: Type 7w6 When we first meet Ginny, she presents as an introverted type seven. It is fascinating to see her character grow and blossom throughout the series. As she gains more confidence in herself, she becomes a girl who knows who she is, what she wants, and what she stands for. She becomes bold, and a striking person that others love to be around. Her quick wit and cleverness make her a type seven (with a type six wing). Though she’s not quite “the life of the party” like some sevens, her six wing makes her a bit more cautious. Her core desire is for contentment. She adds balance to “Dumbledore’s Army,” and is charming, productive, and enthusiastic. I hope you enjoyed my take on these Harry Potter characters! Thanks for reading! I would love to hear your thoughts. Who are your favorite characters? What type do you think they are? You might also like: Harry Potter and the Enneagram (Types 1&2) Harry Potter and the Enneagram (Types 3 & 4) Enneagram Type 7 and Fictional Characters Check out the quiz bundle now! Want to know about your type? This overview packet is ideal for getting a handle on all 9 types! Take a look! I want this overview packet!
It’s Okay Do you ever feel like you aren’t enough? Like no matter what you do, it could have been better, you could have shown up in a way that people need you to, or put more thought into the moment? It’s okay. You’re not alone. We all have moments everyday when we let ourselves down. I want you to know that it’s okay… we have a lot to let go of. Grab This Poster! Why are we so hard on ourselves? Do we always feel like we have to show just the good stuff, the polished, best stuff to the world? What about the rest of it? Life is messy. Chaotic. And sometimes REAL UGLY… And it’s okay. I want you to come to a place where you are comfortable with the vulnerable imperfections of our every day lives. In the mess, there is beauty to be found and gifts given. Here are my truths for you: It’s okay to make mistakes. Breathe in. Breathe out. Let it go. Second chances mean you get a clean slate to try again. But there is also joy in midst of doing it wrong. What?! Sometimes happy accidents lead to the most brilliant adventure, or surprise occasion. Embrace the mistakes. Move on in positivity and growth. It’s okay to say, “No.” Many of us struggle with the power of good boundaries. Boundaries help us love each other better. They mean, “This is mine,” and “That is yours.” When you understand your boundaries, you can say yes to the right things, and own what you need to, to live your best life. This means saying, “no” to some things, so that you can say. “yes” to the things that matter. It’s Okay To Ask For Help Sometimes we think we have to figure things out all on our own. What will others think of me if I can’t do this? Well, actually asking for help builds bonds- it doesn’t destroy them. Doing things independently can be more efficient at times, but it can also be isolating, and cause burnout. Let someone know you would appreciate their help, they will be glad you asked! And you’ll be surprised at the closeness formed around this encounter. It’s Okay To Not Know Everything Being well-informed is fantastic, however trying to know everything can be hindering in many ways. Not only is it exhausting, but it keeps you from opportunities and relationships. Most people don’t care if you have researched every angle before you talk about something, so take a risk and add a little spontaneity into your week. It’s Okay to Be Unprepared Sometimes stress in tied to how much we have prepared, this makes us feel like we have some control over certain situations. The reality is, we have little control over anything. Preparing gives us something to do, but will never fix problems or cover everything. The future cannot be seen; Eighty percent of the things we worry about never happen. It’s better to spend time doing what is necessary and then enjoying the people in the current moment. It’s Okay to Be Yourself Is it scary to show up as yourself sometimes? Maybe people won’t like you if you aren’t what they want or need in this moment. These are fears that all of us face at times, but the truth is, we want to see you just as you are. The people that love you don’t need you to perform, or put on a mask. Show up as the real you, and see what happens. Print this digital download as a reminder! It’s okay to Not Be Okay When we are stressed, or feeling a lot of emotions, sometimes we tend to hide this from others. What is the worst that could happen if we fall apart, and admit that, “I’m really not okay?” Most people respond to honesty with compassion. This is a huge plus, right? This means we should share with trusted others when things are rocky in life. It’s Okay to Be Vulnerable Sharing something that is close to our hearts feels scary. Once we let it out there, we no longer have control. It is unknown how others will react, what they will think, and what it will mean for our relationship. However, there is a sort of magic to being vulnerable with someone. Did you know that in most cases, vulnerability creates deeper relationships, allows for positive growth, and helps others let their guard down as well? It’s Okay to Let Your Chaos Hang Out Trying to keep the peace ALL the time is exhausting! Not only will it tire you out, but it is an impossible goal. The peace you really need to make is with yourself. Release the too high ideals, the striving for no conflict, and embrace the chaos of life. Sometimes things are just messy and hard, and full of noise and disaster. And that’s okay. Breathe in… breathe out. You will survive. I hope you found these words encouraging. Maybe you saw a little of yourself in them. Is there something you need to let go of? Take a moment today for yourself. Think about the things you have not been facing, or choose to embrace the mess of life that is right in front of you. You might also like: Harry Potter and the Enneagram What is your Hazard? Is Your Enneagram Passion Controlling You?
Fall Daydreaming I’ve been “Fall Daydreaming,” for weeks, but now that it’s around the corner, I just can’t wait! It’s my favorite season! And to celebrate, I’ve made a fun Fall Checklist to share with you! Grab your FREE Fall Checklist Here! Mark one thing off your list by reading the poem below. October BY ROBERT FROST O hushed October morning mild, Thy leaves have ripened to the fall; Tomorrow’s wind, if it be wild, Should waste them all. The crows above the forest call; Tomorrow they may form and go. O hushed October morning mild, Begin the hours of this day slow. Make the day seem to us less brief. Hearts not averse to being beguiled, Beguile us in the way you know. Release one leaf at break of day; At noon release another leaf; One from our trees, one far away. Retard the sun with gentle mist; Enchant the land with amethyst. Slow, slow! For the grapes’ sake, if they were all, Whose leaves already are burnt with frost, Whose clustered fruit must else be lost— For the grapes’ sake along the wall. The image above looks like pure October bliss!!! Speaking of October Bliss… I would love for you to be part of our Enneagram Fall Wellness Retreat! It’s going to be a blast! 3 days and 2 nights of enneagram workshops, great food, yoga, meditation, nature walks, and relaxing in a beautiful boutique hotel! Check out the Retreat info here! Short and sweet today, my friends! I just wanted to put some positivity out! I hope you enjoy the Fall Freebie! And more importantly, I hope the beginning to your Fall Season is a beautiful transition… a time when we are reminded that change is good for us! Live inspired! You might also like: 5 Spiritual Practices Everyone Should Try 5 Words Each Enneagram Type Needs to Hear Most
Everyone Needs the Enneagram Did you know that the enneagram is widely used and credited for helping thousands of individuals and company’s better themselves? It’s true, this ancient tool of wisdom is providing professionals, and everyday people with the help they need to be successful at life! Everyone needs the enneagram! Check out this article from Forbes explaining the enneagram and how it is changing the game for many. Click here to read the Forbes article. I was pleasantly surprised to see the Forbes article! I guess I’m not the only one obsessed with the power of the enneagram! Their article is “just the basics,” but it hits on some great major points. Why does everyone need the enneagram? Before we understand ourselves, we are walking through life, “asleep.” Our minds, bodies and emotions are in a state of reaction on auto-pilot. We have patterns that repeat themselves over and over, until we make the choice to observe ourselves, and begin the process of awakening. This isn’t a “quick fix,” however. The journey to waking ourselves up lasts the rest of our lives. Furthermore, our personality is not who we really are. This may come as a surprise, but what we think of as personality is just a cover. It can be thought of as a combination of defense mechanisms we developed as young people to survive. There comes a time when we need to let those patterns go, and grow into our higher selves- who we are really meant to be. How does the enneagram help us reach our potential? The enneagram is designed for the purpose of both understanding and growth. Each type has touch points to two other numbers that help them grow out of unwanted patterns and into a new way of thinking, acting and being in the world. It begins by observing yourself just as you are today. By watching the behaviors and patterns you have now, you can identify your motivations, and in turn your enneagram type. This is the beginning. Getting a handle on your type can take months. It is only after you understand who you are right now, that you can begin to move towards who you want to be. Psychology Today, refers to the enneagram as a tool for conflict resolution and personal growth. Read their article here. We all need help in those to key areas of life, and the enneagram gives us the road map guiding through. It looks different for each enneagram type, but we all begin by looking honestly at ourselves and working hard through the things that seem impossible. Is change really possible? Yes, change is possible for those who want it, and will work hard to make it happen.For some of us, conflict is the personal battle we never want to face. Other types refuse to be vulnerable, admit they’re wrong, or face their own emotions. These are just a few of the traps and pitfalls we have to overcome. The enneagram helps identify them in a way that feels authentic and pure. I can’t identify with a problem I don’t know I have. When I own my enneagram type, I have to own all of it: the strengths and the weaknesses, the positive and the negative patterns. By accepting my whole self, I can begin to work on the things that need extra attention, and lean in the my superpowers allowing them to shine. You might also like: What is your hazard? Harry Potter & the Enneagram Want to learn more about the enneagram? Maybe you aren’t sure what enneagram type you are. I have some great tools to help you! Check out the quiz packet below to get an idea of your type quickly. This is fun to do with friends and groups too! Enneagram Quiz Yes! I want the quiz bundle! Learning about the types can seem overwhelming. There is a lot of information to cover. A simple way to get a handle on all nine types in through my overview of the 9 types packet. Each type has there own page with a simple format, cover all of the basics. I want the overview packet!
What is Your Hazard Hey there! It’s officially road trip season, and I know a lot of you are anxious to get out there. Maybe some of you are heading for high elevations. Have you ever driven in the mountains with high rock formations, and you see those signs, “Hazard ahead, look out for falling rocks?” This situation can be really dangerous, right? Today, we are talking about the hazards in your life that keep you from getting where you want to go and how the enneagram both defines these hazards, and gives us a road map to work around them. what is your hazard? It’s not the rocks themselves that are dangerous. A rock is just a rock. I like this analogy because it allows us to see the power of perspective. None of our personal hazards are dangerous all on their own, it’s the power and perspective we give them, and the situations we allow to form around them, that make them so dangerous. Using the enneagram, we can define our hazard through our core number. This will be the trap that you continually find yourself in. The pattern of your core number keeps bringing you back to this self destructive behavior and situation that doesn’t serve you well. The key to getting out of this trap is by connecting with your strength number and the high virtues you have access to through that number. Let’s look at some examples. Type one One’s hazard has to do with control. Their key motivation is to be good, also meaning they don’t want to be bad. This might seem over simple, but it is full of complication. They feel like if they can keep out anything labeled as “bad,” they won’t be corrupted by it, therefore keeping them preserved, and good. Are you seeing the blind spot here? This is an impossible feat. No one can be fully good and keep out all wrong. Type One’s Strength Number: Seven The road map for type one means connecting to the high side of seven. The virtue one’s need to strive for is sobriety. This is the acceptance of “what is.” Not wanting things to be better, more, or different. There is a peaceful balance here that gets one’s out of their cycle to improve and control. They realize they have control of very little in reality, and there is a gift in understanding that balance. Type Two: Two’s hazard is around acceptance and needing to be liked or loved. Doesn’t everyone want to be liked or loved? Well, yes, but none of us hold a candle to the deep need of the type two for this acceptance. They will go beyond boundaries and logic to please others, subconsciously wanting a reciprocal love and helpfulness to come their way. Their challenge is keeping boundaries, and authenticity. Their blind spot lies in overstepping and saying yes to everything and everyone. Type Two’s strength number: Four The road map for type two means connecting to the high side of type four. Fours might just be the most authentic type on the enneagram. Twos need to key into this as well as the awareness fours have around their own emotions and feelings. They can also connect to the fours ability to have good boundaries based on that genuineness. The best decisions can be made when a two knows how they feel and what is theirs to do. Type Three: Three’s hazard is around self-importance and their blind spot has to do with succeeding at all costs. They are efficient and block out feelings to get things done. Just like every number, a strength easily becomes a weakness when it is in excess. Three’s can trend toward workaholism, doing only what will allow them to win or reach their goal. Type Three’s Strength Number: Six The road map for type three means leaning into the best qualities of type six. These include: loyalty, steadfastness, faithfulness, and compassion. When type three can let go of their success mask, and pick up truth and loyalty, they will avoid many hazards on their way. Slowing down, is key for threes. Dare I say it: being unproductive is okay! Threes need to learn to sit with feelings, their own, as well as others, allowing them to have both self compassion and compassion for others. Type Four: The hazard for type four, is focusing too much on what is missing. Fours are idealistic, and want things to be a certain way. They instantly notice what they don’t have, what they are not, and get stuck in a cycle of comparing and feelings. All the while, fours truly miss out. Life is happening around them, but they can’t seem to get out of their inner world, that tells them they aren’t enough, they need to be more special, more like… Type Four’s Strength Number: One The road map for type four is through the high side of type one. The structure, follow-thru, and dependability of type one lends stability to the type four. Through type one, fours can find clarity, and also a path to get thing done. They move away from comparison syndrome, and into a place of realism and serenity. Type Five: The hazard for type five centers around independence, capability, and personal boundaries. These characteristics on their own seem quite positive, but like we’ve said, attributes can easily become unbalanced. This is why we experience hazards in our lives. Fives in particular, become overly guarded and closed off. They want to figure everything out for themselves without allowing for help. This hazard keeps fives from interaction, as well as relying solely on themselves for everything. Type Five’s Strength Number: Eight The road map for five’s is through the powerhouse of type eight. This positive move from five to eight allows fives to be direct about how they feel, and ask for what they need. It also activates the doing center for fives, who often stay for long periods of time in the planning, thinking, reminiscing stage. Eights are known for action, as well as their boldness. This brings fives back into balance, and actually helps them connect better with others as they are communicating needs, and desires. Type Six: The hazard for sixes has to do with anxiety and over-thinking. Sixes are motivated by security, and tend to spiral into worst-case scenario thinking, or over-thinking in general. A major blind spot for sixes is doubting themselves. This hazard affects every area of their lives and decision making. “But what if…” is constantly just under the surface for sixes. They are always wondering, and planning for everything. Type Six’ Strength Number: Nine The road map for type six is through the peacemaker- type nine. Going to the high side of nine feels like a soothing remedy to sixes anxious mind. To let go of the worry, and embrace the easy going attitude of type nines is so healing. The “what ifs,” are gone, there is a calm acceptance that everything will be okay. The peacefulness of nine allows sixes to get out of their heads and into their bodies, to feel the reality that 80% of the the things they worry about NEVER happen! Type Seven: Seven’s hazard is around avoiding feelings, and fear of missing out. The kings of stuffing feelings might just be the type seven. It’s not fun to feel those feelings sometimes, so why not just pretend they aren’t there and distract yourself with something exciting? Yes, sevens fall prey to this unhealthy distraction tactic and many others that allow them to not feel the pain of deep feelings. Another blind spot is around FOMO (fear of missing out). If there is fun to be had, a seven wants to be there no matter how reckless or ill-timed the event may be. Type Seven’s Strength Number: Five The road map for seven’s is through the high side of type five. This move grounds type seven, and helps them establish healthy boundaries. They stop saying “yes,” to everything, and start considering time to with drawl alone as something to look forward to. The five’s independence, and self-reliance gives seven’s balance, and courage to face some of those hard feelings in their own way. Type Eight: The hazard for eights, centers around control, as well as anger. This strong body type does not want to be controlled by anyone, and holds anger right at the surface. Eights speak their minds openly without worrying about whose feelings they might hurt. These blind spots mean they are often in conflicts with others, challenging constantly on every side. Their sharp edges are deceptive however, protecting a deeper vulnerable side that just want to love you. Type Eight’s Strength Number: Two The road map for eights is through the high side of type two: the helper. The positive qualities of twos give the eights needed connection to feelings, compassion, and humility. When Eights access type two, they present softer, considering others opinions, and not challenging as frequently. This awareness helps balance type eight, allowing for the possibility of seeing that vulnerable side. Type Nine: The hazard for nine is centered around merging, and avoiding conflict. Nines rarely speak their mind, they agree with those they are with, to avoid conflict, when they really might feel differently. This creates a passive aggressive attitude, making problems hard to solve. They desire peace within, and peace outwardly, and will do anything to achieve this. Managing all of this feels impossible to the nine, and they might give up. Type Nine’s Strength Number: Three The road map for nines is through the confident type three. When nines lean into the decisive type three, they can speak their mind, say what they mean, and feel comfortable doing it. The three energy also helps nines achieve their goals, and get things done. Type three allows nines to realize that some conflict is good and healthy and it won’t kill them. Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed talking about our hazards. Remember to lean into your strength number to get out of some of those spirals, you really can do it! You always have access to your strength number! Live inspired and keep growing! You might also like: Five Spiritual Practices Everyone Should Try 5 Words Each Enneagram Type Needs To Hear Looking for printables for each enneagram type? Check out the overview printable packet below! Click Here to grab the packet!
