Is Your Enneagram Passion Controlling you? You might not know it, but deep in your core you have a passion that drives all other things in your life. You may even think you have control over it. But I’ve got news for you, this passion will be your life’s struggle. Today I want to talk about the passion of the enneagram types and why our inner passion has control over us. Do you know what your passion is? Let’s start there. Passion is usually associated with drive and positive asperations. This is not what we are talking about here. The passions of the enneagram types are more like a vice. That thing which causes us to repeat downward spirals and negative patterns of behavior. Your passion is your subconscious, underlying motivation for why and even how you do everything. Most likely, you are unaware of it until you really start doing work on yourself. This is the part of learning the enneagram that makes us a bit uncomfortable because seeing our “dark side,” not only makes us feel vulnerable, but also a bit embarrassed. However, seeing this side of the types will help you identify your type if you were struggling before. It’s like direct honesty cutting through all the fluff and revealing your deepest darkest secret. Take a look at the passions below. Does yours make you want to run and hide, or disown it altogether? Most people have that reaction. The passions of the 9 types Type 1: Anger Type 2: Pride Type 3: Deceit Type 4: Envy Type 5: Avarice Type 6: Fear Type 7: gluttony Type 8: Lust Type 9: Sloth enneagram passions Virtues We can’t talk about passions without also talking about virtues. I like to think of the virtue as what each type was before the world told them who they should be. Before the patterns were learned, the defense mechanisms, the baggage, or lack of boundaries given, each type would have looked like their virtue. The way it is though, we have to work hard to reach our virtues. They are there buried inside us somewhere, but they aren’t always easy to dig up and it takes boundless effort. The goal in learning the enneagram is to turn from passion to virtue a little here and a little there. With Intentional awareness, beginning to notice you have it in you to silence one and step forward in to another. Most of us will see our virtue come out when life is good and we are doing well. We move into our strength number on the enneagram, which is usually where the virtue can shine easily. For example: When a type one moves to the high side of seven, they have let go of perfecting things, they feel calm and content, some might even say serene. Take a look at the virtues below, they will have the opposite affect of reading your passion. Can you just imagine a world where everyone reached this full potential… the best version of themselves? Think of being surrounded by these powerful words- all such gifts and forces of good. So what are the virtues? Type 1: Serenity Type 2: Humility Type 3: Honesty Type 4:Contentment Type 5: Generosity Type 6: Courage Type 7: Sobriety Type 8: Innocence Type 9: Action passions of the 9 types grab this printable here I hope you enjoyed reading about the 9 types and the passions and virtues. It is so fascinating to me! You might also like: 5 words each enneagram type needs to hear most Want an overview packet of all 9 types? Each page includes the basics on everything for each type. Here’s what they look like: I want the 9 types overview packet
Enneagram Type Two, and Fictional Characters Do you ever watch a movie or read a book, and find yourself in the character? Sometimes we relate with fictional characters because they are dramatizing our patterns of behaviors and using the same motivations we would use. This is so helpful for identifying and working out your enneagram type and those of others as well. Today, let’s discuss enneagram type two, and fictional characters. Twos can often be found as the supporting role in many fictional tales. This is probably because they are naturally helpful characters and fit well as the sidekick, or best friend sort. However, there are times when a Two gets a great lead role. Emma Jane Austen’s Emma, could be considered a type two. She is constantly concerned with the well-being of others, their feelings, and happiness. This motivates her to even try her hand at match-making several times. She is proud in thinking that she knows what is best for everyone else, and in turn neglects her own happiness and well-being. A type two’s passion, or “deadly sin,” is pride. The kind of pride that Emma shows time and time again. It leans on the self-righteous side and takes a great deal to overcome. Twos are always befriending people and taking care of them. Emma goes out of her way frequently to care for the people in her community that need the most help. Enneagram Type 2 and fictional characters Molly Weasley Molly Weasley embodies the warmth and welcome of the type two. She makes Harry feel right at home and eagerly strives to meet all of his needs. She helps Harry find the platform and king cross station, which is only the beginning of her efforts to show her care through helping. Molly makes sure that Harry gets a hand knitted sweater on Christmas, just because he is a friend of her son, Ron! This type 2 is is endlessly serving her busy family, and never thinking of herself. She knows where everyone is at any given time, and exactly what each person needs. Peeta Mellark Peeta’s devotion to Katniss is legendary. It is this quality that keeps him hoping, and keeps them both alive. He is also self-sacrificing, a known two quality. He thinks of her above himself, even from the beginning. Peeta throws her the exact life-line she needs, at he moment she needs it, and saves her and her families lives by his simple generosity. We see Peeta quite literally become “martyr-like” willing to die in place of Katniss. Few of us face death threats so literally and for a two their martyr like quality only shows up when they are in a bad place. When a two is stressed and down, they will take their self-righteousness to an unhealthy level. What is most important to the type to is reciprocity. They want what’s due to them. If they have been there for you, they want you to be there for them. If they have sacrificed, they expect that same sacrifice. Have you seen a little of yourself or someone you love in the type two characters? Maybe you have thought of a few type two fictional characters that we could add to the list… Feel free to comment. You might also like: 5 words each enneagram type needs to hear most grab the type 2 overview Below is a video course for beginners just learning the enneagram find the course here
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). Behind the Scenes of Enneagram Type 8 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. Behind the Scenes of Enneagram Type 8 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! Behind the scenes of Enneagram type 8 This overview is available here. Check out this awesome type 8 candle! Get it here.
Enneagram 101 (the enneagram self-discovery guide) Who Are You? An Enneagram Discovery Guide Have you ever wanted to understand yourself better, or to understand the people in your life a little more? Wouldn’t it be amazing if you knew why you do what you do, and beyond that, if could understand what motivates the people around you? The enneagram self-discovery guide is the beginning of your journey. Today I am sharing with you a printable guide that will help you and a group of friends dig into the enneagram together. I am so excited to share this information with you! The enneagram has so many levels to it, and is full of so much wisdom for growth and movement towards awareness in our lives. This enneagram self-discovery guide is a perfect jumping off point. It gives you the, “Enneagram 101 version”, the bones of the wisdom, without overwhelming. “To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.”-Socrates The gift of knowing yourself opens up so many doors in your life. This is my hope for you and this enneagram self discovery guide. I want you to experience self-awareness and in turn, transformation into the person you truly want to become and were made to be. The enneagram not only shows who you are right now, but who you can work towards becoming. The enneagram self-discovery guide What is the enneagram? The word enneagram, comes from two greek words, “ennea,” meaning “nine,” and “gram”, meaning, “symbol.” No one quite knows the origin, but it has been studied for thousands of years. It is an old wisdom of people and why we do what we do. If you want to read over the basics, the summary of each type, take a look at this post (An Enneagram Introduction). The enneagram self-discovery guide Here are a few of the many benefits of learning the enneagram: Learning your basic emotional structureUnderstanding your stress patternsUnderstanding your strength patternsLearning your access points to numbers beyond your basic numberGrowing in compassion and empathy towards othersAppreciating who you are in your core number Here’s the deal:I am offering readers this beginners guide to studying the enneagram at 45% off right now! It is packed full of lovely printables that go into depth for each type. Including: An overview of each typeA questionnaire for each typeIdentifying wingsWhat each type looks like in the phases of average, healthy, and unhealthy This beginners enneagram self-discovery guide is perfect for a group who is just learning about the enneagram. Also, having a group or community around when you are making an effort to grow is very important. The support they can provide is monumental in your success. You can keep each other accountable and share in the ups and downs of learning about yourself. While going through the guide you should be able to identify with the type that sounds most like you. Pay attention to motivations, rather than behaviors. But take note, it takes some people a while to find their number and that is okay. This is just the beginning of a long journey. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”Lao-tzu (Chinese proverb) Who are You? An Enneagram Self-discovery Guide Grab the Enneagram Self-discovery guide here. It’s 45% off right now in the shop! The Enneagram self-discovery guide is a great resource for groups to do together! It includes all the information for all 9 types, and would be a wonderful way for any group to better understand each other! I hope you take advantage of this deal and that it truly teaches you (and your group) about yourself and others! Live inspired!
The Power of Thanksgiving You might be looking forward to the turkey and stuffing, and all the traditional eats we serve up every fourth Thursday of November. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love tradition, and well prepared food, but even more than that, I look forward to the pause to reflect on my blessings. There is power in thanksgiving. And no, I’m not talking about “Turkey-Day,” I’m referring to the underlying principle of gratitude that we often tie into this special day. So, What makes thanksgiving so powerful? Let’s talk about the 3 main factors of this practice that can really change your life. Recognizing The Good Busy-ness is often our excuse for not seeing what is right in front of us. When we slow down long enough, we can see the blessings of life. “What we seek we shall find; what we flee from flees from us”Ralph Waldo Emerson But we still have to be looking for the good. Like this Emerson quote points out, we are going to find whatever we are looking for. Why not look for what is positive in our lives? I love that around this time of year, people are more apt to take stock of what is going well for them. This actually has a growing affect. Being positive about your life actually makes your life more positive. When you start to take notice of little beautiful things around you, you start to notice MORE little wonderful things around you. Taking time to recognize the good, is a definite key point in the power of thanksgiving. Sometimes it is simply seeing what you already have is all that you need. Thanksgiving might just be the key to satisfaction. Sharing The Good Noticing good in your own life is fantastic, but when you share it with others, it tends to double. We know it takes a community to thrive (read more about that topic here) and being part of a community includes sharing victories, hope, and gratefulness. Sharing not only personal thankfulness for things that are going well with you, but sharing the ways those in your community have blessed your life truly enriches the community as a whole. It’s important to speak these feelings of gratefulness aloud. People often don’t realize how powerful a simple kindness of saying how someone else has impacted your life can be. This is a great time to think about those people in your life. Who has made a difference for you personally? Have you told them? Have you looked in their eyes and said a loud, “you make my life better?“ These are the moments that make a lasting and powerful difference. What people need most, is to feel seen and heard, and that they matter. Speaking these truths of gratefulness binds communities and families together like nothing else. It increases the feeling of belonging. Did you know thanksgiving could be so powerful? Taking the Good Forward The power of thanksgiving moves us forward. When we have thanked others, and others have shown gratitude towards us, it becomes a light inside that we take with us wherever we go. That sense of belonging, and love stay with us and begin to spread in other areas of our lives. Because we feel full emotionally on the inside, we can then begin to fill others who need it out in the world. Thanksgiving grows. That light shines on people at work, or the grocery store, or waiting in line for whatever thing it is. That kindness of gratitude is passed on to the people around you. It continues the ripple affect… on, and on. If everyone was intentional about gratitude, the world would feel lighter. It’s a simple thing, that costs us nothing. Why wouldn’t we practice gratitude every day? Start with noticing the little things. Add speaking them aloud to loved ones. Continue simple kindness of thanksgiving in your outward community. I hope you enjoyed this post. As always thanks for reading. I hope you are inspired and that your positivity will spread in your own community and bless others. The Power of Thanksgiving I had to share this awesome picture of my Grandma with my kids, nephew, and niece. She passed away almost 2 years ago. I have many memories of her around this time of year. She loved to be festive, and join in on whatever was going on. We all miss her dearly. She was a key part of our community, sharing positivity and supporting everyone in every situation. I am so thankful that I got to be in her life for so long, and learned many things from her. You can grab this adorable journal made by me and available on amazon! It makes the perfect gift for the upcoming holidaysMake it your new gratitude journal120 blank pages inside to inspire you to get writing!
Why We Need Community to Thrive Today I want to talk about embracing community. Why is it so important to have our people? I’m going to break down the meaning and benefits of community, and why we need it to thrive. Let’s start by defining it. What is Community? Community can be described in many ways. My first thought, is of coming together with common mind and purpose. Unity is right in the word, hinting at that spirit of togetherness. What I love about this idea of community, is that it isn’t only specific to where you live, or your culture, or what you believe. Community can simply be people who have claimed each other. You belong to me, and I belong to you. That’s it. When you belong to a group of people that means something, there is a certain weight that comes with that, and the benefits of being part of a community are what we are going to dive into today. why we need community to thrive The Benefits of Community Though communities can take on many different outward appearances from cross fit clubs to prayer groups, they all have one thing in common: belonging. A sense of belonging may be the most searched after thing in life today. Everyone wants to feel like they have a place, and that is exactly what community gives. Feeling welcomed is more important that the actual purpose of the group’s gathering. If a group is getting together for book club, it isn’t the actual book that makes the gathering meaningful, it’s the sense of wholeness created when people really care about each other. When we feel seen and heard, we not only feel like we belong, but our overall feeling about life improves. This is good news. This means that someone who would otherwise feel down and depressed, could feel completely the opposite just by being part of a community. And that’s not all… There’s more reasons why we need a community to thrive. Being part of a community means you have access to talents and resources outside of yourself. Have you thought of this perk of being part of a community? The relationships created allow for this symbiotic nature. What’s mine is yours, and what I can’t do maybe you can. This element can be lived out beautifully in communities. The more people share of their talents and resources, the more willing to share others become. It creates a cycle of sharing for everyone, and reinforces those feelings of belonging. This builds confidence for the individual and added confidence in the group. we need community to thrive Communities are also known for the “strength in numbers” aspect. When the voices of many become one, that voice is more powerful. Standing together, always beats standing alone. What are the problems of being without community? You may be aware that loneliness and isolation lead to an array of serious health problems, both physically and mentally. Being without community leaves room for these possibilities to put people in real danger. Without community, when a problem arises, you have only yourself. The weight of life has the tendency to become to heavy to hold alone. We weren’t meant to be without community. We need each other to help carry that weight. Without community, you will struggle with belonging, wellness, and to put it simply, life in general. This might sound extreme, but I think we’ve all had enough taste of isolation to know that going it alone is not the best way. As an introvert, and type six on the enneagram, I don’t mind having some time and space for myself. In fact, many days I crave it. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want to be in community. I am a part of a few community groups, and life without them would be torture. They lift me up when I’m feeling down, they make me feel like I have a place in the world no matter what. They share their resources, time, and talents. And together, we experience the best of parts of life. What do you do if you don’t have a community? Start where you are. It’s easier to look at your life and see what is already in place around you, instead of getting overwhelmed by searching out a bunch of communities to join. Look at your schedule. What are you already doing? Do you go to a gym a few times a week? Do you take walks in your neighborhood? What are your hobbies and interests that you are already pursuing? You will be more likely to be in community with others if you can simply add to what you are already doing. Make an effort to invite a friend or two on your daily walk, or meet up with people after your workout at your local coffee shop. Keep doing what you already love, just choose one thing to do with others. If you are feeling more ambitious, maybe you can start your own community group. Are the type who loves planning or hosting? You could start your own club based on your interests. Maybe you all go hiking twice a month, or play cards, or get together to share stories you’ve written for fun. However you choose to include yourself in community, know that everyone is benefitting. Now you know why we need community to thrive, and that it’s the very best way to live! I hope this post has brought you encouragement and inspiration for your day! What other benefits can you think of that come from being part of a community?
How to Help Someone Who is Grieving. How can you actually help someone who is grieving? Today I want to walk you through the simple things you can do that will make a big difference for someone who is grieving. There is so much grief happening all around us, many of us feel helpless and don’t know what to do. I’m going to break down some steps you can take to not only help that person who is grieving, but will also help you feel purposed. So where do you begin? The first step can seem very counterintuitive, but might be the most important. You begin by listening. When someone is grieving or even in crisis, we are quick to want to take action. How can I fix this? What can I do? Is this because we are uncomfortable to sit with someone in their pain? Maybe they do need some kind of immediate action, or need met, but many times all that is required is silence, presence, and attention. The power of listening to the grieving is like no other. Being heard is the beginning of processing and in time, healing. Listening is a quality we are severely lacking, but one acquired easily with practice. It may be uncomfortable and awkward to listen to others pain, at first, but it is so worth it. If you know the enneagram, you might be aware that certain enneagram types are more oriented towards action, and others toward sitting with. The gut triad (8’s, 9’s, &1’s) wants to get things done, and make things happen. They are most likely to struggle sitting and simply listening. The heart triad (2’s, 3’s, & 4’s) May still want to do something about it, but not as intensely as the Gut numbers. Fours are particularly known for being comfortable with all feelings and especially those of deep melancholy. I would guess they might be the best at sitting with others in their pain. The Head triad (5’s, 6’s, & 7’s) would likely use logic to think through a solution, and sitting with would also be a struggle for these numbers, in general. To learn more about this read this post. What else can we do to help someone who is grieving? Be Present. While listening is the beginning of processing and can be done in many ways, even over the phone, there is nothing like sitting with someone. Being present, begins a different kind of healing. While listening can free the mind, being present aids also in the grief the body holds onto. A hug can create a release. Being physically with someone supports them on a deep level. Sitting with someone in grief honors the person, their feelings, and who or what they are grieving for. You can cry with them, hold their hand, and be a safe place they can empty their grief upon. This will mean more than any gift you could give, or act your could perform. Sitting with someone in grief may be best thing you can do. How else can you help someone who is grieving? Be Honest. This might be surprising to include in a post about grieving, but many people are so uncomfortable around grief and death, that they talk themselves in circles instead of coming out and stating what they really feel. One thing that eases tension like nothing else is the truth. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know what to say,” and “This is what I liked when I was grieving…” Honesty can bring lightness that is so needed in those dark moments. It also helps you feel like you can be yourself instead of trying to hide behind pretense. Thoughtful Cards and Gifts I don’t want to leave out thoughtful cards and gifts. Though they may not be the most important, there is still value in sending a card, flowers, or something that would cheer someone up. Not everyone can sit with someone, or maybe you don’t have that kind of relationship and a card would be more appropriate. The key here is putting time and thought into it, and adding personal sentiment. Sometimes it doesn’t even matter what the gift is, but that time was spent in honor of the recipient. (looking for some gift ideas? check out our unique finds in the shop or inspirational books here) The most basic gift that many overlook, is a simple meal provided for the family or whoever is left grieving. It is a relief and stress taken off of the grieving to not have to think about how to eat. Eating can be a challenge for many when they are going through this time, and something they forget to think about, so providing this is definitely a way to care for them. There are many ways to organize this now with the help of apps and technology that make it extremely easy. Listening begins the process of healing. I hope that this was a helpful post for any of you who are making an effort to be there for someone who is grieving. We need more people willing to listen, be present, and provide for the needs of others. What did you appreciate most when you were going through a time of grief?
Superheroes and the Enneagram Being a boy mom, there is just no getting away from SUPERHEROES! In honor of my three sons, their love of superheroes, and Halloween approaching, I thought we could talk about Superheroes and the Enneagram! This photo of our family is from about 7 years ago, but it is still one of my favorites! I leave it out all year, even though it is a Halloween picture of us all in costume. That’s me as Wonder Woman, my husband, Batman Senior, E is young batman, W, as Superman (which that year he kept referring to himself as, “Supee-batman!”-what a crack-up), and O as Clark Kent. We all love dressing up. There’s just nothing like putting on a disguise and feeling the freedom to be someone else. Imagine if we could do that with our personalities? ha ha… With the enneagram there is no denying who we are, but there is always room for growth. Let’s explore some of these famous superheroes and their enneagram types. While looking at these fictional characters, you may see yourself. After all, it is easiest to see ourselves when our characteristics are over dramatized- seeing them more plainly than in reality. SUPERMAN Enneagram Type 1 Superman is highly motivated by seeking justice. He is willing to sacrifice for his desire to save the world and save others from death or harm. He has a strong sense of right and wrong, and holds himself to the standard of choosing right over and over again. As a type one, he honors his commitments by following through. He is orderly, polite, and respectful. His enemies can bring out his anger and resentment, that deep down resonates as guilt for not being able to save his own Father. note: I realize many superheroes could be typed as ones, because of the type one’s natural sense of right and wrong and need to seek justice. Good versus evil is kind of the name of the game with superheroes, but I tried to go a little deeper and creatively type the most common ones, though they could easily all be ones! ha ha ha! (One to add for sure as a type one in addition to Superman, is Captain America! one of my favorites)! Spiderman Enneagram Type 2 “Your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!” Type Two’s are known for their eager accommodation, friendly encouragement, and generosity. Spider-Man is always taking care of others, even when no one is taking care of him. He gives endlessly, and sacrifices constantly for those that he loves. He truly wants to help others, and sees this as his deep motivation in the world. He longs to be appreciated and loved for who is really is. Ironman Enneagram Type 3 The successful achiever (type three’s nickname) is known for getting things done and loving all the attention of the spotlight while succeeding. Ironman fits this to a “T.” He completely embodies the image-conscious three, constantly pointing out his own accomplishments, and drawing attention to how great he is. Type three’s also stand out as great leaders, and concise decision makers. Ironman is an easy choice to lead others in his goal to stay on top and keep the baddies down. Though he can be self-centered and vain, Ironman is a trailblazer whom many will follow. Hawkeye Enneagram Type 4 This Individualist, likes being unique and a little against the grain. Being authentic is very important to Hawkeye, and expressing himself whether creatively or through the beauty of his exceptional archery. His core desire is to find significance. Though sometimes withdrawn, Hawkeye can extremely supportive and introspective. Batman Enneagram Type 5 Batman is the king of keeping to himself, complete with his super secret hide out, the Batcave. He is logical and capable, but wants nothing to do with the spotlight, unless of course he is answering the call the his literal spotlight… the bat symbol calling out for his abilities to help Gotham City. Though he keeps to himself, he has no problem standing up for the underdog and underprivileged. He is quiet, yet confident, perceptive, but also needs some time after saving the city yet again , to rest up in the Batcave. Black Widow Enneagram Type 6 Enneagram six is known for being the most loyal of all the types. Black widow shows this loyalty both to Hawkeye and to the Avengers. She is also using the thinking power of the enneagram type 6 to consider all options at all times, paying attention to detail and scoping out lurking evil or dangerous situations. She is sometimes considered paranoid. This is a very “six” thing. Sixes are always thinking ahead, planning, and seeing possible outcomes. Black Widow makes a great teammate, even though in many cases she would rather just do it herself. Daredevil Enneagram Type 7 It’s obvious that daredevil is going to get the most out of every situation. He is avoiding his fear by facing everything head on, and going for whatever whims are in front of him. A natural optimist, he is the life of the party. Spontaneous, fun-loving, confident and enthusiastic, he brings the fun wherever he goes. Wonder Woman Enneagram Type 8 Type Eight is known as The Challenger. Wonder Woman definitely does not shy away from a challenge. She is truthful to a fault, and stands her own ground. She also puts up walls to protect herself from vulnerability, as all type eights are known for doing. She wants everyone on her team to be as strong as she is, and looks down on those showing weakness. She protects those she loves above all. She is empowering, inspiring, compassionate, direct, and resilient. She can also be quick to judge others, and hurt them without realizing it. The Incredible Hulk Enneagram Type 9 This might be surprising, since the type nine is known as the peacemaker, and Hulk is classically known for “Hulking out.” However, this is a little known nine secret that the Hulk character portrays perfectly. Their anger will be stuffed inward over, and over in attempts to control their outworld and avoid conflict. This backfires, eventually resulting the the “Hulk” explosion. Bruce Banner doesn’t want to morph into Hulk, but when he can control his anger no longer, he has no other option. When doing well, nines are known for harmony and inner peace. I would assume the Bruce Banner character experiences this most of the time. I hope you’ve enjoyed this fun take on enneagram types and superheroes! We are talking about these two subjects non-stop at my house! Maybe it will INSPIRE your next Halloween costume, but more than that, I hope it inspires your day. What did you think of the Superhero types? Can you think of others that may fall into some of the Enneagram types that I didn’t include? Who is your favorite superhero? Learn about all the enneagram types with your own digital download packet. Grab the packet here! You might also like: The Enneagram and Fictional Characters (type 1) Harry Potter and the Enneagram
Enneagram Introduction Have you heard of the Enneagram? Maybe this term has caught your attention in passing, or you saw it on social media. It’s not just a trendy way to talk about personalities… The Enneagram is actually a complex tool that not only helps you understand yourself and others, but allows you to see areas of yourself that need growth and areas where you naturally shine! I began studying the Enneagram about 3 years ago because I love learning about how myself and others think, react and see life. There is so much to learn… I am always stumbling across even more ways to understand the people in my life, and the enneagram has become my favorite tool to help me do this! Are You Ready to Learn More? Get the Enneagram Beginners Guide Here The beginners guide is perfect for those just learning the enneagram, and especially helpful for groups. It includes: – overviews of each type -A questionnaire for each type to help you discover which sounds most like you -A section describing what motivates each type -Identifying wings -Becoming our best selves- a section describing how understanding when we are healthy, average, or unhealthy versions of ourselves can help us become our best selves! Though it is a simple tool, encompassing only 9 personality types, the enneagram really does go deep! But lets just talk about the basics… So, there are nine types. WHICH TYPE ARE YOU? The best way to find out your type is not by taking a test, or quiz, but by reading a lot about all the types, and listening for what rings true for you. The easiest way to begin recognizing your type is by asking this question: What is my orientation to time? Do I spend my days in the present, looking toward the future, or looking back in the past? This trick will eliminate 6 of the numbers for you. Then you can determine your type from there. If you find yourself in the present, you are likely a type 1, type 2, or a type 6. If you find yourself looking toward the future, then you are likely a type 3, type 7, or type 8. If you find yourself always looking back in the past, then you are likely a type 4, type 5, or a type 9. Another thing to think about when determining your type, is to consider you first reaction to things. There are also three options here… Either you are a “doer” a “feeler,” or a “thinker.” In other words, when faced with an every day stimulus, do you need to take action, do you feel first, or do you take time to think about the situation? The “feelers” are part of what is called the Heart Triad, including types 2, 3, and 4. The “thinkers” are part of what is called the Head Triad, including types 5, 6, and 7. The “Doer/ action-oriented” types 8, 9, and 1 are part of the Gut Triad. Simply by finding your orientation to time and which triad you fall into should really narrow down which type you might be. I am a type six. My orientation to time is the present, and I fall under the Head triad. It took me a long time to figure out my number (I didn’t know these tricks in the beginning). Also sixes typically take the longest to figure out their type (ha ha!) because we tend to over-think everything and have a lack of trust in ourselves. This didn’t stop me from being fascinated with the enneagram. I have loved learning about all the types. Just so we’re clear, no type is better or worse than any other type. We all have strengths and weaknesses, that’s what makes us all so interesting. Now that you know your possible orientation to time, and your triad, I’m going to give just a quick summary of each type. (Later we will go into much more detail). Type 1 (the perfectionist) Type ones are very black and white about things. There is a “right” way to do everything, and everyone should be doing it the “right” way. They are critical of themselves and others, but genuinely want to make the world a better place. Type 2 (the helper) Type twos want to help everyone… their neighbors, random people at the grocery store, their grandma, and you! They are generous and supportive, say “yes” to everything, and are truly good friends. They can be overly accommodating, and intrusive, but really just want to be appreciated. Type 3 (the acheiver) Type threes tend to be well-liked and popular. They use their charms to get ahead in any area they need to succeed. They are ambitious, and optimistic, but can easily become out of touch with themselves. Type 4 (the individualist) Type fours live primarily in their imaginations and feelings. They love to express themselves in unique ways. They are authentic, compassionate, withdrawn, and tempermental. Type 5 (the investigator) Type fives want to be capable and competent. They are incredible researchers, analytical, wise and dependable. They can seem distant, and cynical, but there is no one more dutiful. Type 6 (the loyalist) Type Sixes are steadfast and constant. They have a plan and stick to it. They want to feel secure and supported, and have a deeply high value for friendships. They can become judgmental and paranoid, but truly are the most loyal of all the types. Type 7 (the enthusiast) Type Sevens want the most out of life, and love imagining the fun they will have in the future. They are fun-loving, and charming and desire contentment. They can be rebellious, self-focused, and impulsive. Type 8 (the challenger) Type eights love goals that they can conquer. They are natural leaders with tough exteriors to protect themselves, but underneath they have a softer side. They will go to battle for those they love, and aren’t afraid to be loud, bold, and blunt. Type 9 (the peacemaker) Type nines see everyone’s perspectives, and often merge with opinions that are not their own to keep the peace. They value inner and outer peace above all things. They can be stubborn, passive aggressive, and unassertive. I hope you enjoyed this introduction to the enneagram, and maybe you even saw yourself in the brief descriptions. I look forward to sharing more enneagram thoughts with you! Thinking about going deeper? Maybe you want to share your interest in the enneagram with a group of friends, or your family. Maybe you are part of a spiritual group, or club- the Enneagram Beginners Guide is excellent for groups. You will get a printable of all the basics! Just think of how much fun it will be to discover your types together! Grab the Enneagram Beginner’s Guide Here! Other Enneagram printables! When I first started learning about the enneagram, I read this book, The Road Back to You. It really helped me get a handle on finding my own type as well as beginning to understand the other types. I highly recommend it! It is easy to read and well written!
A Perfect Fall Day It rained all morning, in that crazy, cloudy way. A welcome coffee in my hand, and open fields to gaze upon in wonder, I took it all in as the gift that it is. Now the sky is filled with billowy, fluffy clouds and sunshine. The wind is lightly blowing some leaves across the ground. It’s as if a collective sigh was made, Ahhh, yes… Autumn, how I love you! Your crispness comforts me like a well known embrace. You give no expectation other than, show up, and BE. The gentle changes happening around me, remind me that change is beautiful, and essential. It must happen, but it doesn’t have to be harsh or ugly. The subtle color differential from green to pale yellow, and then the bold move to vibrant vermillion all happens seamlessly, effortlessly. We are all in different seasons of change in life. And it has often been said that the one thing we can count on in life, is change. May we strive to embrace change like the trees.
