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!
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!
Enneagram Type 6 and Spiritual Practices I hope you’ve been enjoying this series on the enneagram and spiritual practices. It’s amazing how much deeper we can go when we practice something that intentionally helps us grow the most. This is why I have loved getting into connecting the tools of the enneagram and using different spiritual practices for each type. Today, let’s focus on enneagram type 6 and spiritual practices. Sixes are known to doubt themselves, and are in need of something to constantly reassure them. There are several practices that come to mind when considering sixes, but the most helpful, is memorizing. Memorizing as a Spiritual Practice Enneagram Type 6 and Spiritual Practices Memorizing what? The possibilities are endless here, but the idea is something with deep spiritual meaning. It could be Psalms, Poems, quotes. Scriptures are often memorized to be recalled in times of stress or despair. Sixes find themselves stressed and worried often. They think of worst case scenarios daily, and are in need of strong words to overpower their own overthinking tendencies. The wisdom of those who have gone before, is a great place to find respite and a haven from worry. Words are powerful. They can be used like a mantra, repeated over and over. The act of memorizing itself, is a form of meditation. Focusing on words, repeating them to yourself until they stick is a spiritual practice. The 23rd Psalm is a common memorized chapter of the Bible. As a six, I have memorized this myself, and say it over and over on nights when I can’t sleep. It is a comfort, and works to push away fears and stress. How to Memorize Inspirational Pieces First, choose your piece. It should be something you connect with well, and makes you feel encouraged. When choosing your piece to memorize, think about the rhythm, and also the length. Next, read your chosen piece over and over. begin to connect with it. How do the words relate to what is going on in your life? How is this specific piece giving you strength, hope, or encouragement? Write it down. There is something about writing things down that aids in committing them to memory. It uses a different part of the brain than simply reading something. After writing it down, read it aloud several times. Notice where to pause, where to speed up, what parts make you feel strong and safe. Repeat it aloud until you can say it without looking. Soon, you will be able to say it whenever you need it. Practice it as you go about you day. Whisper it quietly to yourself while your are driving or doing the dishes. Other great practices for sixes: Journaling Yoga Centering Prayer Note: Since each enneagram number is connected to 2 numbers in either stress or strength, it’s a good idea to try some of the practices recommended for your stress or strength numbers. For type six, that would be type 3 in stress, and type nine in strength. See the post on type 3 here: Enneagram Type 3 and Spiritual Practices Also, notice that types in the dependent stance (1, 2, &6) all greatly benefit from journaling. Since these types have a present orientation to time, they don’t often reflect back. This process of journaling also helps them get all of there thinking out. The dependent stance numbers are verbal processors, when this can’t be done, writing it down is a good second. You might also like: Enneagram Type 6 and Fictional Characters What Are You Chasing (types 4, 5, &6) Have you always wanted to go on a retreat centered around wellness and relaxation? Having a getaway planned can be so relaxing for the mind even before you get there. The anticipation of the time you are going to have feeds your mind and soul. Check out the wellness retreat offering below. We will be hosting the weekend in beautiful North Idaho and focusing on enneagram work, yoga, and whole wellness. I want to get away!
The Enneagram and Motivations Why you do what you do makes you who you are. This is the key to knowing and understanding your type. Two different types may have the exact same behavior, but they are working from completely different motivations. This is fascinating to me, and the real core of the enneagram. So let’s go through the enneagram and motivations today! I’m going to do just a quick summary of each type on the blog, but I am also releasing today some beautiful printables that I think you will love! To get the entire summary, you can now print each type in the fun printables below. They are colorful and formatted simply on one sheet, while including all the points about each type’s motivates and a peek into their character. If you want all nine types in a packet format, they are available in the shop along with a ton more information on each enneagram type… Click Right Here! If you want a specific number, click the buttons for each type to find it in the shop! Or you can always browse the shop to find all of the enneagram products and printables that I have created just for you! Check out the shop! What Motivates Type 1? One’s are innately motivated by righteousness. What I mean by this is, they have in their mind a definite right way that things should be done in any given situation. They strive to do things this way, and avoid doing things, what they consider the wrong way. They judge themselves harshly in how well they are keeping up with this black and white way of life. One’s are keenly judgmental, and hold these standards so high that they are constantly disappointing themselves. This effort to do and essentially be good is the type one’s main driving force. Grab the printable about type one below: Type One Motivation Sheet What Motivates Type 2? The top motivations for two always come back to their relational side. They are in the heart triad, after all, meaning they feel first. However, their feelings are focused outwardly on others instead of what is going on with themselves. Much of their motivation comes from a deep place of wanting to be loved and accepted by others. Of course, we all want love and acceptance, but for the type two, this desire motivates them into action in a very specific way. They seek to provide needs and help others in hopes that this will in turn earn them love and the acceptance they so desire. Below is a complete sample (using type 2) of what the motivation sheets look like and include. Aren’t they fun? The blue boxes on the side, give a quick glance at the key motivations, while the right hand side is written out in descriptive detail about how our motivations make us and what that looks like in each type. I hope you enjoy these printables! Type 2 motivation sheet The Enneagram and Motivations Type 2 What Motivates Type 3? Type three is motivated by success. This will look different for each three depending on what their definition of success happens to be. Many three’s idea of success has been shaped by the influential people they grew up around. This would be parents, teachers, coaches, etc. who gave them an idea of what the “winning ticket” looked like. Threes naturally want to please others, this ties in to their motivation to succeed. If a parent stressed the idea of getting good grades as the picture of success, a type three would do everything in their power to get good grades. They have a strong will about them, that allows them to go after their desires in an almost cut-throat fashion. Find out even more about type three below… Type 3 Motivations Sheet What motivates Type 4? Fours are motivated by authenticity and beauty. This type does not put up with fake of any kind and cannot stand surface levels. Fours are deeply motivated by being their truest, raw versions of themselves, finding beauty in everything, including in pain and darkness, and desiring the same authenticity from others. They know that they are different and they wouldn’t want it any other way. Fours pride themselves in being their own unique expression of who they are, and will even go out of their way to make sure that they aren’t like everyone else. They don’t want to stand out in a “look at me- showy” sort of way, they just want to be themselves and be loved for who they are. More about fours… Type 4 Motivation Sheet What motivates type 5? Fives are motivated by independence and personal capability. If they want to know something, they are extremely fulfilled in figuring it out themselves. This gives them confidence and inner pride. Fives are also motivated to learn and research their interests. They will spend hours lost in discovering what they want to know most. This motivation of independence is carried throughout everything they do. Their inner world is so rich and multi-level that they can sometimes forget to let others in. Think of an iceberg, you see only it’s tip above the water, when in reality it’s bulk is hiding underneath the surface. Fives rarely share all the information, and especially if it is personal. More about fives… Type 5 Motivation Sheet What Motivates Type 6? Sixes are motivated by finding and keeping security. Security is this overarching theme that in seeking for it, causes sixes to also live with anxiety. This anxiety can get twisted into type six’s motivation where the anxiety moves them to do things in the hopes of then having security. Sixes often choose the “safe” thing, or the thing that they have the most support for. Since they often don’t trust themselves, sixes look to others for approval, help with decision making, and ultimately for support or a sense of security. More about sixes… Type 6 Motivation Sheet What Motivates Type 7? Type Seven is motivated by satisfaction. They live this out in many different ways that can look like chasing “fun,” but it more than that. Being future oriented, sevens are always looking for the next thing that will make them happy or fulfill them. They want the experience of feeling satisfied in every aspect, delicious foods, travelling to new places, trying and seeing things they have never seen before. Seven’s love going to events and it truly is all about the experience no matter where they go. If they are at a restaurant, they want the food and the environment to be positive and exciting. More about Sevens… Type 7 Motivation Sheet What Motivates Type 8? Eights are motivated by being in control. They hate others trying to control them or telling them what to do. This isn’t just because they are stubborn or difficult, eights have a true sense of how to manage things well. They have such a strong confidence and a way about them, that they really rarely need someone to tell them what to do. They’ve already thought of it and figured out the most efficient way to move forward. Eights are also highly motivated by justice and protecting those who have no one on their side. They see an underdog like a personal mission, and have no problem saying or doing what is needed to stand up for others. When this type is at their best, they are natural leaders who move mountains, stop bullies, and make real change. More about eights… Type 8 Motivation Sheet What motivates type 9? Nines are motivated by their keen desire to have peace at all times. They see a flawed world full of waves and turmoil, and all they want is calm waters. This desire motivates everything they do… and everything they don’t do. Nines constantly try to “keep the peace.” This can mean mediating between to opposing sides in order to keep a larger argument from breaking out. They also have this keeping the peace methodology internally. Nines want both peace on the outside and a calm inner world into which they can retreat. They are willing to bend and do what is needed to allow for this sort of peace to happen. More about nines… Type 9 Motivation Sheet
What Are You Chasing: Types 4,5, & 6? Last week, we started this series on what we are chasing after. These distractions and subconscious patterns can really take us down paths we never meant to go on. This week, “What are you chasing: types 4,5, and 6?” will focus on these three types, their chase, and tools to help each type derail this seemingly endless chase. Read last week’s post here (types 1, 2, & 3) For each enneagram number, the chase looks very different. When we are unaware, our chase can not only control us, but continue long after it should have run its course. However, if we are willing to go deeper beyond the surface level, we can discover: why we are chasing what we are chasing we can find the healthier path to get what we really want out of life The first step to understanding your chase is to identify it. What is it you are after? Why are you on this path? Is this the best way to get what you want and be who you want to be? What are your core motivations? Are you being honest with yourself? What parts of yourself have you been ignoring? Have you been putting feelings aside, skipping over taking time to think through things? Or maybe you get stuck in thinking and feelings, and never quite get around to doing. These important questions can really help you pinpoint what is going on with you. Pay attention to what comes up when you ponder these thoughts and ideas. what are you chasing? Type Four Let’s jump in and take a look at enneagram type four. The chase of the four centers around authenticity, belonging, and being unique. At first glance, these strivings seem harmless, even dare I say, beautiful? When there are healthy boundaries around these longings they can be lovely, but notice the words striving, and longing… Type four’s chase turns dangerous when they are striving after authenticity, belonging, and being unique. This becomes a distraction and they miss the beauty they could be embracing that is happening all around them. They feel they are missing out in a big way. While they are stuck in their feelings of missing out… here comes the irony, they actually miss out on life. Tools to derail the chase for Fours Go for a walk. This can be a great re-set for fours. Changing their environment, particularly if they can find a beautiful place to hike or take in nature. The outdoors have a deep healing capability and can reach fours in a way that is very unique. This also takes the focus off of comparing with others and what they might be missing out on. The real challenge for fours is to stay out of their own minds while out on the walk. If this is a struggle, bring along inspiring music. Make a playlist of songs that lift your mood and help you focus on positivity. Connecting and celebrating with others To get out of their chase, fours can reach out to others to connect. Fours are particularly good at seeing others and accepting whatever is real in the moment. This can be used in a positive way to derail their chase and also help a friend. Finding someone who is in worse shape than you, and connecting with them or even celebrating them will work like a tonic to your soul. Join in, and their will be no room for comparison or feelings of not belonging. Spend time with these people that love you for your authentic self, this will fill you up like nothing else. Type Five Type five is chasing knowledge and capability. The more they can know and the more they can do independently, the more confident and safe the type five feels. A thirst for knowledge and skills seems like something to be admired, so what is the danger? Just like all other numbers, this becomes the type five’s obsession and closes them off from growth. The chase of knowledge can turn into walls for the type five, keeping others out and also keeping the five from taking action. Their chase keeps them distracted by what seems good, but inevitably keeps them away from what they really need: connection. Learning, planning, and acquiring knowledge are all good things, but they can keep the type five from doing what needs done, and being with others. Tools to derail the chase for Fives Be Uncomfortable. Not what you expected… right? Fives are really good at staying inside their comfort zones, and building up walls of protection. The problem is, you can’t grow inside those walls. Do something at least once a week that is uncomfortable for you. This will break up those patterns that keep you from growing. It doesn’t have to be something huge and scary. Choose something small every week (you can even research ideas first)! For example: Talk to someone you wouldn’t normally talk to. Go somewhere you don’t want to go with a friend (at the last minute)! Stay at an outing an half an hour after you feel like leaving. These are small ideas, but you will feel yourself making the effort and that is where the change begins to happen. Your awareness that these are hard things for you, will begin a new pattern of growth and change inside you. Leap before you have all the answers I know. Another shocker! This is quite the opposite of a type five’s instincts. Usually I say, trust your instincts, follow the voice inside you, but part of the struggle here is too much researching and too little action. Fives want to know that they are completely capable before beginning, but this just isn’t realistic. Be okay with knowing a little, and jumping in anyway. It’s okay to leap before you have all the answers. You are allowed to make mistakes, you will still be highly respected and highly valued. In fact, getting going on what you’ve meant to get going on, will have a surprising effect on you. You will find that once you’re out there doing, you’re good at it. And it will feel good inside! Even the things you didn’t research… no one else will know but you. Type Six The type six is chasing safety and security. They ask all the questions, and seek after the things that make them feel most safe. Sixes are searching for situations where they can be prepared and have the most control. This chase can easily turn sour with over-vigilance and anxiety. It is impossible to control anything, and no one can be prepared for everything. This simple reality keeps the type six digging themselves in a deep hole. They want nothing more than a predictable life, but life is always unpredictable. This stresses them out, so they double down and try harder to be more prepared. And the chase goes on and on… Tools to derail the chase to type six Journaling The journal focus for type six needs to be: what things have I done that have went well for me? Sixes often forget that they have experience making good decisions and that things have gone well for them in the past. With every new doubt and dilemma, they feel anxiety rise up, full of what ifs. Journaling positive outcomes will help reinforce the fact that sixes make good decisions. Since they tend to doubt themselves, this is a perfect “derailing practice” for them. With consistency, this journaling focus will help type six develop confidence, and come to realize that they can trust their decisions and their instincts. Do it scared. Type six can walk circles around a decision with fear leading the chase. What if this happens, what if that happens, what would I do if… and on and on anxiety and doubt will go. What if you just did it scared? This is what true courage is after all, and the virtue of the type six. This means that it’s possible. That you can do things that you don’t think you can do. And when you do things that are hard and scary, they make you stronger and courageous! Before you do it scared… It might help to talk things all the way through. We know that the type six verbally processes and processes in real time, the moment happening right now. Choose someone who is willing to listen to do this. Talk out all your worst case scenarios and take them all the way to the end. Usually, you will find that even in your talking it through version of the scenario, things turned out okay. And even if the worst happened, you have someone there willing to support you. Notes to remember for all types As you are becoming more self-aware and making efforts to grow, be kind to yourself. It’s hard to make changes, and it’s best if you don’t do it alone. Let someone know that you are on the journey, maybe they can join you and you can lighten each others load. Remember that it is a journey. It takes time to notice your chase, practice to pause and pivot towards healthy choices, and to turn these into habits. It really is a life long effort, and one that is worth pursuing for yourself and all the people you love. Thank you for reading! It is my hope that these words have brought you some inspiration. Blessings, peace, and joy to you on your journey! You might also like: Enneagram type 6 and fictional characters Enneagram Type 5 and fictional characters Behind the scenes of enneagram type 4 Grab this type 4 printable here grab this type 5 overview here Grab this overview of type 6 here
Enneagram Type 6 and Fictional Characters Hey there, my fellow fictional character fans! What is it about fictional characters that draws us in? Is it that we see a little bit of ourselves, or maybe they remind us of someone we love, or someone we want to love?! I deeply relate to this week’s characters (type 6)! as we dive into the realm of enneagram type 6 and fictional characters! Remus Lupin Enneagram Type 6 and fictional Characters We met Professor Lupin in book 3 of the Harry Potter series, when he becomes the new defense against the dark arts teacher. He is by far my favorite choice for this post. As a type six myself, I see the things that Professor Lupin brings to the class that others do not. 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. Edward Ferrars (Sense and Sensibility) Sense and Sensibility is my favorite of Jane Austen’s works. Maybe it’s because I relate to this main character, Edward Ferrars. He’s awkward and indirect, yet kind and attentive. He doesn’t easily let others into his heart, and he definitely doesn’t express his feelings outwardly until he is absolutely sure. Sixes are known to be guarded, to take their time on big decisions (such as, whom they want to marry). Outwardly, Edward may seem unimpressive, but it is this authenticity that draws Elinor to him. Sixes aren’t great at pretending. Though they have an active inner world, what you see is what you get. Edward isn’t flashy. This excerpt shows his “six-ness” well: “Edward Ferrars was not handsome, and his manners required intimacy to make them pleasing. He was too diffident to do justice to himself; but when his natural shyness was overcome, his behavior gave every indication of an open, affectionate heart.”Jane Austen -Sense and Sensibility Sixes need a little warming up time to show their true colors. But when they feel comfortable enough to do this, a long and deep relationship has begun. A six like Edward, becomes a friend for life. Their dedication is unwavering, and they will never betray you. I hope you enjoyed my take on these characters as enneagram type six. It really is fun to look at characters in this way in an effort to better understand ourselves and the world of characters around us! Inspire someone today! To learn more about type 6 check out this post: Behind the Scenes of Enneagram Type 6 You might also like: Is Your Enneagram Passion Controlling You? Grab this Enneagram Type 6 Overview below: Enneagram Type 6 Overview! Yes PLease! Want all 9 types? Click here for all 9 types!
Love Letters to the Enneagram Types 6 & 7 Love Letters to the Enneagram Types 6 & 7 Are you anticipating a lovely, Big, extravagant Valentines Day next week? Or maybe you prefer simple plans with a night in. Either way, there is no better gift than a love letter! Isn’t that what we all want to hear any ways? We want to know that we are loved, and it doesn’t hurt to have it in writing! Please enjoy today’s love letters dedicated to types 6 and 7! Love Letters to the Enneagram Types If you would like to grab a copy of this love letter click the button below: Love Letter to type 6 Love Letters to the Enneagram Types 6 & 7 Want to grab your own copy of this love letter? Click the button below: Love Letter to Type 7 You might also like: Loving your Community Through the Enneagram Love Letter to Types 1 & 2 Love Letter to Types 3, 4, & 5
