Enneagram finds its roots in the theories of ancient Greek mathematicians and philosophers. Enneagram means 9 points. (Ennea-gram) the nine personality types.
Modern-day Enneagram was developed on the foundation laid by George Gurdjieff in the 1900s. In 1970, Oscar Ichazo and Claudio Naranjo further developed this personality model. Enneagram hence is one of the oldest personality tests known and the most comprehensive and accurate modern-day personality assessment.
Unlike several popular personality tests, Enneagram is not a behavior-based assessment. It delves deep into our subconscious mind, taps into our core beliefs, motivations, and fear, and helps us understand the ‘why’ we do things and not just the ‘how’ we do it. Its modern-day application is not limited to knowing one’s personality type, but the journey of awareness, development, and awakening begins with knowing one’s core type. It is used to understand ourselves and our loved ones and shows how people see things differently. We can then see the world through 9 different lenses, significantly improve our emotional intelligence, and awaken ourselves!
Enneagram Type Ones have strong ideas about right and wrong. They work very hard to do the right thing, to attain perfection. They are structured, organized, and value discipline. They are critical and judgemental of themselves and others and tirelessly work in pursuit of excellence. They are detail-oriented and have high work ethics and standards.
Type 2 - Kind Friend
Enneagram TypeTwos want to help and be friendly with other people. They are usually tuned to others’ needs and can go to quite an extent to ‘be there’ for others. They are emotional and need to feel included, loved, and accepted by other people. They value themselves by the worth given to them by others. They spend a lot of energy developing relationships and enjoy offering lavish praises. They prefer to be in supportive roles.
Type 3 - Competitive Performer
Enneagram TypeThrees are competitive, focused, and tenacious workers. They possess grit and are willing to make sacrifices to achieve their goals and win. They are emotional people but keep their emotions aside to become more efficient. They need to appear successful and are conscious of the image they project. They value productivity and performance. They need to outshine the rest and be the best.
Type 4 - Intense Individualist
Enneagram TypeFours are deeply in touch with their emotions and experience all shades of emotions. They feel that they are different and search for deeper meaning. They have great aesthetic sense and are creative. They experience mood swings and tend to focus more on what is missing rather than what is. They are tuned to others’ emotions and are deeply empathetic. They are introspective, quiet, and intense beings.
Type 5 - Inquisitive Thinker
Enneagram TypeFives are observant and keenly curious about how things work. Protective of their privacy, Fives guard their time and space. They possess a research-oriented acumen and have a quick mental processing style. Being analytical and rational individuals, they are able to look at situations logically. They might be socially awkward and find it challenging to share their feelings. They charm people with their intelligence and wit.
Type 6 - Loyal Questioner
Enneagram TypeSixes are dependable and loyal people who find it difficult to trust others. They are risk-averse and always cautious. They take into account the worst-case scenarios and are very aware of the surroundings. They are quick to detect potential dangers and are always prepared. Sixes are excellent team players and possess a great sense of duty. They are usually responsible and trustworthy.
Type 7 - Enthusiastic Adventurer
Enneagram TypeSevens are energetic, optimistic, and fun-loving individuals. They are interested in a variety of fields. They require frequent mental stimulation and hop from one task to another. They avoid boredom and keep themselves occupied one way or another. They are adaptable to a change, and their positive attitude towards life and spontaneity make them pleasant people around.
Type 8 - Assertive Controller
Enneagram TypeEights have a strong presence and a personality that values being in control. They have significant energy and are caring and protective. They mask any vulnerability with a strong, no-nonsense persona. They are direct in communication, do not avoid confrontations, and may seem domineering and overbearing. They are compassionate and willing to fight injustice. They dislike people who show weaknesses.
Type 9 - Accomodating Mediator
Enneagram TypeNines are good negotiators and mediators. Grounded and stable, they have a pleasant presence. They avoid conflict and sometimes lose touch with their views. Nines find it challenging to say ‘No.’ They like to be independent, like simple pleasures of life, and prefer to follow routines. They can see different viewpoints and are open and receptive.