Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine my Core Type?
There are many free and paid online tests. When taking tests, answer the questions based on how you have been over the course of your life rather than how you prefer to see yourself or want others to see you. Ultimately, further self-examination is recommended by reviewing Enneagram books, visiting leading websites, or attending an Enneagram session. Through these avenues, you will find yourself relating to qualities of a specific type. While some people may identify their core type quickly, for others it may take longer. Contact growthnine@gmail.com to receive suggestions for online tests and other sources to get rolling. The Enneagram Institute details each style here.
I narrowed my type to two or three possibilities. How do I decide which type I am?
Congratulations on narrowing your type to a few possibilities. While for some, identifying their core style comes quickly, for others it may take further contemplation. Rest assured, it's worth the journey! To continue investigating your core type: Visit websites to review some of the the type comparisons. The Enneagram Institute offers descriptions here. Read books such as 'The Enneagram Made Simple' by Ashton Whitmoyer-Ober. Contact Growth Nine to schedule either a group or individual session to learn more about the Enneagram. Visit G9 Services here.
How can I be just one type, doesn't that put me in a box?
We are all unique representations of our core style as each one of us has different childhoods, cultural influences, and genetic make-up. While the Enneagram references nine basic styles that reveal the primary way we see the world, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The nine types are a starting point of a fully integrated system that has many layers. The Enneagram model rises above other personality typing systems. It not only maps our core type, but also our conditioned behaviors formed in childhood and the underlying motivations driving those behaviors. Know that the Enneagram does not put you in a box, rather it helps you step out of the box you are already in.
Can my type change from when I was a child or if I have evolved as an adult?
The consensus of Enneagram sages is that our core style is a combination of nature and nurture. We come to Earth with certain characteristics unique to our being. Then as we grow, our core type becomes more pronounced and remains as the fundamental lens we see the world. Even though our primary type does not change and stays with us throughout life, this doesn't mean that we can't evolve. We can choose to shift from our egoic personality toward our essential nature. The Enneagram tool helps us to move towards integrity (wholeness) so that we can live at a healthier level.
What are wings?
Each number on the Enneagram symbol has two adjacent types on either side. These are known as the wings. Just like your neighbors next door, these wing types are quite accessible. While wings do not change a core type's motivations, they do modify how your personality presents itself. Both wings can equally influence your core style or, more commonly, one wing is predominant. An example: 9w8 (core type 9 with an 8 wing) will appear more grounded & assertive while a 9w1 will appear more organized & precise.
What are the arrow lines within the Enneagram symbol?
Each Enneagram core type can shift towards two other interrelated numbers during relaxed or stressed conditions. The Enneagram symbol reflects these shifts through the arrowed lines. When feeling relaxed, your core style moves to its secure point. Accessing the resourceful qualities of that integrated type brings a positive experience and helps balance your own type. When feeling conflicted, your core style shifts to its a stress point. Typically we slip to the non-resourceful qualities of that type. But if you are awake, you have an opportunity to access the resourceful aspects of that related type.
How can the Enneagram help with my relationships?
Once you learn your core style and its interrelated dynamics, you will find a wonderful understanding of WHY you "do the things that you do." You will gain more compassion for yourself and understand that many of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are tied to childhood conditioning. The good news is that we also gain a greater compassion for others. We learn how they view the world differently through the other eight lenses. We become more open, more understanding, and more compassionate.
How is the Enneagram different from MBTI?
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator assesses a person's cognitive function and offers a four-letter result in "HOW" the individual perceives the world and processes information (behaviors). While the Enneagram does this, it also delivers insight to our emotional and instinctual behaviors. You gain an understanding of the “WHY” behind your conditioned reactions (the motivations behind behaviors). By the Enneagram revealing underlying core motivations, you are armed with the key that unlocks your transformation.