Enneagram. It’s a hot topic these days. Perhaps you’ve seen posts and memes, numbers and a funny looking symbol.
But, what does it all mean? And, is it even beneficial?
What is the Enneagram?
The Enneagram is simply a tool that explains why we behave the way we do, how we view the world and how we manage our emotions. The Enneagram suggests nine distinct personality types.
The word Enneagram comes from the Greek words Ennea, (nine) and Gramma (written or drawn).
The Enneagram symbol is a circle with nine equidistant points. The lines and arrows, (more accurately, line segments and rays), connect each of the types to two other types in order to show the paths one travels during growth and stress.
How is the Enneagram different?
The Enneagram is often compared to other personality tests, such as Myers-Briggs and DISC.
All personality tests use observational patterns to describe distinct similarities between individuals. Each test is divided into groups according to specific traits that are shared by specific types of individuals.
While most personality tests assign personality types, the Enneagram is different in that it requires the individual to decide upon their own type through self-discovery, reflection and study. Enneagram types cannot be assigned because the Enneagram requires that one reflect upon their own core motivation, weakness, fear and longing.
Enneagram tests can be taken, but should be used only to look for patterns and guide an individual to deeper study in finding their dominant type.
Why use the Enneagram?
Like all personality typing systems and tests, some will jump on board with the Enneagram while others will roll their eyes with skepticism and disbelief.
There are many reasons why people are finding the Enneagram so helpful; among the many reasons, here are a few:
- The Enneagram offers a road map, of sorts, that helps individuals recognize not only their unhealthy behaviors, but the reasons behind them, and make the necessary coarse corrections to living a well balanced and healthy life.
- The Enneagram offers insight into the whys behind the thinking, behaviors and responses of ourselves and others, and encourages empathy, understanding and compassion for the differences between the types.
- The Enneagram allows us to see ourselves reflected in the world and offers a connection point with others.
Again, the Enneagram is simply a tool. It should never be used as a sword, (weapon), intended to hurt others; nor should it be used as a shield, (protection), to hide behind or excuse bad behaviors.
If you are interested in learning more about the Enneagram, I suggest checking out The Enneagram Institute for more information. If you would like to take a test, I recommend the RHETI for $12, but there are a lot of free test available online as well. Keep in mind that tests are only about 70% accurate and all will require further study.