Type 1: The Perfectionist

Type Ones focus on making things better—working diligently to make things “right,” while paying attention to the details. They live from a high set of internal standards of behavior and perform with integrity. Type Ones work well in situations where the rules are clearly established.

Stress point: Four
Security point: Seven

Their Growth opportunity: Learning to value their wishes and desires and knowing there is more than one right way. (top)

Type 2: The Giver

Type Twos go out of their way to make others feel comfortable. They can be pleasant and agreeable to be with as their attention is focused on meeting the emotional needs of the people in their life. They work well in situations where there is a high interpersonal component, interacting with many different kinds of people.

Stress point: Eight
Security point: Four

Their Growth opportunity: Distinguishing self-worth from the approval of others. (top)

Type 3: The Performer

Type Three is focused on the tasks to be done, goals to be reached, and projects to complete. Their accomplishments are many and they are generally seen as very successful. The Type Three does well in a competitive environment with a clear system of rewards for efforts.

Stress point: Nine
Security point: Six

Their Growth opportunity: developing access to their true feelings and not just what can make them look successful. (top)

Type 4: The Romantic

Type Fours could be called the emotional touchstone of the Enneagram. Feelings are valued above all else in their interactions. They have the capacity to support others through great emotional upheaval and turmoil. Type Fours work well in situations where creativity and individuality is prized.

Stress point: Two       
Security point: One

Their Growth opportunity: Discovering the simple pleasures of “ordinariness.” (top)

Type 5: The Observer

Type Five is often described as the scholarly type on the Enneagram. Knowledge is most important and much of their time and energy is spent gathering knowledge. They desire a great deal of privacy in their life. They work well in situations where contact with others is minimal.

Stress point: Seven
Security point: Eight

Their Growth opportunity: Having the knowledge that staying engaged with others will not deplete their energy or resources. (top)

Type 6: The Loyal Skeptic

Type Six might be considered the Boy/Girl Scout position on the Enneagram—“Be Prepared”—for all possibilities of what might go wrong. They can make good troubleshooters, as they have the ability to look ahead and see myriad possibilities of what could happen. Type Six works well where there are clear lines of authority and defined problems.

Stress point: Three
Security point: Nine

Their Growth opportunity: Learning to trust self and, therefore, others and understanding the scope of their own authority. (top)

Type 7: The Epicure

Type Seven focuses on experiencing life to the fullest. They are the true entrepreneur and see life as an adventure. Life is fun, interesting, full of fascinating ideas and people. They work well in situations where there is a spirit of adventure and bold new ways to see the world.

Stress point: One
Security point: Five

Their Growth opportunity: Accepting that pain and/or conflict are essential to experiencing a full life. (top)

Type 8: The Protector/Boss

Type Eight is focused on protecting the “weak” from what is seen as injustice or unfairness. There is an all or nothing stance that demands action be taken now, since anything less might be seen as weak. Type Eights work well in situations when they are their own boss.

Stress point: Five
Security point: Two

Their Growth opportunity: Learning the appropriate use of power in situations. (top)

Type 9: The Mediator

Type Nines are known for their ability to mediate opposing views. They are able to see value in all the different and diverse opinions of others and will strive for group consensus. Type Nines work well in situations with routines and structure.

Stress point: Six
Security space: Three

Their Growth opportunity: Seeking to know their stance in life and taking action on their own behalf. (top)