The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Your Enneagram Type

The Enneagram is a popular personality test that assigns you a type based on your unique core motivations, desires, and fears. The name 'Enneagram' comes from the Greek words 'ennea' (nine) and 'grammos' (figure), referring to the nine-pointed diagram that illustrates the interconnections between the types. Rooted in ancient traditions, the Enneagram has been refined through modern psychological research to offer deep insights into pathways for personal growth. 

If you don't know what your Enneagram type is, you can take the free test here (simply screenshot your results!). 

If you already know your Enneagram type, but want to learn more from an Enneagram expert, we highly recommend this MasterClass on Enneagram Exploration led by Beth Kuper, Enneagram Expert. This MasterClass will help you understand your inner critic, harness the power of your inner angel, and apply those learnings into your everyday routine.

Learning your Enneagram type can help you understand what your strengths, fears, and motivators are. Knowing this can help you better understand yourself so you can chart a path towards living a more meaningful, fulfilling life. Embracing your Enneagram type can help you transform your approach to challenges, enhance your relationships, and realize your fullest potential.

What's an Enneagram wing?

An Enneagram wing is one of the two types adjacent to your main Enneagram type that influences but does not change it, adding depth and nuance to your primary personality. For example, if you are a Type 3, your wings could be either Type 2 or Type 4, described as 3w2 or 3w4. Understanding your wing is crucial as it shapes your behavior, motivations, and interactions, providing a more detailed understanding of your strengths and challenges. 

If you already know your Enneagram type, but want to integrate habits based on your Enneagram type into your routine, we highly recommend learning more about our private beta – it gives you a weekly or daily self-care plan based on your unique personality (yes, that includes your Enneagram type!)  

Healthy vs. Unhealthy in Enneagram Types

Each Enneagram type can behave in healthy or unhealthy ways. When you're healthy, you use your strengths positively. But if you're stressed or overwhelmed, you might be showing the unhealthy side of your Enneagram type. This means you might struggle more with negative behaviors and feelings, which can make life harder for you and the people around you. Understanding these patterns can help you find ways to feel better and more balanced.

The Enneagram Types

Type 1: The Reformer 
Type 2: The Helper
Type 3: The Achiever
Type 4: The Individualist
Type 5: The Investigator
Type 6: The Loyalist 
Type 7: The Enthusiast
Type 8: The Challenger
Type 9: The Peacemaker 

Type 1: The Reformer

Reformers have an innate ability to see what is wrong in the world and are motivated to improve it. They are principled, purposeful, often excelling in roles that require organization and attention to detail.

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 1:

• Healthy mindset: You can forgive yourself and others around you for your mistakes and acknowledge everything you’ve done well.
• Unhealthy mindset: You become highly critical, inflexible, and judgmental of yourself and others around you. 
• What makes them feel fulfilled: When they can do good for the world. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. What areas of my life can I accept as "good enough" rather than perfect?
2. How can I practice self-compassion when I make mistakes?
3. In what ways can I allow others to contribute to tasks without imposing my standards? 

Type 1 Wing 2: The Advocate

Type 1 Wing 2s, known as The Advocates, are empathetic, conscientious, and socially responsible. They are warm, caring, and generous, but can also struggle with balancing their own needs with the needs of others.
Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my desire to help others with my need for personal boundaries?
2. What are some small ways I can practice kindness towards myself daily?
3. How can I channel my desire for justice into constructive actions?

Type 1 Wing 9: The Idealist

Type 1 Wing 9s, known as The Idealists, are balanced, thoughtful, and strive for harmony. They are diplomatic and often excel in mediating conflicts and fostering cooperation among diverse groups.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I cultivate a sense of inner peace while pursuing my goals?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and calm in stressful situations?
3. How can I use my sense of fairness to build bridges between conflicting parties?

Type 2: The Helper

Type 2s, known as The Helpers, are warm, empathetic, and generous individuals who find joy from supporting others. They have an innate ability to sense the needs of those around them and often put others' needs before their own. Helpers are driven by a desire to be loved and appreciated, and they thrive in roles where they can care for others.

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 2:

• Healthy mindset: Your real gift to the world is the love you radiate when you are just being who you are, without trying to be anything more.
• Unhealthy mindset: You believe that people won’t really like you unless you are always doing things for them.
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To make a positive difference in someone else's life.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I ensure my own needs are met while helping others?
2. What are some ways I can set healthy boundaries in my relationships?
3. How can I cultivate a sense of self-worth independent of others' appreciation?

Type 2 Wing 1: The Servant

Type 2 Wing 1s, known as The Servants, combine the helper's compassion with the reformer's sense of duty. They are principled, disciplined, and highly dedicated to serving others. Servants are often found in roles where they can make a meaningful impact, such as in teaching, healthcare, or social work.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my sense of duty with my personal needs?
2. What are some ways I can practice self-care while fulfilling my responsibilities?
3. How can I use my strengths to advocate for others effectively?

Type 2 Wing 3: The Host/Hostess

Type 2 Wing 3s, known as The Hosts or Hostesses, blend the helper's warmth with the achiever's drive for success. They are charismatic, sociable, and thrive in environments where they can shine and be appreciated. Hosts are often found in leadership roles where they can use their people skills to inspire and motivate others.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I align my personal goals with my desire to help others?
2. What practices help me maintain authenticity in my relationships?
3. How can I manage my need for recognition in a healthy way?

Type 3: The Achiever

Type 3s, known as The Achievers, are driven, adaptable, and success-oriented. They are highly motivated by the desire to excel and be admired. Achievers are goal-oriented, pragmatic, and often excel in competitive environments. 

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 3:

• Healthy mindset: You are worthwhile just for being who you are, without any need to impress others with your accomplishments.
• Unhealthy mindset: You’re only as worthwhile as your last success.
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To be valued for who they are. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I align my goals with my true values and passions?
2. What are some ways I can practice self-acceptance and authenticity?
3. How can I maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Type 3 Wing 2: The Charmer

Type 3 Wing 2s, known as The Charmers, blend the achiever's drive with the helper's warmth. They are sociable, charismatic, and excel in roles where they can be in the spotlight and help others. Charmers are often found in leadership positions where they can motivate and inspire their teams.
Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my influence to support and uplift others?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and authentic in my success?
3. How can I balance my need for recognition with genuine self-acceptance?

Type 3 Wing 4: The Professional

Type 3 Wing 4s, known as The Professionals, combine the achiever's ambition with the individualist's creativity. They are innovative, driven, and often excel in creative or entrepreneurial fields. Professionals are deeply motivated by the desire to make a unique impact and be recognized for their individuality.
Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I integrate my creative passions into my professional goals?
2. What are some ways I can cultivate a sense of inner fulfillment?
3. How can I manage my need for validation in a healthy and balanced way?

Type 4: The Individualist

Type 4s, known as The Individualists, are introspective, expressive, and deeply in touch with their emotions. They have a unique ability to perceive beauty and meaning in the world around them. Individualists are driven by a desire to understand themselves and be understood by others. 

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 4:

• Healthy mindset: Everyone wants to be included, and you can reach out and empathetically connect with them.
• Unhealthy mindset: You don’t fit in with others because you are so different, and that’s why you’re lonely.
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To fully express their uniqueness and still be accepted.  

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I express my emotions in a healthy and constructive way?
2. What practices help me cultivate a sense of self-worth and contentment?
3. How can I use my creativity to connect with others?

Type 4 Wing 3: The Aristocrat

Type 4 Wing 3s, known as The Aristocrats, blend the individualist's creativity with the achiever's drive for success. They are sophisticated, ambitious, and often excel in artistic or entrepreneurial fields. Aristocrats are driven by a desire to make a significant and unique impact on the world.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my creative passions with my professional goals?
2. What practices help me maintain authenticity and self-acceptance?
3. How can I manage my desire for recognition in a healthy way?

Type 4 Wing 5: The Bohemian

Type 4 Wing 5s, known as The Bohemians, combine the individualist's emotional depth with the investigator's intellectual curiosity. They are introspective, innovative, and often excel in fields that require deep thinking and creativity. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my intellectual and creative strengths to contribute to the world?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and connected to others?
3. How can I manage my tendency towards introspection in a balanced way?

Type 5: The Investigator

Type 5s, known as The Investigators, are perceptive, innovative, and deeply analytical. They have a strong desire to understand the world around them and often excel in fields that require intellectual rigor and independence. Investigators are curious and insightful, and they thrive in environments that allow them to explore their interests deeply.

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 5:

• Healthy mindset: When you follow your heart and give of your talents, the world will receive you gratefully.
• Unhealthy mindset: If you put yourself out in the world and actually do something, you might make a fool of yourself.
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To explore to understand the complex. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my intellectual pursuits with my need for social connection?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I use my analytical strengths to contribute to my community?

Type 5 Wing 4: The Iconoclast

Type 5 Wing 4s, known as The Iconoclasts, combine the investigator's analytical mind with the individualist's creativity. They are innovative, introspective, and often excel in fields that require both intellectual rigor and artistic expression. Iconoclasts are driven by a desire to challenge conventions and explore new ideas.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my creative and analytical strengths to innovate in my field?
2. What practices help me stay connected to my emotions and relationships?
3. How can I manage my tendency towards isolation in a balanced way?

Type 5 Wing 6: The Problem Solver

Type 5 Wing 6s, known as The Problem Solvers, blend the investigator's analytical mind with the loyalist's practicality. They are perceptive, logical, and often excel in roles that require problem-solving and critical thinking. Problem Solvers are driven by a desire to understand and improve the systems around them.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my intellectual pursuits with my need for practical solutions?
2. What practices help me stay connected to my emotions and relationships?
3. How can I use my analytical strengths to support and improve my community?

Type 6: The Loyalist

Type 6s, known as The Loyalists, are reliable, responsible, and committed individuals who value security and stability. They are loyal to their friends, family, and organizations, and often act as the glue that holds groups together. Loyalists are driven by a desire for safety and certainty, and they excel in roles that require planning, preparation, and attention to detail. 

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 6:

• Healthy mindset: Your intuition is inspired by a power greater than you, and you can trust your guidance.
• Unhealthy mindset: You cannot trust your own intuition, and if you make the wrong decision you could create a catastrophe.
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To be supported in a trustworthy community.  

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I cultivate a sense of inner security and confidence?
2. What practices help me manage my anxiety in a healthy way?
3. How can I use my strengths to support and uplift others?

Type 6 Wing 5: The Defender

Type 6 Wing 5s, known as The Defenders, blend the loyalist's commitment with the investigator's analytical mind. They are diligent, perceptive, and often excel in roles that require both loyalty and intellectual rigor.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my need for security with my desire for intellectual exploration?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I use my analytical strengths to contribute to my community?

Type 6 Wing 7: The Buddy

Type 6 Wing 7s, known as The Buddies, combine the loyalist's commitment with the enthusiast's energy and optimism. They are sociable, adventurous, and often excel in roles that require both loyalty and creativity. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my need for security with my desire for adventure and spontaneity?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I use my strengths to create a positive and supportive community?

Type 7: The Enthusiast

Type 7s, known as The Enthusiasts, are energetic, optimistic, and spontaneous individuals who thrive on excitement and new experiences. They are driven by a desire for freedom and happiness, and often excel in roles that require creativity, adaptability, and a sense of adventure. Enthusiasts are always looking for the next big thing and are skilled at finding joy in the moment. 

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 7:

• Healthy mindset: You are always in the right place at the right time for full participation in your experience.
• Unhealthy mindset: No matter what you’re doing, you could be missing out on something else that’s even better!
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To experience the adventures life has to offer.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I focus my energy on meaningful and fulfilling pursuits?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I manage my desire for new experiences in a balanced way?

Type 7 Wing 6: The Entertainer

Type 7 Wing 6s, known as The Entertainers, blend the enthusiast's energy with the loyalist's commitment. They are sociable, adventurous, and often excel in roles that require both creativity and responsibility. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my desire for adventure with my need for security and stability?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I use my strengths to create a positive and supportive community?

Type 7 Wing 8: The Realist

Description: Type 7 Wing 8s, known as The Realists, combine the enthusiast's energy with the challenger’s assertiveness. They are adventurous, confident, and often excel in roles that require both creativity and leadership. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my energy and confidence to pursue meaningful goals?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I balance my desire for new experiences with my responsibilities?

Type 8: The Challenger

Type 8s, known as The Challengers, are assertive, confident, and protective individuals who value strength and autonomy. They are driven by a desire for control and often excel in leadership roles. Challengers are decisive, direct, and have a strong sense of justice. 

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 8:

• Healthy mindset: You can listen to others thoughtfully and take in their points of view while expressing your own.
• Unhealthy mindset: Most people don’t know what they’re talking about, so you have to tell them what’s so.
• What makes them feel fulfilled: To have agency over your own life

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my strength to support and empower others?
2. What practices help me cultivate vulnerability and compassion?
3. How can I manage my need for control in a healthy way?

Type 8 Wing 7: The Maverick

Type 8 Wing 7s, known as The Mavericks, blend the challenger’s assertiveness with the enthusiast's energy. They are adventurous, confident, and often excel in roles that require both leadership and creativity. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my energy and confidence to pursue meaningful goals?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I balance my desire for new experiences with my responsibilities?

Type 8 Wing 9: The Bear

Description: Type 8 Wing 9s, known as The Bears, combine the challenger’s assertiveness with the peacemaker’s calmness. They are strong, protective, and often excel in roles that require both leadership and diplomacy.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my strength and calmness to create a positive impact?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I manage my need for control in a balanced way?

Type 9: The Peacemaker

Type 9s, known as The Peacemakers, are receptive, agreeable, and easy-going individuals who value harmony and stability. They are driven by a desire for peace and often excel in roles that require mediation and conflict resolution. Peacemakers are adaptable, patient, and able to see multiple perspectives. 

A Healthy vs. Unhealthy Type 9:

• Healthy mindset: Spend time in self-reflection and you will be guided to your heart’s desire and your purpose in life. 
• Unhealthy mindset: You’ll never really know what you want to accomplish, so why bother trying?
• What makes them feel fulfilled: When things feels peaceful. 

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my desire for peace with my need for self-assertion?
2. What practices help me stay engaged and present in my life?
3. How can I use my strengths to create harmony and understanding in my relationships?

Type 9 Wing 8: The Referee

Description: Type 9 Wing 8s, known as The Referees, blend the peacemaker’s calmness with the challenger’s assertiveness. They are strong, protective, and often excel in roles that require both mediation and leadership. Referees are driven by a desire to create a stable and fair environment for themselves and others.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I use my strength and calmness to create a positive impact?
2. What practices help me stay grounded and present in the moment?
3. How can I manage my need for control in a balanced way?

Type 9 Wing 1: The Dreamer

Description: Type 9 Wing 1s, known as The Dreamers, combine the peacemaker’s calmness with the reformer’s principles. They are idealistic, balanced, and often excel in roles that require both mediation and a sense of justice. Dreamers are driven by a desire to create a harmonious and ethical environment for themselves and others.

Journaling Prompts:

1. How can I balance my desire for peace with my need for self-assertion?
2. What practices help me stay engaged and present in my life?
3. How can I use my strengths to create harmony and understanding in my relationships? 

By understanding your Enneagram type, you can gain valuable insights into your motivations, behaviors, and areas for growth. Use these descriptions and journaling prompts to guide your personal development journey and create a more fulfilling and balanced life.