What's your Enneagram?
Have you ever taken a personality test? I have taken the Myers-Briggs Indicator and in the past year I’ve come across several posts about Enneagram types. I finally decided to take the time to take the test to determine my Enneagram number. Like many people, I was curious about the test, what my results would be and if I would recognize the personality traits in myself.
What is it?
The Enneagram defines nine basic personality types that clearly describes why each of us think, feel and behave in specific ways, which is based on fears and desires.
Image: Integrative Enneagram
Take the test
If you aren’t sure of your number, there are several free options for taking the test. Based on your answers during the test, one of the Enneagram numbers will be highlighted. This number demonstrates main factors in your personality. While we all components of each of the Enneagram, there will be one number that stands out from the others. Based on the test you take, the answers may go into additional detail about “wings.” These are the two numbers on each side of your enneagram number. There is usually one of the wings that you tend to gravitate towards more.
It’s interesting to evaluate your results and see how much you identify with the description.
Finding out one’s enneagram number allows many people to understand themselves better. Encourage your family members to take the test as well. You may all understand one another, just a little bit more.
What’s my number?
Any guesses? I took the test and I am a 2w3. According to the Enneagram Institute, category 2 is considered the “helper.” Well, that may sound nice, there are some positives to that type but there are some negatives, too. The Enneagram Institute’s quick overview describes type 2 as, “the caring, interpersonal type: demonstrative, generous, people-pleasing, and possessive. I can see a lot of these traits in myself, but haven’t fully come around to considering myself possessive. Maybe when it comes to something I don’t want my kids to ruin, I could be possessive. Ha ha… But, honestly, I see a lot of benefits on reflecting on my score.
In order for us to thrive, I think it is critical for each of us to have a good understanding of who we are, which includes our strengths and weaknesses. Many people know what can set them off or what is needed for them to bounce back. It’s great when those around you understand that about you as well. Hey, none of us are perfect, but it’s great when we know why we react one way or another in a situation.
Once you know your number, let me know in the comments how much you identify with the Enneagram personality results.