Discover How the Enneagram Works in 2025: Insights, Benefits & Costs
Explore the Enneagram as a profound language for self-awareness and growth, far beyond a typical personality quiz. Learn how this dynamic system reveals your core motivations and values.
The Enneagram is more than just a personality quiz—it's a unique language that helps decode the complexities of human nature.
The Enneagram has gained widespread attention online, but it’s not simply a trendy test. Experts emphasize that this model, rooted in the early 20th century, offers a sophisticated framework for understanding the human psyche through nine interconnected personality types.
Originally called the Enneagram of Personality Types, it was designed to explore the depths of human behavior and motivation, combining ancient wisdom with modern psychology to illuminate our unique survival strategies and core values.
Today’s Enneagram is best seen as a dynamic, evolving system rather than a fixed typology. It invites a holistic view of identity by integrating instinct, intuition, and intellect—the gut, heart, and head centers—into a comprehensive understanding of self.
Dr. Jerome D. Lubbe, a neurologist and author of "The Brain-Based Enneagram: You Are Not a Number," highlights that the Enneagram transcends simple personality classification. It fosters deeper insight into how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world around us.
How Does the Enneagram Function?
The Enneagram uses symbolic representations to capture the entirety of a person’s identity. These three triads—instinct (gut), intuition (heart), and intellect (head)—reflect the body, soul, and mind.
Although it might be tempting to reduce the Enneagram to a single number, its true power lies in embracing the qualities of all nine types to understand the nuances of human nature.
Focusing on Values and Nature Over Labels
For instance, the number 7, known as the Enthusiast, can be reframed from a label to a reflection of the innate human capacity for enthusiasm and the core value of seeking experiences, as life coach Nicole McDonough explains.
Transforming "I am an Enthusiast" into "I value experiences" opens the door to personal growth and deeper self-inquiry.
The Nine Enneagram Types and Their Core Values
Reimagining each type by its fundamental values helps clarify motivations and behaviors:
| Type | Core Value and Meaning |
|---|---|
| (1) Reformer | Values justice and strives for improvement; embodies the human capacity for reform. |
| (2) Helper | Values appreciation and nurturing; represents innate care for others. |
| (3) Achiever | Values creativity and accomplishment; driven by achievement. |
| (4) Individualist | Values authenticity and uniqueness; celebrates individuality. |
| (5) Investigator | Values clarity and knowledge; embodies inquiry and understanding. |
| (6) Loyalist | Values security and trust; motivated by loyalty. |
| (7) Enthusiast | Values experiences and enthusiasm; thrives on adventure. |
| (8) Challenger | Values autonomy and strength; embraces disruption. |
| (9) Peacemaker | Values serenity and harmony; embodies peace. |
McDonough points out that this approach avoids one-size-fits-all advice, recognizing that what works for one person might not suit another, much like navigating different life journeys.
Why the Enneagram Is a Language, Not Just a Quiz
Dr. Lubbe advises approaching the Enneagram as a new language to learn—starting with its alphabet, vocabulary, and common phrases. This mindset encourages ongoing study and reflection rather than quick categorization.
Engaging with experienced teachers and communities enhances understanding, as the Enneagram thrives as a tool for connection and self-discovery rather than isolation.
What Sets the Enneagram Apart?
Unlike many personality models focused on actions, the Enneagram reveals the underlying motivations that shape how we experience and interact with the world.
Therapist Lauren Hasha highlights its value in increasing self-awareness and recognizing coping mechanisms, especially under stress or trauma.
Strengths and Growth Opportunities
The Enneagram helps identify triggers and reactive patterns, offering choices beyond automatic fight-or-flight responses. It promotes self-compassion and conscious decision-making, fostering personal growth.
Where to Learn More in 2024
Modern books have made the Enneagram more accessible to those seeking spiritual and psychological growth. For example, Hannah Paasch’s "Millenneagram" simplifies understanding and encourages self-recognition.
Recommended readings include:
- "The Brain-Based Enneagram" by Dr. Jerome Lubbe
- "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson
- "Millenneagram" by Hannah Paasch
- "The Sacred Enneagram" by Christopher Heuertz
Paasch emphasizes the importance of recognizing childhood wounds, whether real or perceived, as foundational to understanding one’s Enneagram type.
Common Missteps to Avoid
Experts caution against oversimplifying the Enneagram or rigidly identifying with a single type. Such reductionism limits growth and can foster unhealthy boundaries.
The Enneagram is a holistic tool designed to enhance physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual health—not to stereotype or judge.
McDonough warns against using the system to demean others or justify negative behavior. Instead, it should inspire empathy, inquiry, and compassion.
Getting Started with the Enneagram
For beginners, apps like EnneApp offer a gentle introduction. The Enneagram invites you to explore your inner world, recognizing and embracing all parts of yourself, including those you may find difficult.
Paasch shares personal insights on managing stress responses compassionately, illustrating how the Enneagram supports self-reparenting and healing.
Through podcasts and books, enthusiasts can deepen their understanding and experience those transformative "That’s me!" moments.
Ultimately, the Enneagram reveals the vastness within each person, encouraging expansive self-discovery rather than confinement to a number.
Elly is a New York-based writer and poet passionate about community and justice, with a flair for wordplay. Follow her work for more insights.
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