How to avoid idealizing people by seeing through their ego masks

Most of us have experienced disappointment and disillusionment in relationships. We met someone wonderful only to discover later that they were not as who they appear to be as there are always downsides or “the catch” that catches us off guard…

What if I tell you that’s a fact of life caused by human nature? That our egoistic fixation causes everyone including ourselves to over focus on certain aspect of the egos at the expense of other. This is a quick intro/exploratory video on the imperfect and one-sided nature of human so that hopefully we can all be more prepared and even better, embrace our next relationships and loved ones for their strengths and corresponding flaws…

Brough to you by Tuan Le, founder of OHM and a veteran personality coach and the use of Enneagram – a powerful personality frameworks on different type of ego fixation and emotional patterns.. Enjoy the video!

Examine And Grow Beyond Shame For Authentic Confidence

Date: 21 Aug 2024 (Wed), 9pm – 10pm Singapore time.

Have you ever felt paralyzed by the fear of being judged or rejected in your professional life? As one of the core underlying emotions and driving force behind our actions, shame and guilt are important for our survival but left unchecked can be harmful. They prevent you from taking actions to go further in your job or are simply draining your energy every day, away from your hobbies, family or even your sleep.

Working harder or learning to speak better is good, but one key strategy that people often miss out on is to actually examine the emotion itself, how it’s manifesting as our unconscious coping mechanisms. Some deal with shame by obsessing over job performance and status, while others obsess about trying to be socially kind and helpful at the expense of their own. You should realise there are people of various personalities and emotional focuses. Believe it or not, your coworkers or clients may not care about social approval as much or share the same “care language” as you do.

This enlightening webinar by our expert life coach and relationship expert, Teodora from Germany, will guide you through a journey of healthy reflection so you can break free from your energy-draining patterns.

Agenda:

  • Introduce shame as a core emotional driver impacting professional confidence.
  • Discuss the 3 emotional obsession or coping mechanism as a response to this emotion.
  • Reflection Exercise: Guide participants to identify and share their obsession/emotional patterns.
  • Question the necessity and impact of shame & social approval in professional life.
  • Overcoming Shame: Present tailored strategies for managing and transcending shame.
  • Introduction to Enneagram: Introduce the Enneagram as a tool for deeper self-understanding.
  • Q&A and Conclusion.

About the Trainer:

Portrait of Enneagram and MBTI lifecoach Teodora

Based in Germany, Teodora Iulia Păucean is a certified Life and Relationship Coach with a Bachelor in Psychology and a Master in Conflict Resolution. With extensive experience in both the US and European markets, Teodora brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for helping individuals navigate complex emotional landscapes.

Registration Form

The form has been closed. If you need assistance, kindly contact contact@ourhumanminds.com

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Why Self-awareness is The Key For Effective Leadership?

Online webinar: 6 March (Wed), 9-10pm Singapore time

Are you often feeling drained by the nonstop social demands, yet people still seem unhappy? Or are you sometimes confused about why people avoid you, even though you are such a reasonable boss?
Focusing on playing by the social rules and mastering external people skills is certainly important, but it’s not sustainable in the long term if a manager lacks true self-awareness. In a prolonged, close working environment, familiarity can breed liking but also contempt if conflicting behavioral patterns are not addressed.

Portrait of Enneagram and MBTI lifecoach Teodora

In this exclusive presentation by certified coach and typology expert Teodora Paucean, we will firsthand explore the importance of self-awareness in leadership and teamwork. Teodora is a seasoned Life and Relationship Coach with a wealth of experience in guiding individuals in the dynamic landscapes of both the US and European markets.

Agenda:

  • The speaker’s professional background and the reasons behind her passion to become a life coach.
  • Why self-awareness is the true long-term solution for a harmonious and productive workplace.
  • What are the best tools to enhance self-awareness?
  • What is the difference between MBTI and Enneagram, and when should you use each framework?
  • Practical advice for dealing with difficult workplace conflicts and challenging individuals.
  • Any other questions the audience might have.

Please submit the form below to reserve your slot and receive the Zoom/Recording link. The form will be closed on 5 Mar midnight or when the max number have been reached.

The registration form has been closed.

Please write to contact@ourhumanminds.com for any assistance.

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A Deeper Journey Into Your Identity and Growth With The Enneagram (A Crash Course)

The Enneagram, a personality system with roots in ancient spiritual traditions, stands as a profound tool for self-discovery and personal growth, much like the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). What makes the Enneagram unique is its rich history, with numerous contributors shaping its complexity over centuries. If the MBTI focusses on cognition or the information-processing aspect of the mind, the Enneagram provides a road map to understand the deeper emotional drives. If MBTI is the skeleton, Enneagram is like the beating heart of the individual.

If you are a visual learner, you can also watch the video version. Otherwise, please continue below.

Enneagram presentation by Teodora Paucean
Picture of the enneagram of 9 types with arrow

From a modern psychological perspective, the Enneagram highlights each person’s expertise in a particular coping mechanism. By revealing insecurities and fears, this system offers a roadmap for growth. The Enneagram posits that each individual carries a “lost message” from childhood – something crucial for their emotional development that they may not have received.

For instance, if someone needed to hear that they were worthy of love but didn’t, they might grow up feeling the need to constantly prove their worth to others.

Contrary to the misconception that the Enneagram puts people in boxes, it encourages flexibility and understanding. Rather than dictating who one is, it reveals patterns and suggests avenues for personal growth. The Enneagram defines personality as a protective mask comprising fears, beliefs, and reactions, emphasizing the importance of discovering one’s true self or essence beyond this mask.

The Nine Enneagram Types

At the core of this system are the distinctive description of the nine Enneagram types. To better understand and remember them, we group them into three triads – Heart, Head, and Gut.

heart shaped red neon signage

The Heart Triad

Types 2, 3, and 4 focus on self-image and the desire for love, revealing deep-seated fears of unworthiness or inadequacy.

Type 2: The Helper

The Helper, or Type 2, embodies the caring and interpersonal personality. Twos are characterized by their empathy, sincerity, and warm-hearted nature. Friendly, generous, and self-sacrificing, they often go out of their way to support others, driven by a deep need to be close to people. At their best, healthy Twos display unselfishness and altruism, fostering unconditional love for both themselves and others.

On the downside, the Helper faces challenges when their desire to be needed results in neglecting their own well-being. The tendency to people-please might lead to self-neglect and difficulty in recognizing personal needs. Healthy Twos strike a balance between caring for others and maintaining self-care.

Type 3: The Achiever

The Achiever, or Type 3, is the adaptable and success-oriented individual. Threes exude self-assurance, attractiveness, and charm. Ambitious, competent, and energetic, they are often focused on personal advancement and success. At their best, healthy Threes embrace self-acceptance, authenticity, and serve as inspiring role models.

However, the Achiever encounters challenges when their drive for success transforms into an obsession with their image. Workaholism and excessive competitiveness may hinder genuine connections with others. Healthy Threes understand the importance of balance, achieving success while maintaining authenticity and healthy relationships.

Type 4: The Individualist

The Individualist, or Type 4, possesses a romantic and introspective nature. Fours are characterized by self-awareness, sensitivity, and reserved tendencies. They are self-revealing, emotionally honest, and often have a personal and unique approach to life. At their best, healthy Fours are inspired and highly creative, capable of transforming their experiences.

On the flip side, the Individualist faces challenges when their introspection turns into self-indulgence and self-pity. The desire for uniqueness may lead to feelings of disdain and detachment from ordinary ways of living. Healthy Fours appreciate their individuality while understanding the importance of connecting with others and avoiding excessive self-focus.

man wearing black and white stripe shirt looking at white printer papers on the wall

The Head Triad

Types 5, 6, and 7 centers around security and safety, with each type adopting strategies to cope with anxiety.

Type 5: The Investigator

The Investigator, or Type 5, represents the intense and cerebral personality. Fives are alert, insightful, and curious individuals who focus on developing complex ideas and skills. Independent and innovative, they may become detached and preoccupied with their thoughts. At their best, healthy Fives are visionary pioneers, offering new perspectives ahead of their time.

However, Investigators encounter challenges when their intense focus leads to isolation and detachment. The pursuit of knowledge may result in eccentricity and a sense of nihilism. Healthy Fives balance their intellectual pursuits with a connection to the world, avoiding excessive withdrawal.

Type 6: The Loyalist

The Loyalist, or Type 6, is the committed and security-oriented individual. Sixes are reliable, hardworking, and responsible, often running on stress while complaining about it. Healthy Sixes become internally stable, self-confident, and self-reliant. They courageously support the weak and powerless at their best.

On the contrary, the Loyalist faces challenges when their commitment turns into excessive anxiety and defensiveness. Unchecked self-doubt and suspicion can hinder personal growth and relationships. Healthy Sixes maintain a balance between vigilance and trust, fostering internal stability and supporting others without succumbing to overwhelming fear.

Type 7: The Enthusiast

The Enthusiast, or Type 7, embodies the busy and productive personality. Sevens are versatile, optimistic, and spontaneous, seeking new and exciting experiences. Playful and high-spirited, they may, at times, become overextended, scattered, and undisciplined.

However, Enthusiasts encounter challenges when their pursuit of excitement leads to superficiality and a lack of discipline. Overextension and constant activity may result in exhaustion. Healthy Sevens understand the importance of balance, channeling their enthusiasm into meaningful pursuits while avoiding impulsive and superficial behaviors.

low section of man against sky

The Gut Triad

Types 8, 9, and 1 highlights the pursuit of autonomy and independence. These types resist external control and, in unique ways, strive for personal integrity, peace, or protection from harm.

Type 1: The Reformer

The Reformer, or Type 1, is characterized as the principled and idealistic type. Individuals of this type are known for their strong ethical values and conscientious nature, always guided by a clear sense of right and wrong. Reformers often take on the roles of teachers and crusaders, driven by a continuous desire to improve the world around them. Their organized and orderly approach, coupled with a meticulous attention to detail, reflects their commitment to maintaining high standards. Healthy Ones exhibit wisdom, discernment, realism, and nobility, embodying moral heroism at their best.

On the flip side, the Reformer faces challenges when their pursuit of perfection transforms into excessive criticism. The fear of making mistakes can hinder their progress, and their well-organized nature might border on rigidity. Acknowledging and managing repressed anger and impatience becomes crucial for a balanced and healthy Type 1. Despite their noble intentions, an overemphasis on perfectionism may inadvertently distance them from others.

Type 8: The Challenger

The Challenger, or Type 8, exudes self-confidence, strength, and assertiveness. Eights are characterized by their protective and resourceful nature, often making decisive and impactful decisions. Healthy Eights transform into self-masters, channeling their strength to positively impact the lives of those around them. In their prime, healthy Eights showcase heroism, magnanimity, and sometimes even historical greatness.

However, the Challenger encounters difficulties when their assertiveness turns into excessive pride, hindering their ability to connect with others. The need for control may result in confrontations and a reluctance to show vulnerability. Healthy Eights recognize the importance of balance, utilizing their strength for the greater good without succumbing to dominating tendencies.

Type 9: The Peacemaker

The Peacemaker, or Type 9, embodies an easygoing and self-effacing personality. Nines are characterized by their accepting and stable nature, fostering an environment of trust. Good-natured, kind-hearted, and easygoing, they play the role of supporters, often going along with others to maintain peace. Heathy Nines exhibit indomitable qualities, bringing people together and resolving conflicts seamlessly.

On the downside, the Peacemaker faces challenges when their desire for peace transforms into complacency. The reluctance to address conflicts head-on can hinder personal growth, and the tendency to minimize issues may lead to unresolved problems. Healthy Nines embrace their innate ability to unite people and address conflicts, realizing the significance of balancing their easygoing nature with assertiveness when necessary.

Conclusion

The Enneagram, with its profound insights into human behavior, serves as a guide to breaking free from limitations, understanding one’s triggers, and fostering compassion towards oneself and others. It invites individuals to embrace their unique paths of growth, acknowledging that it’s a gradual process rather than an overnight transformation.

It offers a nuanced understanding of personality, combining ancient wisdom with modern psychology. While the Enneagram provides valuable insights, we emphasizes caution against extreme or overuse, just like with any other typology systems. It should serve as a tool for self-education, not as an excuse for negative behavior. Cultivating awareness, acknowledging triggers, and promoting personal growth are essential steps in the journey.

Webinar: How To Work With The Most Assertive Personalities

Recorded webinar: request for it via the form below.

Have you come across intimidating and bossy people at work? If they consistently display this behaviour, it’s more likely they are not intentionally but it’s just their personality type. In this webinar, we will use the Enneagram framework to dissect these types’ characteristic and hidden emotional drives. They would be a lot less scary if you truly understand what makes them tick!

Picture of the enneagram of 9 types with arrow

The Enneagram is a popular framework distilled from ancient religious and philosophical wisdom that provide a structured ways to categorise personality types based on unconscious emotional drive and pain points.


Portrait of Enneagram and MBTI lifecoach Teodora

This session will be led by Teodora Paucean, a veteran relationship coach from Germany, for an enlightening crash course to improve your confidence in dealing with the more assertive personalities at work and personal life.

Agenda:

  • Member introduction.
  • This history of Enneagram and its relevance in relationships.
  • An overview of the 4 Assertive types: Type 3 – the Achiever, Type 7 – the Enthusiast and Type 8 – the Challenger and Type 1 – the Perfectionist.
  • Understand each type’s emotional drives and fixations
  • Practical strategies to deal with each type.
  • Q&A

Slots are limited. Confirm your attendance via the form below, to receive the Zoom link, handouts and recording of the session.

Registration Form

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    Introduction to the Enneagram: A Crash Course ft. Teodora Paucean

    Being a new manager or entrepreneur of an expanding team, is a thrilling yet daunting task. The complexity of managing individuals with diverse personalities often becomes a source of anxiety. In this exploration, we delve into the profound insights offered by the Enneagram, a personality system with ancient roots and modern psychological perspectives, to empower emerging your understanding and navigating the intricacies of human behavior.

    Teodora Paucean, our training partner, is an experienced personalities and relationship coach with many years of conducting training for managers and companies in Europe and America.

    Watch the video below to start!

    Video transcript:

    The Enneagram, like the MBTI, is a personality system rooted in spiritual wisdom from ancient traditions. It’s a complex, philosophical, and intuitive system that many have contributed to over time. Despite its age, modern psychology has further developed it, emphasizing that each person is an expert in a coping mechanism reflecting insecurities, fears, and growth opportunities.

    The Enneagram suggests that each person carries a lost message from childhood, shaping their need for love. For instance, if we lacked the assurance of love, we might feel compelled to prove our worth. It identifies nine types, each with dominant characteristics, yet we resonate with elements from various types.

    Contrary to misconceptions, the Enneagram, like the MBTI, doesn’t box individuals; it illuminates patterns and growth potential. It delves into the dynamic aspects of personality, introducing the concept of Essence, our true self, beneath the mask of fears, beliefs, and reactions.

    Understanding our Enneagram type offers benefits, helping us comprehend triggers, move past insecurities, and become more confident, compassionate, and empathetic. However, caution is advised against extreme typology use as an excuse for bad behavior. Flexibility is crucial, considering factors like culture, education, age, and maturity also influence how a person expresses their type.

    Cultivating awareness, a lesson for all types, facilitates letting go of self-imposed limitations. Recognizing when we are in the trance of our personality enables us to move past triggers and insecurities, fostering personal growth.

    As a type two, I often feel the need to please others. Acknowledging this helps me pause, reflect, and choose responses consciously. This self-awareness isn’t immediate; it’s a gradual process requiring time and patience.

    An overview of the nine Enneagram types reveals distinct characteristics. For example, type one is the reformer or perfectionist, type two is the helper or giver, type three is the achiever, and so forth.

    Enneagram types categorize individuals into distinct personality archetypes. Type 1 is recognized as the reformer or perfectionist, emphasizing a desire for autonomy through self-control. Type 2, the helper or giver, seeks validation through acts of kindness and support. Type 3, the achiever, focuses on success, striving to be outstanding in various aspects of life. Type 4, the individualist or romantic, craves authenticity and uniqueness, embracing introversion.

    Moving on, the Enneagram divides these types into three groups or Triads: the heart Triad, head Triad, and instinctual Triad. The heart Triad, comprising types 2, 3, and 4, centers on self-image, shame, and ego defenses. Common to this group is a deep-seated feeling of inadequacy, prompting them to adopt specific behaviors for love and acceptance.

    Type 5, 6, and 7 belong to the head Triad, characterized by concerns about security and safety. Suppression of anxiety is a shared trait as each type adopts strategies to find support and guidance. Type 5 seeks safety through knowledge mastery, driven by the fear of being useless. Type 6, the loyalist, craves support and guidance, fearing a lack thereof. Type 7, the enthusiast, driven by a fear of being trapped in pain, seeks happiness through constant novelty.

    The final group, the instinctual Triad, encompasses types 8, 9, and 1, emphasizing autonomy or independence. Common to this group is a resistance to control, whether internal or external. Type 8, the challenger, seeks autonomy by controlling the external environment, often found in managerial roles. Type 9, the peacemaker, avoids conflict to maintain inner peace and stability. Type 1, the reformer or perfectionist, strives for autonomy through self-control, aspiring to be seen as having integrity.

    In conclusion, the Enneagram is a tool for self-education, offering insights into personal and interpersonal dynamics. However, balance is key, ensuring it doesn’t become an excuse but rather a guide for personal growth.

    How To Be A More Assertive Leader using Emotional and Self-Awareness

    Do you struggle to take on leadership roles and set boundaries in the workplace? Learn how to navigate emotional drain and conflicts with the help of practical tools and the Enneagram wisdom in this video.

    Our guest speaker, Teodora Paucean, a renowned Life and Relationship Coach, will guide you through recognizing your strengths and weaknesses as a leader and give you insights for setting boundaries and protecting your inner peace.

    Please watch the webinar recording or if you prefer to read, continue reading the written transcript below.

    Introduction: Enhancing Leadership Through Enneagram Wisdom

    Thank you all for joining today’s session. As a self-employed coach and trainer with a background in Psychology, I’m excited to guide you through the enriching world of the Enneagram of personality and its profound impact on leadership assertiveness.

    Understanding Emotional Drain and Insecurities in Leadership

    In today’s exploration, we’ll address the emotional drain caused by insecurities, a common challenge faced by many leaders. The session will shed light on how these insecurities, if unmanaged, can lead to conflicts, impacting work relationships, teamwork, performance, and retention.

    The Role of Empathy and Self-Awareness in Leadership

    True empathy and self-awareness are foundational in effective leadership. By delving into personality typology, such as the Enneagram, leaders can gain valuable insights into cognitive diversity, creating an environment where individual strengths contribute to a cohesive team dynamic.

    Holistic Understanding of Cognitive Diversity

    In my experience in human resources, I’ve observed that a lack of self-awareness can lead to assumptions about uniform thinking and communication styles. Today’s focus on the Enneagram is part of a broader approach, acknowledging the significance of systems like MBTI and cognitive functions in understanding cognitive diversity comprehensively.

    Personal Journey: Applying Personality Typology in Professional Roles

    Embarking on my self-awareness journey at 16 with MBTI and later the Enneagram, I, as an INFJ and Enneagram Type 2, found profound insights that shaped my personal and professional growth. With a background in Psychology, conflict analysis, and management, I’ve consistently applied personality typology in various roles, emphasizing its pivotal role in self-awareness and interpersonal dynamics.

    Boundaries in Leadership: Impact on Mental Health and Team Dynamics

    Effective leadership hinges on the establishment of clear boundaries. Leaders who neglect this aspect often face burnout, depression, and anxiety, impacting both individual and team well-being. This segment emphasizes the crucial role boundaries play in creating a positive work culture and fostering team cohesion.

    The Ripple Effect: Positive Leadership and Team Well-Being

    Leaders who set and communicate boundaries set a positive example, creating a ripple effect that enhances team dynamics, work culture, and retention rates. Conversely, the absence of clear boundaries can contribute to a negative work culture and hinder team performance.

    Understanding the Enneagram:

    The Enneagram, a personality-based system with roots in ancient traditions and modern psychology, focuses on emotional components. Unlike the MBTI, which delves into the structure of the mind, the Enneagram metaphorically represents the soul, exploring core insecurities and their impact on various life aspects. The system categorizes individuals into nine types, each driven by unique fears and desires. Understanding these types is crucial for leaders aiming to navigate their own and their team’s dynamics effectively.

    Types Most Likely to Struggle with Boundaries:

    Among the nine Enneagram types, five are prone to struggling with boundaries: Type 2 (The Helper), Type 3 (The Achiever), Type 4 (The Individualist), Type 6 (The Loyalist), and Type 9 (The Peacemaker). For instance, Type 2’s desire to be liked may hinder their ability to say no, while Type 3’s focus on competence can lead to overwhelming workloads. Recognizing these tendencies equips leaders to address boundary challenges within themselves and their teams.

    The Feeling Triad and Emotional Intelligence:

    The Feeling Triad, comprising Types 2, 3, and 4, is characterized by a strong focus on self-image. Understanding the fears and desires of each type within this triad provides valuable insights for leaders. Emotional intelligence, a key leadership trait, involves recognizing and managing emotions. Leaders with strong emotional intelligence can leverage their strengths and address their weaknesses, fostering healthier team dynamics.

    Leadership Strengths and Weaknesses:

    Each Enneagram type brings unique strengths and weaknesses to leadership roles. For instance, Type 2 leaders excel in empathy and support, but they may struggle with people-pleasing and manipulation. Recognizing these traits allows leaders to harness their strengths while actively working on areas that may hinder their effectiveness.

    Practical Tools for Leadership Development:

    1. Non-Violent Communication:
      • Developed by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, this tool aids leaders in setting boundaries, providing a structured approach for giving negative feedback and discussing sensitive topics.
    2. Time Management – Eisenhower Metrics:
      • The Eisenhower Matrix helps leaders prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance, offering a strategic approach to time management.
    3. Intrapersonal Intelligence:
      • Recognizing and managing one’s own emotions is crucial for effective leadership. Techniques like labeling emotions and engaging in activities like journaling and meditation contribute to the development of intrapersonal intelligence.
    4. Pika Technique:
      • This coaching tool assists individuals in identifying physical signs of strong emotions, changing negative patterns to positive ones, and implementing lasting changes in behavior.
    5. “Fill Your Cup” Model:
      • Leaders can proactively monitor their needs by visualizing a set of cups representing various aspects of well-being. Regularly checking and addressing these needs fosters a balanced and resilient approach to leadership.

    Conclusion:

    In the intricate tapestry of leadership development, understanding personality frameworks, emotional intelligence, and effective boundary-setting is paramount. Leaders who embark on this journey not only enhance their own capabilities but also contribute to the growth and well-being of their teams. As Carl Jung aptly stated, “Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes.” The pursuit of self-awareness is a continuous process that enlightens and empowers leaders on their quest for excellence.

    Note: To explore these concepts further and deepen your understanding, consider enrolling in a comprehensive training program that combines the MBTI and Enneagram as complementary systems. Remember, self-awareness is a lifelong journey, and the tools discussed here serve as guides in this transformative process.