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!
In the modern era of personal and professional development, various personality frameworks have become increasingly popular for helping individuals understand themselves and others. Among these, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Enneagram stand out as deep, insightful tools for long-term personal growth. However, other models like the Big Five, Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and StrengthsFinder also offer unique perspectives and are popular in different settings. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of these frameworks, exploring their origins, theoretical foundations, practical applications, pros and cons to help you achieve a more discerning perspective:
1. Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
Origins and Background
The MBTI was developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers during World War II. They based it on Carl Jungโs theory of psychological types, which emphasizes different cognitive processes for interacting with the world. Their goal was to create a system that could help people understand themselves and others, especially in areas of communication, decision-making, and work preferences.
Theoretical Essence
MBTI categorizes individuals into 16 personality types based on four dichotomies:
Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I),
Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N),
Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F), and
Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P).
Each type represents a preferred way of processing information, making decisions, and interacting with the world. It highlights the role of dominant and auxiliary cognitive functions, which are essential for self-awareness and understanding the behaviors of others.
Practical Application
The MBTI is highly valued in corporate environments, relationship counseling, and personal development. It helps individuals improve communication, enhance team collaboration, and develop emotional intelligence. Its strength lies in its focus on how people think and operate, which can provide actionable insights for personal growth. However, critics argue that MBTI lacks scientific rigor and can be oversimplifying.
2. Enneagram
Origins and Background
The Enneagram has ancient roots, believed to originate from various spiritual and philosophical traditions, including early Christian mysticism and Sufi teachings. It was modernized in the 20th century by Oscar Ichazo and Claudio Naranjo, who expanded its psychological depth.
Theoretical Essence
The Enneagram categorizes individuals into nine distinct personality types, each associated with core motivations, fears, and desires. Unlike MBTI, which focuses on cognitive functions, the Enneagram emphasizes the emotional and motivational drivers behind behavior. It offers a dynamic model where individuals can shift along โgrowthโ and โstressโ lines, reflecting how they adapt to life circumstances.
Practical Application
The Enneagram is often used in both personal and spiritual development, as it provides a pathway for individuals to explore deep-rooted behavioral patterns. Its holistic approach allows for personal transformation by identifying key motivations and emotional triggers. However, the lack of scientific validation, similar to MBTI, is a common criticism.
3. Big Five (OCEAN)
Origins and Background
The Big Five Personality Traits model emerged from decades of psychological research and is considered one of the most scientifically robust personality frameworks. It stems from studies in the 1940s and 50s that aimed to empirically measure personality traits.
Theoretical Essence
The Big Five model measures five core dimensions of personality:
Openness to Experience,
Conscientiousness,
Extraversion,
Agreeableness, and
Neuroticism (OCEAN).
These traits exist on a spectrum rather than as dichotomies, making it a fluid framework. The model’s strength lies in its empirical foundation, which allows for predictive power in various life outcomes such as career success and relationship satisfaction.
Practical Application
The Big Five is widely used in psychological research and clinical settings due to its strong scientific backing. However, its downside is the lack of depth when it comes to cognitive processing or inner motivations. While it provides valuable insights, it may not be as engaging or transformative for personal growth as MBTI or Enneagram.
Pros: This model is scientifically validated and widely accepted in psychology. It measures traits like Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism.
Cons: It doesnโt offer the same depth of insights into cognitive functions or personal motivations as MBTI or Enneagram, which might make it less engaging for personal growth enthusiasts.
The DISC Personality Modelfocuses on four primary behavioral traits: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. Originating from the work of psychologist William Moulton Marston in the 1920s, DISC is widely used in corporate environments to improve communication, teamwork, and leadership. Unlike typology frameworks like MBTI and the Enneagram, DISC assesses observable behaviors rather than deeper cognitive processes or motivations.
Dominance reflects assertiveness and control over situations.
Influence measures sociability and persuasion skills.
Steadiness evaluates consistency and reliability in behaviors.
Conscientiousness focuses on precision, attention to detail, and task orientation.
Pros: DISC is easy to understand and apply, making it popular for organizational development, leadership training, and conflict resolution. Itโs particularly effective in workplace settings where understanding behavioral differences is crucial for collaboration.
Cons: While practical, DISC lacks depth when it comes to understanding underlying psychological drivers. It doesnโt delve into cognitive functions or emotional patterns like MBTI or Enneagram, making it more suited for short-term behavior modification rather than deep personal growth.
5. StrengthsFinder (CliftonStrengths)
Origins and Background
StrengthsFinder, developed by Donald Clifton in the late 20th century, focuses on identifying and utilizing personal strengths to maximize performance. It is rooted in positive psychology and is widely used in business and leadership development.
Theoretical Essence
StrengthsFinder identifies 34 individual strengths and categorizes them into four domains: Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building, and Strategic Thinking. The idea is that individuals should focus on honing their natural strengths rather than trying to fix their weaknesses.
Practical Application
StrengthsFinder is commonly used in organizational settings to optimize team performance and leadership capabilities. Its major limitation is that it doesnโt offer the same depth of self-awareness or personal growth opportunities as typology frameworks like MBTI or Enneagram.
Pros: Focuses on identifying and leveraging individual strengths, making it practical and results-oriented. Itโs widely used in business and leadership development.
Cons: It doesnโt offer the same depth of self-reflection or holistic view of personality traits and interpersonal dynamics as typology frameworks.
By combining the depth of MBTI and Enneagram with more empirical models like the Big Five, or the actionable skills of EQ frameworks, practitioners can create a balanced and effective program for self-awareness, growth, and relational success. For long-term learning, MBTI and Enneagram remain the cornerstones for deep, transformational understanding.
Hereโs a version with visible, copyable links for each model and the reference section:
References:
Jung, Carl G. (1921): Psychological Types, the foundational theory behind MBTI.
Myers, Isabel Briggs & Myers, Peter B. (1995): Gifts Differing: Understanding Personality Type, an exploration of the MBTI and its applications.
Goleman, Daniel (1995): Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ, the seminal work that popularized the EQ framework.
Marston, William Moulton (1928): Emotions of Normal People, where the DISC modelโs behavioral dimensions originated.
Riso, Don Richard & Hudson, Russ (1996): The Wisdom of the Enneagram, a modern interpretation of the Enneagram system.
Costa, Paul T. Jr. & McCrae, Robert R. (1992): Revised NEO Personality Inventory, detailing the Big Five (OCEAN) traits.
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.
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:
Based in Germany, Teodora Iulia Pฤucean 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
Onlinewebinar: 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.
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.
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
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 โ 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 โ Heart, Head, and Gut.
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.
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.
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 extremeโor 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.
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, itโs more likely they are not intentionally but itโs just their personality type. In this webinar, we will use the Enneagram framework to dissect these typesโ characteristic and hidden emotional drives. They would be a lot less scary if you truly understand what makes them tick!
The Enneagram is a popular framework distilledfrom ancient religious and philosophical wisdom that provide a structured ways to categorise personality types based on unconscious emotional drive and pain points.
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 typeโs 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
Submit this form to receive the link (if slots still available) and the session recording via email.
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.
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:
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.
Time Management – Eisenhower Metrics:
The Eisenhower Matrix helps leaders prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance, offering a strategic approach to time management.
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.
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.
“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.
INFJs are often stereotyped as shy, introverted idealists who are deeply philosophical and detached from the outside world. This simplistic label fails to capture the diversity that exists within this type, and can sometimes even lead INFJs who are new to the MBTI world to question whether they truly belong to this personality type. The truth is, INFJs come in all shades and forms, with varying levels of extraversion, thinking styles, interests, and behaviors. This article explores various subtypes of INFJs that you may identify with. You may find that you relate strongly to one particular subtype, or perhaps resemble a mix of all three. Regardless of which subtype you identify with, remember that all INFJs share the same core values and functions, even if they are expressed differently.
Before exploring the different subtypes that may exist within the INFJ personality type, let’s take a quick overview of their cognitive functions, which will serve as a reference throughout the article. Cognitive functions are the mental processes used by individuals to gather information and make decisions. Each MBTI personality type has a stack of 4 cognitive functions. The higher a cognitive function is in our stack, the more it guides our thoughts and behavior, and the lower we go down the stack, the less conscious control we have over the functions. The cognitive functions of INFJs are:
Dominant
Introverted Intuition (Ni) – relies on abstract connections, speculates about potential and implications.
Auxiliary
Extraverted Feeling (Fe) – relies on sensitivity to the emotional states of others and feelings of harmony with the world.
Tertiary
Introverted Thinking (Ti) – uses personal framework of technical knowledge and skill to prevent/avoid/solve problems
Inferior
Extraverted Sensing (Se) – maintains direct relationship to the world via physical sensations.
These cognitive functions can manifest themselves in different combinations to form the following main subtypes of INFJs. We have also explained the subtypes in reference to Enneagram to provide a more comprehensive understanding. The Enneagram is a personality typing system that identifies nine core motivations and fears, providing insights into individuals’ deep-seated drives and behaviors. It goes beyond cognitive functions and explores the underlying motivations behind our thoughts and actions.
Combining Enneagram with MBTI, we gain a deeper understanding of how INFJsโ core motivations and fears interact with their cognitive functions, shedding light on the nuances and variations within this personality type.
The Principled Idealist
The Principled Idealists are INFJs who often relate to the Type 1 enneagram especially with a Type 9 wing. People with 1w9 enneatype are nicknamed as the idealists, and have principles, dedication, and loyalty of Type 1 (the perfectionists), as well as the desire for harmony from wing 9 (the peacemakers). Such INFJs mostly appear to others as ambiverts, and have a good balance of intuition (Ni), empathy (Fe), and logical thinking (Ti). They are passionate visionaries who aim to organize their ideals and insights into practical frameworks that make sense to them and can benefit others. However, they can be very perfectionistic and become too rigid or critical in pursuing their lofty standards and vision of creating a better world.
INFJs of this type are wise, noble, conscientious, and care deeply about maintaining justice and harmony in their social environment. They feel a strong sense of fairness and responsibility towards others and strive to improve their lives through diplomacy, compassion and reasoned action. Their tendency to value the shared experiences of the group and their vision of how society โought to beโ often leads them to become social activists, advocates or be elected as leaders in their communities, even if they donโt actively seek positions of authority.
The Social Chameleon / Empathetic Helper
When people call INFJs social chameleons, they refer to this subtype specifically. While they still primarily rely on their Ni for processing information internally, they are more comfortable outwardly expressing their Fe, which makes them appear more social, outgoing, or even extraverted. They are closely associated with enneagram Type 2 – the caregiver, especially with Type 3 wing (type 2w3 – nicknamed as the host/hostess), as both INFJs and Type 2w3 have the superpower of gauging the emotional atmosphere of the group and adjusting their behavior accordingly to meet the needs of others.
At their best, these INFJs are sage counselors, providing empathy, wisdom and advice to those in need. As confidants, they offer unconditional positive regard and help guide people through difficulties. These INFJs often make excellent therapists, social workers, helplines counselors or spiritual advisors.
However, this tendency can also turn unhealthy if they indulge too much in their Fe and lose touch with their vision (Ni). The unhealthy ones can be so focused on othersโ emotions that they might not even recognize what their own true feelings are! They often wear different masks for different situations and say things they think others want to hear. Their behavior is often motivated by the desire to fit in, be liked or appreciated by others. This subtype is also most likely to exhaust themselves and neglect their own needs while trying to make sure everyone around them is happy, pleased, and satisfied.
The Contemplative Creator
The third type of INFJs can be referred to as the contemplative creators. These individuals are highly introspective and tend to immerse themselves in creative expression and intellectual pursuits. Although Type 4 enneagram – the individualist – is mostly associated with dominant Introverted Feelers (those who put their own values and beliefs first and foremost), this subtype of INFJs also correlates strongly to it. However, they mostly have a Type 5 wing (the investigator), which adds the element of intellectual curiosity to their personality and the resulting Type 4w5 is nicknamed โthe Bohemianโ.
Type 4 enneatypes are concerned with being unique, and are quite creative, emotional, and introspective. This category of INFJs also possess this unconscious desire to convince themselves and others that theyโre different and distinctive in terms of their emotional, creative, and intellectual styles. They claim the flashes of insight and gut-feelings (from their Ni) as their unique gifts, and embrace creativity that sees beyond surface realities, perceiving hidden metaphors and symbolic meanings. They tend to live in their heads more than the other two subtypes, spending much of their time thinking, analyzing, and fantasizing (using their wing 5, or tertiary Introverted Thinking function-Ti). Although private, theyโre still very attuned to peopleโs behaviors and motivations, picking up on subtle cues (using their Fe), even if less outwardly expressing. With their intuition, creativity, and intellectual curiosity, these INFJs produce original work that evokes emotions and stimulates the mind.
The Insightful Guardian/ The Skeptical Strategist
This particular group of INFJs can be identified as insightful sentinel, and are extremely thoughtful but troubled souls. Their insightful minds are plagued by doubts and their caring nature is hampered by distrust in others. They are often associated with the enneagram 6 with wing 5 (6w5), known as โthe guardiansโ. Enneagram type 6 individuals, known as Loyalists, crave security, stability and order. They are hardworking, responsible and value integrity but their skepticism and anxiety can lead to worst-case scenario thinking. With a 5 wing, such INFJs gain an intellectual bent and thirst for knowledge to attain certainty in an uncertain world.
This subtype of INFJs is highly thoughtful, cautious, and analytical. They are very risk-averse which often leads them to miss out on exciting opportunities and adventures. Their dominant Introverted Intuition (Ni) helps them visualize the future and foresee potential problems or risks that they may encounter, and prepare accordingly. However, it also feeds their fear and anxiety by showing them all the way things could go wrong. Hence, they naturally gravitate towards others in an attempt to build their security network of friends and family.
Their auxiliary Extraverted Feeling (Fe) helps these INFJs to look to others for support and validation due to their fear of criticism and rejection. They want to connect with groups but their natural cautiousness and distrust in others makes it hard to build new friendships. They take time to gather information about new people (using their wing 5 or tertiary Introverted Thinking-Ti) to determine if they seem “safe” before opening up. Such INFJs constantly seek knowledge and certainty, making them excellent troubleshooters and information sponges. While this makes them extremely self-aware and humble, it can also feed into their anxieties and paranoia. Moreover, due to their inferior Extraverted Sensing (Se), harsh sensory input easily stresses them out as it forces them into the present moment, which they tend to avoid in favor of envisioning the future or analyzing the past.
Conclusion
The INFJ subtypes described here merely scratch the surface of the rich diversity found within this personality type. You may find that you relate to some aspects of multiple subtypes, after all, they are all INFJs. This just goes to show that INFJs, like all people, are multifaceted beings.
Ultimately, personality types are just an attempt to make it easier for us to understand ourselves and connect with others who may share similar traits. There are pros and cons for being in each of the INFJ subtypes listed above and one type can always learn from the opposite types to become a more balanced and mature individual. For a more detailed description of INFJs, you can visit INFJ Type Description.
While MBTI is based on how different types process and judge information differently, Enneagram categorizes people based on the patterns of trauma responses and core emotional motivations.
So think of your MBTI type as cognitive habits and patterns, while the enneagram tells you the purpose of these patterns. Two people may have the same tools (the mind) but having different purposes and drive in life will result in two very different characters. Similarly, two MBTI types might be trying to achieve the same purpose in life despite having very different cognitive tools.
A quick definition
INFP, sometimes called the Mediator or the Idealist, refers to one of the 16 MBTI Types which has a dominant function of Introverted Feeling (meaning individual sense of morality) supported by their auxiliary function of Extraverted Intuition (a.k.a divergent abstracting thinking). They are characterised as gentle, peaceful yet quietly holding down a fountain of passion and optimistic ideals.
The 3 most popular Enneagram types associated with INFP type are Enneagram 4, 9 and 5. To read the full study here, click here. Read more below to find which flavors of INFP do you possess.
Most common: INFP with Enneagram 4 (the Artist)
Enneagram Four, nicknamed the artist or individualist, is described as self-aware, sensitive, and reserved. They are emotionally open, creative, and personable, although they may be grumpy and self-conscious at times. They may feel scornful and exempt from common ways of life if they isolate themselves from others because they feel weak and flawed. Melancholy, self-indulgence, and self-pity are common concerns for them. At their best, they are able to reinvent themselves and change their experiences since they are inspired and very creative. Read more.
To deeply understand their behaviours, we need to understand that Enneagram 4 is in the Heart center (with the primary emotion of shame). They want to feel love and personal significance while avoiding shame (judgement by others). While Enneagram type 2 and 3 also primarily deal with shame, type 4โs unique unconscious coping mechanism is to think of themselves as unique or uniquely defective. This means society canโt judge them on the same standards because they are one of a kind characters with a one of a kind life mission.
Being the most common among INFP, no wonder that Enneagram 4 INFP fits the typical INFP description so well: artistic, creative with a deep longing to find and realize their unique paths in life. They make the best poets, artists and entertainers thanks to their keen sense of individualism and emotional sensitivity.
Second most common: INFP with Enneagram type 9 (the Peacekeeper)
The general Enneagram type 9 is characterized as accepting, trustworthy, and steady. They are inclined to go along with others in order to preserve the peace. They want everything to run smoothly and without confrontation, but they may also be complacent, simplifying situations and downplaying any negative aspects. At their Best: tenacious and all-encompassing, they have the ability to unite people and heal conflicts. Read more.
Unlike Enneagram 4, type 9 is in the body triad (together with type 1 and 8), which means they are more driven by a desire for autonomy instead of love. To go a little bit deeper, type 9 is governed by anger (and they resolve by unconscious complete denial of anger) instead of shame. For INFP, this should translate into a more stable and down-to-earth character than the typically turbulent INFP profile because deep down type 9 wants to be left alone instead of seeking love or validation from others like Enneagram type 4 does.
Enneagram type 9 is nicknamed the Peacekeeper. INFPs with this Enneagram are no exception, which means they are happiest and most suited for practical actions instead of creative arts. Think of nurses, peace corp volunteers or even law and security enforcers.
Third most common: INFP with Enneagram type 5 (the Investigator)
Slightly more rare but still the third most common among INFP, this subtype possesses the inquisitive and powerful mind of Enneagram 5 which is nicknamed the Investigator. Enneagram 5 has the ability to focus and concentrate on very complicated concepts and planning. They might get absorbed with their ideas and imaginative structures while being independent, clever, and ingenious. At their best, type 5 is visionary and pioneering in the pursuit of knowledge. Read more.
While INFP with Enneagram 4 and 9 above are governed by the Heart and Body respectively, Enneagram type 5 is in the Mind triad. This means they care more about security and are more driven by anxiety a.k.a not having enough knowledge to deal with the outside world.
As dark as it sounds, this characteristic anxiety also induces an effortless sense of wonder and curiosity towards the world. People of this type love knowledge and competency. INFP with Enneagram 5 will likely be very suited for serious research and study, especially those that have humanitarian or altruistic bends, like curing diseases or solving hunger.
Of course you can identify with all of these types as we all possess all 9 Enneagram types to different extent. However, you can find your core type much better by pinpointing and relating to the deepest and most overarching pain and desires of the types.
Donโt feel like any of the 3 types above fit? Explore other Enneagram types and decide for yourself at https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/. For INFP, the other Enneagram types are more rare but certainly possible!
