Is it a 6 or a 9?
My 3yr old loves counting and he was showing me a toy with a 6 on it. He said “look Mum it’s a 6”, then he turned it upside down and said “no it’s a 9”. He continued to turn it back and forth from 9 to 6.
It made me think everyone understands that depending on how you look at that shape it could be a 6 or a 9, both are correct, neither are wrong, it all depends on which angle you’re looking from.
This is sort of similar to the Enneagram, all types see the world in a different lens. Some of us are seeing 6s, some seeing 9s or depending on the angle not even a number at all.
We can get frustrated, annoyed or even angry that people aren’t seeing our perspective. In some situations you can go blue in the face trying to convince them however it isn’t going to change their minds because they just can’t see it.
Learning your type and the type of those around you can lessen those feelings and help bring compassion and understanding knowing you are not looking through the same lens.
World view of each type:
Type 1 - Strict Perfectionist
The world is imperfect and I can work towards improving it and improving myself. I must make the world a better place.
Type 2 - Considerate Helper
People need to depend on me for help. I am worthy when I am liked and needed. I am only deserving of love because I am loving.
Type 3 - Competitive Achiever
The world values winners and so I must win and avoid failure at all costs. I must succeed.
Type 4 - Intense Creative
Compared to others I see the world differently. I am constantly striving for my true identity. I must be authentic and unique.
Type 5 - Quiet Specialist
The world is invasive and I need to protect my privacy, my resources and my energy. I shouldn't depend on others too much. I must understand and make sense of the world. I must be self-sufficient.
Type 6 - Loyal Sceptic
The world is threatening and unsafe. I question things and people to feel safer. I must protect myself and those around me.
Type 7 - Enthusiastic Visionary
The world is full of exciting possibilities, ideas and experiences and I must explore as much as possible. I must move forward.
Type 8 - Active Controller
The world is tough and unjust where only the strong survive. Taking control is important. I must be strong and in control.
Type 9 - The Peacemaker
The world is not a harmonious place, I cannot fully assert myself. People need to treat each other with respect.I am okay if those around me are okay. I must keep the peace.
Can you see how the lens in which you see the world is different to those around you?
Hi, I’m Sam
I’m a qualified Mindset Life Coach and an Accredited Enneagram Practitioner and I am passionate about supporting my clients to understand and truly embrace all aspects of themselves.
I look forward to supporting you on your journey to Embracing your Enneagram.
