The Enneagram – an ancient yet timeless tool – is a powerful system that helps us understand our personality type and identity. Nine types of body types exist in the Enneagram, each one with its own unique characteristics.
The Enneagram system offers a deeper look at how we interact with ourselves and the world around us. It showcases how our internal motivations, needs, and thought processes affect our behavior. And as a self-assessment tool, it can bring about a better understanding of our strengths and weaknesses.
The nine Enneagram body types are organized into three distinct categories: the Heart, Head, and Body centers. Each of these centers represents a distinct way of relating to the world and processing experiences.
The Body Center, which includes Types 8, 9, and 1, are types that are focused on taking action in the world and standing up for themselves. They tend to be strong-willed, determined, and independent. However, this does not mean they aren’t unable to be vulnerable and intimate.
To help you get a better understanding of what each of these Enneagram body types might look like in practice, here is a brief overview of each type – and how they might manifest within an individual.
What Is A “Body” Type?
The body types of the Enneagram – often referred to as “gut” types – are represented by Types 8, 9, and 1. While each is unique, they do have similar characteristics that align with their focus on seeking order out of disorder and balance out of imbalance.
Rather than being introspective, these types tend to focus outwardly and take action. They want to see a world that is fair and just, and they are driven to make sure it happens. This often leaves them feeling a deep sense of responsibility, which can sometimes be overwhelming to themselves and others. However, when acting in health, they can be very effective in achieving their goals and helping others seek solutions for their own issues.
These types of individuals are often more direct and less emotionally driven, making them come across as strong and authoritative. They have the capacity to be powerful leaders who can manage difficult situations with grace and provide stability in times of chaos. But they also need time to relax and find balance in order to stay aligned with their values.
Discovering the Enneagram Body Types
Type 8 – The Challenger:
Do you ever find yourself driven by a sense of justice and the need to protect yourself and others who may be vulnerable? If so, you may be an Enneagram Type 8. Those with this body-based type are known as ‘The Challenger’ and often show confidence, ambition, assertiveness, and courage.
Type 8s often take on the role of a leader – whether that be in their work, personal relationships, or even within the wider community. They are often seen as powerful and determined individuals who are creative problem-solvers and thrive when they have control over situations.
However, within their ambition and determination to succeed, Type 8s can find themselves engaging in power struggles with others which may lead to them feeling misunderstood or disrespected. They may feel isolated or even angry when they feel that others aren’t taking action toward justice or fairness.
Type 8s can benefit from learning to recognize their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as being mindful of the emotions of those around them. It’s important for Type 8s to take time to process their emotions and find ways to express themselves in healthy ways – such as through journaling, talking with friends, or engaging in activities that bring them joy.
When harnessed correctly, Type 8s’ ambition and drive can enable them to achieve great things. With a greater understanding of their own needs and the needs of others, they will be better equipped to create positive relationships with those around them.
Type 8 Wings:
- Type 8w7: These individuals are assertive, outgoing, and social. They’re driven to create positive change in their environment and can often be found leading others toward progress.
- Type 8w6: These individuals are more introspective and analytical than their 8w7 counterparts. They channel their ambition into long-term projects with the goal of creating stability and security. They’re often more aware of the needs of others and strive to maintain harmony in their environment.
Type 9 – The Peacemaker:
The Enneagram Type 9 is also known as ‘The Peacekeeper’. These individuals prioritize comfort, peace, and stability above all else. They are understanding and don’t like conflict, often sacrificing their own needs to keep the peace.
That said, they can become stubborn when they feel that their values or beliefs are being challenged. When they feel emotionally overwhelmed, Type 9s can become withdrawn and apathetic to cope. This isn’t due to a lack of interest or motivation but rather a way of self-soothing and avoiding conflict.
Type 9s are patient and compassionate, often turning to establish order in their lives by dedicating themselves to long-term projects that create stability for themselves and others.
They strive to maintain harmony in their environment while also being aware of the needs of those around them. This can lead to them becoming passive and avoiding confrontation, as they tend to withdraw from conflict. They strive for balance in their lives, often considering the opinion of others even when it conflicts with their own.
By understanding and being aware of the needs of those around them, Type 9s become highly attuned to their environment. They are natural problem-solvers who have an innate ability to look at situations from different perspectives and find the best possible solution. However, they may struggle to put this skill into practice due to their tendency towards apathy.
Type 9 Wings:
- Type 9w8 (The Peacemaker): This type is often drawn to strong external forces, such as authority figures or powerful people. They may seek out these power structures in order to maintain harmony and stability in their lives.
- Type 9w1 (The Reformer): This type tends to be idealistic and seeks to make the world a better place. They may be drawn to activism and social justice causes, as well as mentors who can help them live up to their high standards.
Type 1: The Reformer
Enneagram Type 1 is driven by a strong sense of justice and a need to do what’s right. They are sometimes referred to as the “perfectionist” – but this doesn’t quite capture the full scope of their need for internal order.
1’s strive to live and act from a place of integrity, and they can be extremely hard on themselves if they feel that they have strayed from the path of true justice and morality. Type 1’s often have a lot to offer others in terms of guidance, wisdom, and good counsel – but can struggle with knowing when to take a step back and let others make their own decisions.
They often have big-picture goals they are working towards, which can sometimes be more important than the day-to-day details. Ultimately, Type 1’s want to make a difference in the world – whether personally or professionally – and strive for excellence in everything they do.
For 1s, a common struggle is feeling that others don’t value the rules or order they live by. They can feel discouraged when those around them don’t understand the importance of staying true to one’s values and beliefs. Type 1’s need others to recognize their commitment and respect it to feel validated in their pursuit of excellence.
Type 1’s should remember to be gentle with themselves – it is not easy to live a life held to higher standards than those around them. They should remind themselves that their focus on quality and precision can be seen as admirable, not unreasonable or overbearing. Recognizing their accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem, can help 1s stay motivated to continue striving for excellence.
Type 1 Wings:
- 1w2 – The Reformer: Combining their natural focus on personal growth and high standards with an ability to reach out to others, 1w2s can be a powerful force for positive change.
- 1w9 – The Perfectionist: By tempering their drive for perfection with greater awareness of the external factors that affect them, 1w9s can take comfort in the knowledge that even if things don’t always turn out exactly as planned, their efforts can still yield worthwhile results.
Path to Growth for Body Types
The path to personal growth for Body Types involves recognizing their emotional habits and working towards balance. They often need to learn how to channel their energy into productive avenues and take steps toward self-improvement. Here are some nuanced steps and considerations that Body (Gut) types can follow to foster growth and self-improvement:
Self-Reflection:
- Identify Triggers: Recognize the situations or interactions that trigger automatic reactions or emotional responses.
- Explore Underlying Beliefs: Delve into the underlying beliefs or fears driving these triggers and responses.
- Reflect on Past Experiences: Understand how past experiences might be influencing current behavior and emotional habits.
Mindfulness and Presence:
- Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation and mindful breathing to stay present.
- Non-judgmental Observation: Learn to observe reactions and emotions non-judgmentally as they arise.
Self-Regulation and Emotional Intelligence:
- Develop Emotional Intelligence: Cultivate the ability to constructively identify, understand, and manage emotions.
- Practice Self-Regulation: Learn to pause before reacting, allowing space for a more balanced response.
Communication and Relationship Building:
- Assertive Communication: Practice expressing needs, boundaries, and feelings assertively yet respectfully.
- Build Empathy: Foster empathy by striving to understand the perspectives and feelings of others.
Constructive Channeling of Energy:
- Positive Outlet: Find positive outlets for energy, such as engaging in creative projects, physical exercise, or community service.
- Productive Focus: Channel the natural assertiveness and drive towards productive and meaningful pursuits.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation:
- Seek Feedback: Be open to feedback from trusted individuals to gain different perspectives and insights for improvement.
- Adopt a Growth Mindset: Embrace a continuous learning, adaptation, and growth mindset.
Engagement with Resources:
- Explore Enneagram Resources: Delve deeper into the Enneagram resources like the Growth Guide for Every Enneagram Type from Invitera Counseling to understand growth pathways better.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consider engaging with an Enneagram coach or joining an Enneagram group for guided exploration and support.
Practice Patience and Compassion:
- Self-Compassion: Practice self-compassion during the growth journey, acknowledging that personal development is a lifelong process.
- Patience: Be patient with oneself and others, recognizing that change and growth are incremental and take time.
Seek Growth As a Body Type with AlignUs
The Enneagram Body types bring powerful skills, insights, and gifts to the world. Yet it is only when we appropriately harness our unique type for growth in collaboration with others that we can truly make a difference. With AlignUs, you can connect with a worldwide community of those looking to grow as a Body Type.
Learn more about the Enneagram, the other types, and how to take the next step in your journey of self-development. Join the AlignUs community and be part of the shift toward a better tomorrow! You deserve to learn more about how your type can best serve you and those around you. Together, we have the potential to make a real impact in the world!
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