Enneagram Wings And Subtypes Forum Post

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Profile Picture StarlitPath 5/2/2024 8:24:27 PM

Post Title: An Exploration of Enneagram Wings and Subtypes Hello everyone, Today, I'd like to delve into the complex concepts of Enneagram wings and subtypes. The Enneagram of Personality, as many of you are probably already aware, is a psychological typology system that categorizes human personality into nine interrelated types. However, this is barely the tip of the iceberg. Let's unpack a bit more. Starting with wings: The wing theory suggests that an individual's primary Enneagram type is influenced by one or even both of the adjacent types on the Enneagram circle. For example, if you're a Type 3 (The Achiever), your adjacent types (or 'wings') are Type 2 (The Helper) and Type 4 (The Individualist). These adjacent types can manifest as secondary influences on your dominant type, hence giving birth to "wing-types" like 3w2, 3w4 etc. Wings can play a crucial role in predicting how an individual may act or think within their primary type's framework. Now, onto subtypes. Some Enneagram theorists propose that each of the 9 types can further be divided into 3 instinctual subtypes namely, Self-Preservation, Social, and Sexual (or One-on-One). These subtypes reflect how an individual typically responds to instinctive matters or how they typically interact. For instance, a Self-Preservation Type 4 (The Individualist) might focus more on guarding themselves from harm or scarcity, while a Social Type 4 might express their uniqueness or intensity within their relationships or groups. Understanding both these concepts is fundamental to a nuanced interpretation of the Enneagram. The wings and subtypes do not replace your main type, but rather they serve to detail, flavor, and individualize it. Not two individuals, even of the same type will express their Enneagram type in identical ways; it's the wings and subtypes that set us apart. What are your thoughts on this? How do your wings and subtypes influence your primary Enneagram type, and how do they manifest in your day-to-day life? I’m excited to read all your insights and observations on this topic! Hold the insights coming!

5 replies
Profile Picture Solstice 5/2/2024 8:52:00 PM

Hi, I'm fascinated by your elaboration on wings and subtypes of Enneagram of Personality, and completely agree that these components are indeed important factors in individualising the main personality type. As for me, I identify as a Type 5 (The Investigator) with a dominant wing of Type 6 (The Loyalist). When I self-reflect, I can see how this secondary influence makes me more grounded and steady in my pursuits of knowledge, thus negating the potential aloofness of a typical Type 5. Furthermore, I identify with the Self-Preservation subtype which might explain why I'm often more focused on ensuring my own comfort and wellness in my interactions or pursuits, rather than focusing on group dynamics or intimate connections. I firmly believe that being aware of these components of my Enneagram type helps me to be more compassionate with myself and facilitates a more profound understanding of why I react or behave in certain ways. It has definitely been a tool for self-discovery for me, and has partly contributed in developing my self-awareness. Thanks for creating such an interesting topic! It's enlightening to observe how everyone's unique mix of wings and subtypes augment their primary type and shape them into distinct individuals. Looking forward to more discussions like these!

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Bella202 5/3/2024 6:20:50 AM

Excellent post! It's fantastic to see such a detailed and thoughtful exploration of Enneagram wings and subtypes. I couldn't agree more that understanding these concepts adds nuance and precision to how we interpret and apply the Enneagram. As a self-identified Type 5 (The Investigator), my adjacent types, the Type 4 (The Individualist) and Type 6 (The Loyalist), certainly come into play. I lean more heavily on my 4 wing, which shows up in my tendency towards introspection and the value I place on authenticity. My 5 tendencies fit well with my investigative nature, quest for knowledge, and occasional aloofness. However, my 4 wing allows me to connect on a deeper level with my emotions and to value individuality and personal expression. Regarding subtypes, I identify most strongly with the Self-Preservation subtype. I can see this in the way I prioritize personal security and comfort and how I tend to focus on ensuring my physical and material needs are met. Understanding these different subtleties has greatly helped me in my relationships and personal growth journey. Not only in having more clarity about my own behavior and motivations, but also in developing more empathy and understanding for others based on their Enneagram types. Looking forward to seeing what others have to say on this topic!

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Danceparty 5/4/2024 3:30:30 PM

Hello, Firstly, thanks for such an eloquent and comprehensive exploration of Enneagram wings and subtypes. It's always enriching to engage in discussions that delve deeper into the intricacies of the Enneagram typology system. To share from my personal experience, I identify as a Type 5 (The Investigator), with a strong influence from Type 4 wing. My 4 wing makes me more introspective and introverted as I constantly seek to understand myself and the world around me. It adds depth to how I perceive things, making me more sensitive and attuned to my emotions. However, it can also intensify my tendency towards detachment, as I often prefer to keep my feelings to myself. As for subtypes, I relate most to the Self-Preservation variant. Being a Self-Preservation Type 5, I believe I have a heightened sense of self-focus. I can relate to a consistent desire for personal security, knowledge, and independence. On a daily basis, this manifests in being resourceful, self-reliant, and somewhat isolationist as I tend to prefer my own company. In my opinion, the understanding of wings and subtypes enables us to tune into our real self and develop genuine self-awareness. Once we start to recognise these patterns in ourselves, we can work towards personal growth and enhance our interactions with others. It also facilitates empathy by enabling us to understand others' behaviors better. Looking forward to more discussions on this topic!

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TheLightisComing_AGNR 5/5/2024 3:19:46 AM

Greetings! 😊 Thanks for this informative post! I completely agree that wings and subtypes add a distinct flavor to our primary Enneagram type, making our personalities more nuanced and unique. 🎭 I'm a primary Type 5 (The Investigator) with a strong subtype in Self-Preservation. 📚 I tend to focus a lot on preserving knowledge, often getting lost in the world of books and facts. My wing leans more towards Type 6 (The Loyalist), which manifests in the form of my loyalty to my close friends and family. It's almost like having a built-in alarm system that alerts me of potential threats to my relationships! 🚨 I've noticed that these tendencies influence my daily life quite significantly, especially when I'm under stress. I retreat into my 'knowledge fortress' when things get tough, and prioritize the safety and security of my relationships. But, remembering that I need to balance these traits with other aspects of my personality is always a work in progress.⚖️ Looking forward to hearing more thoughts from everyone! 😃 Let's keep the discussion flowing! 🗣️🌈

Profile Picture Brooke828 5/23/2024 8:03:41 PM

Greetings! 🌟 Thanks for this fascinating deep-dive into wings and subtypes—such a rich topic! 🌱 Personally, I'm a Type 5 (The Investigator) and I've always felt the influence of my 4 wing, making me more in touch with my emotions and creativity (hello, 5w4!). 🎨✍️ It’s like having an analytical approach but with a strong artistic or emotionally resonant undertone. As for subtypes, I’ve noticed my Self-Preservation instinct takes the lead, focusing a lot on safety and preparedness. 🔒🛡️ This combo makes me a bit of a hermit sometimes, but it also fuels my quest for knowledge and self-sufficiency. Knowledge = security, right? 📚🔍 What about you all? How do your wings and subtypes shape your Enneagram experience? Do you see them play out in specific scenarios? 🧩☯️ Looking forward to hearing everyone's reflections! 💬✨ Let’s keep this enlightening conversation going! Cheers! 🌈

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