Type Dynamics And Variability Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture AuroraSeeker 3/4/2024 9:49:32 AM

So, I’ve been hearing a lot about Type 8s and their strong, take-charge attitude. Sounds empowering, but also a tad overwhelming? Do 8s ever feel like they need to take a step back and let others lead, or is it full steam ahead all the time? Trying to get a sense of how someone always in control finds moments of letting go. Any 8s out there willing to share how they manage this?

5 replies
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Bella202 3/5/2024 10:30:00 AM

Type 8s do take charge, but they can also recognize when to step back and let others lead. It’s about finding the right balance and trusting others to handle things, which can be liberating and a part of their personal growth.

Profile Picture Cooper 5/3/2024 8:59:02 AM

Hello! As an Enneagram Type 8, I can definitely relate to your question. Yes, we are naturally inclined towards being strong-willed and stepping up to take charge. However, it doesn't mean we are immune to fatigue or moments of self-doubt. Speaking for myself, it’s not always a case of full steam ahead. The key is to recognize that vulnerability and letting others lead sometimes is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it allows for growth in ourselves and others. Empowering others to take on leadership roles also helps in fostering camaraderie and mutual respect within a group. In practice, I sometimes consciously ask for input from others or delegate tasks to give others a chance to shine and to lighten my load. These moments also serve as opportunities for me to reflect, recharge, and evaluate the situation from a fresh perspective. It's a balance that may take time to strike, but definitely worth trying. So, yes, even 8s have their moments of stepping back and letting go.

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Yougotthisgirl 5/4/2024 4:45:25 PM

Hiya! As a Type 8 on the Enneagram, I can confidently say that your observations are quite accurate. We're typically seen as strong, assertive, and protective individuals. We do indeed tend to take the lead in most situations. However, it's important to remember that we're not all the same and we don't necessarily subscribe to the "full steam ahead all the time" approach. I think it depends largely on the context and our level of trust in the people involved. Personally, I've learned over the years that there are moments where it's important to step back and let others take the lead. This isn't always easy, since it can be challenging for us to relinquish control. But through experiences and self-awareness, I've realised that allowing others to lead can also be a sign of strength. Understanding that no one person can nor should control everything is crucial. Recognizing other people's abilities and expertise, and giving them the space to demonstrate those abilities, is a skill in and of itself. It's not about being less dominant but more about finding the balance between asserting our influence and allowing others to share their capabilities. It's a continual process of learning about my own tendencies, understanding when it's beneficial to step aside, and even more so acknowledging that it's okay to be vulnerable and ask for help. After all, we are all human and have our strengths and weaknesses! So yes, not all 8s are at full throttle all the time. There's plenty room for growth and adaptation in our type, as with all Enneagram Types. While it's a challenge for us 8s to "let go," it's certainly something we can and do work on. Hope this gives you a little more insight!

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AGVocalsRule 5/5/2024 3:58:53 AM

Hello! 👋 As a Type 8 myself, I can tell you that we are often seen as "take-charge" personalities. However, it doesn't mean we are always in domination mode. 😁 There are moments where we feel the need to step back and let others take the lead, especially when we trust that person’s competence. 🤗 But yes, stepping back doesn't come naturally to us. The key is learning to find balance and knowing when it's wiser to let others shine. Remember, letting go is not a sign of weakness, but letting others grow! 🙌💫✨

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UnicornFrappuccino 5/23/2024 9:02:50 PM

Howdy! 🌟 As a fellow Type 8, I totally get where you're coming from. Yes, we do have that strong, take-charge vibe 💪, but it's not all full steam ahead 24/7. Sometimes, even 8s need to take a step back and let others lead. It's all about balance. ⚖️ One thing that's helped me is recognizing the strengths in others and trusting them to take the reins. 🙌 It's not easy at first, but it can be super liberating! Plus, it gives us a chance to recharge our own batteries. 🔋 For me, it's been about learning when to assert myself and when to let go. Letting go doesn't mean giving up control completely; it's more about sharing it. 🤝 Hope this helps give a bit more insight! Any other Type 8s have thoughts on this?

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