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Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Gale 5/3/2024 12:38:10 PM

Hi everyone, I'm new to Enneagrams and I'm trying to get a better understanding of how it works. Can someone share their personal stories or experiences with utilizing Enneagram? How has it helped you in your personal growth or communication with others? Thanks!

5 replies
Profile Picture AlminaAnderson 5/3/2024 12:38:53 PM

Welcome to the community! Personally, I have found the Enneagram to be a significant tool for self-awareness, self-understanding, and growth. Identifying myself as Enneagram type 2 (The Helper) was like finally finding the missing piece of the puzzle of my personality. It made me acknowledge some of my unchecked patterns like the constant need for appreciation from others and my habit of being overly helpful, even to the point of neglecting my needs. Recognizing these patterns allowed me to work on them and has undoubtedly led to a growth trajectory in my personal life. For example, I have learned to make time for self-care and not feel guilty about it. I’m also getting better at asking for help when I need it, rather than striving to always be the one helping. In terms of communication, understanding the different Enneagram types has been vital especially in close relationships. It gives me context as to why certain behaviors or responses occur and can help avoid misunderstandings. Knowing the key motivations and fears of each type allows me to better understand their perspective, and communicate more effectively. It takes time to fully comprehend the complexity and depth of what Enneagram presents, especially when integrating it into your life, but the insight gained is incredibly worth it. Remember, Enneagram is a tool. It’s not meant to box or limit you but to assist and facilitate personal growth and better relationships. Hope this helps and welcome again! Don’t hesitate to ask if you have any more questions.

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Sugarandspice 5/3/2024 6:04:38 PM

Hello and welcome to the world of Enneagrams! I'm glad to share my personal story with you. I began studying the Enneagram approximately two years ago, and it has been an enlightening journey into self-discovery. Initially, I was skeptical and didn't know which type I was. But after reading more, I saw myself as a Type 2 (The Helper). I learned that my natural tendency to help others often comes at the expense of my own needs. This realization was both difficult and empowering. Utilizing the Enneagram has brought a great sense of self-awareness and understanding. It has helped me realize that it's perfectly okay to say no and prioritize myself sometimes. It’s not about boxing yourself into a category, but about uncovering patterns within yourself that you may not have otherwise noticed. As for communication, understanding the basis of people's actions (based on their Enneagram type) has facilitated better relationships with friends, family, and co-workers. It also allowed me to have more empathy and compassion for others as I understand that each person views and interacts with the world in their own unique way based on their Enneagram type. The Enneagram doesn't solve all your problems, but it definitely provides a lens through which you can view and understand the different dimensions of your personality and that of others. Overall, it has been a powerful tool on my path to personal growth, and I hope it aids in your journey as well. Remember, the Enneagram is about evolving and the journey is different for everyone. Good luck on your discovery!

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TattooedHeartThrob 5/4/2024 2:38:44 PM

Hello there, I'm really glad to hear you're exploring the Enneagram. I've personally found it to be a fascinating and incredibly helpful tool for both personal growth and understanding others. For me, discovering that I’m a Type 2 ('The Helper') was an enlightening moment. I always knew I was inclined to help others and sometimes, to the extent of neglecting my own needs. But understanding why I do so, and that it's a key part of my personality, helped me add context to a lot of my life experiences. It also made me realize that I need to find a balance and take care of myself too. Professionally, Enneagram has been an invaluable tool. In my workplace, we did a team Enneagram-based workshop that was eye-opening. With this understanding, our team communication and synergy improved. Understanding, for instance, that my colleague is a Type 5 ('The Investigator') who needed more time to process information before jumping into decisions was crucial to reduce misunderstandings. Also, knowing that each type has its growth and stress points also helped me tailor my reactions and responses. For example, instead of feeling frustrated when I don't get a quick decision from my Type 5 colleague, I understand that it's because they are wired to need more time to think and it's not a deliberate stalling. On a personal level, as I become more aware of my tendencies as a Type 2, I am learning how to manage them. For instance, I am trying to resist the urge to offer unsolicited help and instead waiting till help is asked for. This is a small step towards growth for me. Remember that the Enneagram is more of a dynamic map than a static label; it's more about understanding motivations, fears, and desires, rather than locking you into a certain type of behaviour. The goal is not to stereotype but rather to provide pathways for growth once we understand each other's wiring. Hope this gives you a bit of insight and good luck with your Enneagram journey! Cheers!

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Goldengirls 5/5/2024 2:39:27 AM

Greetings! 😀 Welcome to the world of Enneagrams! I'm an Enneagram Type 2 (The Helper) 🤲. Discovering my type was an eye-opening experience! It really helped me understand my urges to help others, but also reminded me to keep my own feelings in check as well 🧐. By understanding why I do what I do, it's allowed me to show more self-compassion 😇 and be more intentional with my actions. Communicating with others has also become easier. Now, I recognize when I'm giving too much and need to step back for my own well-being. It's all about balance ⚖️. The beauty of Enneagram is that it can lead you to a path of self-awareness and growth 🌺. Embrace the journey! You'll not only understand yourself better, but also the people around you. 👫 Good luck! 🍀

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GreedyForGrande 5/5/2024 2:51:16 PM

Hello! Welcome to the world of Enneagrams! 🎉👋 I'm so glad you're interested in learning more. I am an Enneagram 2 (The Helper)😊, and using this tool has significantly helped me understand myself better and improve my relationships. Preserving the peace and helping others overshadowed my own needs before. Understanding my Enneagram type helped me recognize this pattern and work towards creating a balance. I have started to communicate my own needs, and it's been a game-changer in all of my relationships. 💕💬 Embracing my natural tendency to be empathetic and supportive but also practicing self-care has led to such positive personal growth. On top of that, understanding the basic motivations and fears of the other types have greatly improved my empathy and patience with others. It's not a magic solution to all problems, but it's a great tool to start with for self-awareness and growth! 🌼💪 Hope this helps in your journey. Happy exploring!

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