Enneagram: Type 8
The Enneagram is a dynamic tool for self-discovery and personal development, rooted in ancient traditions and enriched by modern psychological insights. It identifies nine distinct personality types, each with unique motivations, fears, and behaviour patterns. This system helps individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others, facilitating growth, improving relationships, and enhancing overall emotional intelligence.
The Nine Enneagram Types

1

Type 1: The Strict Perfectionist
Dedicated and ethical, striving for improvement and integrity.

2

Type 2: The Considerate Helper
Empathetic and generous, putting others' needs first.

3

Type 3: The Competitive Achiever
Ambitious and focused on success, but can prioritize achievements over personal connections.

4

Type 4: The Intense Creative
Seeks authenticity and depth, expressing emotions and creativity uniquely but can feel misunderstood.

5

Type 5: The Quiet Specialist
Values independence and expertise, curious and analytical but can seem aloof.

6

Type 6: The Loyal Sceptic
Security-oriented and reliable, foreseeing problems but can be skeptical and anxious.

7

Type 7: The Enthusiastic Visionary
Optimistic and adventurous, seeking new experiences but can be distracted.

8

Type 8: The Active Controller
Assertive and protective, taking charge but can be confrontational.

9

Type 9: The Adaptive Peacemaker
Easygoing and seeks harmony, but can be complacent.
Enneagram Type 8: The Active Controller

1

Assertive
Confidently assert your will and make your presence known, never shying away from taking charge.

2

Protective
Strong sense of justice and feel a deep need to protect yourself and those you care about.

3

Decisive
When faced with decisions, you trust your gut and make choices swiftly and confidently.

4

Independent
Value your independence highly, preferring to rely on yourself rather than on others.

5

Challenging
Not afraid to challenge the status quo or confront what you see as injustices.
Motivation & Actions
Motivation
Your primary drive is to be self-reliant and to protect yourself and others from vulnerability and injustice. You seek control over your own life and environment to avoid showing weakness.
Typical Action Patterns
You're often in leadership roles, taking initiative and making sure things are done your way. You confront obstacles head-on and are not deterred by conflict.
Typical Thinking Patterns
You think in terms of direct action and strategy, always planning several steps ahead to maintain your position and protect your autonomy.
Typical Feeling Patterns
You experience intense emotions but may not always show them openly, preferring to appear strong and unshakeable. Your passion and drive can sometimes be mistaken for aggression.

Blindspots

Your intense need for control and reluctance to show vulnerability can sometimes alienate others and make it hard for you to form deep connections. Worldview You see the world as a place where strength and independence are paramount, and where you must assert control to protect yourself and those you care about from harm.

Focus of Attention

Your attention is focused on threats to your independence or situations where you feel you could lose control. Core Fear You fear being vulnerable, controlled by others, or being in a position of weakness.

Self-Talk

"I can handle anything that comes my way." This reflects your confidence in your ability to overcome challenges and maintain control. Gifts You bring strength, leadership, and a protective instinct to every situation, inspiring confidence and security in those around you. Vices Your assertiveness can sometimes turn into aggressiveness, and your need for control can make you stubborn and resistant to others' input.