Am I an Enneagram type 8?

8’s Core Motivation – I am striving to be:

  • Powerful, in control, strong and fair

I focus my attention on:

  • Having and maintaining power and control
  • Protecting myself and others, especially when I perceive someone is weak or treated unjustly

I avoid:

  • Situations where I feel weak or vulnerable
  • Being controlled by others
  • Being slowed down or held back

Typical characteristics and strengths:

  • Courageous
  • Big-hearted, generous
  • Enthusiastic, compelling
  • Energetic
  • Candid
  • Commanding
  • Self-confident, self-reliant
  • Decisive, direct
  • Just, honorable
  • Protective, advocate

Typical challenges or blindspots:

  • Confrontational
  • Overwhelming, forceful
  • Intimidating
  • Impatient
  • Harsh, judgmental
  • Blunt, abrupt, rude
  • Bossy, controlling, domineering
  • Excessive
  • Impulsive, volatile
  • Noncommunicative, uncollaborative

Typical patterns and behaviors:

  • I am driven, charismatic, and high-energy. I think big, bold and strategic. I like making things happen.
  • I have a “go get ‘em” attitude. I take action and move fast. At times, my fast pace can be problematic and cause issues for those around me.
  • I can be magnanimous and big-hearted, championing the underdog and seeking justice.
  • I am comfortable with anger and use it when needed, especially to confront injustices and wrongdoing.
  • People tell me I can come off as aggressive, intimidating, intense and overwhelming.
  • I can get paranoid and suspicious especially when I am concerned that I am being taken advantage of.
  • I often avoid expressing my feelings, as well as letting others see my vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
Enneagram 8

Considering your wings and arrows may help clarify nuances of your type.

  • 8’s Wings: 7 and 9. Most of us “lean” more toward one of our two wings, sharing some behaviors with that type.
  • Growth Arrow: 2. 8’s “move” toward 2 adopting 2ish behaviors and patterns for growth and development.
  • Stress Arrow: 5. Where 8’s may go when they are experiencing acute stress or difficulty. Here we see the 8 demonstrate “low-side” or unhealthy type 5 behaviors.

Not sure what Enneagram type you are? Please contact me to learn more about Enneagram typing.