Enneagram Part 3: Somewhere Inside the Rainbow

Imagine that the Enneagram represents the full color spectrum of our humanity—a rainbow of our human characteristics, traits and motivations—and each type is represented by a color.

Within each color, there are various shades. In the Enneagram world, we call these subtypes. For each of the nine main types, there are three distinct subtypes. Or, in our rainbow analogy, three distinct shades within each color.

This helps to account for the nuances of our humanity. It’s the reason why you can find people of the same type who present quite differently, both energetically and behaviorally. 

For example, there may be two 2s who don’t necessarily present in the same way. We could say that they’re different shades of blue. One shade of 2 can look a lot like a 9. One shade of 7 can look a lot like a 3. 

This is why it can be tricky to figure out your type. 

There are actually 27 different types (9 x 3). This may feel a little overwhelming if you’re just starting out with the Enneagram. It may sound like a lot of work to figure all of this out.

As I’ve mentioned before, it’s great to be in the inquiry and asking the questions. At the same time, there is something profound about finally landing on your particular type and subtype. When you find yourself among the 27 possibilities, a whole new world of exploration can open up for you.

It’s an amazing aha! moment for many people.

Discovering my own type was definitely illuminating, but when I found my particular subtype, it explained so much more. Like why I was getting stuck in certain areas of my life and business and what was holding me back.

Knowing that there are these various colors and shades, when you land on your particular shade, it might just blow your mind. It can be super helpful to work with someone who understands the subtypes and help you discern which one you are.

Each particular subtype has a particular path of growth. The inner work of one type is distinct from that of another type. Once you land on your particular type and subtype, you can access a whole new range of motion and innovative ways of being and moving through the world. You’ll feel greater freedom and power when you go beyond what has previously limited you.

I’ll be back soon to share more about my own personal experience with the Enneagram and how you can find your unique path of growth, too.

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Enneagram Part 4: How the Enneagram Has Helped Me Evolve

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Enneagram Part 2: You Don't Need Another Label