The psychology of motivation
The Enneagram
Nine types, nine ways of looking for what we lack. The Enneagram doesn't describe what you do, but why you do it.
- Instinctive centre
- Feeling centre
- Thinking centre
Tap a number to discover the type. The golden arrow shows where it goes in growth.
Three centres
Instinctive centre (types 8, 9, 1)
Your first reflex goes through the body and instinct: you sense what is right before explaining it. The underlying question is about autonomy and the room you take up.
Feeling centre (types 2, 3, 4)
Your first reflex goes through connection: you perceive how you are seen and what others feel. The underlying question is about identity and self-worth.
Thinking centre (types 5, 6, 7)
Your first reflex goes through thought: you seek to understand and anticipate. The underlying question is about security and trust in the face of the unknown.
Wings and arrows
The wings are the two neighbouring types on the circle. One of them often colours the personality more; many people say they see the second wing develop in the second half of life.
The arrows connect each type to two others. In growth, you borrow the qualities of one type (1→7→5→8→2→4→1, 9→3→6→9); under stress, you slide towards the flaws of another, in the opposite direction.
1 The Reformer
Doing things right, living in line with your values and improving the world around you.
2 The Helper
Being there for others, mattering to them and creating warm bonds.
3 The Achiever
Succeeding, progressing and showing what you are capable of.
4 The Individualist
Being authentic, expressing your uniqueness and giving meaning to what you live through.
5 The Investigator
Understanding the world in depth and preserving your autonomy.
6 The Loyalist
Feeling secure, with solid bearings and reliable people.
7 The Enthusiast
Living fully, exploring and keeping every door open.
8 The Challenger
Staying in control of your life, protecting your people and acting with strength.
9 The Peacemaker
Preserving peace, within you and around you, and bringing people together.
Based on the Riso and Hudson model. Method and sources
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