melissakircher » Enneagram Paths Coaching

Enneagram Type 5: Enneagram Art Series

Posted on August 31, 2021August 31, 2021 by melissakircher

Happy Tuesday Enneagram Paths friends! Today, I’m bringing you the next installment of my Enneagram Art Series, melding two of my passions: art and the Enneagram.

This Type Five artwork is fifth in a series of nine illustrated paintings that visually imagine the essence and integration experience of each Enneagram Type. Here on the blog, I want to give you both the art and the creation intention behind each piece. Here is a brief, succinct peek into my mind as I painted and inked each piece. The rest of the feeling, resonating, and interpreting is up to you!

Type 5: In this piece, the yellowish-green paint represents both a “cloud” of information and the connection to universal knowing that Fives access in Essence. This cloud aspect is echoed in the lines underneath the eye. The eye is part of the body and harkens to how Fives can observe all with embodied energy in integration. The eyelashes include arrows that point up and down to signify how, in health, Fives can live rich inner and outer lives. The “V” at the top of the illustrated painting shows how the True Self of Fives moves powerfully in and out of the world according to the combined wisdom of their bodies, hearts, and minds. The contract between the defined geometric shapes and the free, messy watercolor paint represents how Fives can simultaneously understand facts and be in tune with mysterious unknowing.

High-Res Digital Download

Framed Society6.com Prints

I hope you enjoy! Please feel free to leave me feedback on my @enneagrampaths Twitter and Instagram. All nine illustrated paintings will be shared on social media.

Make sure to check out my FREE Type Five Self-Love Workbook!

Enneagram Type 4: Enneagram Art Series

Posted on August 25, 2021August 25, 2021 by melissakircher

Happy Wednesday Enneagram Paths friends! Today, I’m bringing you the next installment of my Enneagram Art Series, melding two of my passions: art and the Enneagram.

This Type Four artwork is fourth in a series of nine illustrated paintings that visually imagine the essence and integration experience of each Enneagram Type. Here on the blog, I want to give you both the art and the creation intention behind each piece. Here is a brief, succinct peek into my mind as I painted and inked each piece. The rest of the feeling, resonating, and interpreting is up to you!

Type 4: With this piece, I wanted to create a landscape infused with drama. I went for rich colors, and the energetic movement found in nature. The spectrum from light to dark is signified by the sun to the deep sea, honoring Type Fours’ full, vibrant emotionality. There are calmer waters and a flowing current underneath the tumultuous waves to show how the True Self of Fours is steady and true. The sunset is the way Fours illuminate the beauty in the world for the rest of us. And the serene stillness of the ocean in the back of the waves illustrates the embodied, authentic Essence of Fours found in integration.

High-Res Digital Download Link

Society6.com Framed Prints Link

I hope you enjoy! Please feel free to leave me feedback on my @enneagrampaths Twitter and Instagram. All nine illustrated paintings will be shared on social media.

Make sure to check out my FREE Type Four Self-Love Workbook!

Enneagram Type 3: Enneagram Art Series

Posted on August 23, 2021August 23, 2021 by melissakircher

Hello Enneagram Paths friends! Today, I’m bringing you the third installment of my Enneagram Art Series, melding two of my passions: art and the Enneagram.

This Type Three artwork is the third in a series of nine illustrated paintings that visually imagine the essence and integration experience of each Enneagram Type. Here on the blog, I want to give you both the art and the creation intention behind each piece. But don’t worry, I dislike long artsy-fartsy art descriptions as much as the next person. So instead, I aim to provide a brief, succinct peek into my mind as I painted each piece. The rest of the feeling, resonating, and interpreting is up to you!

Type 3: This illustrated painting began with the idea of a Whole Self or True Self that Threes lose touch with as they mask up. The geometric shapes represent the many identities that Threes take on to please others. I imagined these identities as facets of a gem broken apart. The circle in the middle of the painting is meant to be both the untouched, authentic core that resides with a Three’s heart and a protection around their True Selves. Inside this ring lies a star compass. The heart of the integrated Three shines bright and brings centered energy that does not fail. They move with real confidence and become faithful guides for both themselves and others.

High-Res Digital Download Link

Framed Soci e ty6.com Prints

I hope you enjoy! Please feel free to leave me feedback on my @enneagrampaths Twitter and Instagram. All nine illustrated paintings will be shared on social media.

Make sure to check out my FREE Type Three Self-Love Workbook!

Enneagram Type 2: Enneagram Art Series

Posted on August 19, 2021August 19, 2021 by melissakircher

Hello Enneagram Paths friends! Today, I’m bringing you the second installment of my Enneagram Art Series, melding two of my passions: art and the Enneagram.

This Type Two artwork is the second in a series of nine illustrated paintings that visually imagine the essence and integration experience of each Enneagram Type. Here on the blog, I want to give you both the art and the creation intention behind each piece. But don’t worry, I dislike long artsy-fartsy art descriptions as much as the next person. So instead, I aim to provide a brief, succinct peek into my mind as I painted each piece. The rest of the feeling, resonating, and interpreting is up to you!

Type Two: With this illustrated painting, I wanted to honor the heart of Twos, who see the rainbow of possibilities in other people. They give of themselves to help the rest of us shine! The arrows and blue marks around the reflected rainbows represent the energy of giving and receiving that surrounds a Two in health or integration. You will notice that the arrows point outward and inward, signifying that Twos can learn to give to themselves and receive from others. The black lines that hem in the colors of each strand in the rainbows are healthy boundaries. The heart of each rainbow is loosely figurative, forming an “I” on the top and a “You or U” on the bottom. The I and U represent the ability of Type Twos to be the beautiful rainbow of themselves and differentiate from the rainbow of others. They learn to radiate their own unique light and colorful imprint on the world.

High-Res Digital Download Link

Framed Society6.com Prints

I hope you enjoy! Please feel free to leave me feedback on my @enneagrampaths Twitter and Instagram. All nine illustrated paintings will be shared on social media.

Make sure to check out my FREE Type Two Self-Love Workbook!

Enneagram Type 1: Enneagram Art Series

Posted on August 16, 2021August 16, 2021 by melissakircher

Hello Enneagram Paths friends! It’s been a while, and I hope this post finds you well. I’ve had a whole summer of coaching, teaching, family time, and much-needed rest. Rhythms and seasons bring all kinds of changes, ebbs, and flows to my work. It’s a joy to live and work this way, paying attention to shifts in energy and passion.

Today, I’m bringing you the first installment of a side project I’ve been working on for a few months. For a long time, people would ask me when I’d meld all three parts of my career together: art, writing, and the Enneagram. And for a long time, I would tell them that I honestly had zero ideas when it came to Enneagram Art! Until, of course, one day, I had an idea. Funny how inspiration strikes!

This Type One artwork is the first in a series of nine illustrated paintings that visually imagine the essence and integration experience of each Enneagram Type. I want to give you a little bit of a deeper description here on the blog. But don’t worry, I dislike artsy-fartsy art descriptions as much as the next person. Instead, my aim is to provide a brief, succinct peek into my mind as I created each piece. The rest of the feeling, resonating, and interpreting is up to you!

Type One: With this piece, I wanted to honor the real and necessary black-and-white thinking of Ones. You will see that the only colors I’ve used are black, white, gray, and gold. The mountains represent the heights Ones will attempt to reach on their path to perfection and the diligent work toward excellence that inspires their lives. The landscape below is a mix of straight and flowing lines, illustrating the blend of structure, emotionality, and spontaneity of a Type One in integration. The gray landscape is an invitation for health, to see the beauty in grayscale and the endless possibilities that exist between black and white. Finally, the golden sun is a nod to the perfection found in Essence – Ones are already good and worthy and loved exactly as they are.

High-Res Digital Download Link

Framed Socety6.com Prints Link

I hope you enjoy! Please feel free to leave me feedback on my @enneagrampaths Twitter and Instagram. All nine illustrated paintings will be shared on social media.

Make sure to check out my FREE Type One Self-Love Workbook!

My Enneagram Box: Review

Posted on June 14, 2021June 12, 2021 by melissakircher

Hello Enneagram Paths friends! Today, I’m excited to share something a little different with you all, a review. A couple of months ago, a new company called My Enneagram Box reached out to me and asked if I’d be willing to check out their new box subscription service based on the nine Enneatypes. The box came last week and… It. Was. So. Fun.

Here is the company’s mission statement:

“My Enneagram Box is a quarterly subscription box based on your Enneagram type, delivered to
your doorstep! Each box is uniquely curated to make the Enneagram tangible by including items that foster growth, celebrate uniqueness, and encourage self-care.”

I admit I was a little skeptical about things/gifts based on type; there is a risk that type boxes could be a little shallow in the wrong hands. How delightful it was to find out this is not the case with My Enneagram Box!

My Enneagram Box comes beautifully packaged with materials that are paper-based and recyclable – Earth win! And the contents are super cool. I found myself both emotionally moved and laughing while unpacking everything inside.

The first thing that sticks out to me is a note from the company, specially catered to the type receiving the box. It included positive, integrated aspects of a Type 5 and reminded me that I have unique gifts to offer the world. You can tell My Enneagram Box put a lot of heart into the note and it was well-received.

Now to the goodies! This box came with six different gifts. The first was a whole bag of Type 5 coffee from a company I already love, Enneagram Coffee. Having already tasted and approved this brew, I was thrilled to see that these two companies have teamed up. Trust me; it’s a good cup of coffee. Next was a beautifully designed packet of “Untranslatable Words.” I laughed and was then immediately intrigued, reading through them like the curious little monster I am. Then came the “I Need Some Serious Me Time” journal, which is both humorous and inviting to Type 5s who can always use more resources on how to care for themselves well.

I loved the two smaller items in the box, Placebos’ “Confidence” and “Believe In Yourself” lip balm.

And the piece de resistance of this particular iteration of the Type 5 box: a “Personal Library Kit” by Knock Knock’s. Did I nerd out over this? Yes, yes, I did. The kit includes old-school return packets (self-adhesive) for the back of your books, a date stamp and ink pad, and twenty checkout cards. Will I be using this? Yes, yes, I will!

Lastly, there is a sheet that recommends nine Enneagram Instagram accounts to follow for tons of excellent Enneagram content. I’m honored and delighted that My Enneagram Box included @EnneagramPaths on this list:)

Overall, I am blown away by how carefully curated this box is, striking the perfect mix of seriousness, heart, and levity. I think any Type 5 would felt seen and known when opening this box. I’d wholeheartedly recommend buying a box subscription for yourself as well as all nine types of your friends and family. Support this fledgling business today; you won’t be sorry!

Check out: Myenneagrambox.com for their next round of boxes or to get a box delivered per quarter. And make sure to follow them on Instagram at @myenneagrambox. Enjoy!

Remember: How Each Enneagram Type Seems vs. How They Actually Are

Posted on May 5, 2021 by melissakircher

Remember is a powerful word. Why? Because we humans, despite all our learning and education and wise living, are prone to forgetfulness. We forget that not everyone else thinks, feels, and acts like us. We forget that everyone sees the world through their own unique lenses. We forget because it’s just a natural thing to do!

Sometimes, we need a little help with remembering. A gentle nudge to restore our compassion and empathy for another who seems rather alien (or irritating) to us! Here is a list of things to remember about each Enneagram Type.

Type One

They give the best advice, allow space for anger, are fantastic problem solvers, and make us cry-laugh with their great sense of humor.

Remember: Type Ones might seem harsh and judgemental to you, but they are so much harder on themselves. Compassion and levity go a long way in relationships with Ones.

Type Two

They are such a source of encouragement, root for the underdogs, know exactly what you need when you’re low, and truly care about everyone doing well.

Remember: Type Twos can seem overly involved and extra cheerful to you, but they are actually giving out the kind of love they need to receive. Thoughtfulness and reaching out go a long way in relationships with Twos.

Type Three

They want you to reach your fullest potential, believe in the greatness of others, care deeply, and want the world to be an amazing place.

Remember: Type Threes might seem disingenuous and unemotional to you, but they have actually lost their connection to self in order to please everyone else. Offering grounded, heartfelt space to process will go a long way in relationships with Threes.

Type Four

They are masters of metaphor, make ample space for other’s pain, delve into authenticity with vigor, and can pinpoint feelings with serious accuracy.

Remember: Type Fours might seem dramatic and mysterious to you, but they are actually seeking a deep understanding of themselves and all of life. Offering stories about your own emotional landscape will go a long way in relationships with Fours.

Type Five

They are thoughtful, measured, funny, spontaneous, curious, and care for their chosen tribe and projects with great zeal.

Remember: Type Fives might seem aloof and detached to you, but they are actually making sure that when they do show up, it’s with care, empathy and 100% presence. Believing in the deep, vast hearts of Fives will go along way in relationships with them.

Type Six

They are loyal friends and partners, kind, care deeply about everyone’s wellbeing and are totally prepared badasses.

Remember: Type Sixes might seem wary to you, but this is not your fault. They are trying to figure out if they trust themselves about trusting you. Being forthright about who you are and where things stand will go a long way in relationships with Sixes.

Type Seven

They are sensitive, deep, bright, infused with curiosity, go-getters, and full of zest.

Remember: Type Sevens might seem scattered and flaky to you, but they are actually trying to get the most out of life. Being calm and centered will go a long way in relationships with Sevens.

Type Eight

They have your back, live with passion, are seriously compassionate, strong and fight for the underdog.

Remember: Type Eights might seem intense and intimidating to you, but they are actually wearing this specific armor to keep their big hearts safe. Standing your ground with compassion will go a long way in relationships with Eights.

Type Nine

They are warm, inviting, calm, fierce, smart and understand others with great depth.

Remember: Type Nines might seem checked out to you, but they are actually working hard to keep all their connections intact. Asking what they want, with tons of space and time for answers, will go a long way in relationships with Nines.

Are you unsure about your Type? Have you taken online assessments and found them to be confusing and unhelpful? I, Melissa, am here to help with 1-hour phone Typing Sessions! I’m a certified Enneagram Teacher who can untangle the often mystifying world of typing! Click here to get more information about your unique session: ENNEAGRAM TYPING SESSIONS

Re-Focus [By Enneagram Type]

Posted on March 12, 2021 by melissakircher

“Very occasionally, if you pay really close attention, life doesn’t suck.”
― Joss Whedon

During my time with The Coaching Fellowship, one of the many lessons my coach taught me was, “What you focus your attention on determines what you miss.” Shout out to my coach, the fantastic Janice Reches!

I don’t know about you, but I constantly have to re-orient my focus of attention to have a more broad, truer version of reality in my sights. Just today, I had to remind myself to look for abundance instead of mentally pinpointing all the areas my Type Five ego said were barren and scarce. Shifting my focus immediately changed my perspective and mood! And you know what? There was a white bowl filled to the brim with juicy oranges in front of me. Abundance right under my nose!

Where do you need to re-focus today? Here are some tips by type to help you get started!

Type 1: Ones, you focus your attention on what needs to be improved or fixed in any given situation or relational space. This is exhausting. To avoid burnout, can you try to notice moments where you feel satisfied or light? The experience of both these things will retrain your brain to see the full spectrum of life.

Type 2: Twos, you often leave an event, meeting, group, or hang-out with the question of, “Was I wanted?” Instead, try re-focusing on curiosity about, “Did I enjoy those people? What made me light up during that time? Do I want to continue to be a part of this scene?”

Type 3: Threes, you are often preoccupied with how well you are doing in any given circumstance, how people see you. Instead, try to re-focusing on being present, noticing how your body feels when someone says something or any emotions that well up within. Can you notice your existence?

Type 4: Fours, you tend to be hyper-aware of feelings of superiority and inferiority to others. You swing, dizzyingly, between the two. Could you try to re-focus on all the similarities between yourself and others> How do you see yourself belonging to the world?

Type 5: Fives, you get lost down rabbit-holes of attention-time-sucks like Google to stave off the feeling that the world will swallow you whole. Scarcity drives you. Instead, try to re-focus on abundance, noting any little place or things that give you joy. Mantra, “I’m looking for abundance.”

Type 6: Sixes, you often have scanning sort-of attention, warily assessing if others are trustworthy. Instead, try shifting your focus onto yourself. Where have you proven to yourself that you’re trustworthy? Can you see areas of strength and capability?

Type 7: Sevens, you tend to focus on future-oriented ideas, imaging what could be and missing out on what is. Could you practice feeling grounded in the present by wiggling your toes, breathing deeply, noticing the temperature of the room, and listening to the sounds all around you?

Type 8: Eights, you move out into the world, scanning for where you can exert power and control, using up energy better spent on doing things that truly matter to you. Can you try identifying who else might take over so that you can relax and get down to your own business?

Type 9: Nines, many of you find that focus is lacking, getting caught up in whatever person or situation is right in front of you. However, even a lack of attention is attention. Can you find your focus by creating small moments for yourself each day? Ask, “What do I feel, think, or want?”

Is Enneagram Coaching right for you? Set up a free 15-minute consultation today to find out! I have a few spring openings left!

Cover Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

An Enneagram Two During a Pandemic: Andréa Mcinnis

Posted on March 1, 2021March 1, 2021 by melissakircher

Welcome back, Enneagram Paths friends! Today we hear from another fantastic person on what it’s like to move about in the world with Type Two energy. As we deal with the ongoing pandemic, it’s important to listen to each other, absorb how others are experiencing life, and learn how we each deal with these unprecedented times in a myriad of ways. Thank you, Andréa, for being here today!

1. What has it been like being a Type Two during Covid, quarantine and social distancing? How have you coped?

Being a Two during Covid has definitely had its ups and downs. I moved to Nashville in August of 2019 and didn’t make many friends until January of 2020. So, in some ways, it wasn’t a whole different than when I first moved because I didn’t know many people. So, I utilized what I did when I wasn’t as rooted. While I couldn’t meet with my friends in person, we would FaceTime almost every day. I also joined a small group with my church that met over Zoom. In some ways, it was hard because my love languages are physical touch and quality time, but FaceTiming and phone calls helped fill my social quota. My friends and I would also use Netflix party and play games over zoom, which was a lot of fun! At the beginning of quarantine, I also made sure to go outside as much as possible and have some kind of routine. Since things have opened up more, it’s gotten easier to do social distancing activities!

2. What is the thing you like the most about being a Two?

The thing I like most about being an Enneagram Two is that it’s pretty easy to make friends. Most people trust me relatively quickly.

3. Tell us about pride. How do you engage with pride and calm it, so that you’re able to know you are loved, liked and wanted just as you are?

A lot of therapy and self-care. My therapist and I talk a lot about meeting my own needs and affirming myself—instead of gaining those things from friends and family. I’m also learning that when I have expectations that others to receive what I give them (time, encouragement, etc.), I have to voice those expectations. It’s definitely challenging and doesn’t come easy, but I’m slowly making progress. Intentional self-care has also helped. Claiming that I am caring for myself by watching a TV show or going to the gym instead of just doing it has allowed me to become friends with myself and not so heavily rely on others to fill that need of feeling loved.

4. How do you use your Stress Arrow to Type Eight to help you these days? Are there any tips you’d give other Twos about choosing some of the high side traits of Eight to be of service to you in Stress?

One of the ways I use my Stress Arrow is through voicing my needs or feelings when I’m stressed or feel like there’s a strain in a relationship. At a certain point, I stop hinting at what I want and express it directly. A tip I would say is to voice your needs when you need them instead of waiting. Obviously, it’s way easier said than done, but it reduces stress to be more direct. There is a nice way of expressing one’s needs without sounding harsh. Find safe people you can practice voicing your needs on!

5. Are you a Social, Self-Preservation, or Sexual/One-to-One Subtype? What does this instinct look like in your daily life? How does it drive some of your behaviors, thoughts, and feelings?

I am a Self-Preservation Subtype. When I first read about the Enneagram, the Self-Preservation Two convinced me that I was a Two! It comes out in being carefree and silly whenever possible. Finding experiences that make me happy and that are life-giving are common practices of mine. It shows up in my relationships as well. I want to be the fun one that people want around but can also go deeper with. Opening up to even close friends can be harder for me because I would rather not have the focus on myself.

6. From the perspective of Type Two, how can we love each other well during these difficult times?

Give each other grace. Everyone is doing the best they can with what they’re given. Also, look outside yourself. We need community now more than ever. Utilize FaceTime, Zoom, Netflix party, social distancing picnics, or walks. Check-in on your friends and family, especially those who are struggling, and the ones that check-in on you. We all need a little encouragement.

Hi! My name is Andréa! I’m twenty-eight-years-old, and I am an Enneagram 2w1 Seattle native living in Nashville, Tennessee. I’m currently a barista, and I’m in my second year of grad school for counseling. My dream is to do therapy with kids and adolescents, primarily through animal therapy. I’m a lover of animals, friends, lattes, and Taylor Swift. On days that I’m not working or doing school, I love to be outside exploring state parks, hiking, and being in the sunshine. I also enjoy traveling (when there isn’t a pandemic) and spending my time with my close friends, family, and dog Scooter.

Twitter: @drizziedrebae

Instagram: @andrea_mcinnis

Two Twos: Interview with Elizabeth Dodds and Corrie Wilson

Posted on February 1, 2021January 28, 2021 by melissakircher

Hello Enneagram Paths friends! Glad to have you this Monday to learn more about what it means to lead with Type Two! Here on Enneagram Paths, I like to ask the same questions of different people within a type; I find it highlights every person’s nuance and complexity. It’s similar to the Narrative Enneagram Tradition, where you learn type through panels and listening to stories. I’m so excited to have these wonderful people here today to talk about Type Twos during a global pandemic, how they’re coping, and what wisdom they have to share. Thank you both for being open; we’re grateful for your words and presence!

Elizabeth Dodds

1. What has it been like being a Type Two during Covid, quarantine, and social distancing? How have you coped?

I have found myself wanting to cocoon myself in my home even more. Making my home a comfortable, happy place for myself and my family. It has been very hard having my two oldest children living three hours away during unsure times. Feeding my family and having them all under one roof is kind of a balm to my soul, so this has been tough! Social distancing has also given me a pass not to be ‘on’ at all times, like when at the grocery store, etc. The masks and need to keep distanced is permitting me not to have to engage or have conversations or connections when I’d rather not. Feelings don’t get hurt!

2. What is the thing you like the most about being a Two?

I love many things about being a Two (and dislike just as many). The thing I love the most is the ability to bring people comfort. Creating an environment within my home or my personal space lets people feel at ease and loved.

3. Tell us about pride. How do you engage with pride and calm it, so that you’re able to know you are loved, liked, and wanted just as you are?

Pride is a trait I haven’t quite mastered, whether too much or too little. I find myself downplaying my successes and dismissing compliments often. Feeling loved and liked for just who I am…this is my struggle still.

4. How do you use your Stress Arrow to Type Eight to help you these days? Are there any tips you’d give other Twos about choosing some of the high side traits of Eight to be of service to you in Stress?

My stress move to a Type Eight has been showing itself more often! I think the election season pushed it into gear. I have been voicing my opinions more readily and trying not to quiet myself for others’ approval.

5. Are you a Social, Self-Preservation, or Sexual/One-to-One Subtype? What does this instinct look like in your daily life? How does it drive some of your behaviors, thoughts, and feelings?

I identify with the Sexual/One-to-One subtype. Craving connection, commonality, heightened energy, family connections, people that you just ‘click’ with. This is something that has been there since the beginning. I take note of the energy I receive from people and try to take note. On a daily basis, I see this at work. I am in retail, and connections with people are what keeps loyal customers coming back. That spark, the ability to notice something or someone, matters. You would think this would mean I have tons of deep connections, but it feels easier to connect with others about themselves and keep their connection to me on a surface level. Few are as close to me as they may feel.

6. From the perspective of a Type Two, how can we love each other well during these difficult times?

Loving others right now can be difficult, right? I’m having a hard time myself! What we can do is love our own family and friends with a fierce and unwavering love. Stand up for those who need your support and voice. Don’t shy away from difficult conversations and risk disconnecting from someone you love to avoid the awkwardness. I don’t have an answer, really, but I do know that reaching outside of ourselves and reaching into our communities is love. That is what I plan to do more of in 2021.

>Connect with Elizabeth on Twitter at @llizziedodds & Instagram at @elizabeth.dodds

Corrie Wilson

1. What has it been like being a Type Two during Covid, quarantine, and social distancing? How have you coped?

I’m an introverted Type Two, so that part is okay. I’m also a Social Subtype Two, so I really focus more on community-level things. What’s been hard for me is the BLM protests and things like that. I want to go do all of it, but I don’t feel safe. When I hear about the need for volunteers to work at the vaccine sites, I wonder if I can do it and not be exposed to people.

2. What is the thing you like the most about being a Two?

Rooting for the underdog. I’ve always done that since I was little.

3. Tell us about pride. How do you engage with pride and calm it, so that you’re able to know you are loved, liked, and wanted just as you are?

I always have to ask myself, “Is this mine to do?” It’s challenging for me to remember that I am loved and needed even if I’m not helping.

4. How do you use your Stress Arrow to Type Eight to help you these days? Are there any tips you’d give other Twos about choosing some of the high side traits of Eight to be of service to you in Stress?

I haven’t really done any work with this part of the Enneagram yet. It took me a while to accept that I am a Two because I didn’t want to be. I felt that it made me weak, going around begging for love.

5. Are you a Social, Self-Preservation, or Sexual/One-to-One Subtype? What does this instinct look like in your daily life? How does it drive some of your behaviors, thoughts, and feelings?

I am a Social Two. Sometimes Type Two things don’t seem to apply to me, because I am an introvert and don’t really do a lot of the typical “bring the casserole to the family who just had a baby” type things. But as I said above, my focus is on community-level things. I struggle because I want to be involved in ALL the causes. Kids in cages at the border? I should go down there and use my psychology degree to help! Immigrants going to court without interpreters? Who do I know who can translate, and can I get them down there? I can’t watch the news anymore because it’s too difficult; I want to help everyone with everything. When I was little, my mom would tell me, “You don’t have to save the world today.” And sometimes, my husband still has to tell me that.

6. From the perspective of a Type Two, how can we love each other well during these difficult times?

The thing I say all the time is that people are what matter. If you aren’t doing stuff to help people, what are you doing? If you are doing something that hurts people, stop it! I know it’s easier said than done, but that’s what I try to focus on.

>Connect with Corrie on Twitter at @Corrielw & TikTok at @dr.corrie

*Cover Photo by McGill Library on Unsplash