Ch Ch Cha Changes...
It’s happening folks, Fall is in the air. The afternoon light just hits differently, like honey dripping on the trees. The temperatures back off triple digits in Tennessee. The pumpkin muffins are in the oven. The 84 light jackets in my closet are just itching to come out and play. And I’m so here for it.
But not all transitions are this dreamy. Although change is well…change, neither good nor bad, there is always some loss incurred along the way. It’s an inevitable part of life, but how we deal with it can vary dramatically depending on our Enneagram type.
Each type has unique strengths and challenges when it comes to navigating transitions, whether they be big life shifts, unexpected disruptions, or gradual transformations. Understanding your Enneagram type can help you better manage the emotions and behaviors that surface during times of change. Here's a bird’s eye view as to how each Enneagram type typically responds to change and how they can grow through it.
Type 1: The Improver
Type 1s often resist change at first because they value order, structure, and predictability. Sudden or chaotic shifts can feel overwhelming, as they strive for things to be done "the right way."
Hot Growth Tip: Ones need to embrace flexibility and accept that perfection isn't really possible. Practicing self-compassion and acknowledging that they don't have to have everything figured out can ease the stress of transitions.
Type 2: the Helper
Type 2s may struggle with change, especially if it impacts their relationships. They often worry about how change will affect the people they care about and may become overly focused on helping others through the transition.
Hot Growth Tip: Twos should focus on maintaining their own sense of stability and self-care during change. Learning to balance their emotional energy and allowing themselves to receive support from others can help them feel less overwhelmed.
Type 3: The Achiever
Type 3s typically adapt to change quickly, especially if it aligns with their goals and ambitions. However, they may struggle if the change threatens their sense of success or status, leading them to push harder or resist failure.
Hot Growth Tip: Threes can benefit from slowing down during periods of change, focusing not just on external success but also on internal fulfillment.
Type 4: The Romantic
Type 4s are deeply introspective and may feel emotionally overwhelmed by change. They often view transitions through the lens of personal meaning and may dwell on what the change says about their identity or place in the world.
Hot Growth Tip: Fours can focus on grounding themselves in the present moment and finding practical steps to deal with change, rather than getting lost in their emotions. Journaling or expressing feelings creatively can help them process the experience more effectively.
Type 5: The Observer
Type 5s approach change analytically, seeking to understand it fully before they act. They prefer to plan ahead and may withdraw from others to process the new information. Unexpected changes can feel destabilizing for Fives.
Hot Growth Tip: Fives can benefit from connecting with others during times of change rather than retreating into isolation. Engaging in open communication and accepting that not all outcomes can be predicted will help them adapt more fluidly.
Type 6: The Loyalist
Type 6s often approach change with anxiety or skepticism, as they prefer stability and foresee potential risks. They may feel uncertain about the future and seek reassurance from others before moving forward.
Hot Growth Tip: Sixes should work on building trust in themselves and their ability to handle uncertainty. Focusing on their inner strength and adaptability, rather than relying solely on external support, can help them embrace change more confidently.
Type 7: The Enthusiast
Type 7s typically embrace change with enthusiasm and excitement, seeing it as an opportunity for new experiences. However, they may struggle with staying grounded and fully engaging with the challenges that come with change.
Hot Growth Tip: Sevens can benefit from slowing down and focusing on the deeper emotional aspects of change, rather than always seeking the next adventure. Practicing mindfulness and staying present can help them navigate the transition with more depth and clarity.
Type 8: The Challenger
Type 8s often take charge in the face of change, seeing it as something to be controlled or managed. They prefer to feel in control of the situation and can become confrontational if the change feels imposed on them.
Hot Growth Tip: Eights can grow by practicing vulnerability and accepting that not all change can be controlled. By softening their approach and working collaboratively with others, they can navigate transitions more effectively and with less resistance.
Type 9: The Peacemaker
Type 9s tend to resist change because it disrupts their desire for peace and harmony. They may avoid facing the realities of change and retreat into complacency or passivity to maintain their sense of comfort.
Hot Growth Tip: Nines can navigate change more effectively by staying engaged and proactive. Rather than avoiding conflict or discomfort, they should focus on taking small steps toward adapting to the change and trusting that it can lead to personal growth.
Need some support through this season of change? Join me in the Practice, my online Enneagram community chock full of ways to feel less alone on the journey. .