What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 5 from types 1 and 8

This post discusses type 5

Core Motivation: feel important;

Action Goal: reveal what is important and true

There are circumstances when type 5 people can seem to fit the description for type 1 or type 8.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 5 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 5 and 1 types can appear opinionated and rigidly confident in their perspectives.  The difference shows up when we look at process by which those opinions and perspectives are formed.  Type 5 people rely on their own, individual analysis of data collected from personal experience and observation. In contrast, type 1 people rely on formally recognized information from established, industry data sources.  

Both 5 and 8 types act in ways that frequently alienate other people.  The difference shows up when we look at how the alienation factor functions within each type’s social dynamics.  Type 5 people tend to be aware (even proud) of their alienation, and often use it to affirm a sense of indignance that others do not possess their understanding of life’s truths.  In contrast, type 8 people are often unaware of the extent to which they alienate others.  Type 8’s focus much energy on exerting any power that have to position themselves for leadership, strongly resistant to understanding why anyone would not welcome and appreciate their efforts.

Overall, type 5 individuals are self-reliant people who would rather spend time pursuing what interests them than socializing.  They are generally very cerebral individuals who think about everything far more than most people.

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 4 from types 6 and 7

This post discusses type 4

Core Motivation: feel understood;

Action Goal: communicate honestly or not at all

There are circumstances when type 4 people can seem to fit the description for type 6 or type 7.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 4 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 4 and 6 types are emotionally sensitive.  The difference shows up when we look at the kinds of relationships where that sensitivity appears.  Type 4 people invest most of their emotional energy into the few most intimate relationships they have.  And, their emotional sensitivity is reserved for those relationships.  In contrast, type 6 people bring their emotional sensitivity to every interaction they have, whether or not it is in the context of an emotionally intimate relationship.

Both 4 and 7 types live life with a strong intuitive sense of what feels right or not right.  The difference shows up when we look at the general categories of what feels right to each type.  Type 4 people prioritize deep emotional experience and expression, supporting their intuitive attraction to the Arts and spiritual pursuits.  In contrast, type 7 people prioritize the thrill of the moment, supporting their intuitive attraction to extreme sports and other experiences that provide opportunity for intense sensory stimulation.

Overall, type 4 individuals are deeply focused on their internal life.  They often surprise those around them with their ability to not notice events or communication they would consider mundane. 

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 3 from types 1 and 8

This post discusses type 3 (Core Motivation: feel successful;

Action Goal: lead a major agenda) in relation to types 1 and 8.

There are circumstances when type 3 people can seem to fit the description for type 1 or type 8.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 3 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 3 and 1 types tend to be organized, result oriented planners who like functioning within a proven, efficient system.  The difference shows up when we look at the relationship between the person and the system.  Type 3 people generally feel unsettled and dissatisfied until they reach a central, public, leadership position.  In contrast, type 1 people generally find long-term success in taking on active, invaluable support roles within the system.   

Both 3 and 8 types actively pursue the lead position within a group.  The difference shows up when we look at their respective approaches to taking the lead.  Type 3 people engage in diplomatic relationship building with those who can help them reach the top.  In contrast, type 8 people use any power at their disposal to force others out of the way.

Overall, type 3 individuals assess the system and people around them before implementing system-wide, diplomatic strategies designed to bring organizational success with them at the lead.

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 2 from types 6 and 9

This post discusses type 2 (motivation: feel needed; Action Goal: give) in relation to types 6 and 9.

There are circumstances when type 2 people can seem to fit the description for type 6 or type 9.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 2 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 2 and 6 types actively pursue ways to understand and fill the individual needs of people around them.  The difference shows up when we look at how the givers want their actions to be perceived.  Type 2 people want their actions to be seen as selfless acts of thoughtfull kindness.  Type 6 people want their actions to be seen as expressions of connectedness and mutual trust in the relationship.

Both 2 and 9 types can come across as very acquiescent to the will of others.  The difference shows up when we look at the context of the acquiescence.  Type 2 people generally find a long-term personal or professional context or specific relationship which becomes the focus of their committed selflessness.  Type 9 people are comfortable accepting directives from whatever personal or professional circle they are encountering at a given moment.

Overall, type 2 people live to priotize the needs of others as their way of making a difference in the world around them.

What’s the Difference? Distinguishing Type 1 from 3, 5, 6, and 8

This next set of posts  contrasts the different Enneagram types that can exhibit common characteristics.  The posts will progress in order from 1 to 9, discussing each type in relation to the specific other types that appear to share similar traits.   This post discusses type 1 (motivation: feel safe; Action Goal: make the world right) in relation to types 3, 5, 6, and 8.

There are circumstances when type 1 people can seem to fit the description for type 3, type 5, type 6 or type 8.  Below are some pointers that clarify what sets type 1 people apart from each of the other types.  

Both 1 and 3 types tend to be organized, result oriented planners who like functioning within a proven, efficient system.  The difference shows up when we look at the relationship between the person and the system.  Type 1 people generally find long-term success in taking on active, invaluable support roles within the system.  In contrast, type 3 people generally feel unsettled and dissatisfied until they reach a central, public, leadership position.  

Both 1 and 5 types can appear opinionated and rigidly confident in their perspectives.  The difference shows up when we look at process by which those opinions and perspectives are formed.  Type 1 people rely on formally recognized information from established, industry data sources.  In contrast, type 5 people rely on their own, individual analysis of data collected from personal experience and observation.

Both 1 and 6 types can find themselves stuck in a state of anxiety.  The difference shows up when we look at the reaction to feeling anxious.  Type 1 people react by seeking and holding onto order and predictability.  In contrast, type 6 people react by becoming more frenetic and dramatic in their multitasking.

Both 1 and 8 types can come across as inflexible and controlling.  The difference shows up when we look at communication style.  Type 1 people will tend to back up their position using formal arguments.  Type 8 people tend towards intimidating language aimed at pressuring the other person into compliance.

Overall, type 1 people are straight shooters who find comfort and resolution in a linear approach to life.