Assessments

The Enneagram has ancient roots dating back to mystical traditions from the Middle East, such as Sufism and early Christian philosophy. In the 20th century, it was further developed into a psychological model. Chilean psychiatrist Claudio Naranjo played an important role in translating these insights into modern psychology. He linked the nine types to Western psychological theories and introduced the model in the United States, where it was further refined.  It is used worldwide as a practical and profound tool for self-insight and personal growth, in (relationship) therapy and (family) coaching, in business for team development, in spiritual contexts, and in education.

The name "Enneagram" comes from the Greek word for "nine" (ennea) and refers to the diagram in which the nine personality types are connected in a circle. What makes the Enneagram unique is that it not only describes behavior, but above all the underlying motivations and fears that drive that behavior.

The nine types are divided into three main centers that show which "intelligence center" you approach life from: heart (feeling), head (thinking), or body (instinct).

Heart types

These people are strongly connected to emotions and often seek their identity in relationships with others.

• Type 2 - The Helper: Wants to be needed and loved by supporting others.
• Type 3 - The Achiever: Seeks recognition and success, and strives for efficiency and results.
• Type 4 - The Individualist: Wants to be authentic and feels unique, but may struggle with feelings of loss.

Head types

These types live primarily from thinking and seek certainty, knowledge, or stimulation.

• Type 5 - The Observer: Values knowledge and autonomy, and likes to keep their distance.
• Type 6 - The Loyalist: Seeks security and trust, and often thinks in terms of risks.
• Type 7 - The Adventurer: Wants to avoid pain and focuses on fun, plans, and variety.

Body types

These people react instinctively and are focused on control, stability, or correctness.

• Type 8 - The Leader: Needs control and justice; protective but confrontational.
• Type 9 - The Peacemaker: Avoids conflict, seeks harmony, and adapts easily.
• Type 1 - The Reformer: Strives for perfection, order, and moral correctness.

What are the benefits?

For personal development, the Enneagram offers profound insights into your strengths, pitfalls, and unconscious patterns. It helps you discover why you do what you do and provides direction for inner growth. By recognizing your type, you can make more conscious choices, build healthier relationships, and deal more effectively with stress or emotions.

The Enneagram is not a box that defines you, but rather a starting point for transformation, helping you uncover your core motivations and the potential that lies beneath them.