Understanding your Enneagram type isn’t always straightforward. You may take the Enneagram test and feel confused about your results because you share similarities with more than one personality type, which isn’t uncommon. That’s because some Enneagram types are more challenging to type than others. But what is the most difficult Enneagram type to type? The answer might surprise you.
It’s quite ironic that I, a type 9, continued to put this article on the bottom of my list.
It’s almost as if I feel a natural, unbidden resistance to the idea of conflict and stress. I want to minimize anything remotely upsetting and continue on with my peaceful existence. Anything negative can be reframed and kept in a safe, positive light.
Why on earth are we like this?
This blog post is part of our Fundamentals of the Enneagram series, which takes a deeper dive into all the Enneagram elements - wings, arrows, subtypes, centers of intelligence, growth pathways and more. For an overview of the series, start with our introductory post here , then read Subtypes and Instincts of the Enneagram: What are They, and How Do They Affect Human Behavior?
What do you get when you put a creative, individualistic Enneagram Type 4 together with “The Peacemaker” Type 9 ? The pairing of these two Enneagram types can go one of two ways—it can seem a bit too dramatic or like a match made in heaven. Whether these types hit it off or find themselves grappling for understanding, like any compatibility question, it may come down to the individuals and how much work they’re willing to invest in their relationship.
Enneagram Nines are sometimes seen as the “jack of all trades” of the Enneagram. They can have the adventurous spirit of an Enneagram Seven , while boasting of the creativity attributed to Enneagram Fours , and the generous nature of Twos .
Our relationships shape who we are. We learn from the people we share our life with, and in return they learn from us. Together, two people can learn something about themselves that they could never learn apart. Relationships are a place of merger and separation. Of coming together to create something magical, but also needing to find our independence within that relationship. To find that balance.
For Enneagram Type Nine’s, that represents the challenge they spend their life navigating.
The Enneagram Type 9, “ The Peacemaker, ” is a patient and understanding partner who seeks to truly understand their significant other and create a loving and harmonious relationship. However, the peace-loving Nine may sometimes forget that conflict is an important part of a relationship. They may avoid conflict altogether and instead resort to passive-aggressive behavior. Nines must learn to prioritize self-care and communicate their feelings effectively to thrive in their relationships with others.
The Enneagram Type 2 Giver and Type 9 Peacemaker have a lot in common, and it's easy to see how there could be confusion between the two. If you’ve ever felt conflicted trying to decide which one you are, you aren’t the first person to feel you could be both. Let’s explore some of the similarities and key differences between these two personality styles.
The Enneagram is a powerful tool for deepening one’s spirituality and in finding a truly fulfilling personal path. It’s also an incredibly helpful lens for improving unhealthy patterns and finding joy in your relationships.
In part one yesterday, we covered everything you’ve wanted to know about Enneagram subtypes. You learned what the instincts mean, how they stack up, what countertypes are, and how to use your subtype to understand where your emotional energy goes.
Now that you know how to use your subtype for deeper awareness of your patterns, we’ve provided a general overview of what each Enneagram subtype may look like. Keep in mind that “general” is the key word here—you may not fit the bill completely, but this can provide some insight into exploring your subtype further.
THE FINE PRINT:
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