Enneagram Personalities

Abstract

Recalling the definition of personality as “a complex set of relatively stable behavioral and emotional characteristics,” we can appreciate the insights provided by the Myers-Briggs system. However, we are equally aware that no one system can hope to address all aspects of personality. A noteworthy personality analysis tool that has achieved a significant presence in both personal growth and management applications is the Enneagram system of personalities. The essence is said to have descended from the ancient Sufis, and modern adaptations have been made by a variety of authors, including Riso (1990), Condon (1997), Palmer (1998), Rohr and Ebert (1990), and Goldberg (1996). Whereas MBTI attempts to explain how we function, the Enneagram focuses more on why we function in a particular way—what is our underlying emotion that guides the way we act? In this way, MBTI and the Enneagram can be viewed as complementary.