Relationship between the Enneagram and Goals

Our personality is one aspect of our being that directs us to seek a fulfilling life. It does so by directing us to those feelings, people and events which are satisfying and by acting as one of the filters through which we receive information.

Understanding our Enneagram type makes it easier to understand what we strive for and why we desire certain things and not others. It lets us know when we are moving in a positive direction and when we are avoiding something through fear or anxiety. It may be that the very thing we seek to avoid is the thing that we need to strive for.

The following examples illustrate this:

Type Ones

. . . strive for perfection and their goals are directed towards not only completing a task to a very high standard but taking upon themselves the challenge of perfecting all tasks that come their way.

To engage in goal setting that allows acceptance of imperfection may seem like an impossible task. If Ones do not allow themselves to let go of unrelenting self criticism and to manage their underlying anger   

Type Twos

. . . are characterised by a need for affection. They are attracted to people and will make an effort to satisfy the needs of others to gain their affection. Danger lies in doing too much for others and not attending to their own needs.

Goals need to be set with this in mind. If there is nothing for the self, there is the likelihood of depletion or resentment when their affection is not returned. The downside of devoting the self exclusively to others is exhaustion and resentment.

While it is essential to their nature that they do give to others, the evolutionary path for Type Twos is to develop some interests and activities - often of an artistic nature - that they can do on their own.

Type Fives

. . . are private people who prefer not to be involved as too much close contact can lead to emotional depletion. As they like to hoard - particularly information - goals set around study and independence and will fit with their values.

Type Fives need to be aware that reaching out is essential as excessive isolation can lead to loneliness no matter how detached one tries to be. Goals in relation to reaching out and taking the risk of letting the self be seen allow Fives to evolve.

Types Sixes

. . . strive to make their environment secure to allay their fears and doubts so any goal that leads to this end may be of interest to them. Motivated by a sense of duty and loyalty, they will also seek out socially worthy groups and actively support them.

Because it can be difficult and frightening for Sixes to access their emotions, it is important to set goals that build trust and overcome self doubt and procrastination.