Enneagram insights: Leadership

Let’s begin this by saying - every Enneagram Type can be a great leader. While certain Enneagram types are commonly associated with these roles, it's crucial to acknowledge that every type has the potential to be a highly impactful leader. We use The Enneagram as a guide to identify each type’s unique strengths and challenges. By understanding our own Enneagram type and that of our team members, we can work to cultivate an environment of empathy, collaboration, and effective communication while also improving our own leadership capabilities. Let's dig into how each type might excel or struggle.

GUT TYPES

Control - Autonomy - Action

ENNEAGRAM 8 - THE ACTIVE CONTROLLER

Challenges: The intensity of 8 leaders may sometimes be perceived as overpowering or overly direct, potentially creating challenging team dynamics. Additionally, opening up and expressing vulnerability may be difficult.

Strengths: Enneagram 8 leaders are assertive and decisive, fearlessly taking charge to overcome challenges. Their strength and sense of justice and protection fosters an environment where team members feel supported and advocated for.

ENNEAGRAM 9 - THE ADAPTIVE PEACEMAKER

Challenges: 9’s may avoid conflict to maintain peace, potentially hindering necessary discussions for team growth. Their tendency to procrastinate on difficult decisions may pose challenges, as they may opt for temporary peace over addressing pressing issues.

Strengths: Enneagram 9 leaders excel in creating a harmonious work environment, fostering collaboration and team unity. Their ability to adapt and go with the flow contributes to a flexible and resilient leadership approach.

ENNEAGRAM 1 - THE STRICT PERFECTIONIST

Challenges: These leaders may find it challenging to adapt to unexpected changes or ideas that deviate from their structured worldview. And, their pursuit of perfection can result in being overly critical and inflexible, potentially hindering team morale.

Strengths: Enneagram 1 leaders are driven by a commitment to perfection and ethical conduct. They excel in creating environments that champion integrity, structure, and adherence to high standards. Their meticulous attention to detail and ability to envision the best possible outcome make them adept at strategic planning and decision-making.

HEART TYPES

Connection - Stories - Worthiness

ENNEAGRAM 2 - THE CONSIDERATE HELPER

Challenges: 2 leaders may struggle with setting boundaries and risk over-involvement in others' tasks and lives both in and out of work. Their desire to be helpful can result in difficulty saying no, which may impact decision-making and prioritization, leading to burnout.

Strengths: Enneagram 2 leaders thrive in fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. They excel at building strong interpersonal relationships and promoting a sense of unity within the team. Their natural inclination to understand and support the needs of others makes them empathetic leaders.

ENNEAGRAM 3 - THE COMPETITIVE ACHIEVER

Challenges: The 3’s relentless pursuit of success may lead to burnout as they push themselves and their teams to meet ambitious goals. A potential challenge lies in the overemphasis on external validation and the desire to maintain a successful image. 3’s may be so focused on the outcome that they dismiss the feelings of the people they lead.

Strengths: Enneagram 3 leaders are driven by success and achievement, making them highly goal-oriented and results-driven leaders. Their ability to adjust and pivot quickly allows them to navigate challenges and lead their teams through changing circumstances. 3’s can also be extremely positive heart-based leaders.

ENNEAGRAM 4 - THE INTENSE CREATIVE

Challenges: 4’s may struggle with navigating the intensity of their emotions, impacting decision-making and team dynamics. A challenge may arise in reconciling a fear of being too unique or different, potentially hindering collaboration.

Strengths: Enneagram 4 leaders bring creativity and originality to their leadership approach, fostering innovation within their teams. Their deep self-awareness makes them adept at understanding and navigating complex emotional landscapes.

HEAD TYPES

Logic - Data - Facts

ENNEAGRAM 5 - THE QUIET SPECIALIST

Challenges: 5’s may find it challenging to delegate tasks, as they prefer to maintain control over information and decision-making. Building and maintaining strong interpersonal connections can also be a challenge, as 5 leaders may tend to be more reserved and even socially awkward.

Strengths: Enneagram 5 leaders excel in analytical thinking, bringing a strategic, logical, and objective approach to problem-solving and decision-making. Their self-sufficiency and ability to work independently contribute to their effectiveness in leadership roles.

ENNEAGRAM 6 - THE LOYAL SKEPTIC

Challenges: 6 leaders may struggle with overthinking, leading to indecision and a tendency to focus on worst-case scenarios. Their need for reassurance can pose a challenge, as it may hinder autonomous decision-making and leadership confidence.

Strengths: Enneagram 6 leaders are deeply committed to their teams, fostering a sense of loyalty and trust within the workplace. Their ability to anticipate potential issues allows them to effectively assess and mitigate risks in decision-making.

ENNEAGRAM 7 - THE ENTHUSIASTIC VISIONARY

Challenges: 7’s may struggle with focus and follow-through on long-term projects, as they are drawn to new and exciting opportunities. Their aversion to conflict may lead to a reluctance in addressing challenging issues, potentially hindering team growth.

Strengths: Enneagram 7 leaders bring a sense of innovation and creativity, introducing fresh ideas and perspectives to their teams. Their boundless energy, optimism and positivity inspire and motivate teams, contributing to a vibrant and energetic work atmosphere.

Incorporating the Enneagram into leadership development unveils a nuanced understanding of each leader's unique strengths and growth areas. Embracing these insights allows leaders to harness their full potential, fostering a workplace environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and personal growth. As we navigate the complex landscape of leadership, the Enneagram emerges as a valuable ally, guiding us towards effective and compassionate leadership.