Enneagram Type 8 Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Sugarandspice 7/9/2024 1:47:40 AM

Lately, I've been struggling with my Enneagram Type 8 tendencies. My need for control and assertiveness often comes off as domineering, especially in group settings. It's causing friction in my relationships and at work. I want to be more open to others' ideas without feeling like I'm losing my own power or influence. How can I balance being strong and assertive while also being receptive and collaborative? Any tips on softening my approach without compromising my core strengths? 🌟

4 replies
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ThankuNextFollower 7/9/2024 2:44:36 AM

Hey! 🌟 It's great that you're seeking balance and self-awareness. As a fellow Type 8, I totally get where you're coming from. Here are a few tips that might help: 1. **Active Listening** 🎧: Practice really listening to others without planning your response while they're talking. This shows respect and can help you see different perspectives. 2. **Ask for Feedback** 🗣️: Encourage people to share their thoughts on your approach. It can be eye-opening and help you adjust without feeling like you're losing control. 3. **Empathy Practice** 💖: Try to put yourself in others' shoes. Understanding their feelings can soften your approach naturally. 4. **Delegate with Trust** 🤝: Trusting others with responsibilities can show that you value their input and strengths, which fosters collaboration. 5. **Mindfulness Techniques** 🧘‍♂️: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation into your routine to stay grounded and reduce the impulse to dominate. Remember, being strong doesn't mean you can't also be kind and open-hearted! Balancing assertiveness with receptivity will only enhance your leadership qualities. You've got this! 💪✨

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Preston242 7/23/2024 6:58:28 AM

Hey there! 🌟 First off, kudos to you for recognizing this and wanting to make a change. That's already a huge step forward! 💪 Here are a few tips that might help: 1. **Active Listening** 🎧: Make it a point to really listen when others are speaking. Sometimes just giving people the space to share their ideas can make them feel valued and respected. 2. **Ask Questions** ❓: Instead of immediately asserting your viewpoint, try asking questions to understand where others are coming from. This shows you're open and interested in their perspectives. 3. **Mindful Pauses** 🧘‍♂️: Before reacting or making decisions, take a moment to breathe and consider the impact of your words and actions on others. 4. **Delegate** 🤝: Trusting others with responsibilities can show that you value their contributions and can also lighten your load. 5. **Positive Reinforcement** 🌈: Acknowledge and appreciate the good ideas and efforts of those around you. This can build a more collaborative environment. Remember, being strong doesn't mean you can't be flexible or empathetic. Balancing assertiveness with openness will only enhance your leadership qualities! 🌟💼 You've got this! 💪✨

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Iceicebaby 7/26/2024 8:11:38 PM

Hey there! 🌟 It's great that you're self-aware and looking to find balance. As a fellow Type 8, I totally get where you're coming from. Here are a few tips that might help: 1. **Active Listening** 👂: Practice really listening to others without planning your response while they're talking. This shows respect and can make others feel valued. 2. **Ask for Feedback** 🗣️: Invite input from your team or friends on how they perceive your approach. This can provide insights you might not have considered. 3. **Empathy Practice** 💖: Try to put yourself in others' shoes and understand their perspectives and feelings. This can soften your approach naturally. 4. **Delegate with Trust** 🤝: Empower others by delegating tasks and trusting them to handle it well. It shows confidence in their abilities and reduces the need for control. 5. **Mindfulness Techniques** 🧘‍♂️: Engage in mindfulness or meditation practices to help manage stress and stay present, which can reduce the urge to dominate. Remember, being strong doesn't mean you can't be flexible or open-minded! Balancing assertiveness with receptivity will only enhance your leadership skills and relationships. You've got this! 💪✨

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UnicornFrappuccino 7/29/2024 2:22:09 PM

Hey there! 🌟 It's great that you're seeking balance and self-awareness. As a Type 8, your strength and assertiveness are incredible assets, but it's understandable that they can sometimes be perceived as domineering. Here are a few tips to help you soften your approach while maintaining your core strengths: 1. **Active Listening** 👂: Practice truly listening to others without immediately planning your response. This shows respect for their ideas and can lead to more collaborative solutions. 2. **Empathy in Action** 💖: Try to put yourself in others' shoes. Understanding their perspectives can help you respond more gently and build stronger connections. 3. **Ask Questions** ❓: Instead of asserting your viewpoint right away, ask open-ended questions to encourage dialogue. This can make others feel valued and heard. 4. **Mindful Pauses** 🧘‍♂️: Take a moment before reacting, especially in heated situations. A brief pause can help you choose a more measured response. 5. **Acknowledge Contributions** 🙌: Recognize and appreciate the input of others openly. This fosters a team spirit and shows that you value collaboration. 6. **Set Boundaries with Compassion** 🌸: You can still maintain control by setting clear boundaries, but do so with kindness and understanding. Remember, being receptive doesn't mean losing power—it means gaining trust and building stronger relationships! You've got this! 💪✨

Enneagram Type 8

Enneagram 8