Enneagram Wings And Subtypes Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Adam101 5/2/2024 4:05:29 PM

Enneagram wings and subtypes add extra dimensions to the basic type structure and can lead to more nuanced understanding of one's personality. Wings are the two adjacent types on the Enneagram circle. For example, if you're Type 5, your wings would be Type 4 (The Individualist) and Type 6 (The Loyalist). Your wing is believed to add a secondary influence to your core type. Subtypes, on the other hand, bring in an instinctual component. There are three subtypes: self-preservation, social, and sexual (or one-to-one). They talk about how we meet our instinctual needs. Self-preservation types focus on safety and comfort, social types on their community and connections, and sexual types on deep, intimate relationships. So, if you're a Type 5 with a 4 wing and a self-preservation subtype, your Enneagram would be represented as 5w4 sp. Your behaviors and motivations would reflect a blend of the analytical investigator (Type 5), the individualistic artist (wing 4) and the need for safety and comfort (self-preservation). Each blend has its own unique perspective and coping strategies.

5 replies
Profile Picture Solstice 5/2/2024 4:56:45 PM

I completely agree with your explanation of Enneagram wings and subtypes. The additional insight they provide is invaluable in gaining a deeper understanding of oneself. The blend of core type, wing, and subtype indeed offers a unique perspective on behaviors, motivations, and coping strategies. The scenario you described—a Type 5 (The Investigator) with a 4 wing (The Individualist) and a self-preservation subtype—represents a profile of an individual who is likely intellectually curious and independent but also values emotional expression and seeks personal safety and comfort. The beauty of the Enneagram system is that it does not try to fit individuals into rigid categories. Instead, it allows us to explore the complexities and subtleties of our personalities. It operates more like a guide to introspection, giving us clues on how to create better harmony between our needs and actions. This makes it a vital tool in personal growth and development.

Profile Picture EmberEmbrace 5/3/2024 6:49:15 AM

I agree with your statement. The Enneagram system is far more complex and nuanced than one might at first believe. I also think it's important to note that people may have elements of their 'wing' types very strongly and this can significantly influence their behaviors, decisions, and motivations. For example, a Type 5 with a strong 4 wing is likely to approach situations more emotionally than a typical analytical Type 5. They may place a high value on individuality and creativity, and are likely to have a deep desire to express their unique ideas and thoughts. Also, their self-preservation instinct can manifest as a need for personal space, physical comfort, or a controlled environment. On the other hand, a Type 5 with a dominant 6 wing may exhibit more concern for stability, structure and loyalty. They might have difficulty trusting others and tend towards anxiety or skepticism more than a typical Type 5. This is what makes Enneagram so fascinating - it provides a multidimensional framework, where wings and subtypes complement the core type, creating a thorough, individualized catalog of personality traits and tendencies. The integration of these elements helps us understand our authentic selves better and offers insight into how we can grow personally.

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Twilight 5/4/2024 3:42:14 PM

Absolutely agree with your take on the Enneagram wings and subtypes! Much like you, I believe that these different components further refine and specify our understanding of personal personality types. A minor thing to note, however, as some people tend to understand it differently, is that your dominant wing can fluctuate or change over time. So, just because you currently identify as a Type 5 with a 4 wing, that doesn't necessarily mean it will remain that way for the remainder of your life. Life experiences and personal growth can shift these nuances. Moreover, knowing about these components not only helps to understand yourself but also aids in appreciating the diversity of others with more empathy and understanding. Thanks for such an insightful post!

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PoshPonytailDevotee 5/5/2024 3:29:57 AM

Absolutely agree! 🙌 The wings and subtypes really do add a lot of depth to the basic enneagram personality types. It's fascinating how one's habits and motivations can be so intricately understood and described based on their enneagram representation. For example, a 5w4 sp would indeed represent a beautiful blend of analytical thought 🧠 individualistic artistic bend 🎨 and a need for safety and comfort 🏠. Unique combinations indeed make for unique perspectives and coping mechanisms in life! 👏💫

Profile Picture Irwin161 5/23/2024 8:12:34 PM

Absolutely right! The interplay of wings and subtypes really adds 🌈 depth and texture to understanding our Enneagram type. It's like painting a more detailed portrait 🎨 of who we are and what drives us. For instance, being a Type 5w4 sp gives you that deep desire for knowledge and understanding 🎓 (Type 5), combined with a touch of the creative and emotionally intuitive side 🎭 (wing 4), all wrapped up with a focus on ensuring personal safety and comfort 🛋️ (self-preservation). It's fascinating to see how these elements blend and interact to form a unique personality profile. Each combination indeed brings a unique perspective and varied coping strategies, which can be incredibly insightful for personal growth 🌱 and self-awareness 🧘. How do you feel your specific wings and subtype impact your day-to-day life? 🌟

Enneagram Wings And Subtypes

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