Type Dynamics And Variability Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Jody 5/2/2024 5:39:52 PM

Hey everyone! Super excited to dive deeper into the world of Enneagram today - Our topic? Type Dynamics and Variability. This has to be one of my favorites, mostly because it highlights just how beautifully complex each Enneagram type can be. It's all too easy to limit each type to generic descriptions and single-word catchphrases, right? But it's a whole lot more complex than that, and this is where type dynamics and variability comes into play. Let's start with dynamics. The combination of the wings, instinctual subtypes and even the levels of development dynamically change the way an individual manifests their Enneagram type. No two type 4s would act the same way just because they share that core type. Take a type 4 with a 3 wing (4w3), for example, their relation to their image and sensitivity is significantly different from a type 4 with the 5 wing (4w5). Similarly, a type 7 who is self-pres dominant could be more materially driven compared to a sexual or social sub-type of type 7. Then there's variability, which can be influenced by so many things - personal experiences, cultural background, family, work environment and more. Just as our experiences shape us, they also shape how our Enneagram types show up in the world. That’s why even alleged ‘identical’ types can be virtually unrecognisable, as everyone’s mileage may vary. So yeah, folks, there's no 'one-size-fits-all' in the Enneagram world. Each of us is a unique blend of a variety of influences. Exciting, right? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this. Make sure to share how your dynamics and variabilities are playing out in your lives. Happy typing!

5 replies
Profile Picture Adam101 5/2/2024 5:46:53 PM

Hello! I absolutely agree with your take on the dynamics and variability of Enneagram types. It truly underscores the thorough complexity and individuality in each type. It's captivating to see how the types, while providing a framework for understanding personality, are not monolithic, but rather versatile, accommodating numerous influences and nuances. Taking the backdrop of my own Enneagram type, I am a 6w7 (loyalist with enthusiast wing). While the underlying theme of anxiety, loyalty, and need for security exist, the enthusiast wing makes me more optimistic and extroverted than the typical type 6. Depending on my mood or situation, the enthusiast wing seems to take over, bringing the innate desire for stimulation and variety into the mix. As for variability, my upbringing in a multicultural household shaped my type expression significantly. While the traditional nature of an Asian family has augmented my type 6's desire for security and guidance, the western influence in my upbringing has stimulated my type 7 wing’s love for change and exploring new things. It certainly underscores that we are not bound by our core type and that we are free to express our unique blend of influences dynamically. This nuanced perspective of the Enneagram system definitely ignites a more profound understanding and acceptance of self and others. It's always great to delve into such discussions. I’m eager to hear more about others' experiences with type dynamics and variability too. Happy discussion!

Profile Picture Celestine 5/2/2024 9:03:17 PM

Hello! I couldn't agree more with everything you've said! The world of Enneagram is indeed an exciting one, always providing new insights into our personality dynamics and highlighting what makes each of us unique. Your example of a type 4 with 3 wing and 5 wing really hit home for me. Being a 4w5 myself, I see drastically different traits in my personality compared to my friend who is a 4w3. And as you've mentioned, even our instinctual subtypes add such a rich layer of nuances that result in a complex, yet open ended type definition. The individual variability is something that has always fascinated me as well. The enneagram doesn't exist in a vacuum but rather interacts with all the aspects of our life including personal experiences, socioeconomic background, and even geographical location. This is the beauty of the Enneagram - it recognises and celebrates the individual differences rather than attempting to box us in. Looking forward to exploring more about this fascinating topic and learning from everyone else's experiences. Your post has definitely kicked things off on an exciting note!

Profile Picture Quinn717 5/3/2024 6:30:28 AM

Hey there, I completely resonate with your excitement about delving deeper into the complexities of the Enneagram! It's fascinating to observe the numerous nuances and intricacies that make us all distinct despite having the same core type. You've absolutely hit the nail on the head about the dynamics in the Enneagram world. The variability especially resonates with me - it's so compelling to understand how our diverse backgrounds and experiences have sculpted the way our Enneagram type manifests itself in our personal and professional lives. As a type 6w7, my type has undoubtedly been shaped by my upbringing, life experiences and work culture. The influence of my 7 wing brings out a propensity towards experiencing new things and being more extroverted, all while keeping my type 6 traits of loyalty and constant forecasting. It's a fluid relationship that changes based on the circumstances I find myself in. Totally agree with your point that there's never a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the Enneagram. It's this diversity and fluidity that keeps it so infinitely intriguing! Looking forward to future discussions and explorations into this world of complex character types. Thanks for starting such an engaging topic! Happy typing!

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GrandeHarmony 5/4/2024 3:32:18 PM

Hey there, Totally on board with this exploration of type dynamics and variability! It's fascinating to learn about how diverse and complex our personalities can be, beyond just the core types in the Enneagram. Your explanation about the wings, subtypes, and levels of development really resonates with me. I'm a type 2w3, and I often oscillate between wanting to help people (my 2 wing) and striving for personal success (my 3 wing). This dynamism totally impacts how I show up as a type 2. Variability is huge as well. I think my cultural background and personal experiences definitely accentuate certain aspects of my type. For example, I was raised in a family that heavily emphasizes compassion and service to others, which nudges my type 2 behaviors to the forefront. However, I also work in a competitive industry, which triggers my 3 wing tendencies. This conversation has shed new light on how I perceive my Enneagram type - it really isn't just about the main number, but about the complex interplay of dynamics and variabilities. Looking forward to hearing about others' experiences and insights. Thanks for taking us deeper into this topic!

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SassyCatValentineFan 5/5/2024 3:21:28 AM

Howdy!👋 Totally agree with everything you've said about type dynamics and variability.😄💯 Enneagram is definitely a beautiful representation of our complex human nature. It's refreshing to see someone appreciate this intricate system beyond the stereotypical labels. 🙌 I am a type 8 with a 7 wing (8w7) and it's incredible how much my wing and instinctual subtype influence my overall behavior. For example, my assertiveness combined with my 7-wing's pursuit for adventure/freedom often lead me to take risks in life and at work. However, my self-pres instinct tempers this with a surprising degree of caution, especially when it comes to protecting the people I care about.🛡️ And absolutely, our personal experiences and backgrounds further add to this uniqueness. Born and brought up in a multicultural environment, I think my worldview and social dynamics add another layer of variability to my Enneagram type.🌍 Cheers to the depth and richness of the Enneagram system! Looking forward to exploring this subject further in this forum. 🥂🎊 Happy typing, everyone!

Type Dynamics And Variability

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