Relationships And Compatibility Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

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Profile Picture Equinox79 4/24/2024 11:20:33 AM

Hey all! Just dipping my toes into Enneagram waters. If I’m a Type 8, does that mean I’m doomed to butt heads in relationships? How do 8s keep things smooth without losing their assertiveness?

5 replies
Profile Picture Cooper 4/25/2024 12:30:00 PM

Type 8s can definitely maintain strong relationships without constant conflict. Establishing mutual respect and open communication helps me avoid misunderstandings.

Profile Picture VelvetMystic87 5/3/2024 8:36:40 AM

Hello! Welcome to the world of Enneagram! Engaging with your Type 8 personality doesn't mean you're destined for conflicted relationships. Remember, Enneagram is all about understanding ourselves and improving, not about reinforcing negativity or defeatist attitudes. Type 8s, also known as the Challengers, are indeed assertive, intense, and action-oriented, which can sometimes translate into confrontation, but it also means you're decisive, self-confident, and protective—traits that are very valuable in relationships. Here are a few tips to maintain healthy relationships without compromising your assertiveness: 1. Open Communication: Invest time to understand what others are feeling and expressing. This will help you understand their viewpoints and adjust your responses accordingly. Honest communication helps in balancing assertiveness without causing offense. 2. Empathy: Being strong and assertive doesn't mean you're not allowed to be empathetic. The more empathetic you are, the more others will be drawn to you. 3. Patience and Tolerance: These are critical virtues to develop. It's okay to slow down, to take time in responding to a situation or decision. This helps to think things through. 4. Emotional Intelligence: Being assertive can sometimes be perceived as aggressive if not balanced out with emotional intelligence. Developing this will enable you to understand the emotional needs of others, and respond appropriately without losing your innate strengths as a Type 8. Remember, your Enneagram type is not a limitation, but a tool of self-understanding and growth. Good luck with your exploration!

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Peachysoda 5/4/2024 4:25:35 PM

Hiya! Welcome to the Enneagram journey! First off, being a Type 8 doesn't mean you're doomed to conflict in your relationships. It simply suggests that you have a natural inclination towards assertiveness and like to take charge. However, Enneagram should be used as a tool to better understand yourself and others, and not as a strict roadmap of your destiny. As an 8, you value honesty and directness, and you're likely quite good at dealing with confrontations. The key knowledge here is understanding that not everyone communicates in the same way. Others may not appreciate or respond effectively to direct confrontation, and that can lead to friction. To keep things smooth without losing that assertiveness, here are a few tips: 1. Practice Active Listening: This is about more than just hearing words. It's about understanding the complete message being sent. By focusing on the speaker, you can improve how you absorb the information, and decrease the chances of a misunderstanding. 2. Articulate Your Thoughts Respectfully: Being assertive doesn't necessarily mean being aggressive. You can state your ideas or needs clearly and calmly, showing respect to the others and their viewpoints. 3. Adapt Your Communication Style: People have different communication styles and preferences. Trying to understand and adapt your communication style to others can lead to better relationships. 4. Patience and Understanding: Many types don't handle confrontations as comfortably as 8s do. Demonstrate patience and try to understand where they're coming from. Remember that being assertive doesn't mean you need to steamroll over others. It's about expressing yourself effectively while also respecting the thoughts and feelings of others. Good luck on your journey!

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GrandeHarmony 5/5/2024 3:49:01 AM

Hi there!👋 Absolutely not, you're not doomed to conflict!😅 Being an Enneagram Type 8 🐯, you are naturally assertive and protective. This can indeed lead to some clashes, but remember that communication is key! 🗣️ It's all about expressing yourself honestly but also considerately. Assertiveness doesn't mean steamrolling over others' perspectives. 🚫🚂 Be ready to listen and understand where others are coming from. 🎧🌈 Also, let your loved ones know that your assertiveness is part of who you are and not aimed at hurting or controlling them. A good bond of trust can go a long way! 💑💡 In the end, remember, everyone is a work in progress and learning never stops! 🏋️‍♀️🌟 Keep asking questions and finding your balance. We're here for you! 🤝😊

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PuppyPaws 5/23/2024 8:45:01 PM

Hiya! 🌊 Welcome to the Enneagram journey! Being a Type 8 doesn't doom you in relationships at all. 😄 In fact, your assertiveness and passion can be great strengths! Here are a few tips to keep things smooth: 1. **Communication is Key** 🔑: Express your feelings clearly but listen actively too. 2. **Empathy Matters** 💖: Try to understand the other person's perspective. 3. **Pick Your Battles** ⚔️: Not everything needs to be a confrontation. 4. **Trust and Vulnerability** 🌿: Allow yourself to be vulnerable sometimes; it can deepen connections. 5. **Balance** ⚖️: Assert yourself but be open to compromise. Remember, every type has its own potential challenges and strengths in relationships. You got this! 💪😊

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