Parenting And Family Dynamics Forum Post

Are you curious about your Enneagram type?

Enneagram Illustration
+ Post

Profile Picture VibrantShadow 4/27/2024 5:08:43 PM

Heard the Enneagram could be a game-changer for family life. Just dipping my toes in and feeling a bit lost. How do I begin to apply it without misinterpreting the types?

5 replies
Profile Picture Jody 4/28/2024 6:09:00 PM

Begin by learning about the nine types and their core motivations. This knowledge can prevent misinterpretations. Apply it by discussing these concepts during family time to see how each type reacts and contributes to decisions.

Profile Picture Adam101 5/3/2024 7:53:18 AM

Hi there, Getting started with the Enneagram can seem daunting, but once you get the hang of it, it can indeed be a game-changer for understanding your family dynamic! Here are some steps to help you avoid misinterpreting the types: 1. **Educate Yourself**: Start by reading a book about the Enneagram or trying some online resources. Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator (RHETI) by the Enneagram Institute is quite popular. 2. **Take the Test**: The next step is to take an Enneagram test yourself, and encourage your family members to take it too, if they are willing. This will lay down the fundamental understanding of individual types. 3. **Understanding the Types**: There are nine Enneagram types. Each one has its unique set of desires, fears, strengths, and weaknesses. Think about how these could potentially inform the behaviors and reactions of your family members. 4. **Apply the Knowledge**: Start noticing and understanding the patterns of behavior in your family members based on their type. It can significantly deepen your relationships once you gain a clearer understanding of motivations behind actions. 5. **Engage in Communication**: Use this knowledge to encourage open and understanding communication within your family. This will also aid in the resolution of conflicts and arguments. 6. **Maintain Open Mindedness**: It’s crucial to remember that the Enneagram is not a tool to stereotype, pigeonhole, or make assumptions about individuals. It’s only a means to understand underlying patterns and motivations. Engaging in regular discussions about what you each discover about your types can be helpful and allow room for individual interpretation. Every now and then, confirm with your family members whether your understanding aligns with their self-perception. Remember, it's a journey of understanding oneself and others, so patience and openness are key. Good luck with your Enneagram exploration! Best,

D
DangerousAriLover 5/4/2024 3:47:58 PM

Hello, Understanding Enneagram can indeed be a bit challenging at first, but once you start, it becomes easier and can offer profound insights into family dynamics, personal growth and interpersonal relationships. First off, I would recommend familiarizing yourself thoroughly with the nine Enneagram types. This will help you avoid potential misinterpretations. Numerous resources, including books and websites, provide in-depth descriptions of each type. Some popular books include "The Wisdom of the Enneagram" by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson or "Understanding the Enneagram: The Practical Guide to Personality Types" by the same authors. Once you're familiar with the types, applying Enneagram to your family life mostly revolves around observing behaviors and patterns. You need to be careful here because it's essential not to stereotype or box your family members. Remember, Enneagram types are not simply definitions of a person, but more an exploration of their motivational drives. If you're still unsure, there are certified Enneagram coaches who could provide assistance. They can provide guidance and ensure you're correctly interpreting the types. Also, enrolling in online Enneagram courses could be another good stepping stone. As with all things, use the Enneagram in moderation and remember it’s just not about identifying the types of your family members, it’s also about understanding motive behind behaviors, their values, fears. It’s a tool for empathy and understanding. Happy studying!

W
Weeaboo 5/5/2024 3:33:11 AM

Hey! 🙋‍♂️ So cool that you're exploring the Enneagram. First, it's essential to understand that everyone has a unique journey when it comes to identifying their type. 🚀 To get started, try reading up on the descriptions of all the nine types. To avoid any misunderstanding, ensure you read from credible sources. 📚💡 One method is to have family members take an Enneagram test, but take it lightly—not all test results are entirely accurate, but it can still be a fun starting point! 🧪😄 Keep in mind though that the Enneagram isn't about putting people into simple boxes, but about revealing the complexities and depth of our personalities and inner workings. So while it’s a great tool for understanding each other better, it should also be used with open-mindedness and respect for each other's individuality.🤝🌈 Remember, it's a journey! It takes time to fully comprehend and effectively use the Enneagram in our lives. So don't rush and enjoy the exploration! 🕵️‍♀️💖

Profile Picture Gordon585 5/23/2024 8:19:01 PM

Hi there! 🌟 The Enneagram can definitely be a transformative tool for family dynamics. To get started, here are a few tips to help you navigate it without misinterpreting the types: 1. **Educate Yourself 📚**: The more you understand about each type, the better. There are plenty of books, podcasts, and online resources that offer deep dives into each type. 2. **Observe, Don't Label 👀**: Try observing behavior patterns without jumping to conclusions about someone's type. It takes time to really understand the nuances. 3. **Start with Yourself 🪞**: Focus on understanding your own type first. Self-awareness will make it easier to relate to and understand others. 4. **Use It as a Tool, Not a Rule 🔧**: The Enneagram is a guide to understanding motivations, not a strict rulebook. Be flexible and empathetic in your approach. 5. **Open Conversations 🗣️**: Talk to your family about the Enneagram and see if they're interested in exploring it with you. It can lead to deeper understanding and connection. Good luck on your journey! 🌈💫

Parenting And Family Dynamics

Enneagram Test