The Enneagram in Action

The Enneagram is not only a personality type map but it is foremost a tool for growth. Used as a tool for counselling, it like astrology shows the paths for self-discovery and a way out of any stuck position.

Lets explore for a while how it might illuminate a problem and difficulty. Of course the first step is to know that there is a problem

Point 1 is recognising “I am unhappy with my situation”. From point 1 I can see point 7 which is where I have an idea of what would make me happy. This vision maybe unclear or impractical, but it provides a direction.

From point 1 I can also see point 4 which is where my resistance to change sits. I know that if I am to change I must confront my resistance and my defence structures. As soon as I am willing to confront these I become aware that I have been repeating my behaviours and recreating the same situations. This is point 2, and from here I can clearly identify what my aim is, point 8.

At this moment I know I am unhappy, that it is happening because I am resisting changing and I am repeating the patterns that keep me stuck even though I know what I want and need. We can see that point 3 is outside the hexagonal nature of the Enneagram structure. Something from the outside is needed to “shock” me into facing my limitations. It might be a book, or an online video or spiritual teacher, but most likely it is a counsellor or therapist.

I might recognise this but unless I reach out I will continue to repeat the patterns. In other words I have to become active in seeking help. Seeking help will only increase the tension and bring a crisis at point 4, if I can’t live through and bear these tensions I will inevitably repeat the old patterns yet again.

It can be seen that up until this point I have occupied the left side of the Enneagram, called the side of Causes. Now I also have the possibility for progress and moving to point 5 on the right hand side of Effects, where I am still in conflict and crisis, but where I can really see the vision of point 7 and the outcome and conclusion at point 8. Point 5 describes that the crisis has become a conscious struggle, where I acknowledge my suffering.

Again we arrive at the need for an external input. At the very least a book that shifts the ground on which one stands. A therapist or teacher is usually required and not just a counsellor who listens and reflects back. One is no longer projecting one’s inner dramas onto the world outside, but truly acknowledging that one is creating the difficulties oneself.

Point 6 is the waking point. There are no more excuses because I have dealt with my fears whatever they maybe. I am no longer at the mercy of neurotic behaviours, and I have regained my personal strength and power and move onto Point 7.

Point 7 is where I apply my power in order to serve the task of focusing on bringing happiness or the conclusion to my torments, Point 8, which inevitably of course leads to Point 9, the transition to begin again towards the next goal.

Its clear that I am ideally suited to the roles of both teacher, mentor, coach and therapist or the activator for Points 3 and 6. Exploring this website shows that I have access to a wide variety of tools, and are well qualified to act, yet more importantly I understand the framework and purpose of such an Ancient Wisdom technique as the Enneagram. As always use my contact email