The Enneagram shows us= that there are nine basic worldviews, and thus nine different ways of working and motivations in the workplace. It exposes our unconscious drive, how we like to work, make decisions, and how= we relate to our bosses, colleagues, staff or employees and clients/customers. Interpreti= ng or judging others’ behavior from our perspective, we may find them incon= siderate, bizarre, too emotional, too unfeeling, intrusive, or indecisive.
“To see ourselves as others see us is a most salutary gift. Hardly less important is the capac= ity to see others as they see themselves."
= = &nb= sp; = Aldous Huxley
Understanding the Enne= agram helps us see how people are different, and that their behavior actually mak= es perfect sense to them. More importantly, it gives us a guide on how to relate to different people, connecting with them in their worldview and thus getting our message across clearly. It highlights the different motivations people have in the workplace:
One – The Professional, Perfector
Need
to be right, principled, avoid mistakes, above criticism, treat others and =
be
treated fairly, make the world a better place.
Efficient,
organized, methodical, attentive to detail, hard-working, responsible,
practical.
“The
world is imperfect and needs improving.&nb=
sp;
There’s a right way, let me teach you.”
Two – The
Need
to be needed, to help, support, be appreciated, be seen as considerate,
Helpful, good at executive support,
relationships, sensitive to others’ feelings.
“I
support and empower others. T=
hey
couldn’t do it without me.
People depend on my help.”
Three – The Achiever, Motivator
Need
to achieve, be successful, rise above the crowd, be admired, win, be the be=
st, receive recognition and reward.
Pragmatic, energetic, hard-worki= ng, result-oriented, self-motivated and motivating, leading. “The world is a contest that= I can win if I work hard and appear successful.&= nbsp; I avoid failure.”
Four – The Originator, Connoisseur
Need
to create something original, seek insight and inspiration, be
seen as unique and special.
Creative,
aesthetic, concerned with feelings, individualism, self-expression, profoun=
d.
“My
work is affecting and authentic, with depth, grace, insight, style … =
yet
something is missing.”
Five – The Strategic Planner, Investigator
Need
to be an expert, master an intellectual challenge, gather sufficient
information, defend against intrusions of others,
privacy.
Observing,
thinking, systematizing, analytical.
“I
am the master of my private world, built by superior commitment to special
knowledge. I am still thinking
about this …”
Six – The Trouble Shooter, Trooper
Need
to avoid problems through planning and preparation, to feel safe and secure=
, be
a committed team-player, belong, know the rules.=
Loyal, dependable, hard-working, detailed
planners, administrators.“The
world is dangerous, threatening. Be
prepared. I question authorit=
y."
Seven – The Innovator, Visionary
Need
to experience new things, make work life enjoyable, spontaneity, avoid unpleasant issues or consequences, free of
constraints/obligations.
Talented,
develop new projects, multi-tasking, selling ideas well, encouraging others=
.
“The
world is full of opportunities and options. I look forward to the future."=
;
Eight – The Challenger, Asserter
Need
to be independent, in control, assert authority and lea=
dership,
have justice.
Makes
tough decisions, takes risks, directs others, protects<=
/span>
the weak, high energy.
“I
am strong. I am in charge.=
221;
Nine – The Mediator, Peacemaker
Need
to maintain harmony, resolve conflict, co-operation, go=
od
feelings on the job.
Patient,
good negotiator, listener, reliable, accommodating, sees all points of view=
.
“Everything
will work out if we stay calm, amiable, and connected.”
If
our personality boxes us in, the Enneagram shows us the way Out o=
f the
Box! Next
Enneagram Workshop on 2nd & 3rd Mar 02=