What’s obvious; what’s not | Type 9
Sometimes stating the obvious can be a good reminder about each Enneagram type; sometimes we forget what is most apparent. There are also aspects of each type that are not-as-obvious, yet quite intriguing. This 9-part blog series, one for each Enneagram type, reviews three central and obvious aspects of each Enneagram type. You can also use the YouTube link below to hear and see three non-obvious features of this type.
What’s obvious
Harmonic environments
Nines are relaxed, easy-going and non-judgmental – at least externally – and are facile at creating rapport with others, whether it be on a one-to-one basis or within groups. Especially sensitive to underlying tensions that may exist between and among people, they thrive on harmonic interpersonal relationships based on mutual positive regard. When Nines experience tensions or lack of understanding between others, they are adept facilitators and mediators, listening closely to help others find common ground.
Conflict avoidance
Nines also avoid direct conflict whenever possible, minimizing aspects of their own behavior that could generate controversy – for example, taking a position on something that another person might disagree with; saying no when they don’t want to do something; challenging another person even when they disagree; and making decisions that could cause a negative reaction. Part of how they avoid conflict is to not be in touch with their own anger. For this reasons, Nines are often referred to as “anger that went to sleep.”
Attention diffusion
Nines diffuse their attention in a number of situations when they feel pressured by impending tasks; important decisions need to be made but none of the alternatives seem ideal; they are confronted with a complex task they are not sure how to do; they perceive someone else as trying to control their behavior is some way. How do Nines diffuse their attention? Here are some ways: merging or blending so thoroughly with another person, activity, or even inanimate object that they lose themselves in the process; engaging in a secondary task or activity instead of what they should be focusing on; finding something that comforts and relaxes them such as eating, collecting objects; sleeping and napping far more than really needed; and engaging in highly-routine activities.
What’s non-obvious
Masked ambition | Did you know that Nines are highly ambitious, even though they might not think this is the case?
Multi-faceted worldview | In addition to seeing multi-viewpoints, what other areas does the Nine mind perceive in great complexity?
Height | How can it be that most Nines are much taller than they think they are?
Ginger Lapid-Bogda PhD, the author of seven Enneagram-business books, is a speaker, consultant, trainer, and coach. She provides certification programs and training tools for business professionals around the world who want to bring the Enneagram into organizations with high-impact business applications, and is past-president of the International Enneagram Association. Visit: TheEnneagramInBusiness.com | ginger@theenneagraminbusiness.com
Hello! When clicking on the link it says it’s a private video and I cannot see it, anyone else experiencing this? Thank you!
Hi Luis! We are so sorry about that little tech glitch! Hopefully, everything is back up and running.
I just watched “Beautiful Day” about Mr. Rogers and this seems exactly like Mr. Rogers. Too cool.