Be a better leader with Enneagram
Have you ever wondered why some leadership styles feel more natural to you than others? Or why certain approaches resonate with you while others don’t? The answer often lies in understanding your personality type. Tools like the Enneagram can provide deep insights into your core motivations, strengths, and potential blind spots, helping you lead in a way that is true to who you are.
The Enneagram: A map of your inner self
The Enneagram is a powerful tool for self-discovery that identifies nine distinct personality types, each with its own unique set of characteristics, motivations, and fears. Unlike other personality frameworks, the Enneagram doesn’t just categorise you—it offers a dynamic system that reveals how you behave under stress, how you interact with others, and what drives you at your core.
I have always been a fan of personality tools as a way to understand yourself and to give you language to use with concepts that can be tricky to articulate. But it’s not about putting yourself in a box. When you recognise patterns that shape are shaping your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, you can use that awareness to grow and lead more effectively.
Why understanding your personality type matters
Authenticity in Leadership
Knowing your personality traits better allows you to lead from a place of authenticity. When you understand what motivates you and what drives your decision-making, you can align your leadership style with your true self. This not only makes you a more effective leader but also fosters trust and respect among those you lead. People are more likely to follow a leader who is genuine and self-aware.
Overcoming Stereotypes in leadership, especially for women
Women in leadership often face the pressure to conform to certain stereotypes or expectations about how a leader should act—whether that means being more assertive, less emotional, or adopting traditionally "masculine" traits. This can lead to a disconnect between who you are and how you feel they need to behave to be seen as effective leaders. By understanding your personality type through tools like the Enneagram, you can break free from these limiting stereotypes. You can lead with confidence, knowing that your unique style—whether it’s more empathetic, collaborative, or strategic—is not only valid but also powerful.
Leveraging strengths and managing weaknesses
Each Enneagram type comes with its own set of strengths and challenges, just like each and every one of us. By understanding your type, you can leverage your natural strengths while also being mindful of your weaknesses. For example, if you’re a Type 3 (The Achiever), you might excel at setting and achieving goals, but you may also need to be cautious of over-identifying with success and neglecting self-care. Awareness allows you to create a more balanced approach to leadership.
Enhancing relationships and communication
Core to leadership is communication and relationship building. The Enneagram helps you understand not only your own personality but also the personalities of those around you. This insight can enhance your communication, improve team dynamics, and allow you to resolve conflicts more effectively. By understanding the motivations and fears of others, you can adapt your leadership style to meet their needs, creating a more cohesive and motivated team.
Guiding personal growth
The Enneagram is not just a tool for understanding; it can also be a helpful roadmap for personal growth. It shows you where you are most likely to get stuck and offers guidance on how to overcome those challenges. As a leader, continuous growth is essential. By working on your blind spots and developing a more balanced approach, you can evolve into the best version of yourself, which in turn, enhances your leadership.
The Connection Between Personality and Leadership Style
Different Enneagram types naturally gravitate towards different leadership styles. For instance:
Type 1 (The Reformer) might lead with integrity and a strong sense of justice, always striving for excellence and improvement.
Type 2 (The Helper) may lead by fostering strong relationships, using empathy and support to guide and uplift others. (This is my type)
Type 8 (The Challenger) often leads with confidence and assertiveness, unafraid to take bold actions and confront challenges head-on.
By understanding these tendencies, you can embrace your natural leadership style while also adapting to the needs of your team and the demands of your role.
Becoming an authentic leader
Authentic leadership isn’t about trying to be something you’re not—it’s about deeply understanding who you are and leading from that place of truth. Your truth. When you’re grounded in your authenticity, you lead with more confidence, clarity, and compassion. You’re not just managing tasks; you’re inspiring others by being a role model of self-awareness and growth.
Imagine the impact of leading with full awareness of your strengths and challenges, understanding what drives you, and knowing how to communicate effectively with every member of your team. This level of authenticity not only enhances your effectiveness but also creates a work environment where others feel empowered to be their true selves.
Ready to embrace authentic leadership?
Understanding your Enneagram type is the first step towards becoming the leader you were always meant to be. Whether you’re new to leadership or looking to deepen your impact, this self-awareness can unlock new levels of growth and effectiveness.
My favourite website to use for the Enneagram test is www.truity.com
There’s no doubt that the journey to authentic leadership is an ongoing process of self-discovery and growth. By understanding your personality type, you not only become a more effective leader but also create a positive, empowering environment for those around you. So, take the time to explore your Enneagram type, reflect on what it reveals about you, and let it guide you on your path to authentic leadership.
If developing your voice and confidence as a leader is something that you are working towards, I recommend you check out my upcoming 2-day leadership training Ready to Rise.
