Is there such thing as a perfect Enneagram team or partnership?
This is a question that comes up a lot! The short answer is no. There is no perfect match in teams or partnerships but certain Enneagram types can balance each other more harmoniously while other types may have more friction.
So what can you do to have a more high-functioning and cohesive team or a more empathetic and connected partnership?
It comes down to 3 things:
1. Self-awareness
2. Awareness of others
3. Great communication skills
Easy, right? Well, not so much. As an executive and leadership coach, I can confidently say that most people cannot check those 3 boxes. Greater self-awareness is a lifelong journey and not something that happens overnight. You have to want to be a better human, a better leader, a better parent or coach. So where to begin?
Step 1: Understand yourself. Know your strengths and blind spots. Do the work! The Enneagram is a great tool for this. Each report uncovers your motivation, strengths, challenges and blindspots and areas for development. When you know your “why” a world of possibilities opens up!
Step 2: Awareness and understanding of others. Operate through the lens of curiosity, asking “what” based questions, try to check your assumptions at the door. And find out their Enneagram types. It’s like a secret code for connection!
Step 3: Communication skills. Connect with a coach, do leadership training. Understand how to communicate with clarity, confidence and empathy. Read Dare to Lead! And tap into your Enneagram to understand how you show up in the world and how people perceive you.
As you can tell, I am Enneagram obsessed and unpacking team and relationship dynamics is one my favorite parts of being a leadership coach and Enneagram consultant.
As a solopreneur and Enneagram 7, I would love to have an Enneagram 1 and Enneagram 5 on my team. Why? I am a visionary always looking forward with ideas and optimism but I struggle with the details. An Enneagram 1 excels at organization and an Enneagram 5 has such deep knowledge they would provide all the techincal aspects needed for my business and presentations. Since it is just me, I often ask myself “How would an Ennegram 1 or 5 do this?” It is so helpful!
From a partnership perspective, there are no ideal matches! The goal is to find your similarities and support each other on your differences. An Enneagram 2 and 4 will have a deep emotional connection but will have to work on balancing boundaries (the 2 can be so giving) and embracing positivity (a 4 can be so brooding). Once you know what is needed you can build a roadmap for success and longevity.
Are you interested in learning more about 1:1 coaching or my signature Enneagram Team Building workshops? Book a call here!