A lot of people see the Enneagram as just another personality test, which means they see it as a way to explain their behavior and worldview, and this change their world or communication to ensure it aligns with their type.

This is super problematic.

It’s really not their fault, but what this does is actually continue to feed the ego and not actually help their true self. The enneagram is not about explaining and catering to your personality.

While being a 2 explains my aggression and anger in stress, it does not excuse it.

This is like when people explain problematic antiheroes and villains as just “misunderstood.” Abuse begets abuse, neglect begets aggression, violence begets violence. This is true.

But explanation =/= excusing.

The enneagram is NOT about explaining away egoistic behaviors as just part of who you are. The enneagram is about deep spiritual work to understand yourself SO THAT YOU MIGHT GROW.

And on the other side of the coin, the enneagram is not about feeding your ego. An enneagram two derives worth from being needed, but this does not mean I need to make sure I have relationships where I am needed. True growth lies in learning that I am worthy just as I am.

I don’t expect people to put in the hard work in growth that can be learned from the enneagram, but it’s heartbreaking to see people use the enneagram to justify their own ego and think they need to remain in places that just further their own pain.

& I don’t just mean people who use it in a selfish way to bolster self-confidence or hurt others; I am also speaking to people who are hurting themselves by not fully understanding.