Discernment: Using Enneagram to ask 9 Key Questions

In my job as a coach, I have that most paralyzing of situations in my work: choice. It is both the blessing and curse of entrepreneurship that there is so little that forces my programming and systems.

It means as I enter the fourth quarter of the year, I have to decide things about how to close out the year and what to aim for next year. My work is asking me, “What do you want to do?” and no one is telling me how to answer.

You might think that as an Enneagram Type 4, this would be ideal. I get to decide how to put my unique imprint on the world! But, as is true with all Enneagram Types, my desire is also my vice. Getting to decide what to do comes with deep struggles of identity. What if what I offer isn’t unique enough? Or authentic to my truest self?

This is a good first step towards using Enneagram as a discernment tool- to notice how the biases of our Type could be getting us stuck.

Am I trying to make the best decision when a good enough decision would suffice? (1)
Am I overly focused on the needs, reactions, and expectations of others? (2)
Am I feeling split between what would be successful and what I actually want? (3)
Am I making things about my identity that don’t have to be so deep or difficult? (4)
Am I looking for more information when the best next step to take is action? (5)
Am I trying to prepare for unknowns that I might just need to let unfold? (6)
Am I avoiding a choice because deciding would feel like it limited my freedom? (7)
Am I moving fast in order to not feel uncertain or vulnerable in the process? (8)
Am I sidestepping a decision because it would disrupt the status quo? (9)

Ooof. Those are hard questions for all of us to ask- no matter our Enneagram Type.

If you want more, my Work the Wheel article is a guide for using all three intelligence centers as we make choices.

Now let’s figure out if I can follow my own advice and figure out where I want to take my business next.

💛 Stephanie