Enneagram Type 7
The Seven child was left to his/her own devices, usually given less attention, and their response was to distract or occupy themselves with different stimulations to distract them from the pain and loneliness. They found a way to entertain themselves whenever it was uncomfortable, and moved away from discipline, rules and inhibitions that could potentially restrict their freedom and joy. They also have a preference for positive options and pursuing experiences that bring happiness and excitement. This seeking for what works, staying optimistic and an avoidance of suffering soon became a part of their psyche.
Sevens are reputed to be the most optimistic, never allowing a difficult day to bring them down. They are quick to reframe and though they can recall sadness and pain, the labels placed on such memories makes them seem like passing clouds.
They love a good time and remain childlike because of their enthusiasm, excitable and free-spirited nature. They are likely to be the life of the party and probably the loudest, although this isn’t always the case.
They can be outspoken and spontaneous with their ideas, stimulated by their childlike energy. They rarely refrain from letting others know how different some of their thoughts are from the rest.
They are the best brainstormers, with a Disney-like mind where there are no holds barred. They have a vivid imagination which keeps them playful on the inside, hence the outside.
They are pleasers in many ways, generous and kind in their comments of others and consistently want to bring cheer to others who can’t seem to feel the feelings they do. They just want to make the world a much happier place.
With optimism, Sevens take it further by believing in themselves and others through their strong risk appetite and living in the moment. This attitude allows them to exhibit a keenness for entrepreneurship since they create the rules of engagement and the hunger to start new projects with creative energy.
They are multi-taskers and have such varied interests and abilities which they display through involvement in multiple events which pack up their schedule. They will avoid boredom at all costs.
Any type becomes Unresourceful when they begin to over-do some of the thoughts and behaviours that are typical of the type.
Sevens want to be stimulated by exciting pursuits constantly or at least be in a space that affords them happiness. This sometimes leaves them judgmental and impatient when they are in situations that are slow-moving or require patience. When in the company of people who may not offer the stimulation they crave for, their mind starts to shift to how to enliven the energy around them. This creates the kind of distraction that causes them to lose presence and attention.
They are great starters of projects since they enjoy new experiences but when the mind gets pulled into detailed analyses that might be boring, they can lose focus. They can be guilty of ditching something which they are bored of.
Some Sevens find it difficult to come home from “Disneyland” and get back to the grind, to commit to structure and tasks that require focused attention. They prefer the big picture, lofty goals and fantasies.
Since they feel restricted by doing repetitive things, Sevens may find it inhibiting to be in a committed relationship unless their partner gives them the freedom they desire. If they are in a relationship with an understanding partner who accepts their need for freedom, they will commit to a long-term partnership.
Sevens may not experience true joy if they avoid some of the painful experiences in their life. Whatever you avoid, comes crawling back and there will certainly be painful moments. This avoidance of anger and sadness especially, stifles their emotional growth and leaves them sometimes quite unrealistic in their expectations of others. There is a kind of impatience with others’ outbursts.
- Try to establish when you are feeling bored, what feelings are you masking… fear or anxiety? Your habit of escaping and finding something more interesting gives you a clue as to what you are avoiding.
- Allow yourself to fully experience pain, not only joy. To fully experience joy, you must know what pain feels like – in doing so, your joy becomes more meaningful and real. Focus your attention on your body and how it feels.
- Learn to develop ideas fully. With your charm, bravado and energy, all you need is a little more patience to push through any undertaking and you will receive the respect you deserve. Otherwise, you come across as superficial and shallow.
- Develop the ability to focus mentally, emotionally and physically.
- Sevens will benefit greatly from meditation – to stay in the moment and quieten down the mind. Meditation will allow you to recognize the state of your mental chatter and identify with your deeper self
- Learn to spread your joy without pushing because not everyone feels like you do. If you are grounded and steady as you do it, people can bask in your presence without them thinking there is something wrong with themselves.
Subtypes for the Type Seven
KEEPERS OF THE CASTLE: is a great networker. They are pleasure-seeking, practical, and adept at finding opportunities to create a comfortable life. They seek happiness through material comforts, routines, safety-nets and a well-organized, secure environment.
SACRIFICE: are generous and have a strong desire to be of service and create a better world, often sacrificing their own needs to serve the needs of the group or the person they support. They are outgoing, charming, and seek adventure within groups.
COUNTERTYPE
SUGGESTABILITY: sees the world through rose-tinted glasses. They are adventurous, romantic, and highly optimistic. They live in their fantasies and may have difficulty seeing reality. They are extremely happy, cheerful and highly trusting.
PROGRAMS
- Enneagram Practitioner Certification (Level 1)
- Enneagram Coach Certification (Level 2)
- Enneagram Advanced Practitioner Certification (Level 3)
- Masterful Selling with the Enneagram (WSQ)
- Effective Business Negotiation and Influence Using Psychological Tools (WSQ)
- Self-Mastery & Authentic Communication With The Enneagram