Posted by Cory on September 29, 1999 at 21:07:41:
In Reply to: How Do You Ultimately Feel About Being a Four.... posted by Jen-Jen on September 29, 1999 at 18:33:13:
: (A) Do you feel like the other types have more (overall) positive traits than fours?
Tigs stated Fours have a disadvantage in this society, and she's right. In this society it would really pay off to be a Three, Seven, Eight or Six, since those types are quite common in the mainstream. Ones and Twos are about in the middle. Then you have the "outcasts" so to speak...Fours, Fives, Nines. Most of the famous Fours and Fives have been non-mainstream types, challenging the river flow. Virtually all philosophers have been Fours or Fives. Many great artists, writers, musicians have been Fours. Scientists who have challenged long held beliefs are usually Fives. But anyways, about Fours...our profundity doesn't match in this superficial world. While Threes are out there looking for success, and Sevens are searching for excess, the quiet, creative Four is looking for the Self. With my added Five wing, I'm looking for truth and meaning in philosophy and art. In society, Fours are of a small population...but don't be fooled by the waves of Fours on this board and in enneagram groups. Which type searches for the Self more than any other? So then, which type would most frequent a system that helps you find the Self? There's your answer. However, despite all the disadvantages (and maybe handicaps) to being a Four, I wouldn't change to any other type. There's a pride that sweeps over me knowing that I can grasp thoughts and feelings no "normal" person can comprehend. I would much rather keep my artistic zest for existence than trade it in for success or pragmatism. It feels good to be a Shaman among Tribespeople.
: (B) Do you fear you will never "self-actualize"?, that you will always be defective in some core, unchangeable way?
It's a fear of mine, so yes. My yearning is to become a great writer, blending poetry and prose and philosophy into a unique writing style, but clawing at the back of my mind, I hear that it won't happen. Also, I fear not being able to truly connect with others, since I feel socially inadequate and such. Still, I'm somewhat optimistic and hope what I dream will happen in reality Tomorrow.
And yes, you can quote me (if you even decide to use my quotes!)
Good luck on your project! Even though simply saying "Good luck" isn't going to help you improve it one bit, I thought its a friendly gesture of good will :)
-Cory