Posted by Polly on December 21, 1998 at 13:17:23:
Let me start by saying I haven't had much time in the enneagram mode, but I have always been fascinated by trying to divine and analyze my personality. Right now I've been in a period of flux (some very pleasant, some not at all) and have recently taken an online enneagram test and done some reading -- and I can't figure out what I am! I have always thought I was a ONE (striving, self-critical, focussed on details)...but I don't find that this completely covers significant parts of me and how I interact in the world. On the most recent test I came up with SEVEN as the highest score, followed by ONE and FIVE. I recognize a lot of me in SEVEN that doesn't work with a ONE (many ideas, soem trouble with follow-through, definitely a front-end type person...and resulting concerns about my ability to continue to succeed in the work world, because I get very indulgent when I'm not enjoying things). But I definitely observe and perceive and THINK - a classic FIVE in many ways. I'm not comfortable being a FIVE because it seems to cut out my natural abilities with people and my very strong desires to be with and among people -- even while I struggle with a tendency to hide away from people. I don't think that I'm as diligent as it seems ONEs are, but I can focus when I decide to. I'm creative but flighty when it comes to boring details, and I have often opted to blow off something important in order to do either something new or to be alone. I don't feel good about retreating, but it is a response to stress.
From what I've read, SEVENs go to FIVE in good times, not bad. I think that my primary motivation is fear, not anger (unless it's suppressed anger turned on its head into fear...?). So WHAT AM I? Can anyone reconcile this?
Sorry that was so long. Obviously I find it complicated and would love anyone's insight into this.
Now for a simpler question (I hope): Can anyone explain wings and how to ascertain which (if any) a person has?
Thanks much.