What if the path to creating your next level of success is doing the opposite of what you usually do?
This article is the second installment of Counterintuitive Truths in Leadership. Part 1 can be found HERE.
A counterintuitive truth is something that is the opposite of what is intuitive or is a common-sense expectation, but is nonetheless true.
The Enneagram system of conscious development displays beautifully how any strength in excess can become a weakness, and how what you think you’re doing to achieve more success may actually create the opposite effect.
Consisting of 9 types that each have a unique core motivation that helps you understand deeper why you do what you do and why others do what they do, the Enneagram framework has been instrumental in my coaching of top leaders and executives in the last decade.
The Enneagram allows us to explore the polarity that exists within all of us. It shows us how doing the opposite of what our core type’s natural instinct or intuition is can be the key to unlock higher levels of success.
Whether you know your core Enneagram type or not, I’m sure that some of these counterintuitive truths by Enneagram type will resonate.
Last time we covered the counterintuitive truths for Types 1, 3, and 7.
Here are the remaining six types.
Type 2 is nicknamed the Considerate Helper and has the core motivation to be liked and appreciated. While Type 2 leaders are gifted with being thoughtful and focusing on other people’s needs, they often have a hard time identifying what it is that they want.
Instead of doubling down on saying “yes” and helping more people, taking the time to figure out what they need, asking for what they want in a direct manner, and saying “no” more often to projects and favors that do not align with what they want, is what will indeed help 2s become more successful and fulfilled.
Type 4, nicknamed the Intense Creative, has the core motivation to be unique and authentic. While Type 4 leaders are gifted at finding deeper meaning in things, fostering authentic connections, and can creatively express themselves, they may often get stuck by focusing on what’s missing instead of what’s there.
Instead of focusing on how much they’re misunderstood and different from everybody else, 4s can find freedom and success in celebrating what makes them ordinary. Instead of the default pattern of alternating between the high highs of positive emotions and the lowest lows of negative emotions, finding the beauty in equanimity, a mental calmness and even temper can help greatly.
Type 5, nicknamed the Quiet Specialist, has the core motivation to understand. Type 5 leaders are adept at slowing down to look at things analytically, ensuring that things make sense objectively, and being able to set emotions aside to decipher what additional information is necessary to move forward.
What can really help 5s grow in their leadership is to take more spontaneous action before they feel like they have all the information and to include their emotions in decision making and planning. Sharing their thoughts and feelings before ideas are fully formed will help them and those around them be more engaged in the communication process.
Type 6, nicknamed the Loyal Skeptic, has the core motivation to be safe and to belong. As a result, Type 6 leaders are talented with being discerning, the ability to think of worst-case scenarios and analyze risks, and are always mindful of how to keep everybody prepared and safe. They thrive when they focus on collaboration and teamwork and are extremely loyal.
What can really help 6s grow in their leadership is to balance worst-case scenario thinking with best-case scenario thinking. Instead of doubling down on skepticism which could turn into negativity, leaning into being cautiously optimistic and envisioning all the ways that things could go right could really help them expand.
Type 8, nicknamed the Active Controller, has the core motivation to be strong, avoid vulnerability and to have a sense of control. While 8s are natural leaders who are not afraid to take charge, be direct, and be assertive to confront someone or something, what really helps 8s grow when they want to level up is to let go of control, not try to control things even more.
When 8s allow themselves to vulnerably share more of their fears, insecurities, and adopt a more easy going relational approach to the situation, it can help them be more effective and successful.
Type 9, nicknamed the Adaptive Peacemaker, has the core motivation to be settled, in harmony, and to avoid conflict. While Type 9 leaders shine at being inclusive and non-judgmental with an even-temper and go-with-the-flow demeanor, oftentimes embracing conflict directly is what will help them lead even better.
When 9s are more direct and clear in speaking their mind and confronting problems head-on, challenges can be resolved quicker.
So, what about you?
Do any of these Enneagram counterintuitive truths resonate with you?
What area of your life, career, or business needs the most attention right now?
What is possible for you if you act and think the opposite of how you usually do?
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