The Harmonics

Another aspect of the Enneagram is the Harmonics which reveal to us how we deal with disappointment and how we tend to get into conflicts.

The Nine Types divide into three groups:- The Positive Outlook Group, The Reactive Group and The Competency Group.

In this post I'm going to look at the Positive Outlook Group which is made up of the Two, Seven and Nine. These three Types tend to reframe disappointment in a positive way. ie: 'We didn't win the project but we learnt a lot through the experience of submitting our ideas', or 'I don't like the job but I have met some nice people along the way'. They want to see the positive side of things and so reframe their disappointment by focussing on the positive.

All three Types tend to get into conflict around 'stuff' - their own and other people's. However it is for different reasons:

Two's, being 'other' focussed and wanting to help and be liked, tend to get over-involved in other people's stuff. They may insist on giving advice, for example, when it is not wanted, or go out of their way to manage someone else's career or not know when to refrain from getting involved in trying to influence someone's personal life. They are well-meaning but it can be too much.

Seven's tend to under-involve themselves in other people's stuff. They don't want to get involved fearing that it will weigh them down with hassles and negativity and interfere with their fun and freedom. They don't want to know. Their attitude being 'you deal with your shit and I'll deal with mine'.

Nines are sensitive to both their own stuff and other people's but as a result tend to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. When this happens they disengage and opt-out and so fail to deal effectively with either, simply ignoring it all and hoping for the best or shutting down and becoming ineffectual at managing any of it.

To win these Types over in an argument they need to be lifted up. Facts and figures, or getting annoyed or angry is not going to work. Give them something positive to hope or dream about. Inspire them!