Enneagram Type 7: Typical Stressors & Strengths

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enneagram type 7 personality

The Enneagram Type 7 personality (The Enthusiast) marches to its own drum beat, i.e. a different set of motivations, desires and fears from the other eight EnneaTypes. Let’s decode the typical factors – both Stressors & Strengths – that can impact the Enneagram Type 7’s health and well-being. 

Important caveatThe insights provided here are noticeable patterns drawn from many years of studying thousands of people around the world. They are indicative only, and not predictive or judgmental. Also, not all of these observations may apply to you. The aim is to prompt reflection and inspiration, rather than put you into a box. 

Enneagram Type 7: The Enthusiast

enneagram type 7 strengths and stressors

  • The busy, productive type.
  • Sevens are extroverted, optimistic, versatile, and spontaneous.
  • Playful, high-spirited, and practical, they can also misapply their many talents, becoming over-extended, scattered, and undisciplined.
  • They constantly seek new and exciting experiences, but can become distracted and exhausted by staying on the go.
  • Also, they typically have problems with impatience and impulsiveness.
  • At their Best: they focus their talents on worthwhile goals, becoming appreciative, joyous, and satisfied.

Strengths & Stressors

People with the Enneagram Type 7 personality display certain traits, which can influence their health and well-being at multiple levels.

Typical Stressors Typical Strengths

Physical

They tend to excess in everything: food/ drink/ socializing. Since they can’t resist their cravings, often they consume more than they can digest. They have a “Work hard, party harder” approach to life. Also, they can over-extend themselves and burn out. Caution: Risk of addiction to alcohol, stimulants and psychotropic drugs. They cultivate restraint and moderation to savour what they are actually consuming. To balance their frenetic pace and “busy-ness”, they learn to slow down and be energised and nourished by a more reflective, restful and well-prioritised lifestyle.

Emotional

The Enneagram type 7 experiences negative emotions like impatience, cravings, self-indulgence and escapism. Given their impulsive nature, they may also be prone to Histrionic issues or display bi-polar (manic-depressive) tendencies. They can let go their attachment to instant gratification and enjoy life in small bites. As a result, they become cheerful, radiant and effortlessly happy. Their essential “joie-de-vivre” shines through.

Mental

The Enneagram Type 7 views the world as abundant, but temporarily so; as if its treasures will be withdrawn if not partaken immediately. Particularly, they fear being deprived or in pain. Might use phrases like “I’d be happier if others gave me more of what I want” or “It isn’t OK to depend on anyone” or “I have failed if I don’t make the most of what life has to offer”. They live by their values of stimulation, variety, excitement and adventure. Besides, they channelise their exuberant energy to prioritise and accomplish/ close out important things. Also, they experiment with, and enjoy, new experiences in a practical and grounded way.

Relational

They get disturbed by limitations, routines, boundaries. Also, they can become demanding, jaded and infantile, constantly being hyperactive and tiring others out. They inspire others to celebrate joyously and share happiness.

Spiritual

Losing contact with the innate cyclical unfolding and abundance of Presence makes them feel left-out and deprived. Their ego copes by over-engaging with life’s possibilities and avoiding pain. It is also how ‘Gluttony’ arises. Staying ‘Present’ helps them rediscover the ‘Sobriety’ they have lost. Hence, they can live in moderation, savouring each fully and in gratitude.

Further Exploration

If these insights regarding the Enneagram Type 7 don’t resonate with you, please review the typical Stressors & Strengths of the other EnneaTypes, below. If you wish, you can learn more about your Personality type and also take a more detailed (paid) test at www.enneagraminstitute.com.

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