I never really understood enneagrams before this class. I heard people ask about them like they might ask about your Zodiac sign at a party. Words like ‘helper’, and ‘artist’ were tossed about. I had an inherent inclination to choose something that met with my self-vision. something complementary.
As I delved deeper, I didn’t like my enneagram, the number 8. I kept testing myself with the hopes of finding the error of the initial test. Eight was ‘control’, and I dislike being controlled, viscerally so.
What I learned is that this type was a way of survival for me in childhood, the only way to live through the trauma of my young years. I had to control things for my own sanity in an insane environment. I learned that I grew into the light side of type over the years and that I wouldn’t be who I am otherwise. My leader type, when exercised from a place of feeling safe, does relate to being a caretaker, a peacemaker, and a deep-thinking observer. My leadership skills, when exercised from a place of making the world better, don’t have anything to do with controlling other people. I also learned that I had many rivers to cross to get here, some dark and darker places to slug through along the way and that by following my own light I grew into my best version of this type so far.
I can see the benefit of studying it in choosing work teammates and understanding your life partner, family members and friends, though primarily, we must first know ourselves first. It is a deep study that tells us so much about who we are, why we are the way we are, and how we interact with other types.
Thank you, Dr. Toni! I am wiser and better for it. – Alexandra M, Mexico
The participants were unanimous in their feelings that it was a very positive and unforgettable experience which will help them to do their jobs better – both as a team and individually. They especially appreciated the way the workshop was tailored to fit the specific needs of the team and to their individual capabilities andpersonalities. Robert G. Tripp, Pennzoil Products Company
You have a unique way of connecting with your audience, making them feel comfortable and uncomfortable at the same time. Thank you for making us all better individuals and better change agents. –Sharon M., Proctor and Gamble