The Enneagram for TeensSample

What Now?

Do you recognize your type yet? How does it feel? Are you relieved to know there are other people like you? Or did it make you uncomfortable?

Typically a person doesn’t settle into their main type until their twenties, so give yourself time if you’re still figuring it out. The Enneagram can be deep, challenging work to process and go through, especially when we talk about the wounding childhood messages. When you consider the message that resonated the most with you, think about where that may have originated, and if it’s too painful to face, reach out to a professional for counseling.

Remember, the Enneagram is just a tool. When I discovered my type, I talked with my counselor about the childhood messages and was able to get a lot of clarity on where they originated, why I was so impacted by them, and what I could do to find healing faster. As I found healing, I was able to show up in the world as a healthier version of myself and operate in my true identity.

We touched on these points in the beginning, but I want to remind you of some important notes about the Enneagram. Here are some things to remember as you continue on your Enneagram journey:

1.The Enneagram is just a tool to better understand yourself, not an end-all, be-all about you and who you are, or something that determines your destiny. Do not elevate it or rely on it too much.

2.It’s a cake, not an onion. The layers build on each other. If you’re struggling to understand something, try going back to the previous thing you learned.

3.It should never be used as a sword or a shield. Don’t use it to shame, blame, or make excuses when it comes to yourself or others.

4.We are all types in varying degrees, and no one person is like another even within the same main number.

5.True change comes from partnering the Enneagram with the gospel and finding healing for any childhood wounds or core fears we may still be struggling with.

6.If you still have trouble finding your type after researching, seek out a coach to help you sort through your questions. There are plenty out there ready and willing to help!

What about the origins of the Enneagram?

The origins of the Enneagram are complex because so many teachers and thought leaders have taught the Enneagram through the lens of their own worldview, including me! I teach the Enneagram through a Christian worldview and believe that it’s useless without the gospel.

The truth is, the Enneagram isn’t incredibly clear on its origin and history because there isn’t just one source. Nor is it scientifically backed. Yet, when I read about my own type and when I hear other people discover theirs, it’s “scary accurate.” That’s the phrase I hear almost every time. I like it!

If you have questions about the Enneagram’s foundation, I highly recommend watching the deep dive study Pastor Tyler Zach did on the origins of the Enneagram, where he debunks and explains some commonly believed myths. It’s incredibly helpful and clear when it comes to some general issues people bring up. The video can be found on YouTube by typing in “Gospel for Enneagram Should Christians Use the Enneagram | Dealing with Common Objections.” He also has an online course all about the history of the Enneagram if you want to go even deeper. That can be found at tylerzach.com/history.