7 Common Enneagram Myths Debunked and Explained

There are many Enneagram myths circulating online, and while some of those are fun and irrelevant, some are seriously misleading. Enneagram can be a powerful tool for self-exploration, but if not understood properly, it might also inhibit our personal growth.

So, if you’re wondering whether claims such as “Enneagram type can change over time” or “You can be more than one type" are true, stay tuned.

In this article, we will be dissecting common misconceptions that have woven themselves into the Enneagram narrative in an attempt to bring more clarity to the complexities of this powerful personality theory.

7 Common Enneagram Myths & Misunderstandings

The following seven common Enneagram myths likely stem from a shallow understanding of the background of this theory and its logic, or a complete lack thereof.

We’ll analyze each one in-depth and explain why it is indeed a myth, as well as what the actual truth is.

#1. Myth: You Can Be More Than One Enneagram Type

The Enneagram myth that you can be more than one Enneagram type is a result of insufficient insight into the complex nature of the Enneagram theory and its personality system.

This is a myth because the Enneagram system is built on the premise that each person primarily develops a set of traits that fit the description of one core Enneagram type.

However, it’s important to stress that every type can have Enneagram wings, meaning they can display some traits of the two neighboring types that surround their core type on the Enneagram circumference, but one person can never be two core types at the same time.

Having a strong Enneagram wing is likely a reason some people feel they belong to more than one Enneagram type.

This can also happen if you take multiple Enneagram tests and get different results on each. In this case, the reason why you got different results is that the tests weren't reliably consistent and not that your personality type changed each time you took the test.

#2. Myth: Your Enneagram Type Can Change

The myth that your Enneagram type can change likely stems from a lack of understanding of the system as well, but it might also stem from the false belief that one's Enneagram type can be fundamentally altered through the process of self-improvement.

This Enneagram myth, in this case, is based on the belief that by overcoming the weaknesses of your core type, you can become a completely different Enneagram type.

The truth is, however, that your core motivations remain relatively stable throughout your life, and you just learn healthier strategies to satisfy your core needs.

Every Enneagram type can change in the sense that it can grow and develop, but you can’t become a different Enneatype altogether.

On top of that, every Enneagram type has three different levels of functioning: average and healthy, and at each level, a person behaves differently. However, this, again, doesn’t mean they change their type; they just grow into a different version of the type.

#3. Myth: The Enneagram is a Personality Test

The difference between the Enneagram and common personality tests is that such tests primarily focus on observable traits, while the Enneagram is a dynamic typing system that focuses on each type’s life strategy, core motivations, as well as fears that drive their behaviors.

Enneagram theory isn’t focused on categorizing who you are but on understanding who you are. It’s a dynamic system that explores the factors that shaped your personality as well as the factors that support or hinder your growth.

#4. Myth: You Only Have 1 Wing

The Enneagram myth that you only have one wing comes from a misinterpretation of the wing concept in the Enneagram system.

However, one of the reasons why the Enneagram is so rich and nuanced is the flexibility it provides. Enneagram theory explains that you can draw on traits of both adjacent types, meaning both Enneagram wings, in different situations and periods of life.

Though this may seem confusing since the wings sometimes show traits that are opposite of our core traits, the thing is, in real life, contradictions are not an exception but almost a rule.

You can look at Enneagram Wings as different strategies that are available to you and to which you resort when the strategy of your core type doesn’t allow you to satisfy your core needs.

#5. Myth: Enneagram Is Pure Speculation

While it is true that the Enneagram originates from spiritual theory and incorporates knowledge from ancient philosophies, its modern application in psychology has brought it worldwide recognition.

Many mental health care professionals have done research on Enneagram, tested its validity, and implemented it in their work.

Thanks to its depth and wisdom, the Enneagram has been especially useful in therapeutic settings as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth. It is also very popular in the field of human resources and similar areas that require efficient tools for recognizing an individual’s potential.

#6. Myth: Enneagram Determines Relationship Compatibility

The myth that the Enneagram determines relationship compatibility and that some types are mutually more compatible than others is just a reflection of a rigid view of the Enneagram theory.

Relationship compatibility is very complex and depends on many different factors that can’t be included in the Enneagram theory. Even two people of the same Enneagram type can be very different from each other, so there are more crucial indicators of mutual compatibility than just Enneagram types.

Understanding Enneagram types and their communication styles can enhance communication and empathy, which are essential for every healthy relationship. However, using Enneagram as the sole tool for predicting the success of a relationship is not advisable because all Enneagram combinations can work well together.

#7. Some Enneagram Types Are Better Than Others

The myth that some types are better than others is purely based on Enneagram stereotypes.

The thing is, Enneagram is not about evaluating personal traits. Essentially, the Enneagram describes a basic life strategy an individual develops as a response to their core needs and external circumstances.

Therefore, comparing Enneagram types is like comparing different life circumstances. It’s unnecessary and unjustified, as it doesn't encourage growth, nor does it allow us to understand ourselves and others better.

Plus, though some traits may be more typical of some Enneagram types, there are no rules about Ones being orderly, Twos being helpful, or Fives being smart.

Every Enneagram type has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and there’s no valid reason to believe any Enneagram type is better than any other. Each has its own unique perspective and intrinsic value.

Moreover, every Enneagram type can be whatever they want to be and enjoy love and success.

Key Takeaways

The power of Enneagram lies in its flexible and nuanced approach, and every myth is easily dismantled once you understand the essence of Enneagram theory.

Taking an Enneagram test is just the first step on the road to self-discovery, and you should be careful not to be misguided by unrealistic Enneagram scenarios and stereotypes.

So, let’s round off by highlighting the truths behind the most popular Enneagram myths:

• You can only be one core Enneagram type, regardless of having traits of other Enneatypes. Every core type can display the traits of either of the adjacent types, meaning every type can have two wings.
• Your core Enneagram type doesn’t change. However, you can evolve into a more developed version of your type, and your wings can get more pronounced with age.
• Enneagram isn’t just another internet personality test but a complete personality theory and system based on spiritual, philosophical, and scientific insights.
• Enneagram has been successfully used in psychotherapy and HR as it is a powerful tool for self-discovery and growth.
• Enneagram doesn’t determine relationship compatibility, but it helps enhance communication and empathy between partners.
• No Enneagram type is better than any other. Each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses.