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What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram: Understanding the Nine Personality Types for Personal Growth and Strengthened Relationships
Pronounced ENN-EE-UH-GRAM, stemming from the Greek words ennea (nine) and grammos (a written symbol), the Enneagram is a centuries-old categorization tool that classifies human personalities into nine interconnected personality types. It is a powerful tool for self-observation, maximizing your strengths, and improving your relationships.
Learn—through in-depth descriptions, illustrations, and more—how to assess how you think, feel, and experience life, so that you can correctly identify which of the nine types you are.
Type 1: The Improver/Reformer/Perfectionist (Life Strategy: “I must be perfect and do what is right.”)
Type 2: The Helper/Giver/Befriender (Life Strategy: “I must be helping, caring, and needed.”)
Type 3: The Achiever/Performer/Motivator (Life Strategy: “I must be impressive and look accomplished and successful.”)
Type 4: The Individualist/Romantic/Artist (Life Strategy: “I must be understood uniquely as I am.”)
Type 5: The Investigator/Observer/Theorist (Life Strategy: “I must be knowledgeable and equipped.”)
Type 6: The Loyalist/Skeptic/Guardian (Life Strategy: “I must be secure and safe.”)
Type 7: The Enthusiast/Optimist/Epicurean (Life Strategy: “I must be enjoying myself and avoiding pain.”)
Type 8: The Challenger/Protector/Advocate (Life Strategy: “I must be strong and outside the control of others.”)
Type 9: The Peacemaker/Mediator/Reconciler (Life Strategy: “I must maintain peace and calm.”)
Authors Liz Carver and Josh Green, creators of the hugely popular Instagram account @justmyenneatype, help you discover how knowing your type—and the types of those around you—can affect your daily life, your decisions, and your relationships with others, and how to use this wisdom to live life with more clarity, peace, and insight than you ever thought possible.
So what’s your enneatype? Find out today and get started on the journey to better understand your world, yourself, and your place within it.
Learn—through in-depth descriptions, illustrations, and more—how to assess how you think, feel, and experience life, so that you can correctly identify which of the nine types you are.
Type 1: The Improver/Reformer/Perfectionist (Life Strategy: “I must be perfect and do what is right.”)
Type 2: The Helper/Giver/Befriender (Life Strategy: “I must be helping, caring, and needed.”)
Type 3: The Achiever/Performer/Motivator (Life Strategy: “I must be impressive and look accomplished and successful.”)
Type 4: The Individualist/Romantic/Artist (Life Strategy: “I must be understood uniquely as I am.”)
Type 5: The Investigator/Observer/Theorist (Life Strategy: “I must be knowledgeable and equipped.”)
Type 6: The Loyalist/Skeptic/Guardian (Life Strategy: “I must be secure and safe.”)
Type 7: The Enthusiast/Optimist/Epicurean (Life Strategy: “I must be enjoying myself and avoiding pain.”)
Type 8: The Challenger/Protector/Advocate (Life Strategy: “I must be strong and outside the control of others.”)
Type 9: The Peacemaker/Mediator/Reconciler (Life Strategy: “I must maintain peace and calm.”)
Authors Liz Carver and Josh Green, creators of the hugely popular Instagram account @justmyenneatype, help you discover how knowing your type—and the types of those around you—can affect your daily life, your decisions, and your relationships with others, and how to use this wisdom to live life with more clarity, peace, and insight than you ever thought possible.
So what’s your enneatype? Find out today and get started on the journey to better understand your world, yourself, and your place within it.
176 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2020
64 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 5, 2020
Simple yet so insightful.
It is truly the simplicity of "What's Your Enneatype" that makes it so amazing for a beginner who wants to learn more about the Enneagram theory! I personally learned a lot from this book. The reasons why I deducted a star are because (1) I felt like it dwelled too much on each individual type in each section and should've rather spent some of that time on information about the Enneagram as a whole and (2) while I liked the mood of the writing style, it just wasn't my thing. It probably resonates more with those 30+? I don't know, maybe it's the references to wine and yoga that kind of threw me off. 😂 Overall, this was a great read that taught me a lot. I highly recommend this as a beginner's book on the Enneagram or for someone to use as a reference book to look back on. 🙂
It is truly the simplicity of "What's Your Enneatype" that makes it so amazing for a beginner who wants to learn more about the Enneagram theory! I personally learned a lot from this book. The reasons why I deducted a star are because (1) I felt like it dwelled too much on each individual type in each section and should've rather spent some of that time on information about the Enneagram as a whole and (2) while I liked the mood of the writing style, it just wasn't my thing. It probably resonates more with those 30+? I don't know, maybe it's the references to wine and yoga that kind of threw me off. 😂 Overall, this was a great read that taught me a lot. I highly recommend this as a beginner's book on the Enneagram or for someone to use as a reference book to look back on. 🙂
February 20, 2022
Enter the Enneagram, which demands you understand that self-knowledge is not an end in itself, but rather an invitation to grow.
My best friend and favourite person in the world is an Enneagrammer (a word I’ve just invented for those passionate about the Enneagram). And over the years, she’s really rubbed off on me.
The Enneagram has provided much fodder for our inside jokes and dynamic (she’s an 8w7, I’m a 7w8—it’s a BLAST). We hang out and analyze the heck out of our friends and family (turns out my dad’s an 8, and I’ve since become much more sympathetic to him). Most of all, she and the Enneagram have helped me understand and give words to the parts of myself that I’ve always struggled to articulate.
Fundamentally, the Enneagram is a framework for understanding ourselves: the fears and motivations at our very cores. These qualities are unique to each of us, shaped by our individual biology, traumas, relationships, and experiences. And What's Your Enneatype? is a fantastic jumping-off point for Enneagram newcomers of the 21st century.
If you’re familiar with Hannah Paasch's work, this book reminds me of Millenneagram: The Enneagram Guide for Discovering Your Truest, Baddest Self. It’s got the same modern sensibilities and easy-to-consume diction—just less heavy on the pop culture references, profanity, and Gen Z-speak.
This book is also brimming with splashy vectors, and features a cheerfully minimalist aesthetic. It's a compilation of the content that authors Josh and Liz have posted on their Instagram account (@justmyenneatype) these last 2 years.
There’s theory/background to start, and then we delve into personalized chapters for each type. (Information about each Enneagram type is easily identifiable because they’re grouped by a colour scheme developed by the authors.) We’re given advice for cultivating thriving relationships with friends of a certain type, and helpful pointers about “nested lies”—misconceptions—that we tell ourselves.
What's Your Enneatype? equips us with tools to better understand ourselves, for example through somatic/emotional check-ins and tips for self-care. Most importantly, we gain invaluable insight into the aspects of ourselves that are incredibly difficult to own up to—the thorniest, not-so-pretty bits of our self-conceptions. Endgame? To help us transcend our everyday selves and become someone even greater.
My only complaints are that 1) the blocks of text tended to be dense and hard to read (and the font didn't help), and 2) I found some of the text repetitive. For example, discussion of the relationship between 4s and 7s occurs in each type’s respective chapter, but nothing new is added in the second occurrence—they’re essentially rephrasing or straight up repeating what was said earlier.
In all, definitely an accessible entry into the world of the Enneagram that I'd recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Fair Winds Press for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 30, 2020
Because I have already read a lot about the Enneagram, I ended up skimming through this book. The font size was so small that I didn't want to put in the effort to read every word, so I mainly focused on the chapters that I was most interested in, and looked at all of the infographics. I am very impressed with the engaging visual layout, and enjoyed this unique presentation. I also liked the authors' explanation of how they selected the colors for the types.
The one thing that I found extremely strange was the description of social, self-protected, and "sexual" versions of each type. The last type focuses on intimate platonic or romantic relationships, and there is nothing specifically sexual about it. It seems like an incredibly odd and off-putting form of phraseology, and there is no world in which I would introduce my type by saying, "Oh, I'm a One wing Nine, and the sexual type." I have never encountered this kind of terminology in another Enneagram book, but the authors didn't explain where it came from, or justify the language. It just seems really strange. There has to be a better way to describe a type that focuses on a few close relationships, without all of the unnecessary implications.
On a positive note, I appreciate how the authors emphasized the importance of using the Enneagram for your own self-awareness and growth, instead of using it as as way to label or dismiss others. They also do a great job of explaining that even though this can be a very useful tool for some, it is not the only way to achieve personal growth, and someone should not try to force the system on someone who is not interested and does not find it helpful. Since so many Ennegram books present the system with evangelistic zeal, I appreciate the authors' nuanced perspective and warning against forcing it on others.
This is a very thorough introduction to the Enneagram for someone who is new to the system, even though the small font size is a challenge. It's also an interesting resource for people who are already very familiar with the Enneagram and their type, but would benefit from seeing details visually displayed with engaging graphics.
The one thing that I found extremely strange was the description of social, self-protected, and "sexual" versions of each type. The last type focuses on intimate platonic or romantic relationships, and there is nothing specifically sexual about it. It seems like an incredibly odd and off-putting form of phraseology, and there is no world in which I would introduce my type by saying, "Oh, I'm a One wing Nine, and the sexual type." I have never encountered this kind of terminology in another Enneagram book, but the authors didn't explain where it came from, or justify the language. It just seems really strange. There has to be a better way to describe a type that focuses on a few close relationships, without all of the unnecessary implications.
On a positive note, I appreciate how the authors emphasized the importance of using the Enneagram for your own self-awareness and growth, instead of using it as as way to label or dismiss others. They also do a great job of explaining that even though this can be a very useful tool for some, it is not the only way to achieve personal growth, and someone should not try to force the system on someone who is not interested and does not find it helpful. Since so many Ennegram books present the system with evangelistic zeal, I appreciate the authors' nuanced perspective and warning against forcing it on others.
This is a very thorough introduction to the Enneagram for someone who is new to the system, even though the small font size is a challenge. It's also an interesting resource for people who are already very familiar with the Enneagram and their type, but would benefit from seeing details visually displayed with engaging graphics.
January 27, 2025
If you're way behind the times on the Enneagram like I was, this book will quickly bring you up to speed. It offers an easy-to-read and understand synopsis of each Enneagram type, while also diving just deep enough to keep things engaging and insightful without feeling overwhelming.
September 6, 2020
What's Your Enneatype by Liz Carver and Josh Green, of the Instagram account @justmyenneatype, is an attractive and accessible primer on the Enneagram personality types. It has a bright, colorful layout, with each of the nine types receiving a corresponding color code, and charts and illustrations are used throughout to illustrate the concepts. Carter and Green use simple, succinct explanations for describing each of the types and the conceptual elements of understanding the types better: wings, subtypes, triads, shadow sides, stances, and integration & disintegration, among others. There's an attractively consistent format of topics and illustrations for each type. I found both the format and writing easy to read and understand (although my advanced digital copy required lots of scrolling and zooming, so I'm not sure how it will present in print. Hopefully less magnification required.). Also, as a note, while Enneagram is often heavily used by Christian writers, this book avoids any specifically religious language and as such should be a comfortable and accessible read for people of any faith.
This book contains positive but realistic type descriptions, that offer encouragement but also advice and warnings. Carver and Green don't just teach about what the types mean, but the ways in which they can vary in presentation, how they can change under stress or with personal growth, internal lies and doubts that each type may fall prey to, and weaknesses to avoid. There is a self check-in chart for each type to help determine how the type is manifesting at the moment. Each chapter also includes advice for those who love someone of that type on how to maximize their relationship with the person.
The book ends on a very practical note, reminding readers to use the Enneagram for its benefits, without falling into the trap of using types as excuses for bad behavior, of feeling limited by the parameters of types, or of forcing Enneagram types onto others, either by going around mentally assigning types to everyone you encounter, or by pressuring those around you to use Enneagram themselves. But the authors don't just warn; they also encourage, reminding readers that it's OK to ask for help, and that it's important to be kind and give yourself grace when you make mistakes.
What's Your Enneatype is a practical and succinct summary of many of the concepts involved in Enneagram personality types. As such, it's not incredibly in-depth or involved. It is instead a great introductory text for those interested in learning more about the Enneagram, about what the types are and how to use them. I wish there was a bibliography with additional recommended reading resources, but perhaps there is one in the final print addition. If you already have a strong familiarity with Enneagram, you may not find this book very helpful, but if you're looking for a balanced and accessible starting point, this could be just the book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and will be looking for more (more in-depth) books on the topic in the future.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Fair Winds Press/ Quarto for allowing me to read a free temporary digital advanced readers copy of #WhatsYourEnneatypeAnEssentialGuidetotheEnneagram . This is my honest opinion.
This book contains positive but realistic type descriptions, that offer encouragement but also advice and warnings. Carver and Green don't just teach about what the types mean, but the ways in which they can vary in presentation, how they can change under stress or with personal growth, internal lies and doubts that each type may fall prey to, and weaknesses to avoid. There is a self check-in chart for each type to help determine how the type is manifesting at the moment. Each chapter also includes advice for those who love someone of that type on how to maximize their relationship with the person.
The book ends on a very practical note, reminding readers to use the Enneagram for its benefits, without falling into the trap of using types as excuses for bad behavior, of feeling limited by the parameters of types, or of forcing Enneagram types onto others, either by going around mentally assigning types to everyone you encounter, or by pressuring those around you to use Enneagram themselves. But the authors don't just warn; they also encourage, reminding readers that it's OK to ask for help, and that it's important to be kind and give yourself grace when you make mistakes.
What's Your Enneatype is a practical and succinct summary of many of the concepts involved in Enneagram personality types. As such, it's not incredibly in-depth or involved. It is instead a great introductory text for those interested in learning more about the Enneagram, about what the types are and how to use them. I wish there was a bibliography with additional recommended reading resources, but perhaps there is one in the final print addition. If you already have a strong familiarity with Enneagram, you may not find this book very helpful, but if you're looking for a balanced and accessible starting point, this could be just the book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and will be looking for more (more in-depth) books on the topic in the future.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Fair Winds Press/ Quarto for allowing me to read a free temporary digital advanced readers copy of #WhatsYourEnneatypeAnEssentialGuidetotheEnneagram . This is my honest opinion.
June 29, 2023
Bon llibre pa començar a introduir-se al tema.
És raro ser un eneatip tan clarament.
És raro ser un eneatip tan clarament.
July 7, 2020
I am a true devotee of everything-enneagram. I've read a few books before this that all felt a little too similar to each other. So, I was pleasantly surprised that this book provided a lot of new insights for me. It's a quick read but the writers have managed to pack quite a bit in on every page.
As soon as you know your enneagram type, I recommend checking out this book to find out more details about how you can use your strengths to your advantage and how you can avoid disintegration into unhealthy patterns. Some of my favorite elements included warning signs for each type and how you can help someone who's a particular type. The structure of the book felt super readable and the vibe never strayed too far off into 'woo woo' territory. There's a frankness about this book as well which I really appreciated - to want to truly work on yourself you need a little honesty!
If you're not a fan of the enneagram craze, you still might be able to find some useful info (even if it's just some suggestions on how to provide yourself with self-care options). Either way, this book is a definite must-have if you love enneagram-themed books but are hoping for something with a little extra flair and fun!
*Free ARC provided by Netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review*
As soon as you know your enneagram type, I recommend checking out this book to find out more details about how you can use your strengths to your advantage and how you can avoid disintegration into unhealthy patterns. Some of my favorite elements included warning signs for each type and how you can help someone who's a particular type. The structure of the book felt super readable and the vibe never strayed too far off into 'woo woo' territory. There's a frankness about this book as well which I really appreciated - to want to truly work on yourself you need a little honesty!
If you're not a fan of the enneagram craze, you still might be able to find some useful info (even if it's just some suggestions on how to provide yourself with self-care options). Either way, this book is a definite must-have if you love enneagram-themed books but are hoping for something with a little extra flair and fun!
*Free ARC provided by Netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review*
July 5, 2020
I have never been a fan of the enneagram (or other tests TBH) but for some reason I really wanted to read this book so in preparation for it, I took 6 tests online just to see how consistent they would be, and of course, they disagreed with each other. But through the process, I found a number that I thought might be the most likely fit for me.
Thanks to this lovely and beautifully designed book, I was able to dig a bit deeper and the more i read, the most it resonated with me. I have since read several other books and have now become slightly obsessed with enneagram (like so many seem to be.)
This book is not a fully standalone book. It doesn't have a test (but you can easily find several online for free.) and it doesn't go into pages and pages and pages of depth for each number but it does have a lot of the basic and layered information for each number. So if you're like me and wanted to take the plunge but didn't think you could ever really find your number, this might be a good fit for you, too. And if you know your number and appreciate well-designed books, you will love this, too.
with gratitude to netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to this lovely and beautifully designed book, I was able to dig a bit deeper and the more i read, the most it resonated with me. I have since read several other books and have now become slightly obsessed with enneagram (like so many seem to be.)
This book is not a fully standalone book. It doesn't have a test (but you can easily find several online for free.) and it doesn't go into pages and pages and pages of depth for each number but it does have a lot of the basic and layered information for each number. So if you're like me and wanted to take the plunge but didn't think you could ever really find your number, this might be a good fit for you, too. And if you know your number and appreciate well-designed books, you will love this, too.
with gratitude to netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2022
The Enneagram of Personality, or Enneagram (pronounced enn-ee-uh-gram) has been around for centuries and is a model containing nine interconnected personality types. Each of the personality types is referred to as an Enneatype, and they're represented in an enneagram nine-pointed shape.
What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram by Liz Carver & Josh Green describes these nine Enneagram types, and encourages the reader to identify their own type and recognise the types of people close to you. Represented by a series of colours and numbers in the book, it's hoped the reader will go on to use this knowledge to better know themselves, understand and improve their relationships and continue to grow as an individual.
So, what are the nine personality types? Here they are:
Type 1: The Improver/Reformer/Perfectionist
(Life Strategy: "I must be perfect and do what is right.")
Type 2: The Helper/Giver/Be-friender
(Life Strategy: "I must be helping, caring, and needed.")
Type 3: The Performer/Achiever/Actor
(Life Strategy: "I must be impressive and look accomplished and successful.")
Type 4: The Romantic/Artist/Individualist
(Life Strategy: "I must be understood uniquely as I am.")
Type 5: The Observer/Investigator/Theorist
(Life Strategy: "I must be knowledgeable and equipped.")
Type 6: The Loyalist/Skeptic/Doubter
(Life Strategy: "I must be secure and safe.")
Type 7: The Enthusiast/Optimist/Epicurean
(Life Strategy: "I must be enjoying myself and avoiding pain.")
Type 8: The Challenger/Protector/Advocate
(Life Strategy: "I must be strong and outside the control of others.")
Type 9: The Peacemaker/Mediator/Reconciler
(Life Strategy: "I must maintain peace and calm.")
Would you believe I was able to identify the enneatype of others before feeling confident of my own? I've been doing some soul searching, and I think I'm a Type 1. According to the authors:
"Enneagram Ones are focussed, hardworking, precise, detail-oriented people who operate from a strong sense of personal ethics. Some Ones are perfectionistic, but all are principled, focused and critical. They carry a heavy load on their backs, weighed down by a strong sense of personal integrity, a sense of responsibility, and a focus on a higher purpose. Ones love people deeply, and they are sensitive of others. Much of their senses of fairness, objectivity, and ethics are rooted in their love for others." Page 26
The authors also go on to say:
"A One's motivation has to do with right and wrong. They want to have integrity and be ethical. They want to correct mistakes, avoid blame and criticism, and even be beyond criticism." Page 28
Warning signs include extreme pride, a rigid mindset and being stressed by mess. All of this rings true for me, and I'll be trying to implement what I've learned about my personality type. This includes working on managing my expectations of myself and others and realising I don't have to right every wrong I come across. Phew, that's going to be hard work!
I'm a complete beginner on this topic and this is the first book I've read about Enneagrams so I'm not going to compare the content of this book to other information out there about the Enneagram or Enneatypes. However, I did find some of the elements within the book quite complex and didn't assimilate all of the information on offer; the wings and subtypes were a little much.
Nevertheless, self awareness and understanding why we think and act the way we do is powerful knowledge, and something that comes with age and maturity. However, since reading The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better by Gretchen Rubin, I've learned that self awareness and personal growth can be fast tracked with the right tools by exploring books like these and being open to self scrutiny and reflection.
In trying to ascertain which type my husband is, I was reminded of the many personality constructs - like the Myers-Briggs and the DiSC model - and that this kind of social science is akin to an academic sorting hat.
Many reading this will have undergone some kind of personality test in the past for work purposes. I've done a few as part of team building and bonding exercises in different workplaces over the years. But I'd love to know, do you find any value in personality tests? Do you know your enneatype? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Reading What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram by Liz Carver & Josh Green has given me food for thought and much to chew over.
What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram by Liz Carver & Josh Green describes these nine Enneagram types, and encourages the reader to identify their own type and recognise the types of people close to you. Represented by a series of colours and numbers in the book, it's hoped the reader will go on to use this knowledge to better know themselves, understand and improve their relationships and continue to grow as an individual.
So, what are the nine personality types? Here they are:
Type 1: The Improver/Reformer/Perfectionist
(Life Strategy: "I must be perfect and do what is right.")
Type 2: The Helper/Giver/Be-friender
(Life Strategy: "I must be helping, caring, and needed.")
Type 3: The Performer/Achiever/Actor
(Life Strategy: "I must be impressive and look accomplished and successful.")
Type 4: The Romantic/Artist/Individualist
(Life Strategy: "I must be understood uniquely as I am.")
Type 5: The Observer/Investigator/Theorist
(Life Strategy: "I must be knowledgeable and equipped.")
Type 6: The Loyalist/Skeptic/Doubter
(Life Strategy: "I must be secure and safe.")
Type 7: The Enthusiast/Optimist/Epicurean
(Life Strategy: "I must be enjoying myself and avoiding pain.")
Type 8: The Challenger/Protector/Advocate
(Life Strategy: "I must be strong and outside the control of others.")
Type 9: The Peacemaker/Mediator/Reconciler
(Life Strategy: "I must maintain peace and calm.")
Would you believe I was able to identify the enneatype of others before feeling confident of my own? I've been doing some soul searching, and I think I'm a Type 1. According to the authors:
"Enneagram Ones are focussed, hardworking, precise, detail-oriented people who operate from a strong sense of personal ethics. Some Ones are perfectionistic, but all are principled, focused and critical. They carry a heavy load on their backs, weighed down by a strong sense of personal integrity, a sense of responsibility, and a focus on a higher purpose. Ones love people deeply, and they are sensitive of others. Much of their senses of fairness, objectivity, and ethics are rooted in their love for others." Page 26
The authors also go on to say:
"A One's motivation has to do with right and wrong. They want to have integrity and be ethical. They want to correct mistakes, avoid blame and criticism, and even be beyond criticism." Page 28
Warning signs include extreme pride, a rigid mindset and being stressed by mess. All of this rings true for me, and I'll be trying to implement what I've learned about my personality type. This includes working on managing my expectations of myself and others and realising I don't have to right every wrong I come across. Phew, that's going to be hard work!
I'm a complete beginner on this topic and this is the first book I've read about Enneagrams so I'm not going to compare the content of this book to other information out there about the Enneagram or Enneatypes. However, I did find some of the elements within the book quite complex and didn't assimilate all of the information on offer; the wings and subtypes were a little much.
Nevertheless, self awareness and understanding why we think and act the way we do is powerful knowledge, and something that comes with age and maturity. However, since reading The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better by Gretchen Rubin, I've learned that self awareness and personal growth can be fast tracked with the right tools by exploring books like these and being open to self scrutiny and reflection.
In trying to ascertain which type my husband is, I was reminded of the many personality constructs - like the Myers-Briggs and the DiSC model - and that this kind of social science is akin to an academic sorting hat.
Many reading this will have undergone some kind of personality test in the past for work purposes. I've done a few as part of team building and bonding exercises in different workplaces over the years. But I'd love to know, do you find any value in personality tests? Do you know your enneatype? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Reading What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram by Liz Carver & Josh Green has given me food for thought and much to chew over.
July 23, 2020
4.5 stars
This is a good place to start for researching Enneatypes. For newbies, think of it as a personality test (9 main personality types with combination links) which can help you to better understand yourself, your strengths and weaknesses and this contains practical reminders of beliefs that people with certain enneatypes might struggle with, e.g. beliefs about themselves, others and behaviours that may be exhibiting, It is a good tool for self reflection.
I would advise people to read it all first, then do a free online test then reread the types that they are aligned most strongly with.
Overall, well recommendable.
This is a good place to start for researching Enneatypes. For newbies, think of it as a personality test (9 main personality types with combination links) which can help you to better understand yourself, your strengths and weaknesses and this contains practical reminders of beliefs that people with certain enneatypes might struggle with, e.g. beliefs about themselves, others and behaviours that may be exhibiting, It is a good tool for self reflection.
I would advise people to read it all first, then do a free online test then reread the types that they are aligned most strongly with.
Overall, well recommendable.
August 4, 2020
I have read through several Enneagram books and resources, and this one has by far been the most helpful. I've been following the authors' Instagram account for a while, and I love that I was immediately able to recognize their branding by just seeing the cover. The design of this book is stunning, and the information inside is extremely insightful. It includes information about each type's stance, the subtypes, common lies believed by each type, a check-in evaluation tool, and so much more. I have already preordered my copy and begun recommending it to friends.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Quarto Publishing Group, and the authors for allowing me to receive an advanced reader copy!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Quarto Publishing Group, and the authors for allowing me to receive an advanced reader copy!
September 9, 2020
This is a great book for anyone that wants to learn about Enneagram. The book is easy to understand. The author, Liz Carver, does a great job giving detailed descriptions. You will walk away with a deeper understanding of yourself and others.
October 2, 2020
A simple, but perfect book for anyone wanting to know more about Enneagram theory. It is also a very visually pleasing book, which makes it all that more enjoyable to engage in.
**Arc Via NetGalley**
**Arc Via NetGalley**
June 22, 2021
I made my entire family learn about their enneagram types at our last get-together like the fun, relaxed 4 that I am and it was wildly accurate. This book did a good job of breaking down the types with infographics and scenario-based passages which made it easy to jump in and out of.
November 2, 2021
This is great overview for anyone interested in learning more about the enneagram, especially if you’re a visual learner like me! I really loved all of the imagery, charts, and use of color throughout. Definitely a fun book to get you started!
October 5, 2020
AWESOME!!! got it from library and after 1 hour, hopped on Amazon to order. Must have resource for coaches like me. Thanks!!
January 6, 2022
As someone who enjoys finding out more about myself by taking various personality tests such as the Meyer-Briggs Type Indicator, the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, The 5 Love Languages Quiz, and the Clifton StrengthsFinder, I was excited to take a quiz to discover my enneatype then use this book to help me better understand myself. After completing an online enneagram quiz at the enneagram.bz website, I discovered that my enneatype is 5w6 which is the investigator/observer/theorist. Using this new found information, I was able to read and better understand the contents of this book.
The book is organized in a easy to follow and colorful manner. The book begins with an introduction explaining to the reader what the enneagram is and how knowing one's enneatype can help lead to personal growth and provide a foundation to correct detrimental behaviors. Also in the book's introduction, the authors also introduce complimentary terms to the enneatype such as subtypes, wings, and stances.
Prior to nine dedicated chapters to each enneatype, the authors present a glimpse of each enneatype with information such as a type nickname, their life strategy, their needs, what their actions are motivated by, and their shadow side or their struggles.
Each of the nine chapters has a designated color which is meant to compliment the enneatype. and provides information including what a world full of the highlighted type would look like, motivation, shadow side or struggles, integration and disintegration, digging into each type, advice for loving the highlighted enneatype, and advice to move forward after embracing your enneatype.
I really enjoyed this book due to its short length as well as the depth of information provided on each enneatype. I especially liked the pie charts provided with self-care tips for each enneatype as well as self-care charts to help the reader determine when they are in need of a self-care break. Having finished this book, I am now more inspired to learn more about my newly found enneatype
The book is organized in a easy to follow and colorful manner. The book begins with an introduction explaining to the reader what the enneagram is and how knowing one's enneatype can help lead to personal growth and provide a foundation to correct detrimental behaviors. Also in the book's introduction, the authors also introduce complimentary terms to the enneatype such as subtypes, wings, and stances.
Prior to nine dedicated chapters to each enneatype, the authors present a glimpse of each enneatype with information such as a type nickname, their life strategy, their needs, what their actions are motivated by, and their shadow side or their struggles.
Each of the nine chapters has a designated color which is meant to compliment the enneatype. and provides information including what a world full of the highlighted type would look like, motivation, shadow side or struggles, integration and disintegration, digging into each type, advice for loving the highlighted enneatype, and advice to move forward after embracing your enneatype.
I really enjoyed this book due to its short length as well as the depth of information provided on each enneatype. I especially liked the pie charts provided with self-care tips for each enneatype as well as self-care charts to help the reader determine when they are in need of a self-care break. Having finished this book, I am now more inspired to learn more about my newly found enneatype
December 24, 2023
As someone familiar with the enneagram, this book gives a deeper dive into each type, the motivations and fears that each experiences, and the variations present with each subtype. I enjoy the description of each type's "countertype," describing a subtype that is contrary to the typical presentation of the type. Very helpful to explain external behavior that is atypical for the type, when a person still relates to the core fears and motivations.
I absolutely love the blurb in each chapter describing a world where everyone is that enneagram! I read the EIGHT description aloud to my dad, and we all laughed at this part: "We would save hours and stress never having to wonder what others were thinking." His mantra always has been "say what you mean and mean what you say." The best part of these blurbs though is that they conlude with how the world would ultimately break down if everyone were one type: a beautiful reminder that our diversity of perspectives, approaches, beliefs, and desires make the world turn round in an elegant balance.
I agree strongly with other reviewers; this book gently offers the enneagram as a vessel for growth, with recommendations on how to face your deepest fears and limiting beliefs through a "reckoning," but constantly reminding you that this is just one system. Enneagram is effective but it's not helpful for everyone, and forcing it on others is dogmatic.
I also liked the action steps of "healthy practices" for each type; for example, recommending that FOURS write poetic laments and lists of gratitude/celebratory events is a wonderful practice for safely experiencing the spectrum of their intense emotions.
The language and descriptions of each type are highly theoretical; for example, describing that SEVENS outwardly are spontaneous and fun-loving while internally processing a great deal of knowledge and avoiding pain, grief, or other negative emotions. I can imagine a few fictional and historical characters who match this type and would love if the authors had included some of these examples in the book too, to augment and strengthen understanding of how the types present out in the wild! However relevant examples may vary by cultural or generation, so including these may have limited the book's appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, wonderful read, one I will keep for reference when learning how to love and support the different types in my life. :)
I absolutely love the blurb in each chapter describing a world where everyone is that enneagram! I read the EIGHT description aloud to my dad, and we all laughed at this part: "We would save hours and stress never having to wonder what others were thinking." His mantra always has been "say what you mean and mean what you say." The best part of these blurbs though is that they conlude with how the world would ultimately break down if everyone were one type: a beautiful reminder that our diversity of perspectives, approaches, beliefs, and desires make the world turn round in an elegant balance.
I agree strongly with other reviewers; this book gently offers the enneagram as a vessel for growth, with recommendations on how to face your deepest fears and limiting beliefs through a "reckoning," but constantly reminding you that this is just one system. Enneagram is effective but it's not helpful for everyone, and forcing it on others is dogmatic.
I also liked the action steps of "healthy practices" for each type; for example, recommending that FOURS write poetic laments and lists of gratitude/celebratory events is a wonderful practice for safely experiencing the spectrum of their intense emotions.
The language and descriptions of each type are highly theoretical; for example, describing that SEVENS outwardly are spontaneous and fun-loving while internally processing a great deal of knowledge and avoiding pain, grief, or other negative emotions. I can imagine a few fictional and historical characters who match this type and would love if the authors had included some of these examples in the book too, to augment and strengthen understanding of how the types present out in the wild! However relevant examples may vary by cultural or generation, so including these may have limited the book's appeal to a wider audience.
Overall, wonderful read, one I will keep for reference when learning how to love and support the different types in my life. :)
Read
March 23, 2022Oh the enneagram!!! I finished this book and while I am sure I can’t recite all the info (there’s a lot), I did learn that unlike other personality surveys, enneagram is a tool for personal growth, focused on why you do what you do and it provides information to start to unlearn bad habits and become more aware of yourself.
Enneagram isn’t a party trick and it’s not an excuse to “be” a way. Just because my 7, labels me with a tendency to escape my world and blame others, I don’t get to use the “well…Imma 7 you know…”.
This was a great book. I love learning and understanding the WHY behind behaviors and what are the triggers and how to manage good and bad triggers.
You might enjoy taking a test to see what your number is. About 99% of the time, #7 info for me is dead on!
Enneagram 7 Strengths:
1. High levels of energy and optimism.
2. Thinking quickly and creatively.
3. Ability to see many options or solutions.
4. Easily handling change in plans.
5. Quickly acquiring new skills or abilities.
7’s Weaknesses:
1. Sevens can be difficult to commit to.
2. Sevens sometimes come across as self-centered and conceited.
3. Sevens often react too impulsively.
4. Sevens get bored easily.
#sevensunite 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻👍🏼
Enneagram isn’t a party trick and it’s not an excuse to “be” a way. Just because my 7, labels me with a tendency to escape my world and blame others, I don’t get to use the “well…Imma 7 you know…”.
This was a great book. I love learning and understanding the WHY behind behaviors and what are the triggers and how to manage good and bad triggers.
You might enjoy taking a test to see what your number is. About 99% of the time, #7 info for me is dead on!
Enneagram 7 Strengths:
1. High levels of energy and optimism.
2. Thinking quickly and creatively.
3. Ability to see many options or solutions.
4. Easily handling change in plans.
5. Quickly acquiring new skills or abilities.
7’s Weaknesses:
1. Sevens can be difficult to commit to.
2. Sevens sometimes come across as self-centered and conceited.
3. Sevens often react too impulsively.
4. Sevens get bored easily.
#sevensunite 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻👍🏼
January 8, 2025
My husband’s company does a personality questionnaire as part of their hiring process. We were talking about this one day and he had me take one, just for fun. One of the things I found the coolest was that he could send me a relationship cheat sheet based on his and my results combined. Around the same time, a friend of mine posted that they were reading this book. So I decided to check it out as well, and this has sent me down a rabbit hole of intrigue. I like that this book was my intro into the world of Enneagram personality analysis, as it is both comprehensive and simplistic. These are so contradictory that I’m sure that doesn’t make a lot of sense, but basically they cover all of the concepts: wings, SO/SX/SP types, even color associations. However, despite introducing you to all of these sub-types within each number, they keep it as simple as possible. All this did for me was wet my appetite for more information, but you can definitely get enough from this book, if all you want is a basic understanding of the concepts so you can hold your own in a conversation. M thankful this book was my introduction to the rabbit hole and I look forward to diving deeper and learning more about this fascinating and helpful topic.
July 19, 2020
What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram by Liz Carver and Josh Green is a great primer for people just starting to learn about the Enneagram. The information presented was done so without overwhelming the reader and included lots of helpful graphics to emphasize the salient points.
This book is perfect for the reader interested in the more secular aspects of the Ennegram - as opposed to many of the books on the market which focus on spiritual growth from a very Christian perspective. If you come from a faith outside of Christianity or find faith discussions generally off-putting, this book will be a refreshing change of pace from many of the current crop of Enneagram books.
I would recommend taking an online test before reading this book, so you have an idea of what type you might be. After reading the introduction, you do not have to read the sections in order. You can start with your number and the move your way around the circle. This book is a great start for anyone looking to start their Enneagram journey.
Advanced readers' copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is perfect for the reader interested in the more secular aspects of the Ennegram - as opposed to many of the books on the market which focus on spiritual growth from a very Christian perspective. If you come from a faith outside of Christianity or find faith discussions generally off-putting, this book will be a refreshing change of pace from many of the current crop of Enneagram books.
I would recommend taking an online test before reading this book, so you have an idea of what type you might be. After reading the introduction, you do not have to read the sections in order. You can start with your number and the move your way around the circle. This book is a great start for anyone looking to start their Enneagram journey.
Advanced readers' copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2020
"What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram" by Liz Carver and Josh Green is a book that breaks down enneatypes, which are categories that people can be divided into based on personality traits. The book explains how to use this information to improve levels of self actualization, interpersonal relationships and overall happiness.
The opening of the book was extremely helpful in understanding not only what the Enneatypes are but also how knowing yours can be helpful. Then, it goes on to explain in detail each type and subgroup. I like that the book included the subgroups because it helps to better understand the variations of people within one Enneatype. The work also does an excellent job of highlighting the fact that all of the nine types are interconnected and the woven tapestry of life is multidimensional, diverse and beautiful. The section on subtypes, stances and wings was a little confusing to read at first so I did find myself re-reading that part. However, I found all of the information relevant and interesting to read.
The opening of the book was extremely helpful in understanding not only what the Enneatypes are but also how knowing yours can be helpful. Then, it goes on to explain in detail each type and subgroup. I like that the book included the subgroups because it helps to better understand the variations of people within one Enneatype. The work also does an excellent job of highlighting the fact that all of the nine types are interconnected and the woven tapestry of life is multidimensional, diverse and beautiful. The section on subtypes, stances and wings was a little confusing to read at first so I did find myself re-reading that part. However, I found all of the information relevant and interesting to read.
August 9, 2020
I’ve been a fan of Josh and Liz on Instagram for a while now and preordered this book all the way back in December. I was excited to finally read and was not disappointed.
As someone who has no idea where they fit on the Enneagram (am I really a FOUR or is it just the chronic depression??? Am I a NINE or is it the borderline???1), I found the detailed descriptions to be very helpful and insightful in understanding all the possibilities out there. I recognized some familiar faces from my own life in these chapters and, arguably most importantly, found out the types for some of my characters for my own book haha.
I did notice a few typos though, and while this information was helpful, I didn’t find it much more nuanced than the information for free on their Instagram. If they delved into it a bit more, I would’ve possibly given it a perfect rating. Luckily I’m a fan of the content though, so I’m more than happy to help financially support it! I think four stars is a fair rating for this excellent resource!
As someone who has no idea where they fit on the Enneagram (am I really a FOUR or is it just the chronic depression??? Am I a NINE or is it the borderline???1), I found the detailed descriptions to be very helpful and insightful in understanding all the possibilities out there. I recognized some familiar faces from my own life in these chapters and, arguably most importantly, found out the types for some of my characters for my own book haha.
I did notice a few typos though, and while this information was helpful, I didn’t find it much more nuanced than the information for free on their Instagram. If they delved into it a bit more, I would’ve possibly given it a perfect rating. Luckily I’m a fan of the content though, so I’m more than happy to help financially support it! I think four stars is a fair rating for this excellent resource!
July 28, 2020
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love learning about the enneagram, and this book is a great, comprehensive look at all nine of the enneatypes. The main focus of this book is to encourage the reader to move beyond a knowledge of the enneatypes by applying that knowledge to making self improvements. However, this book is not overly negative in calling out the unhealthy character traits in each type to be changed. Rather, it encourages readers to analyze themselves honestly, and to be motivated by the many positive character traits that are also inherent to each enneatype.
I love that this book covers many aspects of the types, such as the sub types, wings, triads, and stances. Many books don't cover the sub types, yet they are very important in explaining how people of the same type can be very different. Some of my favorite parts of the book are the lies that each type tells themselves, and the ways to love other people that you know of each type. The enneagram is not just important to understanding yourself, but also in increasing the empathy and understanding you have for everyone around you.
Overall this book was beautifully designed. The graphic design elements were fun and aesthetically pleasing.
I love learning about the enneagram, and this book is a great, comprehensive look at all nine of the enneatypes. The main focus of this book is to encourage the reader to move beyond a knowledge of the enneatypes by applying that knowledge to making self improvements. However, this book is not overly negative in calling out the unhealthy character traits in each type to be changed. Rather, it encourages readers to analyze themselves honestly, and to be motivated by the many positive character traits that are also inherent to each enneatype.
I love that this book covers many aspects of the types, such as the sub types, wings, triads, and stances. Many books don't cover the sub types, yet they are very important in explaining how people of the same type can be very different. Some of my favorite parts of the book are the lies that each type tells themselves, and the ways to love other people that you know of each type. The enneagram is not just important to understanding yourself, but also in increasing the empathy and understanding you have for everyone around you.
Overall this book was beautifully designed. The graphic design elements were fun and aesthetically pleasing.
July 25, 2020
*I received this book from NetGalley in return for a honest review*
This may be the best book on the enneagram that I have read yet (and I have read a lot). I have followed the authors on Instagram for a while and have always enjoyed their posts so when I saw that they had a book coming out I was very excited. There is a lot of information packed into this book, but it is done in a way that is very easy to read and understand. This book challenges me in my weaknesses and affirms me in my strengths of who I am and also helps me to understand the people that are around me.
I really enjoy the layout of this book, with the different colours for each number and the illustrations that are used well to demonstrate different facets of the enneagram. This is a book that I will definitely be purchasing a copy of for my own home library and to lend out to others to help them to learn more about the enneagram.
This may be the best book on the enneagram that I have read yet (and I have read a lot). I have followed the authors on Instagram for a while and have always enjoyed their posts so when I saw that they had a book coming out I was very excited. There is a lot of information packed into this book, but it is done in a way that is very easy to read and understand. This book challenges me in my weaknesses and affirms me in my strengths of who I am and also helps me to understand the people that are around me.
I really enjoy the layout of this book, with the different colours for each number and the illustrations that are used well to demonstrate different facets of the enneagram. This is a book that I will definitely be purchasing a copy of for my own home library and to lend out to others to help them to learn more about the enneagram.
July 27, 2022
I've taken personality tests before, but this is the first time reading a book about Enneatypes. As another reviewer stated, it may be good to take an enneagram test before reading the book; that way, you know your type and relate to the details described in each chapter.
What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram: Understanding the Nine Personality Types for Personal Growth and Strengthened Relationships by Liz Carver and Josh Green is an excellent introduction to enneagrams, and it was fun applying the information to people I know. The book goes into detail on each enneagram type and the subgroups. I liked that the book was divided into different colors for ease of use. What's Your Enneatype is quite informative and easy to use. I would recommend this book that is rich in information, great resources, and engaging graphics.
#WhatsYourEnneatypeAnEssentialGuidetotheEnneagram #NetGalley
What's Your Enneatype? An Essential Guide to the Enneagram: Understanding the Nine Personality Types for Personal Growth and Strengthened Relationships by Liz Carver and Josh Green is an excellent introduction to enneagrams, and it was fun applying the information to people I know. The book goes into detail on each enneagram type and the subgroups. I liked that the book was divided into different colors for ease of use. What's Your Enneatype is quite informative and easy to use. I would recommend this book that is rich in information, great resources, and engaging graphics.
#WhatsYourEnneatypeAnEssentialGuidetotheEnneagram #NetGalley
June 23, 2020
I was introduced to the Enneagram several years ago by a friend. I was initially slightly sceptical until I took the test and read about my personality type and saw how eerily accurate it was.
This book provides an excellent introduction to the Enneagram and the different personality types whilst also being of use to those who are more familiar with the tools involved. It is beautifully presented with excellent graphics and is easy to follow and understand.
I particularly enjoyed the sections relating to loving and understanding those around you and how they perceive certain situations as well as the sections on self care and healthy practices.
A very useful and insightful book. I would highly recommend.
Thanks to Quarto Publishing Group – Fair Winds and NetGalley for the ARC.
This book provides an excellent introduction to the Enneagram and the different personality types whilst also being of use to those who are more familiar with the tools involved. It is beautifully presented with excellent graphics and is easy to follow and understand.
I particularly enjoyed the sections relating to loving and understanding those around you and how they perceive certain situations as well as the sections on self care and healthy practices.
A very useful and insightful book. I would highly recommend.
Thanks to Quarto Publishing Group – Fair Winds and NetGalley for the ARC.
July 1, 2020
[I received a review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
Outstanding!! I adored this new book on the Enneagram. The conversational tone makes this something you could hand to any reader. There's information here for newcomers and also for those who have been working through Enneagram material for awhile.
Covers basic information for each type, wings, moves in stress and security, triads and stances. One of my favorite features is the description of what the world would be like if everyone was one particular number.
The visuals here - from the color scheme to the graphics that are consistent from number to number, but tailored to each one - are fantastic.
I have read a lot of Enneagram resources over the last few years, and this one is a new favorite.
Outstanding!! I adored this new book on the Enneagram. The conversational tone makes this something you could hand to any reader. There's information here for newcomers and also for those who have been working through Enneagram material for awhile.
Covers basic information for each type, wings, moves in stress and security, triads and stances. One of my favorite features is the description of what the world would be like if everyone was one particular number.
The visuals here - from the color scheme to the graphics that are consistent from number to number, but tailored to each one - are fantastic.
I have read a lot of Enneagram resources over the last few years, and this one is a new favorite.
June 19, 2020
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC of this book.
I love the Enneagram and the way that it helps us understand ourselves and others better. This book does an excellent job introducing folks to the Enneagram overall and it visually, clearly lays everything out. The graphics in this are absolutely terrific and crisp. The book also talks about healthy practices, ripple effects, lies, how to love each type, and many other practical applications and knowledge points. I teach the Enneagram to high schoolers and I anticipate that I will be purchasing a copy of this for myself so I can use it for next year. I'd recommend this book both for those just diving in as well as for those who have more knowledge about the Enneagram already.
I love the Enneagram and the way that it helps us understand ourselves and others better. This book does an excellent job introducing folks to the Enneagram overall and it visually, clearly lays everything out. The graphics in this are absolutely terrific and crisp. The book also talks about healthy practices, ripple effects, lies, how to love each type, and many other practical applications and knowledge points. I teach the Enneagram to high schoolers and I anticipate that I will be purchasing a copy of this for myself so I can use it for next year. I'd recommend this book both for those just diving in as well as for those who have more knowledge about the Enneagram already.
June 27, 2020
I always think that guides to personality types are fun to explore. I have done the Meyers-Briggs test in the past and found the results to be interesting. What's Your Enneatype presents 9 personality types; for example, The Improver/Reformer/Perfectionist; The Helper/Giver/Befriender/ The Peacemaker/Mediator/Reconciler, along with the other six to total nine types. See where you may belong as you explore.
Readers of the book will learn what an enneagram is and is not, how the three descriptors for each type relate to each other, and ways NOT to use this tool. Take a look. See where you think you fit and maybe learn a bit more about yourself.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this interesting read ine xchange for an honest review.
Readers of the book will learn what an enneagram is and is not, how the three descriptors for each type relate to each other, and ways NOT to use this tool. Take a look. See where you think you fit and maybe learn a bit more about yourself.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this interesting read ine xchange for an honest review.
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