Exploring the Myers-Briggs and Enneagram: A Personal Journey and Reflection

Among the numerous personality typing systems available today, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Enneagram are among the most widely recognized. Over the years, individuals have been fascinated by the insights these systems offer into their personalities. However, many find that the results from these two systems do not align perfectly, leading to confusion and even skepticism. In this personal reflection, I share my journey with both systems and explore the discrepancies that arose, ultimately questioning their accuracy in describing one's personality.

My 30 Years as an INTJ and 6w8

For the past three decades, I have been deeply engaged with the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). The personality type I have consistently identified with is INTJ, characterized by my introspective nature, logical thinking, and a preference for structured environments. This type has not only provided a framework for understanding myself but has also influenced my professional and personal decisions over the years. Recently, I underwent another round of the MBTI assessment and reaffirmed my INTJ identity.

Enneagram Tests: Consistently Type 5, Misalignment with Myself

While I have spent considerable time with the MBTI, my experience with the Enneagram has been quite different. Over the years, I have taken numerous Enneagram tests, consistently identifying as type 5. However, I must admit that this type does not resonate with me at all. The Enneagram type 5 emphasizes intellectual curiosity and a preference for solitude, which do not align with my personal experiences and traits. I have always felt disconnected from this type, questioning its relevance to my real self.

Tritype: A Puzzle at First, But What Does It Reveal?

My tritype is identified as 683, which represents a combination of three primary energy sources. This tritype has provided a more nuanced understanding of my personality, but it also raises questions. The recurrence of the 6 in my results from Enneagram tests is intriguing, as this type often involves security-seeking and a focus on vulnerability. However, I cannot fully connect with this type either. The 8 and 3 types, which are less frequently mentioned, bring their own complexities and do not reflect my true self either.

My Interpretation of the Results and Personal Reflections

I have considered various hypotheses to explain the non-identical results from the MBTI and Enneagram tests. One theory is that the Enneagram may not accurately represent the diversity of personalities, or it may not capture the full extent of my personality traits. Another possibility is that the Enneagram focuses more on the core motivators and fears behind behavior, which may not align with the MBTI's emphasis on cognitive processes and preferences.

From my personal journey, it is clear that the MBTI has provided a consistent framework for understanding my personality, while the Enneagram has often left me feeling disconnected. This discrepancy raises important questions about the reliability and accuracy of these personality typing systems. It also highlights the limitations of any single tool in capturing an individual's complex and multifaceted personality.

Conclusion: A Mosaic of Self-Understanding

As I reflect on my experiences with the MBTI and the Enneagram, it becomes evident that both systems offer valuable insights but also have their limitations. While the MBTI has provided a stable and reliable framework for me to understand my personality, the Enneagram has often left me feeling out of alignment. The key takeaway is that personality is a nuanced and multifaceted construct, and no single system can fully capture its complexity.

Therefore, it is essential to approach these systems with an open mind, recognizing their potential benefits while also considering their limitations. The best way to understand one's self is through a combination of self-reflection, ongoing exploration, and a willingness to embrace multiple perspectives.