The way people develop their fears and aspirations all depends on one basic variable: their personality types.

 According to the enneagram test, a system of personality typing that describes patterns in how people conceptualize the world and manage their emotions, every person can be categorized into one of nine personality groups. The nine personality types and their described titles are shown below in the diagram:

The enneagram test empowers your capacity for self-observation. In recent years it has been referred to for its accuracy in depicting the healthiest manifestation of a personality type. 

The most accurate test to take for free, according to several review sources, is Eclectic Energies’ test which can be found here – Eclectic Energies Enneagram Tests (free). This website gives users the ability to select either the “Classical enneagram test,” which consists of several multiple choice questions or the “Enneagram test with instructional variant,” comprised of a rating scale between characteristics. 

Every personality type has a certain world view and looks at the world through their own lens or filter. The enneagram is helpful when learning how to address why a person behaves the way they do. 

By describing how a basic personality adapts and responds to both stressful and supportive situations, the enneagram provides opportunities for personal development and a better foundation for understanding others.

Starting with personality type 1: the Perfectionist is described as a person who puts emphasis on personal integrity and self control. The majority of their attention goes toward correcting what is wrong and doing what is right. They are characterized by their honesty, dependability and common sense. Ones tend to be very serious and set high standards for themselves and others. 

Personality type 2: the Helper is described as a person who tends to be feeling-based with a focus on relationships. They are supportive of others and look to bring out their potential. While their attention is focused primarily on those around them and their acceptance, twos often neglect their own needs. They are characterized by their compassion, communication skills, and connection to others. 

Personality type 3: the Performer is described as a person who uses their emotions and feelings to fuel their drive to accomplish tasks. Threes use initiative and hard work to complete their goals. Adapting to scenarios allows this personality the ability to meet the expectations of others that will lead them to success. A three’s inner drive to keep his or her image up while achieving results can, however, get in the way of personal health and needs. They are characterized by their inability to slow down or stop because threes like to remain active and on the go. 

Personality type 4: the Romantic is described as a person who often experiences a sense of longing and melancholy. The longing desire that fills this personality can often leave a person feeling like they are missing something and thus begin a search for fulfillment in romantic idealism, healing, or aesthetics. Fours seek to have a good image while remaining authentic. They are characterized by their passion, overly emotional tendencies, and moving back and forth from empathizing with others to themselves.  

Personality type 5: the Observer is described as a person who focuses on intellectual understanding and accumulating knowledge. They are analytical and have a keen sense of perception. Fives tend to detach themselves from others and emotional pressure, which allows them to  achieve personal freedom but also experience loneliness. They are characterized by their scholarly behavior, perceptiveness, and self reliance. 

Personality type 6: the Loyal Skeptic is described as a person who uses their intellect and perception to determine the reliability and trustworthiness of the people around them. The safety of those whom surround sixes are of the utmost importance to this personality type. Anticipating, problem solving, and making agreements are all skills most commonly associated with this type. They are characterized as being loyal, courageous, attentive to people and problems, and strategic thinkers.

Personality type 7: the Epicure is described as a person who is a forward thinker and mover. Sevens tend to be optimistic and have a positive attitude. Many subjects interest them and they do not want to be limited to one thing. They tend to be excellent communicators, but are not focused on gaining the approval of others. Sevens are characterized as being adventurous, fun loving, and quick thinking.

Personality type 8: the Protector is described as a person who takes charge of situations and affirms the role of leader. Often times eights are intense and energetic, making other people intimidated. Rules and regulations are mere suggestions to eights because they prefer to do things their own way. They are characterized for being enthusiastic, generous, and powerful.

Personality type 9: the Mediator is described as a person who excels in seeing all points of view. They tend to seek harmony and work as peacemakers within their environment. Nines will often times go out of their way to avoid conflict. Seeing all sides of situations, nines deal with keeping their own priorities straight. They are characterized for being balanced, accepting, and harmonious. 

Once you have taken the test, results can be used to map out how to get to higher levels of awareness regarding your personality.