The Enneagram as Motivation Indicator, not Personality Test

While there are similarities between the Enneagram and other personal inventories, like MBTI, DISC, and Working Genius, the Enneagram is actually founded on a person’s inner motivations, rather than external behaviors. Thus, it is advisable not to guess another person’s Type since motivations are not observable. 

There are some incredible benefits for both self-knowledge and team dynamics when using the Enneagram:

1. Unlike many other inventories, the Enneagram provides examples of healthy and unhealthy versions of each type. Thus, there is a pathway to growth. See The Enneagram Institute and The Enneagram at Work.

2. There has been a growing number of free websites that offer insights into individual and team dynamics based on type. See

Some authors have applied a Christian perspective to the Enneagram, starting with Richard Rohr in the 1990’s and including modern coaches and therapists like Ian Cron and Adele Calhoun.