The Strengths, Weaknesses, Fears, Motivations and Love Style
Enneagram Type 7:
"The Enthusiast"
Key Phrases
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Enneagram Type 7, also known as "The Enthusiast", is characterized by a desire for experience and adventure. They are spontaneous, fun-loving, and always on the lookout for new possibilities. They are also likely to avoid negative feelings and can be impatient and impulsive.
7's Strengths
Enneagram Type 7 individuals are known for their enthusiasm, versatility, and zest for life. They bring a sense of fun and adventure to all that they do. They are able to brainstorm creative solutions to problems and are generally positive and upbeat.
Adventurous and Enthusiastic: Type 7s have a natural zest for life and a contagious enthusiasm. They are adventurous individuals who seek out new experiences and enjoy exploring different possibilities and opportunities.
Optimistic and Positive: Type 7s have a naturally optimistic outlook on life. They focus on the bright side of things, finding the silver lining even in challenging situations. Their positivity can uplift and inspire those around them.
Versatile and Resourceful: Type 7s are versatile individuals who adapt well to various situations. They are highly resourceful and have a knack for finding creative solutions to problems. Their ability to think outside the box can lead to innovative ideas and approaches.
Energetic and Spontaneous: Type 7s possess a vibrant energy and a spontaneous nature. They bring a sense of liveliness and fun to any environment and often inject excitement into social gatherings or group activities.
Multitasking and Quick Thinkers: Type 7s have a natural talent for multitasking and processing information quickly. They can juggle multiple projects or ideas simultaneously, making them efficient problem solvers and brainstormers.
7's Weaknesses
Despite their strengths, Enneagram Type 7s can also exhibit certain weaknesses. They may be scattered and distracted, which can lead to lack of focus. Their desire for excitement can also lead to impulsivity or neglect of responsibilities.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Type 7s often have a fear of missing out on exciting experiences or opportunities. This can lead to a tendency to overcommit or constantly seek out new stimulation, which may result in a lack of focus or follow-through on projects or commitments.
Difficulty with Boredom and Restlessness: Type 7s have a low tolerance for boredom and may become restless or easily distracted when faced with routine or mundane tasks. They may struggle to stay present and fully engage in activities that they perceive as unexciting.
Impulsiveness and Lack of Discipline: Type 7s can be impulsive and have difficulty with self-discipline. They may struggle with delaying gratification and can be prone to indulging in immediate pleasures or distractions, which can hinder their long-term goals or commitments.
Avoidance of Negative Emotions: Type 7s have a tendency to avoid negative emotions and uncomfortable feelings. They may distract themselves with constant activity or seek out positive experiences to escape or suppress any underlying emotional pain or discomfort.
Overcommitment and Difficulty with Boundaries: Type 7s can have a tendency to overcommit themselves due to their fear of missing out or their desire for constant stimulation. This can lead to spreading themselves too thin and neglecting their own needs or personal boundaries.
7's Basic Fears
Enneagram Type 7 individuals grapple with a core fear of being deprived or limited.
They fear experiencing pain, discomfort, or missing out on exciting opportunities. The fear of being trapped in negative emotions or mundane routines drives them to seek constant stimulation and avoid any form of restriction. They have a strong aversion to boredom or feeling constrained, often seeking new experiences and possibilities to keep their enthusiasm and sense of freedom alive.
Their fear of missing out or being held back motivates them to stay optimistic and pursue a life filled with excitement and variety.
7's Motivations
Enneagram Type 7s are primarily motivated by a deep desire for fulfillment, joy, and freedom.
They seek to avoid pain and embrace pleasure in all aspects of life. Their motivation stems from a need to experience a multitude of positive possibilities and keep their options open. They have a natural inclination to explore and indulge in diverse experiences, seeking novelty and adventure. The motivation to stay engaged, enthusiastic, and spontaneous drives their actions and decision-making processes.
They strive to create a life that is vibrant, enjoyable, and free from limitations, continuously seeking new avenues for growth and happiness.
Healthy vs Unhealthy 7's
When healthy, Enneagram 7s use their enthusiasm and curiosity to engage in the world in a balanced and beneficial way. They are versatile and optimistic, inspiring others with their zest for life. They use their energy for positive change and for bringing joy to others. They are spontaneous but not reckless, optimistic but not unrealistic, and adventurous yet grounded.
On the other hand, when unhealthy, Enneagram 7s can become impulsive and restless. They may struggle with impatience and have difficulty facing negative emotions. They may also become excessively focused on seeking new experiences, neglecting their responsibilities and commitments.
Growth Recommendations for Type 7
Practice mindfulness: Focus on the present moment instead of always thinking about the next adventure. This can help you appreciate what's happening now.
Develop patience: Learning to wait and not rush into things can lead to more satisfying experiences and decisions.
Accept negative feelings: Acknowledging and dealing with negative emotions can help you grow as an individual and lead a more balanced life.
Expressing Love
When a Type 7 loves someone, they often express it by sharing experiences and adventures with their loved ones. They are keen to keep things exciting and fun, and they bring this spontaneity and joy into their relationships. Type 7s may express their love through grand gestures or by creating fun-filled and memorable moments. They are typically lively and entertaining partners, always planning the next adventure or fun event.
However, because of their need for excitement and fear of boredom or pain, they may struggle with routine or difficult emotional situations in a relationship. They can be prone to distraction, wanting to keep moving and experience new things, which can sometimes come off as avoiding commitment or serious issues.
Despite these challenges, at their best, Type 7s bring joy, enthusiasm, and a sense of adventure to their relationships. They express love by sharing their optimism and zest for life with their partners, creating an exciting and spontaneous environment in their relationships. In a relationship with a Type 7, love often manifests as shared adventures, optimism, and a mutual enjoyment of life's experiences.
For an in-depth understanding of Type 7's Compatibility see 7's Compatibility with the other Types.
Explore the Wings
Each Core Type has a Wing Type. Exploring the Wings offers a more comprehensive view and valuable insights, and offers opportunities for personal growth and development by tapping into the unique qualities and strengths of the adjacent Enneagram types.
About the Author Betty Baker is an awarded marriage and family therapist and contributor to the internationally renowned PeaceBuilders® Program - a science-based, research-validated violence prevention curriculum and professional development program for children, grades pre-K to 12. |
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