An Expert Explains Enneagram Types and Their Impact on Personal and Professional Growth
The Enneagram isn’t just a personality quiz. It’s a way to understand why people do what they do. In a conversation with certified Enneagram coach Libby Cole breaks down the nine types and explains how they shape how we think, act, and lead. Whether you're a team leader or working on your own self-awareness, this tool helps you grow with intention.
Key Takeaways
The Enneagram focuses on motivation, not behavior. Unlike DISC or Myers-Briggs, it digs into why you act a certain way, not just how you show up.
Everyone has one core type, but elements of all nine exist in each of us. You’ll likely relate to parts of many types, but identifying your main one is key.
Teams work better when members know their types. It improves communication, builds trust, and creates a shared language.
Notable Quotes
“The Enneagram is all about why you do what you do.”
“We all have a little bit of all the types in us.”
“Your core motivation is pretty set by age five, but that doesn't mean you can’t grow.”
Real-World Applications
Personal Development
A Type 2 (the helper) learns they give too much to be loved. They start practicing boundaries and self-care without guilt.Leadership Style
A Type 8 (the challenger) realizes their drive for control can feel aggressive to others. They start softening their delivery while staying direct.Team Collaboration
A team with mixed types learns how each person communicates under stress. A Type 9's conflict avoidance is no longer misread as apathy.
The Enneagram helps you understand what's behind your choices. It’s not about changing who you are — it’s about noticing your patterns and deciding how you want to show up. For individuals and teams alike, it’s a smart, practical tool for real growth.
Time Stamps:
00:25 Meet Libby Cole: Certified Enneagram Coach
01:05 Understanding the Enneagram
03:21 Exploring Enneagram Types 1 to 3
06:59 Exploring Enneagram Types 4 to 7
15:29 Relating to Type Seven
16:14 Understanding Type Eight
18:15 Exploring Type Nine
20:30 Determining Your Core Type
22:29 Using the Enneagram for Personal Growth
24:05 Lightning Round: The Nine Types Recap
25:22 Finding Your Enneagram Type
27:05 Applying the Enneagram in Professional Settings
Links Mentioned:
Libby Cole's Website: https://expandcandc.com/
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.