The Enneagram and Ancient Wisdom

Those who know me well know I love learning about psychology, the psyche, and the spirit. I’ve studied the Enneagram informally for many years, beginning during my time at Loyola in Chicago, where I was introduced to it through my Master’s program in spirituality. My desire to understand myself more deeply has always been tied to a longing for compassion—especially self-compassion—as I navigate this winding journey called life.

One morning, I opened my “Ennea Thought of the Day” and found a delightful surprise. For those unfamiliar, the Enneagram is a system of spiritual psychology rooted in ancient Sufi wisdom. It outlines nine personality types that help us better understand ourselves and others.

Like so many, I’ve experienced trauma. Trauma can keep us locked in survival mode, making it hard to grow, to become, to give back. My brain injury was one such trauma—one that brought me to a place of grief nearly beyond words.

When I was still in a coma, a neuro nurse told my family that when I woke, my personality traits would likely be exaggerated. I wonder what they thought of that. According to the Enneagram, I’m a Type Six. That means fear is a central theme for me—and after my injury, it was magnified. Some days, it feels like fear runs the show, and I don’t like that one bit. But fear also keeps me safe. It helps me navigate daily life. And sometimes, fear is a sign of wisdom.

I am endlessly fascinated by the Enneagram—not just for its insights, but for its lineage. Rooted in ancient spiritual traditions, it emerged from cultures that prioritized inner inquiry as much as survival. Long before modern distractions, people gathered wisdom through observation, contemplation, and storytelling. The Enneagram reflects that timeless search: not for perfection, but for presence. It’s a map of the soul’s patterns, shaped by centuries of listening to what makes us human.

The Enneagram doesn’t just name our patterns—it invites us to witness them with compassion and curiosity. As a Six, fear can feel like a constant companion. But the Enneagram helps me see that fear isn’t the enemy—it’s a signal. A guide. And when I pause to notice it, I can choose differently. I can stretch beyond survival mode and into trust.

This ancient system offers more than insight—it offers a path. It helps us name the stories we tell ourselves, the habits we cling to, and the defenses we’ve built. And then, gently, it shows us how to soften. How to grow. How to return to our essence.

I’m still learning. Still unfolding. But the Enneagram has given me language for my inner world—and a map for the journey ahead. CLICK HERE to discover your Enneagram type.

Originally written in 2015 — Revisited in 2026