Understanding a person’s Enneagram type is akin to discerning their favorite ice cream flavor, rather than merely knowing that they have a preference for dessert.
The following exploration delineates the various “flavors” of INFJs as categorized by their Enneagram types. Most individuals possess a primary Enneagram type and a complementary ‘wing’ type. The prevalence of certain types among INFJs is notable and warrants detailed examination.
Type 1 Enneagram (The Reformer):
INFJs with a Type 1 orientation display less warmth and agreeableness, exhibiting traits traditionally associated with competitiveness and assertiveness. Their demeanor is marked by confidence and satisfaction. Intellectually, they adhere to traditional and dogmatic approaches, and organizationally, they are aligned with typical INFJ efficiency but tend toward high structure and methodical precision. Approximately 10% of INFJs are identified as Type 1, characterized by their perfectionistic and conscientious nature.
Type 2 Enneagram (The Helper):
Type 2 INFJs are distinguished by their reliability as caregivers, marked by consideration and enthusiasm. They exhibit a people-pleasing nature, are diplomatic, sociable, and possess a slightly more extroverted and agreeable interpersonal style. Emotionally, they are energetic, confident, and exhibit a degree of impatience. Intellectually, they are akin to the average INFJ but show a tendency toward conventionality. Around 15% of INFJs fall into the Type 2 category, noted for their spontaneous nature and intrinsic desire to be needed.
Type 3 Enneagram (The Achiever):
INFJs with a Type 3 disposition are driven by ambition and a need for success. They are more daring and conscientious, with a communication style that is competitive and dominant. Emotionally, they are vigorous and enthusiastic, a stark contrast to the typical INFJ’s quieter demeanor. Intellectually, they align more with conventionality. The convergence of Type 3 traits with those of INFJs is infrequent, with only about 3% of INFJs identified as Type 3.
Type 4 Enneagram (The Individualist/Artist):
Type 4 is prevalent among INFJs, characterized by sensitivity, independence, and idealism. They are intuitive, insightful, eloquent, and inquisitive. Their communication style is congruent with the typical INFJ, being warm, agreeable, and trusting. Emotionally, they exhibit a slightly more melancholic disposition. Intellectually, they emphasize esoteric pursuits, and organizationally, they are more impulsive and whimsical. Approximately 30% of INFJs identify as Type 4, underlining their significant presence within this typology.
Type 5 Enneagram (The Investigator):
Type 5 INFJs are analytical and curious, often embodying the roles of reporters and researchers. Their intellectual pursuits can lead to excessive cerebral engagement, yet they are valued for their ability to solve complex problems. Interpersonally, they are more aloof and introverted compared to the typical warm and agreeable INFJ. Emotionally, they are more energetic and exhibit impatience. Around 10% of INFJs align with Type 5, characterized by their pragmatic and slightly eccentric nature.
Type 6 Enneagram (The Loyalist):
Type 6 INFJs are dramatic, sentimental, and romantic. They exhibit a tendency towards people-pleasing behaviors, clinginess, and gullibility. They are dependable but display more dogmatic and spendthrift tendencies compared to the average INFJ. Approximately 10% of INFJs identify as Type 6.
Types 7 and 8 Enneagram (The Enthusiast and The Challenger):
The convergence of INFJs with Types 7 or 8 is rare, with only about 1-2% identifying as either. Type 7s are characterized by their playfulness and energetic nature, driven by a desire to avoid pain. Type 8s are assertive and adventurous, motivated by a need to oppose control.
Type 9 Enneagram (The Peacemaker):
Type 9 INFJs are tactful diplomats with high empathy and generous spirits. They exhibit a slightly more extroverted, conventional, and dogmatic nature compared to the average INFJ. Organizationally, they are less systematic and more carefree and impulsive. About 10% of INFJs identify as Type 9.
The significance of understanding one’s Enneagram type extends to career selection and relational dynamics, as it facilitates the bridging of communication gaps. Moreover, individuals may find a greater sense of kinship with others of different MBTI types who share the same Enneagram type. For instance, Type 4 INFJs and Type 4 INFPs often form strong bonds, while Type 5 INFJs and Type 5 INTJs find common ground in their shared characteristics.
