frequently asked questions

5. Are written Enneagram type tests a good way to type yourself?

While written tests are certainly convenient they are at best indicators of type. The journey of self-discovery is without doubt more complex than can be illustrated by a written test.

The Enneagram describes unconscious, habitual response, which by definition is invisible to the person. It therefore makes more sense to get someone who knows you well to do the test for you rather than do it yourself, since the other person can at least see the habitual response, even if they are unable to determine the motivation. If the Enneagram tests describe habitual responses which are invisible to the person, then by definition, they will be unable to divine the personality type of the person.

External feedback from impartial, trained observers through a clinical assessment with an experienced practitioner is without doubt the gold standard of Enneagram assessment. Written tests make great copy for fashion magazines, or news magazines like Time or Newsweek, but they are a less than helpful method for assessing personality type in reality.