As we witness ongoing systemic violence and misogynoir in our communities and institutions, many of us are processing layers of collective trauma. The weight of recent events - from threats to democracy to human rights violations - has left many feeling overwhelmed and searching for ways to respond. The Enneagram offers valuable insights into how different people naturally process collective trauma and engage in healing work.
Understanding these different approaches can help us create brave spaces that honor diverse responses while channeling them into collective action. Here's how each type typically shows up in times of crisis:
Enneagram Ones bring moral conviction
Ones respond through moral conviction and structured action. They excel at identifying what needs to change and organizing systematic resistance. Their righteous anger becomes a powerful force for reform and advocacy. During these times, Ones may need support in managing perfectionism and preventing burnout while maintaining their crucial drive for justice.
Enneagram Twos build reciprocal care networks
Twos instinctively respond by strengthening community bonds and creating support networks. They excel at developing mutual aid systems and providing emotional support. In times of crisis, their ability to connect and care for others becomes vital infrastructure for resistance. The challenge for Twos is remembering their own needs while supporting others.
Enneagram Threes set goals and lead strategic campaigns
Threes bring crucial strategic thinking and goal-oriented action to movements. They excel at organizing efficient responses and measuring impact. Their focus on effective solutions and visible wins helps movements maintain momentum. Threes may need encouragement to stay connected to the emotional reality of these times while driving action.
Enneagram Fours hold space for collective grief
Fours hold space for the depth of collective emotion and help movements process grief and trauma. Through art and authentic expression, they help us make meaning of difficult times. Their ability to sit with intense feelings creates space for genuine healing. The growth edge for Fours is moving from deep feeling into sustained action.
- Responds through deep emotional processing and meaning-making
- Creates art and expressions of collective grief
- Holds space for the depth of emotions
- May need help moving from feeling to action
Enneagram Fives analyze root causes
Fives contribute through deep analysis and understanding of complex systems. Their research and insights help movements understand what they're up against and develop effective strategies. While their analytical skills are crucial, Fives may need encouragement to move beyond analysis into direct engagement.
Enneagram Sixes spot potential risks
Sixes excel at spotting potential threats and sounding early warnings that help keep communities safe. Their ability to anticipate challenges helps movements prepare and adapt. They often become essential early warning systems for their communities, helping others navigate uncertainty with greater awareness. The challenge for Sixes is managing anxiety while staying engaged in crucial work.
Enneagram Sevens stay hopeful
Sevens help maintain hope and enthusiasm while imagining new possibilities. They excel at innovative problem-solving and inspiring others to action. Their ability to envision better futures keeps movements energized. Sevens may need support in staying present with difficult emotions while maintaining their vital optimism.
Enneagram Eights take decisive protective action
Eights respond through decisive action and direct confrontation of injustice. Their protective instincts and willingness to fight for others make them powerful advocates. They often emerge as strong leaders in resistance movements. The growth edge for Eights is balancing forceful action with strategic thinking.
Enneagram Nines bridge divides and build unity
Nines help maintain unity and find common ground across differences. Their ability to see multiple perspectives and mediate conflict helps movements stay cohesive for the long haul. While their peace-making skills are essential, Nines may need encouragement to stay awake to necessary conflict.
Liberation is a collective task
In times of rising fascism and threats to human rights, we need all these responses. Creating brave spaces means honoring these different approaches while helping each type channel their natural responses into constructive action for collective liberation.
Understanding these patterns can help us:
- Honor diverse responses to trauma and crisis
- Support each other's natural strengths
- Identify where we might need growth or support
- Create more effective collective resistance
- Maintain hope while taking meaningful action
Remember: Our liberation is collective. By understanding and honoring our different ways of processing and responding, we can build stronger, more resilient movements for justice.
