The Enneagram is a personality test that sorts people into one of nine types. It helps users learn more about themselves by encouraging inward reflection.
Although there are layers to the Enneagram types, each type has an alternative name that describes its prominent qualities.
Type One, the Reformer, is rational, idealistic and perfectionistic.
Type Two, the Helper, is generous, people-pleasing and interpersonal.
Type Three, the Achiever, is driven, honest and hard-working.
Type Four, the Individualist, is dramatic, withdrawn and sensitive.
Type Five, the Investigator, is perceptive, isolated and observant.
Type Six, the Loyalist, is committed, anxious and responsible.
Type Seven, the Enthusiast, is busy, pain-adverse and versatile.
Type Eight, the Challenger, is powerful, confrontational and dominating.
Type Nine, the Peacemaker, is easy-going, reassuring and agreeable.
The Enneagram dates back to the 1960s when Oscar Ichazo used the Enneagram as a tool for self-realization within his students at the Arica School. However, since then, many experts and causal advocates of the Enneagram have created tools from the personality test.
One such user is Ryan O’Neal, the singer and songwriter known as “Sleeping at Last.”
In 2019, the singer released his album Atlas: II which focuses on life, senses, emotions, intelligence and the Enneagram. For each type of the Enneagram, O’Neal created a song to embody the thoughts and fears one may experience.
Alongside the album, O’Neal also released a podcast that delves into each song and how it was made. In addition, Enneagram expert Chris Heuertz joins the podcast to explain more about each type, making it a great listen for people who are new to the Enneagram.
As a Type Six myself, listening to both the song and podcast episode “Six” felt like I was being seen and described perfectly. O’Neal’s lyrics are able to put my feelings into words I could never previously form. Specifically the line, “What would it feel like to put this baggage down? If I’m being honest, I’m not sure I know how” describes the frequent worry a Type Six experiences.
Whether you are familiar with the Enneagram or are a complete newbie, listening to the “Sleeping at Last” podcast will be the therapy session you didn’t know you needed.