An enneagram 5 is inquisitive, independent, and attentive. Type fives enjoy seeking out knowledge and want to understand the world around them.
Enneagram type fives need alone time to reflect and think about things. Unhealthy fives might withdraw from those around them all together.
When placed in a setting of various backgrounds- whether it be a diversity of beliefs or upbringings, a personality types’ weaknesses and strengths will be intensified.
Be honest about how they can improve, offer constructive criticism and suggestions.
A 5 will need to be encouraged to consider both sides. Explain where you’re coming from and create a solution together.
Each Enneagram will have different motivators, since they are all driven by different value systems. Enneagram 5 personality type is motivated by knowledge and feeling capable.
Here Are Some Examples:
Every Enneagram responds to stress differently and will have different triggers.
An enneagram 5 will be appreciative of a workplace that allows them alone time to think and recharge. When they’re being engaged with, 5s like to feel encouraged to use their skills. They work hard to gather their knowledge and learn new skills, so they’re eager to use it.
Overall, the enneagram type 5 will do best in an environment that allows them to learn, grow, and contemplate.
The enneagram 5 is both intellectual and observant. Their feedback is highly valued in the work place since their keen perception makes them great problem solvers.
As long as an Idealist is allowed to follow their moral passions and feel respected, they will thrive in their workplace.
Jobs That Best Suit An Enneagram 5
An enneagram 5 works well with people who are outgoing. This is because the peers around them will initiate discussion with the 5, prompting them to share their knowledge.
If an enneagram type 5 is working with another 5, they’ll have to be intentional about conversing with each other.
If an enneagram 5 has a partner that respects their need for space and time to think, they’ll be calm and helpful.
If the 5 is dating one of the other more reserved enneagram types, they’ll need to make an effort to set aside time for each other.
Enneagram fives tend to be more focused in acquiring knowledge than self discovery. Because of this, they may come off as overly intellectual but not very emotionally in-tune.
Healthy fives use spare time to reflect and grow their knowledge, then apply it in a useful way. This can commonly be seen in the workplace, where 5s are valued for their problem solving abilities.
Unhealthy fives tend to feel like they’re lacking something in life. They withdraw from those around them and try to correct the perceived problem until they feel capable of rejoining the world around them.
If unable to solve whatever they’re trying to fix (whether it be their inner life or self image), 5s can end up living a lonely life.
An enneagram 5 desires personal freedom and personal autonomy. They want to use the knowledge and skills they’ve acquired to be useful. A 5 fears being unhelpful or lacking insight- they’re stressed by this as well, especially if they have no space to be alone.
If you’re working along side a 5, there’s a few things you should keep in mind. A 5 feels in their comfort zone when they’re alone, thinking, and growing. Respect their privacy and encourage them to grow and these visionary pioneers will thrive.
When talking to a 5 in the workplace, avoid putting emotional pressure on them or unnecessary small talk. When a 5 is focused, they want to attack the task at hand. They aren’t particularly interested in other kinds of conversation.
In both professional and romantic relationships, 5s do well with people who give them space but are also outgoing in personality. If a 5 dates or works along side one of the other more reserved personality types, they’ll have to make a conscious effort to communicate with each other.
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Check out our Enneagram Test for an in-depth guide to get you started on your new life journey.
