Enneagram Type 1: Do You Really Know Yourself?

Enneagram Type 1 – The Reformer

What makes them act the way they do? From their basic desires to their deepest fears, this article covers everything you need to know about Reformers.

In this article...

1 Short Description: Key Personality Traits

1.1 Center of Intelligence

1.2 Focus of Attention

2 In-Depth Description: Do You Really Know Yourself?

3 Common Addictions Enneagram Type 1 ‘s Might Face

4 5 Common Enneagram Type 1 Careers

5 Enneagram Type 1 Growth Suggestions

6 10 Famous Enneagram Type 1 Celebrities

Short Description: Key Personality Traits

Driven by what is right and wrong, Reformers thrive to improve everything around them. With their rational minds and well-organized nature, they try to live up to the high standards they put on themselves. However, this constant pressure can quickly develop into critical perfectionism and impatience when their goals are not met as quickly as they wished.

Center of Intelligence

Focus of Attention

At Their Best

At Their Worst

Basic Desire

Basic Fear

Key Motivation

In-Depth Description: Do You Really Know Yourself?

If you are wondering why this type is called “The Reformer” the answer is quite simple. Ones passionately live to achieve a higher purpose and to improve themselves and the world around them as much as they possibly can. Whether it is to overcome ethical injustice or to become the best version of themselves, their missions are anchored deep inside.

However, it is not unusual that Reformers feel the need to justify themselves and their actions so that they are not misunderstood. Because they are afraid of making the wrong decision, they spend a long time thinking and obsessing over what consequences their actions might have and if there are better solutions for the problem.

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Reformers perceive themselves as head rather than heart types – Leading by logic and facts rather than emotions and subjective opinions. They use rational approaches to stay in tune with their values and principles. However, their rigid mentality forces them to resist their personal emotions. Meanwhile, repressing and not giving into their own feelings will build up an inner aggression that will be hard to let go of.

They rely on a little voice inside which differentiates the good from the bad. This alter-ego goes beyond anything else and is their key motivator. Having held onto this rather black-and-white decision-making-method, Reformers have a hard time listening to their inner guidance and judgement, afraid of being subjective or even worse, immoral.

Although they might seem quite rigid and critical, Reformers care a lot about their community and loved ones. Due to their strong ethical values, Reformers are the ones that would not blink to stand up for other’s rights and honors. However, when things go south Ones have a hard time diverting from their idealistic worldviews and accepting the harsh realities of the world.

Common Addictions Enneagram Type 1 ‘s Might Face

Reformers might struggle more than other types with the following:

Excessive use of diets and cleansing techniques:
To stay in control of their own bodies, Reformers tend to excessively use diets and cleansing techniques like fasts.

Excessive alcohol consumption:
It is not uncommon that Reformers use alcohol to relieve inner tensions.
Antidepressants:
Like alcohol, antidepressants work as a means to relieve the anger they have built up inside of them.

Please, do not be afraid to reach out for help if you are experiencing any of these issues.

5 Common Enneagram Type 1 Careers

Source: Unsplash.com

Reformers are often found in the following jobs:

Lawyer
Social Worker
Doctor
Guidance Counselor
Judge

Don’t see your job here? Share with the community in the comments how you are shaping the world in your career!

Enneagram Type 1 Growth Suggestions

Because self-development is crucial for Reformers, here are 5 recommendations for their personal growth:

Take a breath from time to time:
The world will not end if you make a mistake. Don’t be too strict on yourself and make also room in your daily life for self-care and relaxation. Nonetheless, you will not be able to perform your personal best if your mind is always overwhelmed.
Change does not come instantly:
Change takes time and patience is truly a virtue. Don’t expect change to come immediately to yourself and especially to others. Self-growth takes time and perspective, don’t try to rush this natural process – be patient!
Accept your emotions as an asset:
Being objective certainly has its advantages, however, your inner judgment can sometimes help to reveal a deeper truth. Open yourself up to listening not only to ration but also to emotion. Finding your inner guidance can be hard and relies on you trusting your instincts as much as you trust hard facts. The world is not black and white – let the colors inside of you paint it with colors.

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Anger management is your friend:
Repressing your emotions comes at a cost. Learn how to deal with that little angry monster that lives deep inside of you. There are several anger-management tips online if you don’t feel comfortable with going to therapy right away.
Stop judging yourself and others:
Recognize that unnecessary judgment will not make you come closer to your goals. Let your energies flow towards more productive activities and thoughts. Being overly critical of yourself and others negatively affects both your relationships as well as your personal acceptance.