Enneagram Type 4: Do You Really Know Yourself?

Enneagram Type 4 – The Individualist

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 Individualists.

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 4 ‘s Might Face

4 5 Common Enneagram Type 4 Careers

5 Enneagram Type 4 Growth Suggestions

6 10 Famous Enneagram Type 4 Celebrities

Short Description: Key Personality Traits

Driven by their unique ability to express themselves, Individualists see themselves as fundamentally different from the ordinary. With their sensitive and creative nature, they thrive to make the world a more beautiful place to live in. However, by constantly differentiating themselves from society they tend to have issues with depression and self-pity.

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?

Their name says it all. Although, every person is unique Individualists take this to a whole new level. Not only do they feel like they possess a distinctive, one-of-a-kind gift but also like they have been exceptionally disadvantaged in life. By longing for distinction, they tend to have a hard time connecting to others because they believe that no one can quite grasp what they are feeling or talking about.

Because they believe no one understands them, they can have difficulties finding their spot in a group and might even be perceived as self-conscious and socially awkward. There are two responses an Individualist might have to this issue. They can either withdraw from society completely or build an entire idealized social persona to fit in.

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It is not uncommon that Individualists go through many identities before figuring out who they really are. They feel as if they are missing something inside of them, unsure what it might be. One of the biggest challenges in their quest for their identity is not holding onto past feelings and nursing traumatic wounds. Often, they hide their unstable personality by building a new one around being different, shutting everyone out in the belief that no one will understand them anyways.

Although it can take some time, once Individualists find their true self, they can flourish with their emotions. They are in tune with their feelings without sugar-coating them nor dwelling on any past experiences. They are experts in expressing what is going on inside of them without being afraid of what they might find.

Common Addictions Enneagram Type 4 ‘s Might Face

Individualists might struggle more than other types with the following:

Binge-eating:
Due to emotional distress Individualists tend to overindulge on rich foods and sweets.
Alcohol consumption:
To better socialize and fit into a group, Individualists use alcohol to alter their moods.
Tobacco, prescription and heavy drugs:
Individualists often use tobacco, prescription drugs or even heavy drugs to deal with their social anxiety.

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

5 Common Enneagram Type 4 Careers

Individualists are often found in the following jobs:

Source: Unsplash.com

Actor/Actress
Personal Trainer
Writer
Artist
Designer

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

Enneagram Type 4 Growth Suggestions

Although Individualists are very well aware of their own emotions and needs, there are still some aspects that Individualists struggle with. Therefore, we have picked 5 recommendations to ease Individualist’s paths to personal growth.

Your past doesn’t define you:
It can be hard to let go, but it is crucial for your personal growth that you do so. Try not to hold onto these feelings and create room for new memories.
Don’t imagine surreal situations:
Thinking about what you could have said to your bully 5 years ago or overly romanticizing about your celebrity crush will not bring you any joy. Focus your energy and time towards the present and what you can do right now to bring you happiness.

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Breathe:
Let’s face it, big group just aren’t your thing but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid them! Try incorporating breathing exercises if you find yourself in overwhelming situations.
Accept help:
Although your feelings do get complex sometimes, don’t refuse when someone is trying to help. Be open and listen to their advice, you never know what others have been through.
Reflect on the positive:
It comes almost naturally to pinpoint what is missing from your life, but you know that this will not make you any happier. Every time you find yourself focusing on the negative, follow it up with a least one good aspect of your life.