![Getting Started with the Enneagram: 5 Steps to Identifying Your Personality and Making Lasting Change [FREE PDF]](http://papertiger.store/cdn/shop/articles/enneagram_blog.jpg?v=1705339156&width=1100)
Step 1: Learn about the Nine Types
The Enneagram is based on the idea that there are nine different personality types, each has its own set of motivations, fears, and desires. To start identifying your type, you need to learn about each of the nine types and their core characteristics. Some people find it helpful to read descriptions of each type, while others prefer to listen to podcasts or watch videos. There are many resources available online, so find a format that works for you and start learning. (Here's a quick, free test that I've found to be the most accurate.)Step 2: Take a Test
While learning about the nine types can be helpful, taking a test is often the fastest and easiest way to identify your Enneagram type. There are many free tests available online, including the Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator (RHETI), which is one of the most widely used tests. The test will ask you a series of questions (there are no wrong answers!) about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and will give you a score for each of the nine types. The type with the highest score is usually your dominant type, but it is important to read the descriptions of all the types to confirm your type.Step 3: Validate Your Type
After you have identified your type, it is important to validate your type by reading more about it and talking to people who know you well. Many people find that their initial identification is incorrect, and that they actually identify more strongly with a different type. It is also common to identify with one or two other types in addition to your dominant type, so it is important to explore these connections as well.Step 4: Understand Your Motivations and Fears
Once you have validated your type, it is important to gain a deeper understanding of your motivations and fears. Each type has a core fear that drives them, as well as a core desire that they seek to fulfill. By understanding your own core fear and desire, you can gain an understanding of why you behave the way you do and start to make meaningful changes in your life. There are many resources available online that can help you explore your type in more depth, including books, podcasts, and workshops.
Step 5: Take Action
The final step in using the Enneagram is to take action based on your newfound awareness. Once you have identified your type and gained a deeper understanding of your motivations and fears, you can start to make changes in your life that are aligned with your core desires and values. This might involve setting new goals, changing your habits, or seeking out new experiences. Whatever actions you decide to take, remember the Enneagram is a tool for growth and transformation, and that making lasting change takes time and effort.
The Enneagram is a fascinating and powerful tool for personal growth that can help you identify your personality, understand your motivations and fears, and make lasting change in your life. By following these five steps, you can start to explore your Enneagram type and gain insight into why you behave the way you do. Remember to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you explore the Enneagram, and enjoy the journey of self-discovery and transformation. Finally, remember that this is just one tool, and there are many, to help you on your journey to self-awareness, understanding, and compassion. 
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