Stardew Valley MBTI x Enneagram: Alex
Following my last post about the Stardew marriage candidates and their MBTI types, I've been learning more about Enneagram, how it pairs with MBTI, and how it changes some of the typical characteristics of each type.
The Enneagram and MBTI complement each other wonderfully, providing greater depth and understanding of how a person interacts with the world [Cognitive Functions] and their motivations why [Core Desire/Core Fear]. So without further ado, here are my thoughts on each marriage candidate's Enneagram paired with their MBTI, starting with Alex.
Alex - ESTP 3w2: “The Ultimate Showman”
“ESTP 3w2 lives for the limelight and adoration. However, there’s more. The ESTP 3w2 is goal-oriented with a touch of generosity. They are the game-changers and dealbreakers. Because they have type 2 as a wing, they also want appreciation for their heroics. They turn the aggressive nature of the ESTP into something more entertaining to watch.” – Personality Hunt
Alex’s Core Desire: To be successful
The core desire of the ESTP 3w2 is to be successful. Alex's dream is to become a professional gridball player -- and enjoy all the fame and fortune that comes with it. He measures his success and sense of self-worth on external admiration and appreciation from others.
"You know, I used to want fame and fortune, but lately I've been starting to sing a different tune.”
“Yes... I know. That's why I've been so determined to be successful with my sports stuff...Make it or not... As long as I try my hardest, I think [my mom]'d be proud. Thanks.”
Alex’s Core Fear: To be seen as a failure
The core fear of the ESTP 3w2 is to be seen as a failure. Alex fears being viewed as a failure or worthless, especially by those closest to him. He perceives his sense of failure or worthlessness from external criticism or other's lack of appreciation [whether real or not].
“… [my dad] ruined everything for me and my mom… he'd drink all night and tell me I'm worthless, that I'd never amount to anything.”
“That's insane. You're just jealous that I'm talented and popular and you're not.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
How Enneagram 3w2 changes typical ESTP behaviour: New Strengths
1. Extra Charming
ESTPs are naturally charming, but ESTP 3w2s take this to a new level. Type 3s are excellent at persuasion and subtle manipulation, enhancing the ESTP's natural Extroverted Feeling [Fe] ability to woo and flatter others.
Examples:
“Hey, now that's what I'm talking about! You're cooler than I thought.”
"Heard you caught some kind of rare fish? I'm impressed. Your arms must be stronger than they look! pinch … not bad!"
"Hey, Farmer. Did you do something different with your hair? Something keeps grabbing my attention.",
"Hey, you look like you're getting into some good shape this summer! All that farm work is paying off, huh?"
2. More Helpful
Type 2s are known for being helpful, and because of this, ESTP 3w2s often find joy in helping others. Their motives might sometimes be questionable due to being type 3 but mature 3w2s can make generous and inspiring leaders.
Examples:
“If I ever make a lot of money, I'll make sure all my friends and family are taken care of. That means you, too.”
“I've been setting aside a few scraps for Dusty. He deserves a treat now and then.”
"Hey, honey! I made you a hot breakfast. If you want to get strong, you have to eat like you mean it!” "I'm still getting used to cooking and doing laundry… It's not exactly my favorite, but I knew what I was getting into when I married you." "There's a couple things around the house that I'm going to try and fix today. Don't worry about me, I'm not bored."
3. More Tactful
ESTPs are known for being blunt and tactless, but 3w2s realize that to help get what they want, being tactful has benefits. This only applies if they want to get close to someone or if it's with someone they respect. With everyone else, they typically don't care.
Examples:
“Oh wow...your shoes are a little dirty... but that's fine, too! Different people have different tastes I guess.” [Four Hearts] [Beach invite accept] "Of course you do. If you didn't I'd think you were crazy. Or some kind of nerd" [Beach invite rejection] "Really? You must be some kind of weirdo."
4. Better Work Ethic
The combination of Type 3 and ESTP makes them highly self-motivated and goal-oriented. As a result, ESTP 3w2s are true powerhouses of determination who go hard for their beliefs and stop at nothing to achieve their dreams.
Examples:
"I'm going to be the first professional gridball player from Stardew Valley… There's no doubt in my mind. I already led my school's team to the regional playoffs… Now I'm just training and getting stronger so I can claim my spot on the roster of the Zuzu City Tunnelers. You just wait!
5. More Disciplined
ESTPs aren't the most organized people, but because of the ESTP 3w2s' need to be successful, they are a bit more disciplined than typical ESTPs; However, they still tend to be scatterbrained in other aspects of life.
Examples:
“I'm going to do two hundred sit-ups tonight. I'm pretty dedicated, aren't I?”
“Oh, I almost forgot! It's my day for doing push-ups! Every time I do push-ups I try to do one more than last time.” “You have to work really hard if you want to achieve your maximum potential.”
“ My arms are really sore, but that's the sign of progress for a guy like me. I must've done a thousand push-ups yesterday.”
"Sorry my room is so messy. It's just hard to always remember to clean. I'm trying to get better, though."
6. Better Fashion Sense
Due to their primary function [Extroverted Sensing], ESTPs typically have an eye for beauty or aesthetically pleasing things. ESTP 3w2s, however, take their appearance much more seriously than just simple appreciation. Because type 2s and 3s are highly concerned with public appearances and reputation, ESTP 3w2s have a strong sense of fashion.
Examples:
“Did you get new pants? You're doing something right.”
“Did you do something different with your hair? Something keeps grabbing my attention.”
“If my hair wasn't so popular with the ladies, I swear I'd shave it all off in a second.”
"There's some weird people living in this town…like that guy Sebastian. Why does he wear black all the time? I don't get it."
New Weaknesses
1. Loss of Identity/Self-Awareness
ESTP 3w2s are masters at adapting to people's desires and emotions but they also risk losing their sense of self in others. As a result, ESTPs wear a facade for long periods. And when they have to drop the mask, they can't remember who they are.
Examples:
"I've started to realize that… well, that I've been really rude towards you in the past. You know, about going pro and all that. I guess I might not actually be cut out for professional sports… maybe it was just a childish dream… you know? " "Look at all these books. I haven't read a single one. Just the thought of cracking one open makes me nervous. But you can't make a decent living in this world without a brain…I'm worthless…"
2. Need for External Validation
Because ESTP 3w2s are self-image-focused, they highly value motivation and encouragement through external validation - it gives them the drive to keep pushing. The dangerous side is that they can view their accomplishments as less valuable if they don't receive recognition for their efforts. They can fish for compliments or get cranky if they don't feel appreciated. At worst, this can lead to serious self-doubt. But ESTPs are tenacious and will quickly bounce back regardless.
Examples:
"*sniff*... "Oh… Farmer. You saw me crying. ... "So… What are you thinking right now? "Well, there's no sense sitting around sniveling… let's head back to town. "Um… Farmer? Don't tell anyone I was crying. Okay?"
“Hey, can I ask you something? Do you think the ladies like my haircut?”
“Hey, I've been practicing twice as hard so I can turn pro and prove you wrong. You just wait.”
"Well, I'm not going to give up! If I work hard, I can do anything!"
3. Mild/Moderate People-Pleasing
"The need to be appreciated and to excel makes the ESTP 3w2s mild people-pleasers. However, make no mistake. The act of people-pleasing is only done when it benefits them. This personality type is always playing the long game. If people pleasing can get them there, so be it." - Personality Hunt
Examples:
“Hey Farmer girl. You've got a nice tan going. The more I practice this summer, the easier it'll be for me to go pro. Then you'd be able to say you knew me once. Cool, huh?” Hey, when I turn pro you can say you were my first "fan". Not bad, huh?
"Hey, you must be getting pretty strong working on that farm all day. Maybe you'll reach my level some day. Something to look forward to, huh?"
4. Chronic Workaholics
ESTP 3w2s have an incredible work ethic, but this can also be detrimental if they aren't careful. ESTP 3w2s who don't prioritize their health and relationships alongside their goals risk becoming workaholics. This is especially true if they become competitive or are trying to help someone else achieve their goals alongside their own. Their personal well-being and relationships often suffer as a result.
Examples:
“I've been trying to do more reading lately... I feel like I've been neglecting my brain for years because of my athletic obsession.”
5. Bad Financial Decisions
ESTPs aren't the best at managing money, and being a 3w2 makes this even worse. Because they want to impress others, they will often make extravagant purchases to look more successful or affluent than they really are. This can also apply if they want to appear helpful to others, giving expensive gifts beyond their financial means.
Examples:
“I got these new shoes yesterday 'cuz my old pair had a brown smudge. I just threw them into the garbage.” "Hey, Farmer. Before you head out…I hate to ask this… but can I have 5,000g? It's for a secret project I'm working on… I know we have a joint bank account, but I thought I should ask anyway."
"Thanks again for the money, Farmer. It was a fun project for me, and all the guys seem happy with it!"
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Conclusion
Though it can be challenging to type Alex [or any fictional character, for that matter] with 100% accuracy, given everything we know about his character and his personal growth throughout the game, I believe is strong evidence to suggest that Alex is an ESTP 3w2.
His Enneagram type 3 desire for fame and recognition, paired with his MBTI cognitive strengths as an ESTP, makes watching his character transform from an arrogant, superficial man with an unhealthy obsession with becoming a professional athlete into a caring, supportive, and devoted friend/partner to the farmer incredibly satisfying. Do you agree that Alex is an ESTP 3w2? If not, what type do you think he is? Let me know your thoughts in the comments :)
--------------------------------------------------------------------- References:
Personality Hunt: ESTP 3w2 - The Complete Guide
