Enneagram Instinctual Variants, in a Nutshell (The Good and The Bad)
Self-preservation (sp) types are pragmatic at heart. They will sacrifice heart (sx) and social (so) matters for the sake of some sort of security, usually related to comfort or finance. Success in these areas will be valued above all else. They may become workaholics in order to achieve the comforts that they seek. They can also be prone to selfish behaviours if they are unhealthy or feel threatened. Having a beautiful home with all the creature comforts is of utmost importance to these types. They need to take care not to isolate or hermit themselves too much.
Sexual (or intimacy - sx) types long for intense connection on a one-on-one basis. They want that connection to be their everything. It is usually relational, i.e., based on another person. This can make them seem a bit “too much” or somewhat emotionally labile and volatile to others. They can be prone to having affairs if they feel their needs are not being met and meet another person with whom they may feel an intense connection, if unhealthy. This does not need to happen if they find their ideal partner, or realise that they can direct their intensity towards other worthy areas. They need passion in their lives, and may feel the need to direct that passion toward their career as well. Many sx types are quite creative, because they feel and express their emotions quite intensely.
Social types (so) are all about the value of and the good of the group. They care what others think of them, crave social recognition, and need others around them in order to thrive. They can be tempted to sacrifice themselves for the good of the group and can, when unhealthy, lose their sense of self. Narcissism and grandiosity can also be issues if they feel they need to “show off” for the group. Many do well in positions that require a lot of interpersonal intelligence and dexterity, such as politics, sales, or any other extroverted-type role.
