The summer is almost over, and for many of us or our families, that means a return to school or work routines.
Whether you are excited or anxious about the new academic year, you might wonder how to make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. How can you adjust to the changes in your schedule, environment, and expectations without losing your balance and joy?
One way to answer this question is to use the Enneagram, a powerful tool for self-awareness and personal growth. The Enneagram is a system of nine personality types that describes how we think, feel, and act in different situations.
Each type has strengths, challenges, and a unique way of coping with stress and change. Knowing your Enneagram type lets you learn more about yourself and how to adapt to the new school rhythms effortlessly and gracefully.
However, the Enneagram is not just about your specific type. It also reveals how you relate to others and the world around you.
One aspect of the Enneagram that can help you understand your relationships better is the concept of instinctual triads. These are three groups of types that share a common focus on one of the three basic instincts:
- Self-Preservation
- Social
- Sexual (or One-To-One)
These instincts influence how you approach your physical, emotional, and mental needs and interact with others.
Let’s look deeper into how the three instinctual triads can help us embrace the new school year rhythms now:
Self-preservation triad: Types 1, 5, and 9. These types are concerned with security, comfort, and stability. They tend to be practical, organized, and self-reliant. To cope with the new school rhythms, they need to:
- Create a consistent and predictable routine that supports their health and well-being.
- Balance their work and rest.
- Avoid isolating themselves from others.
Social triad: Types 2, 3, and 4. These types are concerned with belonging, recognition, and identity. They tend to be outgoing, ambitious, and expressive. To cope with the new school rhythms, they need to:
- Find a meaningful and fulfilling role that aligns with their values and passions.
- Manage their emotions and expectations.
- Avoid comparing themselves to others.
Sexual (1:1) triad: Types 6, 7, and 8. These types are concerned with intimacy, adventure, and power. They tend to be loyal, enthusiastic, and assertive. To cope with the new school rhythms, they need to:
- Establish trust and connection with colleagues, teachers, classmates, and friends.
- Channel their energy and excitement into constructive and creative activities.
- Avoid getting into conflicts or distractions.
Understanding your instinctual triad allows you to gain more insight into your needs, motivations, and challenges as you face the new school year. You can also appreciate the diversity and richness of other types and triads and learn from their perspectives and experiences.
The Enneagram can help you make a smooth landing and embrace the new school rhythms with confidence and optimism.
If you want to explore your Enneagram Type and its meanings more deeply, you can grab a 90-minute session with me for only $250 here.
