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Enneagram Type 1: The Perfectionist
Are you driven, motivated, and hardworking but sometimes feel overwhelmed by your high standards for yourself? Do you yearn for authenticity but find that it can be difficult to trust other people? If this sounds like you, then exploring the Enneagram type 1 – The Perfectionist – may provide some answers. But before diving forward, you must check out my recently covered comprehensive guide on Enneagram to get a hang of the subject matter!
This blog post will help uncover the nuances around this fascinating personality type. From understanding what lies beneath perfectionism’s caring facade to examining how perfectionists thrive best when allowed an element of flexibility in life — delve deeper with us into Enneagram Type 1!
Read on if you want to learn:
1.How does the Enneagram figure explain type 1
2. Who are Enneagram type 1
3. If you are an Enneagram type 1
4. Enneagram type 1 wing
5. Enneagram type 1 level of development
6. How to identify your Enneagram type
Let’s get started!
How does the Enneagram figure explain Type 1?
The Enneagram figure is an ancient symbol used to demonstrate nine different personality types, of which Type 1 is one. Type 1 personalities, according to the Enneagram figure, are known as “The Reformer” and are motivated by a strong desire for fairness, justice, and integrity. People with this type of personality tend to prioritize living life with the utmost integrity as fairness and justice are tremendously important values for them.
They strive for perfection in all their pursuits and are naturally reliable and responsible, taking pride in doing things the ‘right’ way.
Additionally, since they prioritize practicing good moral choices. Type 1s can sometimes be judgmental to maintain their standards although this is always done from a place of benevolent intent.
This type of personality strives to live up to its ethical principles while also seeking to improve on systems and social structures. People with this type of personality are driven by an inner sense of right and wrong that leads them to respond quickly when they encounter something they deem unfair or unjust.
Type 1 personalities hold themselves to the highest standards, so they often worry that they’re “not doing enough” or not living up to their expectations.
They also don’t like wasting time and pushing themselves hard so that their goals can be achieved quickly and efficiently. Does it resonate with you?
Who are Enneagram Type 1
Enneagram Type 1 are the perfectionists of the Enneagram types, driven by a desire to do good in the world and live life ethically and intentionally. They are conscientious and dependable people who strive for justice, fairness, and ethical behavior.
Motivated by values such as integrity, truthfulness, and outstanding performance, they often struggle with a sense of guilt if they can’t maintain these ideals.
Enneagram Type 1s are very independent yet strive strongly for personal growth through analysis and reflection. They view life objectively and calmly but carefully to make the right decision or take decisive action. They strive for excellence at all costs and have an innate capacity to see what needs to be done to achieve their goals.
As a result, they are socially conscious, thorough, principled, and disciplined individuals. These qualities also make them reliable and responsible citizens who always strive to help build better societies.
Ultimately, Enneagram Type 1s seek internal harmony and work hard to constantly improve themselves and the world around them.
For better clarity, check out this video to find out whether you are an Enneagram Type One Personality..
You’re probably Enneagram Type 1 if…
If order and structure are important to you, then you may be an Enneagram Type 1! As individuals who crave a sense of perfection, those who identify with this Enneagram type strive to continuously improve the areas under their control.
Individuals who lean toward Enneagram Type 1 find value in doing things the right way every time, and take pride in delivering quality results.
Furthermore, they tend to hold themselves—as well as others—to high standards. Although focused on structure and efficacy, those of this particular type can also be seen as compassionate individuals who genuinely care for those around them.
Principled
Principles and values are deeply held beliefs that guide your everyday decisions and behavior. People with this personality type tend to have strong convictions about what is right and wrong. They take responsibility for their actions and excel in doing what is seen as morally correct. They need to have rules in place to live by, adhere to principles of justice, fairness, and objectivity, and act with a sense of duty.
If you’re a type 1 Enneagram personality, you may worry that not adhering to the rules or standards set by yourself can lead to chaos and disorder. So you often make it a point to hold yourself accountable for maintaining moral order.
Weaving together your values and societal norms, you strive to do what is right and play an active role in making sure justice prevails. You have developed an internal system of checks and balances, where any minor mistake is quickly examined and rectified so balance is restored.
Hard-working
Are you the one in your friend circle that is known for always finishing projects days (or even weeks) ahead of schedule? Do you revel in taking on high responsibility and difficult tasks? If so, you are likely an Enneagram Type 1.
As an example of this type’s hard-working qualities, these folks tend to be extremely invested in their work and take great pride in getting things done as efficiently as possible. They also put a strong emphasis on high performance, constantly striving to do better with every task they tackle.
These individuals tend to be particularly hard-working and meticulous. They focus intensely on details while consistently pushing themselves to do better by constantly striving for perfection.
This leads them to put extra effort into everything they do, often resulting in a job or task being done extremely well. With this perfectionistic attitude comes a strong sense of responsibility, which is why many Type 1s should also be recognized for their outstanding reliability.
Judgemental
If you often find yourself caught in a relentless loop of self-criticism, always striving for perfection but never quite feeling like you’ve reached it, there’s a possibility you may be an Enneagram Type 1.
These individuals are known as the Reformers and view every area of their lives through the lens of judgment. While this can be beneficial and aid in the growth trajectory.
As an Enneagram Type 1, you take pride in having high standards and may tend to be overly critical of yourself, as well as others.
Type 1s are known for their focus on morality and feel that rules, laws, and codes should be respected without fail. When faced with injustice or unethical behavior, Type 1s would want to set things right quickly and expect the same from those around them.
Controlling
Are you a perfectionist at heart, reflective of your penchant for consistency? Do you often feel compelled to be in control of your environment and take action when things don’t align with what is socially accepted as “proper”?
If so, the Enneagram Type 1 might be the perfect fit for you. A characteristic of Type 1s is their need to impose order over any tasks they find themselves handling.
They maintain high standards, carry a sense of justice, and strive to ensure the accuracy and quality of their work.
Though these are commendable strengths, it is also important that Type 1s remain mindful of their tendency to over-control, which can manifest as nitpicking or discrediting other individuals’ efforts. Being keenly aware and highlighting your achievements along with those of others helps to make sure living up to expectations doesn’t get out of hand.
Enneagram type 1 wings
Enneagram type 1, also known as the Reformer, often takes on characteristics of types 8 (the Challenger) or 2 (the Helper) for a total of three different personality types. These wings, as they are known, help people with Type 1 identify more closely with their true selves and learn more about their motivations and behaviors.
With both left and right-wing personalities influencing Type 1s, it’s important to be aware of the differences between each: left-wing 8 personalities bring assertiveness while 2 wing Type 1s may find themselves increasingly emotional. By recognizing which wing is stronger in any situation, Type 1s can see how their personality might be seen by others and avoid feeling extreme pressure to carry out the “perfect” action every time.
A person with a type 1 wing can have at times a heightened sense of justice and morality, making them easily frustrated with themselves or others that are not meeting those expectations. Although they desire perfection in themselves, they may also suffer from feelings of guilt or self-doubt if they have not reached the standards they set for themselves.
This can lead to becoming overly critical and judgmental of both themselves and those around them. These individuals struggle with finding a balance between an internal code of ethics and behavior and facing reality—both letting go of the need for control. Also pushing past their own constraints. Type 1s need to come up with ways to find peace, tolerance, and acceptance within themselves.
Enneagram type 1 levels of Development
Enneagram type 1 is focused on having a highly developed sense of right and wrong. As someone belonging to this type progresses through their levels of development, they tend to move away from a fear-based concept of morality and towards an awareness of the consequences that their actions have on others.
They learn to be gentler with themselves and more open to the idea that ethical decisions are complex and can’t be reduced to two simple options. People who reach the highest levels develop a deeper understanding of how their actions, even those with the best intentions, can still cause harm and strive for humility in their relationships with others.
Below are 3 levels of development of Enneagram type 1.
Healthy
As Enneagram type 1 progresses to a healthier level of development, they tend to improve the quality of its internal dialogue. They gain skills at balancing their idealistic standards with more realistic ones and can recognize them. They appreciate their achievements without putting unrealistic expectations on themselves. They also demonstrate a greater willingness to accept the rights of others.
On a practical level, this type of progression allows Type 1s to think more broadly and experience greater joy. As a result of letting go of control and aligning themselves with life’s natural purposes and possibilities. In healthy levels of development, type 1s become reliably dependable while also becoming capable of discernment between right and wrong.
Average
At the Average level of development, these individuals will display qualities of thoroughness but may tend to be more judgmental and perfectionistic than their higher-level counterparts. They are often exceedingly conscientious in their work but may be rigid in their behavior and moral code. They are typically individuals who want to be good and live up to standards, but with an underlying fear that others might think less of them.
On the plus side, people of this type at the Average level have a strong feeling of responsibility for the safety and well-being of themselves and those around them. While people with this type can become stuck in compulsive patterns focused on external appearances and rules. They can also benefit from taking time to develop self-love and acceptance.
Unhealthy
Throughout the different levels of development for Enneagram type 1, we can find a wide range of unhealthy manifestations. They have an excessive need to please others, overcritical thinking, and an inability to maintain satisfaction with one’s tasks. The unhealthy level of development for those with the Enneagram type one personality can manifest itself in several unique ways. This often includes a tendency towards anger and a criticalness of oneself and others.
In addition to these features, individuals at this stage also tend to make assumptions and judgments toward themselves that lack understanding or empathy. People in this state may struggle to see any other perspective when it comes to their judgment of self. This consequently becomes rigid in how they see their successes and failures.
How to Identify your Enneagram Type
Identifying your enneagram type can be a very enlightening experience. The process of self-discovery takes time and patience. With the right resources and a willingness to examine yourself honestly, you can gain insight into how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are shaped by your personality type. Developing an understanding of the nine enneagram types is a great way to get acquainted with yourself on a deeper level.
You can seek out support from professionals such as therapists who specialize in the Enneagram. They can provide insight into which type best aligns with your character traits and behaviors. Understanding your enneagram type gives you more clarity and knowledge about how you interact with the world and why certain things trigger particular responses.
Take a look at this video to explore more about discovering your Enneagram type! You might discover yourself learning and developing in parallel with the video (pro tip: Take the Enneagram Test!).
Conclusion
It is imperative to bear in mind that irrespective of one’s Enneagram category, it does not define their persona. I believe that every individual possesses traits of each Enneagram classification, and comprehending them all can enable us to establish an enhanced world. Type 1s: the perfectionist tries to create order and justice in the world, but can be hard on themselves and others in the process.
It is important to identify one’s triggers and maintain a sense of patience and self-love when faced with difficult situations. By fostering an environment where one can make mistakes without fear, this type can better take care of their mental health while still valuing excellence.
Did this piece captivate your attention? Or did it overlook any aspects? Share your views in the comments section and apprise me about the areas where the piece excelled or if there are any other aspects that I should have incorporated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What do Enneagram 1s struggle with?
Enneagram 1 individuals typically have an inner critic that is constantly monitoring their behavior and attitude. This may cause them to be overly perfectionistic and strive for high standards, as they tend to hold themselves to higher standards than others.
Additionally, Enneagram 1s are often prone to worrying and feeling inferior or guilty when they don’t live up to these ideals. They also struggle with anger and frustration if they feel people or events do not match up with their expectations, leading them to become easily agitated or irritated.
Despite their struggles, Enneagram 1s are honest, loyal individuals who can be reliable in any situation.
What Enneagram is the most perfectionist?
The Enneagram is a powerful personality type system that categorizes human behavior into nine distinct types. Each type differs in outlook, values, and attitude. Of the nine types, it’s believed that the Type 1 “Reformer” is the most perfectionist of them all – though not necessarily in an overly critical way.
Rather, this personality type works hard to create lasting inner integrity by striving for excellence and constantly seeking ways to improve themselves and their environment. They often have high personal standards and are motivated from within to make sure they meet them.
As such, Type 1s are also seen as conscientious, principled individuals who want to positively contribute to the world around them.
Further Resources:
- Delve into the world of Enneagram Type 2 individuals, often described as caring and people-pleasing, with valuable insights and tips for personal growth: Enneagram Type 2.
- Uncover the traits and tendencies of Enneagram Type 3 personalities, driven and ambitious go-getters, through this comprehensive exploration: Enneagram Type 3.
- Gain a deeper understanding of Enneagram Type 4 individuals, characterized by their creativity and emotional depth, in this insightful analysis: Enneagram Type 4.
- Navigate the distinct features of Enneagram Type 5 personalities, often seen as analytical and independent thinkers, with valuable perspectives and guidance: Enneagram Type 5.
- Examine the traits and behaviors of Enneagram Type 6 individuals, known for their loyalty and skepticism, in this informative exploration: Enneagram Type 6.
- Discover the vibrant characteristics of Enneagram Type 7 personalities, often described as enthusiastic and adventurous, through this engaging analysis: Enneagram Type 7.
- Gain insights into the powerful and assertive nature of Enneagram Type 8 individuals, known for their leadership qualities and strength of character: Enneagram Type 8.
- Explore the calm and peace-seeking qualities of Enneagram Type 9 personalities in this insightful guide to understanding and embracing their unique perspectives: Enneagram Type 9.
