Enneagram Type 5: The Observer

Definitions used in describing each type

“Lost” essential quality: A sense of omniscience; simply knowing there is an ample supply of knowledge and an abundance of energy for everyone.

Compensating belief: The world demands too much from people and gives them too little, potentially resulting in a scarcity of resources.

Attention/coping strategy: Protecting yourself from intrusion and demands by cutting off feelings. Focusing attention on intrusions and detaching to observe. Becoming self-sufficient, seeking privacy, limiting desires.

Trap: Obtaining self-sufficiency will free you from needing anything from others.

Driving energy: Avarice (stinginess) for essentials that are perceived as being scarce, such as private time and knowledge.

Avoidance: Intrusion and demands by others leading to depletion of energy or to a sense of inadequacy.

Strengths: Keeper of confidences, knowledgeable, calm in a crisis, appreciative of simplicity.

Paradox: Striving for self-sufficiency cuts one off from essential resources and nurturance.

Path of development:

• Experience feelings in the moment
• Stay connected rather than withdrawing
• Allow more people into protective circle
• Reveal personal matters, express self
• Engage in physical activity

Next: Enneagram Type 6
Tour the types: Type 1  Type 2  Type 3  Type 4  Type 5  Type 6  Type 7  Type 8  Type 9

Registered? Learn how this type differs from all other Enneagram types


Buy a DVD

The video clips of the types speaking for themselves are brief excerpts from these outstanding DVD and video collections by Dr. David Daniels and Helen Palmer.