Are you direct, strong-willed and readily protect those you care about? Then you may be a type 8.
Type 8 at a glance
| Centre | Body (gut/instinct) |
| Core fear | Being controlled or vulnerable |
| Core desire | Being strong and in charge of your own life |
| Passion | Lust/excess |
| Fixation | Vengeance |
| Wings | Type 7 and type 9 |
| Under stress | Type 5 |
| In security | Type 2 |
How to recognise type 8
- You say what you think, directly and clearly.
- You readily take command and responsibility.
- You protect those close to you.
- You find it hard to show vulnerability.
- You react strongly to injustice.
Your strengths
Type 8 are strong, decisive and protective. They take the lead and stand up for others.
Under pressure and in security
Under pressure, type 8 can withdraw and become secretive (traits from type 5). In security they become more open, caring and warm (traits from type 2).
Not sure of your type?
Descriptions can point to several types – a test gives a reliable starting point.
Want to go deeper into type 8? Read the full description on
enneagram.dk.
Frequently asked questions about type 8
How do I know if I am a type 8?
Look at your motivation, not just your behaviour: type 8 is driven by being strong and in charge of your own life. An enneagram test like 360indicator gives a valid indication.
What is the core motivation of type 8?
Being strong and in charge of your own life – and to avoid being controlled or vulnerable.
What is type 8 confused with?
Type 8 is most often confused with type 3 (both action-oriented) and type 1 (both with strong opinions). A test helps to tell them apart.