Page 195 - Using the Enneagram System to Identify and Grow Your Leadership Strengths and Achieve Maximum Success

170 What Type of Leader Are You?

many examples and offering multiple possibilities for changes in
behavior.
When offering constructive feedback, Sevens need to make sure
that their optimism doesn’t obscure the seriousness of the mes-
sage, and that they keep the focus on the single most important
point. Adding more detail or including related issues can confuse
or distract the feedback recipient.

Manage Conflict Constructively
Because conflict elicits anxiety in most Sevens, they often use
humor or a positive reframing of the situation as a way to defuse
the conflict. These techniques can be helpful in relieving tension,
but they can also interfere with a thorough discussion of the issues
involved.
Sevens become frustrated and angry when they feel that they
are being forced to participate in nonstimulating or routine tasks,
perceive that someone is limiting their choices or criticizing them
unfairly, or feel that they have been dismissed. Although dealing
with these feelings can be difficult for many Sevens, doing so helps
them to understand and accept their emotional reactions.

Influence Others
Sevens easily inspire and influence others through their innovative
ideas, optimistic personalities, and engaging conversations. Sevens
can also become so enthralled with an idea that they may not notice
the reactions of others. In addition, Sevens can present so many
ideas that others may have difficulty giving each idea full consider-
ation. Finally, although most Sevens know the power and authority
relationships within an organization, they often ignore these dynam-
ics, thus interfering with their ability to fully influence others.

Using E-mail as a Developmental Stretch
Leslie, a Seven, sent this e-mail to a former colleague, a person
who had left the company two years earlier and had recently con-
tacted her via e-mail to rekindle their friendship.