Page 27 - Using the Enneagram System to Identify and Grow Your Leadership Strengths and Achieve Maximum Success

6 What Type of Leader Are You?

Basic Issues for Twos

RELATIONSHIP ORIENTATION Most Twos believe that personal rela-
tionships are the most important part of their lives. It is quite com-
mon for Twos to have many close friendships, with the Twos
providing support, advice, or whatever they believe another per-
son needs. Although Twos often feel that others are dependent on
them, they themselves become dependent on their relationships
for personal affirmation and a sense of self-worth.

FOCUS ON OTHER PEOPLE Twos usually display an intuitive ability
to understand what others need and a willingness to provide what
is needed. Their capacity to reach out to other people can be either
generalized (for example, anyone who appears in need) or highly
selective (specific individuals who the Two believes have high sta-
tus). In the latter case, Twos will alter their image and behavior to
meet the other person’s perception of desirability. Generally, Twos
instinctively know how to present themselves so that others will
like them.

DENIAL OF OWN NEEDS Because Twos focus so intently on others,
they often pay little attention to themselves. When asked what they
themselves need, most Twos either become confused or say, “I need
to be needed.” Since they are out of touch with their needs, Twos
often have difficulty getting those needs met directly. Instead, they
give to others, often unaware that they want something in return.

PRIDE Twos typically take great pride in their self-image as a
“good” person and in their ability to know what people need or
situations require better than most other people do. Although they
may be quite competent at orchestrating situations and managing
people (often behind the scenes), there is a downside to this qual-
ity: while Twos become quite elated when things go well, they can
become deflated and angry when events do not turn out as
planned.