Catching yourself in personality

The Enneagram theory that will release you from your habitual responses

The "Catching Yourself in Personality" concept in Enneagram theory refers to the practice of recognizing and interrupting automatic personality patterns as they arise. It’s a method of increasing self-awareness by noticing habitual thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that stem from one's core Enneagram type.

Each Enneagram type has predictable reactions to stress, fear, or unmet needs. For example: A Type 1 (The Reformer) may notice a strong urge to correct a perceived mistake, while a Type 7 (The Enthusiast) may catch themselves planning distractions to avoid discomfort. These responses often go unnoticed as they are deeply rooted defense mechanisms to stress or discomfort.

Recognizing Automatic Patterns

These are deeply ingrained habits that shape how we think, feel, and act. When you become aware of them, you will start to naturally catch yourself in the act of doing them. With observation comes perspective and it will become easier to understand why these patterns are your natural impulse. For example: A Type 3 (The Achiever) may feel an urge to prove their worth through success due to their basic desire to feel valuable.

Interrupting the Habitual Response

Once you notice a personality-driven reaction, you can pause and choose a different response. A Type 8 might pause before reacting with frustration. A Type 5 might stay put to work through conflict instead of withdrawing. Practicing interrupting your habitual responses allows you to take a breath and respond more intentionally.

Reframing and Choosing Growth

Instead of identifying fully with personality habits, you learn to observe them and act from a more conscious place. For example: A Type 6 (The Loyalist) who catches themselves in anxious overthinking might step back and focus on trust and presence.

This practice allows you to detach from your type’s automatic behaviors and make more authentic, flexible choices. It helps your mind to shift from reactivity to awareness.

What are your habitual responses? Are they in line with what your Enneagram type says about you? Respond to this email and let me know! Also, please share this post with a friend! Practicing The Enneagram with others is much more fun.