The Leadership Style of Every Enneagram Type

“It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you in trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.”

Mark Twain reportedly said that years ago and it has been proven true, again and again. Don’t believe it? Here is a short list of “facts” that turned out to be totally false.

• The earth is the center of the universe (Not true).
• Bloodletting is a good medical practice for many diseases and ailments (Turns out it is not).
• Lobotomies cure mental illness (There are definitely better options available)
• Mercury works as a powerful medicine (It is actually extremely toxic)

People can be crazy! Another “fact” that can be thrown into the trash bin of historically inaccurate facts is that “Leaders are born and have a certain personality type.” This is completely and utterly false. Not only can lead with any “type” of personality, but you can also learn to lead at any time in your life.

Believing you need a certain type of personality to lead can severely limit your potential. The world deserves to see the leader you can be. You deserve it as well. To understand how this works, we look at the Enneagram personality tool and break down how each Enneatype and leadership work together. This way, you can begin to understand how you may begin your journey as a leader.

Not sure what your Enneatype is? Take our online questionnaire now!

The Leadership Styles of Every Enneagram Type

Type 1: The Perfectionist 

Leading with Your Standards

If you’re a Type 1, you’re probably already editing this article in your head. As a leader, you bring integrity, structure, and an obsession with doing things right. People admire your ability to spot flaws and fix them on the spot. No one would ever accuse you of not trying your best or “phoning it in.” But sometimes, perfectionism is less “guiding light” and more “micromanaging shadow.” (Hey, we all have our quirks.)

I personally love Ones because you can count on them and you know they’ll be careful and thorough. I know a One isn’t going to ask me to do something they wouldn’t do, and that they’re going to be working just as hard as me to make things “right.” That said, sometimes they can be sticklers for the rules when a little change and experimentation wouldn’t hurt anything.

What Drives You:

You want to make things better. Systems, projects, people—you believe everything (and everyone) has room to improve, and you feel it’s your responsibility to make that happen.

Your Superpowers:

• You make order out of chaos like Marie Kondo on caffeine.
• You hold yourself and others to high ethical standards.
• You’re responsible and dependable.
• You work hard (sometimes too hard).
• You inspire your team to care about doing their best.

But Watch Out For:

• Turning “high standards” into “no one can do it but me.”
• Becoming that boss who critiques fonts in PowerPoint presentations.
• Overthinking minor details while deadlines loom.
• Burning out because you won’t delegate.

Here’s an Example:
Ever heard of Captain America? Now, I’m not saying you’re a superhero (or maybe I am), but Cap’s moral compass and obsessive need to Do The Right Thing™ is quintessential Type 1. Sure, he’s a little uptight about justice, but would you really want him to slack off? Exactly.

What to Work On:

• Progress, not perfection. Repeat it until it sticks.
• Delegate like a pro.
• Make time for laughter and relaxation. Practice being in the moment and letting go of the to-do list.
• Celebrate wins, even the small ones. Your team will appreciate it, and so will your mental health.

 

Read This Next: 21 Signs that You’re an Enneagram One Personality Type

Type 2: The Helper

Leading with Your Heart

If you’re a Type 2, you’re the kind of leader everyone secretly wishes they had. You’re approachable, supportive, and the human equivalent of a hug (but, like, the professional kind that doesn’t violate HR policies). Your team knows you genuinely care about them—and not just about their productivity. But here’s the catch: your instinct to help everyone can sometimes leave you stretched thinner than your patience on a Monday morning.

My sister is a Type 2, and she’s going to do everything she can to make sure everyone feels heard, appreciated, and valued in a work situation. Feeling sad? She’ll notice. Need a coffee because you’re totally exhausted? Chances are, she’ll grab you one while she’s out running errands. But sometimes, Twos (like my sister) take on so much that they’re doing three jobs at once and forgetting to eat. (Pro tip: self-care isn’t selfish.)

What Drives You:

Connection. You thrive on building meaningful relationships and helping others succeed.

Your Superpowers:

• You create the kind of workplace culture people write LinkedIn posts about.
• You notice when Sharon in accounting is having a bad day and actually care enough to ask about it.
• You encourage, uplift, and inspire your team to do their best.
• You’re a powerhouse of persistence and hard work.

But Watch Out For:

• Saying yes to everything and then wondering why your to-do list looks like a CVS receipt.
• Taking on responsibilities that aren’t yours because “it’s just easier if I do it.”
• Avoiding conflict to keep the peace, even when tough conversations (yuck) are necessary.
• Feeling hurt when your efforts aren’t immediately appreciated.

Here’s an Example:

Picture Ted Lasso. Sure, he’s a little over-the-top with his relentless optimism, but no one could accuse him of not caring for his team. He knows everyone’s name, favorite snack, and probably the name of their childhood goldfish. And while he sometimes struggles to set boundaries, his heart-centered leadership keeps his team inspired.

What to Work On:

• Say no without guilt. Practice in the mirror if you need to. (“No, Sharon, I can’t bake 100 cookies for the potluck. But I’ll buy some!”)
• Take care of you. You can’t pour from an empty cup—or juggle 14 tasks at once without dropping one.
• Embrace conflict when it’s needed. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is give honest, constructive feedback.
• Remember: helping others doesn’t always mean doing the work for them. Empower your team to solve problems on their own.

Read This Next: 21 Signs That You’re an Enneagram 2 Type

Type 3: The Achievers

Leading with Your Ambition

As a leader, you’re the ultimate goal-setter, and your to-do list probably looks more like a mission briefing for a spy movie. People admire your drive, confidence, and ability to turn even the loftiest dreams into reality. But let’s be honest—sometimes you’re so busy chasing the next big thing, you forget to enjoy where you are.

I once worked with a Type 3 who could sell anything to anyone, any idea, any project, any service. They were inspiring, charismatic, and had an uncanny ability to make every project feel like the most important thing in the world. You felt a restless surge of energy when you were around them; like you were on the verge of embarking on something life-changing and you must seize the opportunity NOW. But, occasionally, they’d run themselves (and everyone else) ragged because failure simply wasn’t an option.

What Drives You:

Success. You thrive on hitting milestones, winning recognition, and proving to yourself (and others) that you’re capable of greatness.

Your Superpowers:

• You’re a visionary who sets the bar high—and then raises it higher.
• You can spot opportunities faster than a cheetah chasing a gazelle.
• Your energy is contagious, and your team can’t help but get on board.
• You know how to sell ideas, products, and pretty much anything else.
• You inspire others to push past their limits (and maybe break a sweat).

But Watch Out For:

• Getting so laser-focused on achievements that you forget to celebrate your team.
• Becoming overly concerned with appearances (yes, it’s okay if your clothes aren’t name brand).
• Pushing yourself and others so hard that burnout becomes inevitable.
• Struggling to accept failure—even when it’s a learning opportunity.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation. Sure, she’s a bit intense (and maybe overly obsessed with binders), but her ambition and belief in her team are pure Type 3. She’ll make a spreadsheet to track progress and plan a celebratory waffle party when the goals are crushed.

What to Work On:

• Slow down and enjoy the journey. Life isn’t just a highlight reel.
• Practice self-compassion. You’re more than your achievements.
• Let your team shine—give them credit and recognition for their contributions.
• Remember: sometimes less is more. Focus on quality over quantity, even in your goals.

Read This Next: The Enneagram 3 Child

Type 4: The Individualist 

Lead with Your Creativity

If you’re a Type 4, you’re the leader who turns “meh” into magic. While everyone else is following the status quo, you’re over here asking, But what if we did something completely different? Your creativity and emotional depth give you a unique edge, and your team knows you’ll always find a way to make their work feel meaningful. But here’s the issue: sometimes your intensity can overwhelm others—or even yourself.

One of my favorite Type 4s led a design team and could dream up concepts so unique and inspiring it felt like they’d crawled out of an art gallery and into the future. But when things got tough, they’d occasionally spiral into self-doubt or retreat entirely. The key for them (and for you) is finding balance: leaning into your creativity while keeping your emotions from taking over.

What Drives You:

Authenticity. You want your work—and your team’s work—to matter. Cookie-cutter solutions aren’t your style. You aim to create something real, meaningful, and unique.

Your Superpowers:

• You see connections and possibilities that others miss.
• You infuse creativity and originality into everything you touch.
• You’re emotionally intuitive and can read the room like a pro.
• You inspire your team to think outside the box (or burn the box entirely).
• You bring a sense of purpose to the workplace.

But Watch Out For:

• Overthinking decisions until deadlines are staring you down.
• Letting emotions hijack your productivity (yes, Bob’s passive-aggressive email was annoying, but you’ve got this).
• Struggling to set boundaries, especially when personal feelings get involved.
• Feeling misunderstood when others don’t “get” your vision.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables. Anne doesn’t just see the world—she feels it, with all its beauty, heartache, and wonder. Her unbridled imagination and passion inspire everyone around her, even if her dramatic flair sometimes gets her into trouble.

What to Work On:

• Set clear goals and timelines to keep your creativity grounded in action.
• Don’t take it personally if someone doesn’t share your vision—clarify, explain, and move forward.
• Practice self-care when emotions get overwhelming. Journaling, meditation, or a quick walk can do wonders.
• Remember: your authenticity is your superpower. Keep being you—but don’t forget to meet the deadlines.

Read This Next: The Enneagram 4 – The Individualist

Type 5: The Investigator

Lead with Your Expertise

If you’re a Type 5, you’re probably reading this article with a skeptical eye and an internal monologue that goes something like: “Hmm, let’s see if this holds up.” (Fair enough.) As a leader, you’re someone who thinks things through, in depth. You’re less focused on marking off a bunch of items on a to do list, and more focused on making sure you thoroughly understand the issues and objectives in the first place. You’re original, deep, and gifted with a knack for spotting patterns. Your team knows they can count on you for thoughtful, well-informed decisions. But sometimes, you might get so caught up in the research phase that you forget to actually, you know, lead.

I’ve known so many Fives who were probably actual geniuses, but who struggled to take charge because they felt overwhelmed by managing other people. But there are plenty of Fives who can also harness their originality and depth and create ingenious solutions that drive teams forward.

What Drives You:

Understanding. You’re fueled by a desire to learn, analyze, and master any subject that captures your interest. Leadership, for you, is about making informed decisions and empowering others to think critically.

Your Superpowers:

• You’re like Google—but with better follow-up questions.
• You solve problems with precision and care.
• You give your team autonomy, trusting them to rise to the occasion.
• You’re calm, never one to panic or make rash decisions.
• You bring objectivity and reason to even the stickiest situations.

But Watch Out For:

• Overloading your team with too much information.
• Getting stuck in “analysis paralysis” and missing key opportunities.
• Coming across as distant or aloof when you’re focused on your own projects.
• Struggling to connect emotionally with your team.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Spock from Star Trek. Logical, methodical, and endlessly curious, Spock is the epitome of a Type 5 leader. He’s a master at analyzing data and solving problems, but sometimes his detachment from emotion leaves his human counterparts scratching their heads.

What to Work On:

• Share your knowledge in bite-sized, actionable ways. Ask yourself, “What information is usable and relevant for their task?”
• Prioritize action over perfection. Your team doesn’t need every fact—just the key ones to move forward.
• Practice emotional vulnerability. Letting your team see a more personal side of you can strengthen trust.

Read This Next: The Enneagram 5 – The Investigator

Type 6: The Loyalist

Lead with Your Preparedness

If you’re a Type 6, you’ve probably already double-checked the emergency exits, reviewed the backup plan, and made a contingency for every possible outcome—including alien invasion. (Hey, better safe than sorry.) As a leader, you’re diligent, dependable, and always thinking three steps ahead. Your team knows you’ll keep them safe, even in the face of uncertainty. But sometimes, your cautious nature can tip into overdrive, leaving you stressed and second-guessing every decision.

I have a friend who’s a Type 6, and she’s constantly scanning their environment, looking for threats. I remember we were taking our kids to the playground and she couldn’t stop eyeing a white cargo van in the parking lot. Meanwhile, if I’d been there alone, I probably wouldn’t have even noticed the cargo van was there in the first place. She was prepared for everything.

Need a Plan B? A 6  has got it. Plan C? Already drafted. But here’s the thing—sometimes their over-preparedness makes them hesitate when a bold, on-the-spot decision is needed. (Pro tip: not everything requires a risk assessment.)

What Drives You:

Security. You have a knack for creating stability and ensuring your team has the tools, plans, and support they need to succeed. You’re the safety net everyone depends on.

Your Superpowers:

• You’re the ultimate problem-preventer. Risks? You’ve already mitigated them.
• You’re loyal to your team and will go to great lengths to protect them.
• You’re a master organizer, creating systems that keep things running smoothly.
• You empathize with your team’s worries and help them feel secure.
• You’re the one people turn to when the unexpected happens.

But Watch Out For:

• Overthinking and imagining worst-case scenarios that may never happen.
• Struggling to trust yourself and your instincts.
• Being overly skeptical of change, even when it’s needed.
• Letting your worries trickle down to your team, creating unnecessary anxiety.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Jason Bourne from the Bourne series. He’s hyper-alert, always prepared, and has a contingency plan for every scenario (even if it involves leaping through a window or commandeering a motorcycle). His ability to assess risks and think three steps ahead makes him an incredible leader in high-stakes situations. But Bourne’s constant vigilance also shows the Type 6 struggle: trusting others—and sometimes even himself.

What to Work On:

• Trust yourself—you’ve done the prep work, and you’re ready. (Really!)
• Lean into rest. Not every situation requires a doomsday plan.
• Be open to change, even when it feels risky. Innovation often comes from uncertainty.
• Practice delegating without micromanaging. Your team will thrive when you let them take the reins.

Read This Next: The Enneagram 6 – The Loyalist

Type 7: The Enthusiast

Lead with Your Endless Optimism for the Future

You’re the kind of person who starts a meeting with, “Okay, hear me out… what if we made this fun?” Your energy, optimism, and ability to see endless possibilities make you a natural motivator. But let’s be real—your tendency to juggle 12 ideas at once can sometimes leave your team wondering where to start (or how to keep up).

I know a Type 7 who could turn even the dullest office task into an adventure. Filing reports? “Let’s make a playlist and race to finish!” Brainstorming session? “Snacks first, then BIG ideas!” But their love of excitement sometimes meant skipping the boring-but-necessary details (like, uh, deadlines). The challenge for you as a leader is finding balance—embracing the fun while making sure the trains run on time.

What Drives You:

Possibilities. You’re fueled by the belief that there’s always something new, exciting, and worth exploring just around the corner.

Your Superpowers:

• You inspire your team with your vision and energy.
• You connect ideas in creative ways no one else would think of.
• You make work enjoyable (team-building karaoke night, anyone?).
• You adapt quickly to change and thrive in dynamic environments.
• You keep morale high, even in challenging times.

But Watch Out For:

• Overcommitting because you can’t resist saying “yes” to all the shiny opportunities.
• Struggling to focus on the nitty-gritty details that make big ideas happen.
• Avoiding tough or uncomfortable situations in favor of “fun” distractions.
• Getting so caught up in new projects that you leave old ones unfinished.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Willy Wonka (the Gene Wilder version). He’s bursting with creativity and excitement, constantly dreaming up new ideas and delighting everyone around him. But his love of new ventures sometimes leaves others scrambling to figure out how to make it all work. (Pro tip: don’t trap your team in a chocolate river—figuratively or literally.)

What to Work On:

• Prioritize your projects. Not every idea needs to happen right now.
• Focus on follow-through. A brilliant plan is only as good as its execution.
• Embrace the uncomfortable moments—they’re where growth happens.
• Remember: structure and discipline aren’t your enemies; they’re your secret weapons.

Read This Next: 7 Struggles of the Enneagram Seven Type

Type 8: The Challenger

Lead with Your Growth Mindset

If you’re a Type 8, you’re the boss people both fear and admire (in the best way). You’re bold, decisive, and ready to take on any challenge—no matter how big or intimidating. Your team knows you’ll fight for them and never back down from a battle, but sometimes your intensity can feel… a little much. (Hey, not everyone wants to “crush it” at 8 AM on a Monday.)

I’ve seen Type 8 leaders turn struggling teams into powerhouses simply by believing in their potential and pushing them to do more than they thought possible. But I’ve also seen them bulldoze through others’ opinions because “this is the fastest way to get it done.” The key for you? Balancing your strength with softness. You can be a force of nature and a nurturing leader at the same time.

What Drives You:
Strength and justice. You want to protect your team, stand up for what’s right, and push everyone (yourself included) to be the best they can be.

Your Superpowers:

• You make decisions quickly and confidently, even under pressure.
• You stand up for your team and protect them fiercely.
• You inspire respect and loyalty with your determination.
• You bring a clear sense of direction to chaotic situations.
• You’re not afraid to take risks if it means achieving something great.

But Watch Out For:

• Coming across as intimidating or overpowering to quieter team members.
• Struggling to let go of control and delegate effectively.
• Reacting with anger or frustration when things don’t go as planned.
• Being so focused on the goal that you forget to consider others’ feelings.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Merida from Brave. She’s bold, fearless, and determined to carve her own path—literally and figuratively. Merida’s strength and independence make her a natural leader, especially when she’s standing up for what she believes in. However, her intensity and refusal to compromise can sometimes create friction. Like Merida, Type 8 leaders shine when they balance their fierce determination with compassion and a willingness to listen.

What to Work On:

• Practice active listening. Let your team’s voices shape the direction you take.
• Be mindful of your intensity. Some people need a bit of softness to share their best work and ideas.
• Delegate with trust—your team can handle it (really).
• Remember: vulnerability is strength too. Letting others see your softer side will only make you a better leader.

Read This Next: The Enneagram 8 – The Challenger

Type 9: The Peacemaker

Lead with Your Calm

If you’re a Type 9, you’re the team’s safe harbor in a storm. While others are panicking, you’re calmly saying, “Let’s figure this out together.” Your ability to see all sides and bring people together makes you a natural leader. But sometimes, your desire to keep the peace can make you hesitate when tough decisions need to be made.

I’ve worked with Type 9s who could diffuse the tensest situations with just a few words and a well-timed smile. But I’ve also seen them struggle to assert themselves, letting louder voices steer the ship. The challenge for you is finding your voice and trusting that your perspective matters—because it absolutely does.

What Drives You:
Harmony. You excel at creating environments where everyone feels valued, heard, and at ease.

Your Superpowers:

• You’re a master mediator who can bring conflicting sides together.
• You create a calm, supportive atmosphere that helps everyone do their best.
• You’re deeply empathetic and genuinely care about your team’s well-being.
• You’re patient and thoughtful, never rushing to judgment.
• You see the big picture and help others stay grounded.

But Watch Out For:

• Avoiding conflict, even when it’s necessary to move forward.
• Struggling to make decisions, especially when there’s no “perfect” solution.
• Letting others overshadow your opinions or needs.
• Moving at a slower pace than your team might need.

Here’s an Example:

Think of Frodo Baggins from The Lord of the Rings. Frodo’s calm demeanor and ability to empathize with others make him the heart of the Fellowship. He carries the burden of the One Ring not because he’s the strongest or the loudest, but because he’s grounded, patient, and determined. However, like many Type 9s, Frodo sometimes struggles with inner conflict and doubts his own strength. His journey shows how a Peacemaker can rise to the occasion when they trust their own abilities.

What to Work On:

• Speak up! Your perspective is valuable, even if it stirs the waters a little.
• Embrace conflict as an opportunity for growth—it doesn’t have to be scary.
• Remember: you can’t make everyone happy, but you can still lead with compassion and fairness.

Read This Next: How Enneagram Nines Handle Anger

Your Enneatype and Leadership Style

There is no right or wrong approach to leadership from a personality perspective. The way you are, your gifts and your weaknesses, all play a part in how you will lead your teams. What makes you awesome, funny, slightly annoying, or irritating (or a combination of all the above) will be a part of your leadership style because is it a part of you. Embrace that.

Leave that thought of “I can’t be a leader because of my personality” in that pile of outdated ideas, next to “The earth is flat” and “Washing your hands is unnecessary”. Step into your leadership potential.

Find out more about your personality type in our eBooks, Discovering You: Unlocking the Power of Personality Type, The INFJ – Understanding the Mystic, The INTJ – Understanding the Strategist, and The INFP – Understanding the Dreamer. You can also connect with me via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!