Here’s How You Procrastinate, Based On Your Enneagram Type

Let’s be honest: procrastination is an art form. Some people dip their toes into it occasionally, like they’re on a weekend retreat. Others have a timeshare in Procrastination City and are the unofficial mayor. But the why behind our procrastination? That’s where things get interesting. Each Enneagram type has its own special brand of putting things off—some of it’s fear-based, some of it’s just pure avoidance, and some of it’s because why even start when you can stress about starting instead?

I’ll use myself as an example. As an INTJ Enneagram 4w5 I procrastinate on getting back to people’s text and voice messages. While I appreciate them, I sometimes find that my social battery is so low (as an introvert with five kids) that the mere idea of interacting through text or audio seems completely exhausting.

But what about you? What are you pretending you’ll get around to “later” (which, let’s be real, is Enneagram-speak for “never”)?

Not sure what your personality type is? Take our Enneagram questionnaire here!

Why You’re Procrastinating, Based On Your Enneagram Type

Enneagram 1 – The Reformer

What they procrastinate on:

1. Anything they can’t do perfectly on the first try.
2. Rest and relaxation (because there’s always something that needs fixing).
3. Admitting they might be wrong about something.

Enneagram Ones don’t just procrastinate—they strategically delay anything that threatens their sense of competence. If they don’t feel completely prepared or certain that they can do something flawlessly, they’ll put it off under the noble-sounding guise of “waiting until I have all the necessary information.” (Translation: “If I mess this up, my soul will physically implode.”)

Rest? Leisure? Ha. Ones will literally procrastinate on relaxing because there’s always something that could be improved. Their idea of unwinding is catching up on productivity hacks or reorganizing a perfectly organized space. They’ll claim they’ll take a break “once everything is done,” but spoiler: it’s never done.

And admitting they’re wrong? That’s a very slow process. Not because they’re arrogant, but because their entire existence is centered on doing the right thing. Realizing they were mistaken isn’t just inconvenient—it feels like a moral failing. So they’ll procrastinate on acknowledging their errors until they’ve found a way to justify why, actually, they were kind of right all along.

But here’s where things get interesting: the type of procrastination depends on their subtype.

Self-Preservation One – The Worrywart Perfectionist

This One doesn’t just strive for perfection—they worry perfection into existence. They’re the ultimate rule-followers, the ones who double-check expiration dates, research the correct way to fold socks, and read an entire user manual before even touching a new appliance.

Their procrastination? Over-preparing. They’ll put off doing something because they need to make sure they’re 100% ready. (And let’s be real—are they ever?) They’ll worry themselves into paralysis, convinced that if they don’t control every detail, chaos will reign and the universe will collapse into disorder.

This subtype had to be the “responsible one” early in life, so they’re always bracing for something to go wrong. They procrastinate on taking risks, loosening control, or trusting that things will be okay—because what if they aren’t?

Social One – The Self-Righteous Model Citizen

The Social One isn’t just about being perfect; they want to be the example of perfection. These are the Ones who set the gold standard—following the rules, correcting others (politely but firmly), and making sure the world knows how things should be done.

Their procrastination? Letting go of control. They struggle to trust others to do things the right way (read: their way), so they’ll delay delegating, collaborating, or compromising. If a group project is happening, they’ll just do it themselves rather than risk someone else ruining the whole thing.

They also procrastinate on admitting they might not actually have all the answers. Social Ones have a deep, almost unconscious need to be right—not out of arrogance, but because it reassures them that they are living up to their moral standards. The idea that they could be wrong? Utterly destabilizing.

Sexual One – The Intense Reforming Zealot

This One isn’t just perfectionistic—they’re passionate about fixing the world. They channel their energy into reforming others, demanding better standards, and pushing for what’s right. They have no chill about injustice or inefficiency.

Their procrastination? Self-reflection. They’ll throw themselves into correcting others while avoiding their own flaws like a ninja dodging lasers. It’s easier to critique the world than to admit they might also need some fixing.

Sexual Ones are also impulsive compared to other Ones. Instead of hesitating, they’ll leap into action—then procrastinate on dealing with the emotional fallout of their intensity. They want to believe they’re operating on pure righteousness, but deep down, there’s often suppressed pain, anger, and a fear of being out of control. Sitting with those emotions? Unbearable.

Enneagram 2 – The Befriender

What they procrastinate on:

1. Asking for help (because needing things feels wrong).
2. Setting boundaries (because what if people stop loving them?).
3. Processing resentment before it boils over (because it’s fine, really, I swear).

Twos don’t just procrastinate—they sacrifice their own needs until they’re running on emotional fumes, and then wonder why they’re exhausted. They’ll delay asking for support, believing deep down that their worth is tied to how much they give rather than what they receive. Their version of procrastination isn’t about avoiding responsibility—it’s about avoiding their own needs.

They put off setting boundaries because rejection feels unbearable. Saying no? Risky. Disappointing someone? Unthinkable. They’ll overextend themselves until their schedule looks like a human-shaped life raft keeping everyone else afloat. Meanwhile, their own needs? Gathering dust in the attic.

And resentment? Oh, they’ll shove that down until it mutates into passive-aggression. “No, really, it’s fine!” (It is not fine). They’ll put off addressing their bottled-up frustrations for months, smiling sweetly while secretly keeping a ledger of every unreciprocated favor.

But how Twos procrastinate depends on which subtype they are—because not all Twos are the same.

Self-Preservation Two – The Cozy Over-Giver

This is the most self-sacrificial Two. They give, give, and then give some more—but in a more behind-the-scenes way than other Twos. They don’t demand attention for their kindness; they just quietly handle everything while secretly hoping people will notice.

Their procrastination? Expressing their own needs. They delay advocating for themselves until they hit full emotional depletion and passive-aggressively mutter, “It’s okay. I don’t mind. I just haven’t slept in two weeks and haven’t eaten a hot meal in a year, but really, I’m fine.”

Self-Preservation Twos also procrastinate on rest—because if they’re not useful, do they even matter? They’ll put off relaxing, telling themselves they’ll rest after they’ve handled everyone else’s needs. (They never do.)

Social Two – The Charismatic Networker

The Social Two is less about cozy caregiving and more about powerful influence. They’re not just helpers—they’re community builders, connectors, and leaders. They thrive on being indispensable, admired, and at the center of important things.

Their procrastination? Admitting when they need emotional support. Unlike the Self-Preservation Two, who over-gives in private, Social Twos overextend themselves publicly, orchestrating relationships, running groups, and making things happen. But when they need help? Nope. Can’t risk looking weak. They’ll delay admitting vulnerability for as long as possible.

They’ll also procrastinate on letting go of control—because if they’re not the one holding everything together, will it all fall apart? If they delegate something, what if it’s not done right? (And by “not done right,” they mean not done exactly how they would have done it).

Sexual Two – The Magnetic Charmer

The Sexual Two is the most intensely seductive of the Twos—not necessarily in a romantic sense, but in the way they command attention and devotion. They don’t just want to be liked—they want to be irresistible. Their strategy? Charm, passion, and a powerful presence.

Their procrastination? Being real about their deeper needs. They’ll put off raw, vulnerable self-reflection in favor of seductive connection—because if they can keep others magnetized, they won’t have to face their own fears of being unlovable. They’ll perform vulnerability, but actual deep self-examination? That can wait.

They also procrastinate on letting go of unhealthy attachments. If they’ve decided someone is the one who’s supposed to fulfill their emotional needs, they will cling—even when it’s clear the relationship isn’t working. They’ll tell themselves, “I just need to try harder, be more alluring, give more,” when really, they need to just walk away.

You might also enjoy: Stress and the Enneagram 2

Enneagram Type 3 – The Performer

What they procrastinate on:

1. Feeling their feelings (because emotions slow down productivity).
2. Resting (because if they’re not doing, they feel invisible).
3. Admitting they don’t know what they really want (because they’ve spent a lifetime adapting to what looks impressive).

Threes don’t just procrastinate—they optimize their avoidance. If something doesn’t serve their goals or enhance their image, it gets postponed indefinitely. Why process emotions when there’s work to do? Why sit with existential questions when they could just win at life?

They’ll delay self-reflection until the success feels hollow. They’ll ignore authentic desires until they realize they’ve spent their whole life climbing a ladder that was leaning against the wrong wall. And rest? Maybe when they hit the next milestone. (Spoiler: there’s always a next milestone.)

But how Threes procrastinate depends on which subtype they are—because not all Threes hustle the same way.

Self-Preservation Three – The Hardworking Overachiever

This is the most disciplined and understated Three. They don’t flash their success around like the Social Three; they just quietly dominate every challenge and work themselves into the ground. Their focus isn’t fame—it’s security, self-sufficiency, and competence.

Their procrastination? Acknowledging their exhaustion and emotional needs. They delay admitting when they’re burned out because what if they stop being useful? They’ll push through stress with a “just one more project” mentality, convincing themselves they’ll slow down eventually. (They won’t.)

They also procrastinate on asking for help because self-reliance is their identity. Vulnerability? No thanks. They’d rather overwork in silence than risk looking incompetent.

Social Three – The Charismatic Climber

This is the most image-conscious Three. Social status is their fuel, and they’re masters of personal branding. They know exactly how to play the game, what to say, and who to impress to keep rising to the top.

Their procrastination? Letting people see the real them. They delay authentic connection because what if people don’t admire the unpolished version? They’ll keep everything curated, only revealing what reinforces their success story.

They also procrastinate on processing criticism. If feedback threatens their image, they’ll deflect, reframe, or work even harder to prove themselves. Sitting with discomfort? Nope. They’d rather charm, pivot, and keep moving.

Sexual Three – The Magnetic Chameleon

This is the most emotionally expressive Three, but don’t be fooled—they’re still performing for approval. Instead of status or security, they chase intense personal admiration. They seduce, inspire, and captivate—but struggle to know who they really are.

Their procrastination? Developing an identity outside of relationships. They’ll delay self-discovery in favor of being what others desire. Their life can become a romanticized performance, built around keeping people enchanted.

They also procrastinate on leaving relationships that aren’t fulfilling because they crave the validation too much. If they lose someone’s admiration, they feel like they’re losing a piece of themselves.

You might also enjoy: How Each Enneagram Type Acts When They Have a Crush

Enneagram Type 4 – The Individualist

What they procrastinate on:

1. Doing things that feel too ordinary (because they crave depth and meaning).
2. Taking action on creative projects (because nothing ever feels perfect enough).
3. Letting go of past hurts (because nostalgia and melancholy are too familiar).

For Fours, if something doesn’t feel authentic or emotionally significant, they’ll avoid it. Why rush when their magnum opus is still forming in the depths of their soul? Why move forward when they’re still processing every possible emotion about it?

They’ll delay finishing creative projects because their work is never quite right. They’ll put off mundane responsibilities they feel like they’re sucking all the profound meaning out of life. And they’ll resist letting go of pain because their pain is part of their identity.

But how Fours procrastinate depends on which subtype they are—because not all Fours mope in the same way.

Self-Preservation Four – The Stoic Sufferer

This is the most self-disciplined and least expressive Four. Instead of openly lamenting their pain, they quietly endure it, proving their worth through hard work and self-sacrifice.

Their procrastination? Taking care of themselves. They’ll push through exhaustion, refusing to acknowledge their limits. They delay asking for help because self-reliance makes them feel worthy. Instead of expressing envy, they work themselves to the bone to earn what others have.

They’ll also procrastinate on rest and pleasure because life is meant to be endured, not enjoyed. They’ll keep struggling in silence, hoping someone notices their effort and validates them. (They won’t ask directly—because that would ruin the suffering.)

Social Four – The Tragic Romantic

This is the most openly emotional and most self-conscious Four. They see their pain as an integral part of their depth and uniqueness—and subconsciously they want to be seen in it. They want someone to dive into the dark depths and find them in the murky abyss, reaching out to them in full awareness of the pain they’re dealing with.

Their procrastination? Moving on from their pain. They delay healing because their struggles feel so integral to their identity. If they let go of the suffering, what’s left? Just another ordinary person?

They’ll also procrastinate on self-improvement because they secretly believe they are beyond help. Instead of taking action, they’ll spiral into comparisons, self-criticism, and longing—waiting for someone to rescue them from themselves.

Sexual Four – The Intense Competitor

This is the most fiery and ambitious Four. Unlike the other Fours who sink into sadness, this subtype fights back—competing for love, attention, and admiration.

Their procrastination? Accepting when they don’t “win.” They’ll delay letting go of rejection or failure, replaying every injustice in their mind. If they can’t have what they envy, they’ll convince themselves they didn’t want it anyway.

They’ll also procrastinate on humility because why settle for being ordinary? They want to be exceptional—which means they put off accepting their flaws, limits, or times when they’re just another person in the crowd.

Enneagram Type 5 – The Investigator

What they procrastinate on:

1. Anything that requires people.
2. Taking action on ideas (because they need more knowledge first).
3. Basic life maintenance (because their brain projects are more interesting).

Fives don’t just procrastinate—they retreat. If they don’t feel fully prepared to engage with something, they simply don’t. This could mean putting off social interactions, work projects, or even daily responsibilities.

They delay acting on their knowledge because there’s always more to learn. They put off practical tasks because who has time for laundry when there’s an entire universe of concepts to explore? And they avoid emotional conversations because ugh, feelings are exhausting.

But how a Five procrastinates depends on which subtype they are—because not all Fives isolate in the same way.

Self-Preservation Five – The Castle Builder

This is the most withdrawn and most private Five. Instead of engaging with the outside world, they build mental fortresses and hoard their resources—time, energy, knowledge, even food—to avoid relying on others.

Their procrastination? Interacting with people. They delay answering emails, returning calls, and making plans because solitude is sacred. If someone knocks on their door unannounced? Immediate frustration and maybe even panic.

They’ll also procrastinate on asking for help because dependence feels dangerous. Instead, they try to solve everything alone—even if it means living in an overstuffed mental archive while their real-world problems pile up.

Social Five – The Knowledge Hoarder

This is the most intellectual and most idealistic Five. Instead of withdrawing from all people, they seek out highly intelligent, “worthy” minds to engage with—often at a distance.

Their procrastination? Anything that feels “too ordinary.” They delay mundane responsibilities, small talk, and emotional labor because their mind is busy with higher pursuits.

They’ll also procrastinate on real-world action because knowledge itself feels like enough. Why jump into an imperfect world when they can perfect their theories first?

Sexual Five – The Intense Seeker

This is the most emotional and most romantic Five. Unlike other Fives, they long for deep, consuming connections—but also fear them.

Their procrastination? Committing to relationships (or accepting when they don’t work). They delay fully opening up because what if the other person doesn’t “get” them completely?

They’ll also procrastinate on letting go of impossible ideals—whether it’s a perfect partner, perfect knowledge, or perfect circumstances. They’d rather long for something unattainable than risk something real (and flawed).

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Enneagram Type 6 – The Loyalist

What they procrastinate on:

1. Big decisions (because what if they choose wrong?).
2. Anything that requires stepping outside their comfort zone.
3. Tasks with unclear expectations (because ambiguity = danger).

Sixes are expert-level overthinkers. They delay decisions by gathering every possible opinion, analyzing worst-case scenarios, and double-checking (then checking again). Their procrastination isn’t laziness—it’s self-protection. They don’t want to move forward until they’re sure they’re safe.

But how a Six procrastinates depends on which subtype they are—because not all Sixes hesitate in the same way.

Self-Preservation Six – The Security Seeker

This is the most anxious and most dependent Six. Their entire strategy revolves around finding protection—usually through close relationships or strict adherence to rules.

Their procrastination? Making independent decisions. They delay making decisions independently because what if they mess up? Instead, they seek out others for advice, approval, and reassurance.

They also put off confrontations because they hate rocking the boat—even when they’re being mistreated. If their security depends on someone else, they’ll play nice even when they’re secretly resentful.

Social Six – The Rule Follower

This is the most logical and most dutiful Six. They fight fear by clinging to systems, ideologies, and authority figures—anything that provides a clear sense of order.

Their procrastination? Going against the rules. They delay questioning their beliefs, breaking from tradition, or trusting their own instincts because what if they’re wrong?

They’ll also put off anything with unclear expectations—because when the “right” way isn’t obvious, anxiety kicks in. So they research, categorize, and systematize everything—until they feel certain (which, spoiler: never fully happens).

Sexual Six – The Contrarian

This is the boldest and most aggressive Six. Unlike the others, they don’t freeze in fear—they fight it head-on by intimidating threats before threats can intimidate them.

Their procrastination? Vulnerability. They delay trusting people, admitting weakness, or expressing softer emotions because what if it makes them an easy target?

They’ll also put off acknowledging their fear, insisting they’re “fine” while taking unnecessary risks just to prove they’re strong. But deep down, they’re still searching for safety—just in a more rebellious way.

Find out more: The Country You’d Be, Based On Your Enneagram Type

Enneagram Type 7 – The Enthusiast

What they procrastinate on:

1. Boring, repetitive, or routine tasks (because, yawn).
2. Difficult emotions or conflicts (because who wants to feel that?).
3. Commitments that might limit their freedom (because what if something better comes along?).

Sevens are excitement chasers and freedom lovers. If it feels dull, painful, or like a cage, they’ll find a way to escape—even if that means dodging responsibility. Their procrastination isn’t laziness; it’s a distraction tactic. They’re masters at keeping their minds busy with new plans, ideas, and adventures—all so they don’t have to deal with discomfort.

But how a Seven procrastinates depends on which subtype they are.

Self-Preservation Seven – The Strategist

This is the most practical and most security-driven Seven. While other Sevens chase thrills, this one builds safety nets—financially, socially, and emotionally.

Their procrastination? Facing their emotions. They delay self-reflection and emotional depth because why go there when you could just keep things light? They use comfort, indulgence, and networking as a way to avoid difficult feelings.

They also put off situations where they’re not in control—whether that’s depending on someone else or being vulnerable. Their mindset? “Why risk discomfort when I can just find a smarter way to get what I want?”

Social Seven – The Idealist

This is the most altruistic and most idealistic Seven. As the atypical countertype Seven, they fight the core vice of the Seven (gluttony) by sacrificing their own desires for a “greater good.”

Their procrastination? Personal needs and boundaries. They delay self-care, rest, and saying no because they don’t want to seem selfish. Instead, they stay busy helping others or building a “better world.”

They’ll also put off facing their own contradictions—because admitting they have selfish motives too feels like failure. Their optimism becomes a shield that keeps them from sitting with their own pain.

Sexual Seven – The Dreamer

This is the most intense and most emotionally-driven Seven. They aren’t just chasing experiences; they’re chasing ecstasy, passion, and a deep sense of meaning.

Their procrastination? Reality. They delay grounding themselves because why settle for the mundane when you could be chasing something extraordinary?

They also put off finishing projects—not because they’re lazy, but because starting something new feels more exciting than following through. Their dreams are huge, but their execution? Spotty at best.

Enneagram Type 8 – The Challenger

What they procrastinate on:

1. Anything that makes them feel vulnerable (because weakness is for other people).
2. Situations where they have to follow someone else’s rules (because why would they?).
3. Dealing with emotions they can’t punch in the face (because ugh, feelings).

Eights are fiercely independent, incredibly strong-willed, and allergic to being controlled. If something threatens their autonomy, they’ll fight it, avoid it, or bulldoze right through it. Their procrastination isn’t laziness—it’s more like strategic avoidance. If a task makes them feel weak, dependent, or stuck in a powerless situation, they’ll find a way to put it off or turn it into something they can dominate.

Of course, how an Eight procrastinates depends on which subtype they are.

Self-Preservation Eight – The Survivor

This is the most practical, most self-sufficient, and least expressive Eight. They’re all about getting things done and controlling their environment to ensure their survival.

Their procrastination? Anything that requires emotional openness. They put off dealing with feelings, asking for help, or trusting others because why risk relying on someone who could let them down?

Instead, they channel their energy into building their empire—whether that’s money, security, or a solid reputation. If they procrastinate, it’s because something feels like a waste of time (or worse, makes them dependent on someone else).

Their mindset? “Why dwell on problems when you can just fix them?”

Social Eight – The Protector

This is the most people-oriented and most justice-driven Eight. They aren’t just strong for themselves; they’re strong for their people.

Their procrastination? Taking care of their own needs. They delay rest, self-care, and emotional processing because there are people who need them, and there’s work to do.

They also put off acknowledging their own vulnerability—because if they stop being the protector, who’s going to step up? Their energy goes into fighting for others, leading movements, or taking on massive projects… but their own emotional well-being? That can wait.

Their mindset? “I’ll take care of myself later. Right now, I’ve got a world to fix.”

Sexual Eight – The Rebel

This is the most intense, most emotional, and most unpredictable Eight. They don’t just want power—they want passion, control, and to shake things up.

Their procrastination? Anything that doesn’t feel exhilarating. They delay boring, predictable tasks (paying bills? sitting in meetings? NOPE.) because why waste time on something that doesn’t make them feel alive?

They also put off moments of stillness—because if they stop moving, all those messy emotions might catch up with them. Instead, they chase adrenaline, intensity, and high-stakes situations.

Their mindset? “If it’s not exciting, it’s not worth my time.”

Enneagram Type 9 – The Peacemaker

What they procrastinate on:

1. Anything that might cause conflict.
2. Big, life-changing decisions (because why rock the boat?).
3. Standing up for themselves in ways that might inconvenience others (because they’d rather just go with the flow).

Nines are easygoing, adaptable, and conflict-averse. They have an uncanny ability to postpone anything that disrupts their inner peace and are usually open-minded and accepting. If they sense that a task will create stress, confrontation, or cause them to verbalize difficult emotions, they’ll delay it, downplay it, or straight-up forget it exists.

Of course, how a Nine procrastinates depends on which subtype they are.

Self-Preservation Nine – The Comfort-Seeker

This is the most grounded, most routine-loving, and most quietly stubborn Nine. They seek comfort, stability, and a predictable life.

Their procrastination? Anything that messes with their routines or requires effort beyond their comfort zone. They put off hard decisions, confronting their own needs, or dealing with emotions because they’d rather just stay in their cozy, familiar bubble.

Instead, they bury themselves in distractions—food, TV, hobbies, even mindless work—to avoid any situation that requires them to be fully present and engaged.

Social Nine – The Connector

This is the most people-oriented, most group-focused, and most outwardly engaged Nine. They want harmony, community, and everyone getting along.

Their procrastination? Dealing with personal issues, setting boundaries, or prioritizing their own needs. They delay expressing their real feelings, making decisions that could upset others, or pushing back against social obligations because keeping the peace is easier.

Instead, they lose themselves in helping others, being agreeable, and keeping busy with social activities. They might look super productive—but it’s often in service of everyone else, not themselves.

Their mindset? “As long as everyone else is happy, I’m fine… probably.”

Sexual Nine – The Merger

This is the most emotional, most idealistic, and most relationship-focused Nine. They want deep connection, closeness, and a sense of oneness with another person.

Their procrastination? Taking independent action, asserting their needs, or making choices without outside influence. They delay figuring out what they really want, taking risks that might separate them from others, or standing up for themselves in relationships because they feel safest when they’re blending in with someone else.

Instead, they merge with their partner, their best friend, or even fictional characters, absorbing other people’s dreams and avoiding their own. They struggle to say, “This is what I want” without checking if it aligns with their closest person.

Their mindset? “I’ll decide… once I know what they want.”

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