The ESFP and the Enneagram: Which of the 9 Types Are You?

So you’ve found out you’re an ESFP, but you feel like you’re different than other ESFPs you meet! Perhaps you’re more strict than other ESFPs, or maybe you’re more reserved. What’s the deal? Many of us think that once we’ve decoded our Myers-Briggs® personality type, we’ve got ourselves all figured out. But there’s another facet that can contribute to who you are as a person: You’re Enneagram type.

The Enneagram helps us to see our underlying motivations, fears, and desires. Myers-Briggs® is a neutral personality system. There are no judgment calls. You can be a good ESFP or a bad ESFP, but it’s all about lenses. Myers-Briggs focuses on the lenses with which you see the world and make decisions. The Enneagram is different. Instead, it focuses on our fixations, vices, virtues, and underlying drives. It can be a little less “fun” and a little more heavy-hitting in turn.

You can find out more about the Enneagram in my introductory article: What is the Enneagram?

Today we’re going to explore the nine Enneagram types and how they can show up in the ESFP (Extrovert, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving). This can help you take a bigger step in knowing yourself and why you experience life the way you do. Let’s get started!

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

Estimated reading time: 1 minute

The ESFP 1 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being corrupt, evil, or defective

Core Desire: To be good and righteous

If you’re an ESFP One, you’re very in touch with your Introverted Feeling side. You pay attention to ethics, morals, right and wrong. It’s not enough to live on impulse and be entertained, you need to do good things the right way. Yes, you still have that signature ESFP impulsivity, but it’s matched with this inner critic that is always reminding you to be responsible and above reproach. At times, you may feel like kicking this inner critic into next Christmas, but it doesn’t seem to be working. It’s always there, reminding you of when you’ve failed, how you could have done things better, and “the rules.” Of course, the healthier you become as a person the more this inner critic takes a backseat. But for most average Ones this critic is a constant (annoying) companion.

While a lot of ESFPs have a “Let’s go with the flow” mentality, you’re the one saying, “Wait, does this flow meet my standards?” You’ve got high expectations, not just for yourself, but for everyone around you. You like being spontaneous, exciting, and enthusiastic, but you pair that with an enthusiasm for the causes that matter deeply to you. You’ll go to bat against anyone who threatens the underdog or is threatening anything that you feel morally protective over.

You’re basically like the fun-loving life of the party, but also the one who makes sure we recycle the cups afterward.

Unhealthy Ones Are Often: Judgmental, Self-Righteous, Bitter, Overworked, Exhausted, Defensive, and Prone to Black-and-White Thinking. They feel like they will never be “good enough.” Worry that others close to them will never be good enough.

Average Ones Are Often: Serious, Driven, Purposeful, Irritable, Scheduled, Organized, Tense, Opinionated, Sarcastic, Hard-Working, Dedicated, Responsible.

Healthy Ones Are Often: Sensible, Grounded, Understanding, Objective, Accepting, Hopeful, Wise, Discerning, Joyful, Humble, Playful.

Find out more about Ones: 21 Signs That You’re an Enneagram One Personality

The ESFP 2 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being unwanted or unloved
Core Desire: To feel loved and appreciated

If you’re an ESFP with a Two core, your outgoing, warm nature is amplified by a deep desire to help and care for others. You light up when you can make someone feel valued, and you’ll go out of your way to do thoughtful things for the people in your life. For the average Two, life is about being needed and appreciated. That’s where you find your sense of self-worth.

Being a natural extrovert and people person, taking care of others probably comes pretty easily to you. Your calendar is probably packed with volunteer projects, friend get-togethers, and social events. But here’s the twist: You need to feel appreciated in return. If people take your help for granted, you might feel empty or resentful. You have so much love to give, but it’s important that you get some of that love back, too.

Now let’s take a look at unhealthy Twos: These Twos can manipulate others into “needing” them or being indebted to them. They may not consciously realize they’re doing this, but the instinct is still there. They may “give to get” or be the confidante who knows everyone’s secrets and gossips about them to get others onto their “team.”

At your best, you’re an unstoppable force of care and kindness, always there for your friends with a selfless outlook and a solution. But watch out—when you’re not in a good place, you might overextend yourself, thinking that your value is tied to how much you do for others. It’s important for you to realize that you’re worthy of love just as you are – no strings attached.

Unhealthy Twos Are Often: Needy, Manipulative, Smothering, People-Pleasing, and Fearful of Being Unloved.
Average Twos Are Often: Helpful, Warm, Friendly, Giving, Generous, and Want to Feel Needed.
Healthy Twos Are Often: Empathetic, Generous, Self-Aware, Humble, and Compassionate.

Find out more about Twos: 21 Signs That You’re an Enneagram 2

The ESFP 3 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being worthless or a failure
Core Desire: To be valuable and successful

As an ESFP with a Three core, you probably love being in the spotlight—not just for the fun of it, but because you want to be seen as successful and admired. You’re energetic and spontaneous like most ESFPs, but you’re also highly focused on achievement. Whether it’s getting that promotion, being the best at your hobby, or winning people over with your charm, you’re driven to succeed. And you probably look good while doing it!

However, this drive can sometimes lead to burnout or a fear of failure. When you’re not feeling great, you might start basing your worth on external accomplishments or how others perceive you. You might feel like you’re constantly chasing an image that is perpetually out of reach. Whatever success you’ve gained now might feel like it’s not good enough – there’s still another rung on the ladder that you need to aim for.

An unhealthy Three is so fixated on success that they lose sight of who they are. As an ESFP, this might mean that you’re highly focused on your image, appearance, accomplishments, and actions, but less in tune with your Introverted Feeling side. This is the side that asks, “What’s important to me as an individual regardless of what anyone else thinks?” It’s the side that helps you focus on your ethics, values, and personal feelings. If you’re an ESFP who is also an unhealthy Three you probably feel like you’re running on a treadmill constantly, trying to be worthy and successful to society but not really knowing who you are and feeling a little lopsided and scattered.

At your best as a Three, you use your natural charisma, drive, and energy to work towards something meaningful personally. You build up communities and causes with your ambition, you accept your authentic self and encourage others to be authentic. Rather than being terrified of your own vulnerability, you learn to trust others and through that trust you become a more whole, complete, and content person.

Unhealthy Threes Are Often: Image-Conscious, Insecure, Deceptive, Competitive, Overworked, and Focused on Superficial Success.
Average Threes Are Often: Driven, Ambitious, Charming, Adaptable, and Focused on External Validation.
Healthy Threes Are Often: Authentic, Hardworking, Confident, Inspiring, and Able to Balance Ambition with Personal Integrity.

Find out more about Threes: 21 Signs That You’re an Enneagram 3, the Achiever Personality

The ESFP 4 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being insignificant or without identity
Core Desire: To find themselves and their significance

If you’re an ESFP Four, you bring a bit more emotional depth to the table than the typical ESFP. You’re still fun and spontaneous, but there’s also this deep part of you that longs for a profound understanding of yourself. You’re not content with surface-level interactions; you crave meaning in everything you do. You might have a creative streak, using art, music, or performance as a way to express the rich emotions inside you.

While many other types try to see only the best in themselves, you’re someone who faces your shame and darkness head on. You believe in knowing yourself, and that means knowing the bad as well as the good. This deep inner insight into your complex nature gives you deeper insights into others as well. But this can also mean that you struggle with feelings of melancholy, shame, and a sense that something is “missing” within you. You may overly focus on your deficiencies, rather than seeing where you are enough and good.

When you’re unhealthy, you might feel overwhelmed by inadequacy. Rather than being proactive in going after what you want, you might become apathetic and self-sabotaging. You might lose yourself in negative fantasies or comparisons to others who you think “have it all” or are “better” than you in some way. During these moments, you may feel like you’re fundamentally different from everyone else in ways that are insurmountable.

At your best, you realize that the struggles you are facing are part of the human condition and therefore you share these struggles with all of humanity. You feel connected to others, not alone and irredeemably different. You still have the profound sensitivity of the Four, but with a grounded, compassionate, and forgiving side. You’ve learned to accept yourself, and therefore you accept others. And while you may still occasionally struggle with feelings of being misunderstood, you know that you are enough as you are.

Unhealthy Fours Are Often: Melancholy, Self-Absorbed, Dramatic, Envious, and Prone to Mood Swings.
Average Fours Are Often: Creative, Imaginative, Melancholy, Sensitive, Emotionally Expressive, and Longing for Authenticity.
Healthy Fours Are Often: Creative, Emotionally Grounded, Empathic, Grateful, Compassionate, Intuitive, and Authentic.

Find out more about Fours: The Enneagram 4 – The Individualist

The ESFP 5 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being helpless or incapable
Core Desire: To be competent and capable

An ESFP with a Five core might surprise people. In fact, this is probably the rarest ESFP Enneagram type out there. You still have that lively, engaging side, but it’s paired with a deep need for knowledge and autonomy. You’re curious about the world and how it works, and you probably spend a lot of time diving into books, videos, or podcasts on your favorite topics. Socializing is fun, but you’ll use the experience as an opportunity to swap ideas, knowledge, and how-to’s.

You love exploring new things, getting out into the field and researching, testing, experimenting. But you’re also deeply protective of your resources so this can give you a detached, distant demeanor. You may hoard your resources and your energy, seeing intrusions and annoying and draining. Fives are the most naturally introverted of the Enneagram types, which again, makes this an unlikely type for an ESFP.

At your worst, you might isolate yourself completely from people, falling into the grip of your inferior introverted intuition. When this happens, you become plagued by a feeling of doom and gloom, seeing nothing but negative predictions. This creates a sense of distrust and fear inside of you as you try to find all the knowledge you can attain to get “answers.”

At your best, you use all the knowledge you acquire to make a difference in the real world around you. You’re action-oriented, insightful, wise, and curious. Rather than living in fear, constantly seeking more data, you are engaged with the world around you, productive, and in touch with your naturally enthusiastic, people-oriented side.

Unhealthy Fives Are Often: Isolated, Distrustful, Eccentric, Fearful, Argumentative, Detached, Overly Introspective, and Fearful of Being Overwhelmed.
Average Fives Are Often: Curious, Independent, Insecure, Private, Creative, Thoughtful, and Analytical.
Healthy Fives Are Often: Insightful, Wise, Competent, Curious, Original, Artistic, Objective, and Balanced Between Solitude and Connection.

The ESFP 6 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being without support or guidance
Core Desire: To feel secure and supported

If you’re an ESFP with a Six core, you’re fun and spontaneous, but you also like to have a plan (just in case). You’re the one who jumps into action when you sense a threat, balancing spontaneity with safety. You value loyalty and trust, and you’re a rock for the people in your life, always ready to step in and help when things get tough. At the same time, you might test authorities, trying to see whether they’re really being authentic and well-intentioned. There’s nothing you hate more than people who are untrustworthy or manipulative.

Your impulsive, restless side sometimes clashes with your 6 nature. You like going with the flow and seizing the day, grabbing opportunities as they arise. But you also have a cautious, skeptical side that can stop you in your tracks. One part of you wants to spontaneously go on a road trip across the country, and another part of you is wondering about your savings, whether you’ll go broke, or what will happen if your car dies in the middle of the desert. The fun-loving, enthusiastic side of yourself often feels at war with the cautious, catastrophizing part of yourself.

At your worst, you may feel absolutely paranoid by all that could go wrong. You’re frantic, scattered, and plagued with worst-case-scenario thinking. Because you’re an ESFP you feel a restless desire to take action and experience the world, but you feel torn between wanting to trust those instincts and impulses and question them. As a result, you’re irritable, indecisive, and anxious, with a restless energy building up inside that feels like it will explode.

At your best, you are protective, courageous, responsible, and helpful. You go after your desires and values with a sense of purpose, knowing that the worst could happen, but you’d be okay even if it did. You use your attention to detail and eye for risks as a way to help others. This can mean that you still embrace spontaneity, but you have little backup efforts that you take in case something goes wrong. This could mean having an overnight camping bag with a GPS in your van at all times in case your car breaks down somewhere unfamiliar. It could mean automatically depositing money from each paycheck into an emergency savings account in case the unexpected happens.

Unhealthy Sixes Are Often: Paranoid, Anxious, Self-destructive, Insecure, Testy, Indecisive, and Overly Dependent on Others.
Average Sixes Are Often: Loyal, Reliable, Authority-Seeking, Anxious, Pessimistic, Impulsive, Skeptical, Responsible, and Focused on Security.
Healthy Sixes Are Often: Courageous, Trusting, Responsible, Grounded, Well-disciplined, Visionary, Serene, and Able to Balance Caution with Confidence.

Find out more about Sixes: The Enneagram 6 – The Loyalist

The ESFP 7 Enneagram Type

If there’s a quintessential ESFP-Enneagram pairing, it’s probably the ESFP-Seven. You’re the ultimate thrill-seeker, always looking for another adventure or opportunity for fun. Where others see negatives, you see opportunities waiting to happen. It’s easy for you to reframe tough situations in a positive light and see the “silver lining.”

This is likely the most common Enneagram type for the Seven because it just matches your personality preferences so well. ESFPs live in the moment, Sevens are apt to do this as well. ESFPs are opportunists, as are Sevens. The humor, liveliness, and fun-loving nature of the Seven perfectly links up with your love of action, fun, adventure, and a spontaneity.

But what about an unhealthy ESFP 7? At your worst, you may be so enthralled by new opportunities and fun experiences that you “leap before you look” and make impulsive decisions that backfire later. Another sign that you’re unhealthy is that you’re out of touch with your Introverted Feeling side. Instead of looking inward and understanding yourself you are constantly chasing fun, excitement, and a thrill. This means that you can lose touch with who you really are or live in a constant state of pleasure-seeking that can ultimately lead to unhealthy qualities.

At your best, you balance your fun-loving side with contentment and joy. You know that true joy doesn’t just come from fun experiences, but also knowing yourself fully and sticking with what matters to you even when it gets hard (or worse, boring). You help others, encourage, and uplift. Instead of just living for pleasure, you live for the deep joy and satisfaction that comes from being aware of who you are, what you stand for, and going after it with optimism and boldness.

Unhealthy Sevens Are Often: Escapists, Hedonistic, Childish, Joyless, Reckless, Scattered, Unstable, Overwhelmed, Attention-Seeking, Impulsive, Paralyzed.

Average Sevens Are Often: Impatient, Imaginative, Enthusiastic, Excessive, Creative, Distracted, Adventurous, Materialistic, Restless, Self-Centered, Skilled at Multi-Tasking.

Healthy Sevens Are Often: Satisfied, Grounded, Bold, Realistic, Charismatic, Visionary, Appreciative, Joyful, Helpful, Profound.

Find out more about Sevens: The Enneagram 7 – The Enthusiast

The ESFP 8 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Being weak or controlled
Core Desire: To protect themselves and determine their own course for life.

As an ESFP with an Eight core, you’re enthusiastic and fun, but with a bold, take-charge energy. You’re assertive, confident, and fearless when it comes to standing up for yourself or the people you care about. A challenge doesn’t scare you, in fact it excites you. And you’re protective as well, which means you’re quick to defend the underdog or take the lead in tough situations. While most ESFPs are easygoing and spontaneous, your Eight side adds a layer of intensity and power. Some people might even find you intimidating.

You may sometimes struggle with a fear of being controlled or vulnerable. You like to be the one in charge, and letting go of control can feel uncomfortable. In unhealthy moments, this can show up as being overly confrontational, domineering, or quick to anger when you feel threatened.

At your best, you use your strength to protect and uplift others. While others might shy away from standing up to a bully, you’re right there, stopping them in their tracks. You’re a natural leader who can combine your charm and passion with a sense of justice and integrity. You know when to be tough and when to be gentle, and your confidence inspires others to follow your lead.

Unhealthy Eights Are Often: Aggressive, Controlling, Competitive, Hardened, High-Tempered, Domineering, and Quick to Anger.
Average Eights Are Often: Assertive, Protective, Resourceful, Hard-Working, Boastful, Confident, and Strong-Willed.
Healthy Eights Are Often: Compassionate, Grounded, Forgiving, Energetic, Action-Oriented, Resourceful, Decisive, Self-confident, Authentic.

Find out more about Eights: 7 Struggles of the Enneagram Eight Type

The ESFP 9 Enneagram Type

Core Fear: Fragmentation, separation, or loss
Core Desire: To have inner peace and harmony

As an ESFP with a Nine core, you’re the laid-back, easygoing friend everyone loves to be around. You still have that lively, fun-loving energy typical of ESFPs, but you’re more focused on keeping the peace and making sure everyone around you is happy. Conflict? Not your thing. You’re the one diffusing arguments, smoothing things over, and trying to make sure everyone is comfortable. You’re all about harmony, and you’ll go with the flow to avoid any unnecessary drama.

But here’s the challenge: You might suppress your own needs or opinions just to keep the peace. Over time, this can lead to feelings of being overlooked or unimportant. It may even mean that you avoid confronting issues that are damaging to you or others. It’s important to remember that your voice matters too, and sometimes, speaking up is worth the risk of temporary conflict.

At your best, you’re a calming presence who helps others find balance and peace. You’re empathetic, gentle, and can handle challenges with grace. You still love spontaneity and fun, but you bring a serene energy to every situation, making sure things don’t spiral out of control.

Unhealthy Nines Are Often: Passive, Indecisive, Avoidant, Repressed, Neglectful, Lazy, and Prone to Losing Themselves in Relationships.
Average Nines Are Often: Laid-Back, Accommodating, Optimistic, Agreeable, Deflecting, Resigned, Peaceful, and Go-With-the-Flow.
Healthy Nines Are Often: Grounded, Patient, Level-headed, Self-aware, Harmonious, Inclusive, Kind, Comforting, and Able to Assert Themselves with Calm Confidence.

Find out more about Nines: How Enneagram Nines Handle Anger

What Do You Think?

Do you relate to one of these Enneagram types more than another? Do you have any insights for other ESFPs reading this article? Let us know in the comments! You can also take our Enneagram questionnaire to get a better idea of which type fits you best.

Other Articles You Might Enjoy:

Myers-Briggs and the Enneagram: What’s the Same, and What’s Different

What It Means to be an ESFP Personality Type

The Surprising Contradiction of Each Enneagram Type

References:

The Wisdom of the Enneagram: The Complete Guide to Psychological and Spiritual Growth for the Nine Personality Types by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson (1999, Bantam Books)

The Honest Enneagram by Sarajane Case (Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2020)