Exploring Enneagram Instinctual Variants: Understanding the Three Centers of Intelligence

Many individuals turn to personality assessment tools in their pursuit of self-awareness and personal growth. One such tool gaining popularity is the Enneagram, an ancient system of personality typing that maps out nine distinct personality types. But delving deeper into the Enneagram, we discover another layer of complexity: the instinctual variants. These variants shed light on how our basic human instincts shape our behaviors, motivations, and priorities. In this detailed blog post, we will explore the three instinctual variants of the Enneagram system and understand how they influence our personalities, relationships, and overall well-being.

1. The Three Centers of Intelligence

Before we delve into the instinctual variants, it is crucial to understand the foundation of the Enneagram system: the three centers of intelligence. The Enneagram divides human experience into three primary centers: the body center, the heart center, and the head center. Each center corresponds to specific ways we process information, make decisions, and navigate the world.

The body center, often referred to as the instinctual center, is associated with our physical sensations, instincts, and gut reactions. It governs our sense of self-preservation, ensuring our basic survival needs are met. The heart center is all about emotions, relationships, and empathy. It guides our desires to connect with others and be loved. The head center, on the other hand, focuses on thoughts, intellect, and rationality. It drives our need for security, knowledge, and understanding.

Now that we understand the three centers of intelligence, let’s dive into the instinctual variants that further shape our personalities within each center.

2. Self-Preservation Variant (SP)

The self-preservation variant, also known as the SP variant, relates to our instinct for self-preservation and meeting our basic survival needs. Individuals with a dominant SP instinct place a significant emphasis on securing resources, maintaining physical well-being, and creating a secure environment. They tend to be practical, cautious, and prepared for potential threats or challenges.

In their pursuit of security, SP types may prioritize accumulating wealth, having a stable career, or creating a comfortable home. They are likely to pay attention to details and engage in proactive planning. This variant can manifest differently across Enneagram types. For example, an SP variant of a Type One might focus on creating a meticulously organized home, whereas an SP variant of a Type Six may dedicate themselves to building financial stability.

It’s important to note that while individuals with a dominant SP instinct excel at taking care of themselves, they may struggle with relaxing and letting go of control. They can also be prone to anxiety and excessive worry about their well-being.

Common traits of the SP variant include:

1. Strong focus on physical health and well-being.
2. Preparedness and attention to details.
3. Desire for security and stability.
4. Resourcefulness and practicality.

References:

1. The Enneagram Institute: Type Variants

3. Social Variant (SO)

The social variant, often referred to as the SO variant, centers around our instinct for social connection, belonging, and impact. Individuals with a dominant SO instinct prioritize building and sustaining relationships, engaging in their communities, and making a positive difference in society. They thrive on cooperation, collaboration, and impacting the lives of others.

SO types tend to be community-oriented, gathering people, resources, or ideas to bring about meaningful change. They enjoy connecting people and fostering a sense of belonging in their social circles. The SO instinct can manifest differently depending on an individual’s Enneagram type. For instance, a Type Two with a strong SO variant may channel their energy into creating supportive networks, while a Type Eight might focus on being influential and shaping social structures.

While SO types excel at forming relationships and contributing to society, they can also struggle with their personal boundaries and neglect their own needs in the process. They may feel an intense pressure to always be involved and find it challenging to say no or take time for themselves.

Common traits of the SO variant include:

1. Deep need for social connection and impact.
2. Excellence in creating and nurturing relationships.
3. Eagerness to contribute to their communities.
4. Desire for recognition and influence.

References:

1. The Enneagram Institute: Type Variants

4. Sexual Variant (SX)

The sexual variant, also known as the SX variant, centers around our instinct for deep, intense, and intimate connections. Individuals with a dominant SX instinct prioritize forming intimate bonds, pursuing passion, and experiencing a sense of intensity in their relationships and endeavors.

SX types approach life with emotional intensity and seek intense experiences, ranging from personal relationships to creative pursuits. They desire a profound level of connection and often prioritize finding a soulmate or kindred spirits who resonate deeply with them. The SX variant’s manifestation varies across Enneagram types. For instance, a Type Four may embrace their romantic inclination, while a Type Seven might seek intensity through new experiences and adventures.

While SX types excel at cultivating deeply connected relationships and experiencing passion, they may also struggle with codependency or a fear of losing the intense bond they crave. They may find it challenging to maintain a sense of personal identity and can experience emotional highs and lows.

Common traits of the SX variant include:

1. Intense desire for deep connections and experiences.
2. Preoccupation with passionate pursuits.
3. Yearning for soulmate or like-minded individuals.
4. Tendency to idealize relationships.

References:

1. The Enneagram Institute: Type Variants

5. Embracing the Instinctual Variants

Understanding the instinctual variants can significantly enhance our self-awareness and personal growth journey. By recognizing and acknowledging our dominant instinctual variant, we gain insight into our motivations, desires, and potential blind spots. Exploring the nuanced interplay between our Enneagram type and instinctual variant helps us understand how we perceive the world, make decisions, and form relationships.

However, it’s important to recognize that while the instinctual variants provide valuable insights, they don’t define us completely. Each individual contains a unique combination of all three instinctual variants to varying degrees, contributing to the complexity of their personality. Additionally, factors such as upbringing, environment, and personal experiences further shape our behaviors and attitudes.

As we venture into the world of the Enneagram instinctual variants, let us approach it with curiosity, openness, and self-compassion. Embracing this knowledge allows us to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and growth, ultimately leading to greater self-acceptance and healthier relationships.

Table of Contents:

1. The Three Centers of Intelligence
2. Self-Preservation Variant (SP)
3. Social Variant (SO)
4. Sexual Variant (SX)
5. Embracing the Instinctual Variants