Enneagram Type 8: Stress And Growth
Stress and Comfort States
Individuals with a temperament type of 8 exhibit the negative characteristics of temperament type 5 when under stress, while they display the positive characteristics of temperament type 2 when in a state of comfort.
Causes of Stress
Assertive, independent, authoritative, and combative Eights experience stress when their independence is restricted, when they become dependent on others, when they feel they've been treated unfairly, when they find themselves in a weak position, or when they face defeat. Their inability to establish authority over others, inability to control events and situations, and experiencing betrayal are stress factors for Eights.
When Eights are under stress, they initially behave in a confrontational, angry, and coercive manner. They may try to control their surroundings through coercion and pressure, and they may hurt others with harsh and abrasive attitudes. When stress persists for a long time, they transition to displaying the negative characteristics of temperament type 5.
At Stress Points Eights
During stressful periods, Eights experience a crisis in their self-confidence, become passive, and withdraw. Their interactions with people decrease, they become more isolated, and they display reserved behavior.
They appear exhausted, withdrawn, and distant, adopting a distant and cold demeanor. Their proactive and challenging attitudes are replaced by evasive and observant behaviors.
They confront their fears and may feel sorry for themselves. They experience disappointment in their goals and expectations, may direct their anger towards themselves, and may feel weak and inadequate. They avoid power struggles, lose trust in people, and become more skeptical and suspicious, questioning everything. This affects their ability to make quick and clear decisions and may turn them into individuals who have difficulty making decisions.
They try to gather strength by isolating themselves and withdrawing from the world. Highly aware Eights spend this time introspecting, gathering information, and striving to return stronger.
Factors Facilitating Growth
They find relief when they achieve their goals and desires, feel strong, confident in their authority, and don't feel controlled.
In Their Comfort Zones Eights
In comfortable periods, they become more affectionate, mild, gentle, compassionate, and sincere. They don't constantly feel the need to protect and defend themselves. They stop trying to control their surroundings and become more receptive to guidance.
They try to accommodate the sensitivities and expectations of those around them, being accommodating, affectionate, merciful, and focusing on the needs of their loved ones.
They become more open to needing help and more receptive to help and compassion. They don't try to hide their weaknesses and exhibit humble and modest attitudes instead of arrogant ones. They accept that needing help, compassion, etc., isn't a sign of weakness. They stop exerting pressure on people and try to attract them with love.
They become more open to different thoughts, more flexible and accepting of thoughts and attitudes. They try to understand people without judgment or blame.
