Enneagram Six
The Loyal Guardian.
At their healthiest, they are loyal, likable, compassionate, witty, practical, and responsible.
At their unhealthiest, they are hyper vigilant, paranoid, defensive, unpredictable, and anxious.
At A Glance
Core Fear
Of fear itself, uncertainty, chaos, being alone, blamed, and not having support.
Core Desire
To have security, safety, and guidance.
Triad
Part of the Head Triad, known as the Thinking Center.
Going Deeper
At their best:
Healthy 6s think systematically and can predict potential problems that might be ahead. They are loyal by nature and committed friends and look for similar qualities in others.
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The message an Enneagram 5's heart longs to hear:
"You are safe."
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In stress:
Enneagram 6s go to 3 in stress, moving too quickly and becoming competitive and arrogant. They can also doubt themselves in their ability to make good decisions so they look to the outside authority for permission. ​
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In growth:
Enneagram 6s go to 9 in growth, allowing their mind space to not worry about everything. They become more relaxed and optimistic, taking life less seriously.
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Ways to get along with a 6:
Be direct and clear with them.
Listen to them carefully.
Please don’t judge them for their anxiety.
Reassure them that everything is going to be ok.
Laugh and make jokes with them.
Tell them and show them that you support them.
Acknowledge that they are loyal, responsible and supportive.
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Things that resonate with a 6:
I often don’t trust authority.
People say I am loyal, understanding, funny and compassionate.
I tend to act quickly in a crisis, but when things settle down, I fall apart.
When I am doing well in a relationship I often wonder when something will happen to
spoil it.
I don’t like to be in unpredictable situations.
I find it hard to not think about the things that worry me.
I am usually uncomfortable with extremes.
I am most comfortable with people that are like me.
I don’t trust people who give me too many compliments.
I like to be told I am doing a good job but I get nervous if more things are added to my
plate.
I have to know people for a while before I really trust them.
Next steps
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