Enneagram Type Three: The Go Getter
The Financial Habits of a Type Three
Let’s talk money. It’s the lifeblood that fuels our every desire; the key to our dreams. But here’s the catch: our relationship with money isn’t always healthy. Our personalities play a significant role in our financial choices. That’s where the Enneagram comes in. This powerful tool can offer incredible insight into our spending, saving, and investing patterns.
If you haven’t yet taken the Enneagram test, now is the perfect time. Trust me, it’s worth it. This personality system categorizes behavior into nine distinct types, revealing what drives and motivates us. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Type Three: “The Achiever.” Get ready to dive deep into the mind of a true go-getter, and discover how their personality can impact their finances.
The Achiever
As mentioned above, the Enneagram Type Three, the Achiever, is driven to succeed and prove themselves in their chosen field. They are ambitious, self-assured, and highly competitive (I see that head of yours growing). They thrive on recognition and are often charismatic and charming (go on, smile). Type Threes are masters at adapting their behavior to their current situation, which can make them highly effective in their careers and personal lives.
However, this same drive to succeed can have a significant impact on their spending habits. Type Threes often feel the need to project an image of success and achievement at all costs, which can lead to overspending on luxury items as a way to signal their status to others. Their self-worth is often tied to their accomplishments and material success, so they may also be willing to take risks to achieve their goals, which can lead to impulsive or risky investments. They may be more likely to invest in high-risk, high-reward investments in an attempt to get ahead financially. While this strategy can pay off, it can also lead to significant losses if the investments don’t pan out. They may also prioritize their career over their personal finances, neglecting things like budgeting and investing in favor of their professional goals.
In addition to these perspectives, Type Three personalities may struggle with delayed gratification, always wanting to indulge in their desires now rather than saving for the future. They may also feel pressure to keep up with appearances and maintain a certain image, which can lead to overspending or living beyond their means. To overcome these tendencies and manage their finances effectively, Type Three personalities need to set clear goals and priorities. They should focus on creating a budget and identifying areas where they can reduce their spending. They should also develop healthy saving habits, setting aside a portion of their income for emergencies and long-term goals.
Looking Ahead
To better understand the financial behaviors of Type Threes, it’s important to dig into their underlying motivations. Type Threes are motivated by their desire to be successful and admired by others. They want to be seen as the best and seek out opportunities to prove themselves. This drive can make them highly effective in their careers, but it can also lead to overspending on things like designer clothes, fancy cars, and lavish vacations.
But it’s not all bad news. Type Threes also have unique strengths that can benefit their finances. Their natural charisma and confidence can make them skilled negotiators, allowing them to secure better deals and opportunities. They are also highly motivated and driven, making them more likely to take on side hustles or work extra hours to increase their income. When they do prioritize their finances, they can be disciplined and diligent in achieving their goals. If the same level of motivation towards their careers can be harnessed towards their personal finances, chances are they’d achieve everything they set out for.
It is also important for Type Three personalities to develop a healthy relationship with their accomplishments and self-worth. They need to recognize that material possessions and external validation aren’t the only measures of success. They should strive to find purpose and fulfillment outside of their achievements, which can help them prioritize their spending and investments more effectively.
So, how can Type Threes positively influence their finances? One strategy is to focus on their long-term goals and create a financial plan that aligns with those goals. By prioritizing their financial future over short-term purchases, Type Threes can set themselves up for long-term success and financial stability. Additionally, working with a financial planner or advisor can help Type Threes set achievable goals and map out a path to achieving them.
In addition to developing a financial plan, Type Threes can benefit from regularly practicing mindfulness and self-reflection. By taking the time to reflect on their motivations and desires, Type Threes can gain a deeper understanding of why they make certain financial decisions. This self-awareness can help them make more intentional choices about their spending and investments.
“The meaning of life is not simply to exist, to survive, but to move ahead, to go up, to achieve, to conquer.” — Arnold Schwarzenegger
When it comes to managing our finances, understanding our personalities and tendencies can be incredibly valuable. Type Three personalities have unique strengths and vulnerabilities that can impact their financial habits. As an Achiever, the drive to succeed and be admired by others can impact their spending and investment habits tremendously. By focusing on long-term goals, developing a financial plan, and regularly practicing mindfulness, Type Threes can positively influence their finances and set themselves up for a more secure financial future. So if you haven’t already taken an Enneagram test, you should give it a try. Who knows, you may just uncover some valuable insights into your own financial behaviors. Your financial goals should align with your core values, so focus on these values to achieve a balanced and fulfilling financial life.
This is not financial advice. For educational purposes only. Before making any financial decisions, consult with a professional.