Harmony and Finance: The Enneagram Type Nine

Here we are. The final week of the Enneagram series. Writing these have not only helped me understand myself more, but has given me more empathy in trying to understand others better as well. With that, let’s dive into our last Enneagram Type, the Type Nine, otherwise known as the Peacemaker.

Have you ever wondered why you spend money the way you do? Are you a saver or a spender? Did you even know that you probably fall under one of those umbrellas? Understanding our personality traits is so important for many aspects of our lives, including our finances. When we understand what influences our decisions, we can make better decisions around our spending, saving, and investing habits. As mentioned above, we will focus on the Type Nine (Peacemaker) and how their personality can impact their spending and investment habits. Let’s take a glimpse at the decision making process of our Type Nine friends, family members, and significant others.

“Peace of mind is not the absence of conflict from life, but the ability to cope with it.” — Unknown Type Nine

Type Nine Traits

The Type Nine (Peacemaker) is known for their desire for inner peace and harmony. They avoid conflict at all costs (when I say all costs, I mean that) and often put the needs of others before their own to ensure that peace and harmony is not tampered with. They are known for their kind and compassionate nature, making them great listeners and mediators. However, their desire for peace can also lead them to avoid making decisions or taking action, which can impact their financial well-being. Type Nines may struggle with making financial decisions and may feel overwhelmed by the information and options available to them. The biggest takeaway there is if nothing else, take it slow, but never stop moving.

Moreover, their inherent desire to maintain harmony can also manifest in their spending patterns. They may overspend on others in an effort to maintain relationships or to avoid conflict. Sound like you yet? In contrast, they might neglect their own needs, which may include their financial well-being. All of this to say, this doesn’t mean that Type Nines are doomed to financial instability.

“Don’t take yourself too seriously, but take what you do seriously.” — Martin Freeman

Strengths and Insights

One of the strengths of the Type Nine is their ability to see multiple perspectives and find common ground. They are great at finding harmonious solutions in conflicts, which can translate to their financial decision making. They may be great at finding compromises when it comes to joint financial decisions, such as with a partner or family members. But not so fast, this strength can also lead them to put their own needs last in financial situations.

This means that you may benefit from taking the time to prioritize your own financial goals and needs, and communicate them to others involved in the decision-making process. Chances are, even with you “prioritizing” your own needs, you are still overly prioritizing those around you to ensure that internal and external peace is not being interrupted. One thing to think about as you lean in on that strength is to remind yourself that sometimes, those ideas that you come up with to keep internal peace, may not even be necessary to maintain external peace. Sometimes the hardest part can be deciphering whether or not the decisions you make are mainly due to internal or external factors.

“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” — Albert Einstein

Understanding Type Eight’s Weaknesses

The main weaknesses of the Type Nine is their tendency to avoid conflict and uncomfortable situations at all costs. This can lead them to avoid dealing with financial problems, such as debt or overspending, which more often than not, is due to spending on others to maintain internal peace. This is mainly due to them struggling with setting boundaries around their spending and having a hard time saying no to others. Because of these things, they may also struggle with indulging in impulse purchases as a way to escape from the stress or discomfort, which sometimes comes from not setting personal boundaries with those around them. Knowing this, learning how to confront financial issues head-on, and seeking outside help if needed, such as from a financial advisor or therapist, can be a solution to some of those internal dialogues.

“Slow down, calm down. Don’t worry. Don’t hurry. Trust the process.” — Alexandra Stoddard

Turning Weaknesses Into Strengths

One key way that they can positively influence their spending and investing habits is by taking the time to slow down and reflect on their decisions. Type Nines may benefit from setting aside dedicated time to review their finances and goals, and consider how their decisions align with their values and priorities. By taking a patient and reflective approach, they can ensure that their financial decisions are aligned with their desire for inner peace and harmony. While seeking that peace, just know that it doesn’t have to happen right away. Truly take the time to ensure that the inner and external peace that is sought after does not come at a long-term expense, both in financial and non-financial terms.

“Silence is sometimes the best answer.” — Dalai Lama

The Potential of the Type Nine

The Peacemaker, despite their challenges, holds immense potential in all walks of life. Their inherent ability to understand others, to empathize, and to find balance and harmony, are traits that can lead them to personal and professional success. They have the heart of a true peacemaker, capable of spreading positivity and calmness wherever they go. Their compassion makes them cherished friends, colleagues, and family members, often serving as the glue that holds groups together.

While their avoidance of conflict can sometimes pose challenges, it’s this very desire for peace that can lead them to make the world a better place. Their ability to see all sides of an issue makes them excellent mediators, and their patient and calm demeanor can often bring resolution to the most polarized of disputes. By harnessing these strengths, the Type Nine has the potential to make significant positive contributions to their local communities and even the wider world.

On a more personal level, their journey towards financial stability and security involves embracing their natural strengths while acknowledging and addressing their weaknesses. Their path may not be easy, but it is one filled with personal growth and self-discovery. Their quest for inner and outer peace can indeed lead to a life that is not only financially secure, but also rich in relationships, self-understanding, and compassionate service to others.

Remember, your journey is unique and so are you. We all have certain characteristics that create core attributes about us. Embrace your strengths, face your challenges head-on, and never forget — in the pursuit of peace, you are not alone. The world needs your harmonious spirit, your compassionate heart, and your unique ability to bring people together. In your quest for inner peace, you can indeed create a ripple of peace that spreads far and wide. And in that journey, may you find the peace and fulfillment you so deeply desire. Until next time!

“Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” — John Lennon

This is not financial advice. For educational purposes only. Before making any financial decisions, consult with a professional.