View my previous post with an overview of the Enneagram here.
Enneagram 6s desire to be safe, secure, and protected with guidance, support, and reliability. They are clever thinkers who are practical and responsible. They are insightful problem solvers. However, they unfortunately often doubt themselves and their analysis. They tend to mistrust themselves, others, or institutions with high suspicion. They are known to ask questions and explore different options, often serving as a devil’s advocate. They are very much prone to anxiety. They are hyper-vigilant, constantly scanning for what could go wrong. This characteristic makes them excellent risk managers but also worrying specialists who may come across as pessimistic. They are sharp and will often be the first to pick up on things because they anticipate and solve problems promptly. They are often the last ones to finish exams or projects but deliver the best results, similar to Enneagram 1s. Like Enneagram 5s, they are more thinkers than doers. Thus, they can fall victim to procrastination. However, 6s thrive under procrastination.
As the third and last of the dependent stance numbers, Enneagram 6s understand who they are in the context of other people. 6s are warm, loyal, and driven by a sense of community. They are the number that cares most about the common good. They often use humor as a defense mechanism. They despise betrayal and also dislike feeling cornered, pressured, or controlled.
Enneagram 6s can be phobic or counter-phobic. Each individual can move between phobic and counterphobic, but most will find that they have a dominant type. It also exists on a spectrum. Phobic 6s are anxious about the world and often think of worst-case scenarios. They are likely to be more on the introverted side. Counter-phobic 6s still prepare for danger and have many of the same traits as phobic 6s, but they react by confronting challenges before it comes for them. They are likely to emphasize their physique and resilience, and they are much more likely to expose themselves to what they fear to grow more numb to it, such as taking public speaking opportunities even if that makes them nervous. Phobic and counterphobic 6s may seem like different numbers, but they still have the same underlying view of the world.
The vice for Enneagram 6s is fear. They subconsciously need to protect themselves from everything happening around them, so they experience accelerated, spinning thoughts. When the Enneagram 6 works on personal growth, they can achieve the virtue of courage. They take charge of their actions instead of delegating authority to others. They become the leader and the main character of their own life instead of serving a supportive role.
Takeaway: 6s aim to achieve security, centering their lives around avoiding or confronting stressors.
Phobic 6s are the rabbits of the Enneagram because they are watchful for danger and true to their post. They are also like mice because of their fear. Counterphobic 6s are the wolves of the Enneagram because they are strong but still need protection from their pack. They can also be compared to German shepherds for their loyalty or to rats because of their aggression when backed into a corner.
Enneagram 6s move to Enneagram 3 space in stress and Enneagram 9 space in security.
When 6s are stressed, it most likely means confronting one of their fears. Or, something is happening that was unanticipated. They can also be worried by deadlines or pressure, like other numbers. As a reaction, they rely less on other people and more on themselves and their proficiency to solve the problem fast and efficiently. They quickly take on characteristics of the doing style of 3 that leaves them with a sense of accomplishment.
When 6s are secure, without stressors or uncertainty, they enter the space of 9, a very peaceful place. This move makes a lot of sense. 6s without danger can disconnect and relax in a more withdrawn way. They are a lot less likely to ask questions and more likely to accept their current situation.
Share this post with the 6s in your life! If you think you are a 6, share this with everyone you know so they can understand your unique view of the world!
Learn more about Enneagram 6s in the related episode of First Line here.