Saturday, September 6, 2008

I AM A NUMBER 7 ON THE ENEAGRAM

Bill and I now understand one another. For a long time I didn't know why we fought on vacations! Now I get it. He is a six on the eneagram and I am a seven!

On vacation, safety comes first for him whereas I am all about the adventure and get me there fast! For example, we went to Cave Run and had two kayak's on top our Nissan. We were driving along the lake looking for the perfect pitch, when I saw this beautiful, serene looking lake. People were fishing from their kayaks. Here is how it went...

"Let's drive to that dock," I pointed. Bill drove slowly around the parking lot, hesitating to park.

"Just back up to the dock," I said enthusiastically. Bill pointed to the sign.."we need a permit." "No we don't." "Yes we do." "No, we don't" Then I remembered what was most important to him. He went on to explain about the fine and how it would ruin our day. We pulled out and went searching for the shop to buy the permit. Three stores and two hours later we were in the lake with a permit and we both felt much better.

Learning how to communicate compassionately with my husband and others is a great need for me. The enneagram class we went to was conducted by Maggie Hecker and far exceeded my expectations. It has helped me to understand Bill in other situations as well. How we are a great team for climbing trees with EarthJoy. His safety, with my enthusiasm draws a variety of customers.

I have also learned how to communicate with other different types on the enneagram especially 8's. I used to just avoid their bossy and overwhelming presence. I now know to just be honest and direct with them. I actually love them now!!

Contact Maggie Hecker or Deb Ooten at Conscious Living Center in Cincinnati, Ohio