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“It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.”- Sherlock Holmes

Do you consider yourself to be analytical and interested in understanding how the world ticks? Are you a bit philosophical and in love with the hidden meaning of life? If you are, then you are most certainly an Enneagram type 5

In-depth Description of the Enneagram Type 5

The enneagram type five is probably the most curious type in the enneagram. Often known or seen as detached and absorbed, these types are interested in knowing how everything ticks and fits. Their need to research and learn new things earns them other names such as the thinker or the inventor.

This need can also cause other problems such as bouts of isolation and an extreme desire to be independent. It can also lead to neglect or forgetfulness of their needs and their relationship with others. At their very best, type fives have a unique way of seeing the world. This unique way helps them stand out among the crowd.

What Motivates The Enneagram Type 5?

This type is motivated by their need to be sufficient and independent. They want to be competent and good at what they do. This need drives them throughout life. It can also cause a lot of problems for them when they are unhealthy.

What Is The Core Fear Of The Enneagram Type 5?

The enneagram type 5 biggest fear is to be seen as useless or simply incapable in any function. They drop themselves into endless research to avoid looking dumb or unable to understand their environment.

Because of their need to be learning constantly and to be undisturbed by others, enneagram 5 will often withdraw into their shell. By doing this, they give themselves the room to keep analyzing new data and knowledge. This can often lead to a strain within their families.

Strengths

Self-Sufficient and Independent

If there is one thing that an enneagram type five is, it’s independent. These types want to be independent as it gives them the time to embark on their great discoveries. It’s also a way for them to prove they are competent in handling themselves and their lives.

Jack of all Trades

The need to explore and learn new things means that type 5 is always learning and improving new skills. While this can turn out to be invaluable, it also means that type 5 might have a lot of skills but be a master of none.

Logical

Their analytical skills help them become very logical thinkers. Type 5 will always think through a problem before taking action. This also allows them to see hidden patterns and dots that other types might fail to pick up.

Intuitive and Observant

The enneagram type 5 is very observant about their surroundings. They are also very intuitive. These two qualities help them to investigate anything they might consider amiss or different. It also helps to do research and discover new things that no one would have thought was possible.

Problem Solver

The enneagram type five are good problem solvers. They have a quick mind that can do an analysis on any problem very quickly. This means they can solve most problems in a crisis. The incredible thing here is that fives can do this without a shred of panic.

Weaknesses

Insensitive and Lack of Empathy

Enneagram type 5 often use their analytical minds and logical thinking to find solutions to problems they face. While this might work with inanimate things and difficult tasks, it fails miserably when dealing with humans. This might make the enneagram type 5 look insensitive and unemotional.

Withdrawing From Loved Ones

Fives have a habit of withdrawing from their loved ones and friends. This is particularly true when there’s a new project or discovery they are about to embark on. They will usually spend hours dissecting this project of interest. While this means they know a good dose of it, it also means that relationships and their marriage might suffer as a result.

Harsh and Condescending

Type fives can also be seen as harsh and even condescending. Part of the problem tends from their belief that the truth is better said in all situations. Enneagram type 5 might also believe that everyone should know certain things. When they discover this not to be true, they might resort to explaining things in a basic or simple way. This can appear insulting.

Defense/Coping Mechanism- Isolation

This type uses withdrawal and isolation as their coping mechanism. By withdrawing from other people, they find a way to cut out the way they feel. This allows them to focus on the task at hand and cut off the negative feelings and emotions.

Enneagram Type 5 and Wings

Like all other enneagram types, the enneagram type 5 has two wings. These are the wing 4 and 6

5w4– When paired with a wing 4, this type becomes more expressive and emotional. They also become extremely independent. They might also have an interest in creative thinking and action such as poetry and painting.

5w6– When paired with a wing 6, this type becomes more cooperative and pragmatic. They also tend to worry about being secure. This type can be considered reliable and a good problem solver.

How to Communicate With the Enneagram Type 5

• Go straight to the point when talking with this type. Just like the enneagram type 8, they don’t want to beat around the bush. Besides, talking with you is stopping them from learning about more things!
• Try not to guess what they are thinking about. Most times, you will be wrong. They also really don’t fancy that.
• Tickle their fancy. Talk more about the great things in life and its mysteries. Talking about these things is the fastest way to the five’s heart.
• Understand that they get drained by human interaction. Try not to invade their privacy.
• Give them time to share their emotions. It takes a lot for this type to open up to people. When they do, respect them for it.

Enneagram Type 5 and Possible Job Interests

Type fives want to learn more about the world and what makes it tick. They are also interested in spotting the various dots and patterns that exist in the world today. This makes them a perfect fit for places that involves continuous learning. Their possible job interests include

• Scientist
• Lecturer
• Police Detectives
• Accountants
• Judges
• Market Analysis
• Stock Brokers

Worst Career Options for the Enneagram Type 5

• Virtual Assistants
• Secretarial Jobs
• Entrepreneur
• UX designers

Famous People who are Enneagram Type 5

• Sherlock Holmes
• Albert Einstein
• Bill Gates
• Mark Zuckerberg
• Stephen King
• Emily Dickinson

How Enneagram Type 5 Can Stay Healthy

• Try to open up to people sometimes. It makes them feel valued and appreciated. They also love you a lot and look up to you. So, be there for them.
• Learn to stay out of your head sometimes. You have this extraordinary gift. However, learn how to balance it with interacting with your loved ones.
• Your head and analytical mind will bring up so many possibilities. Learn how to sieve through them and choose the ones that lead to your growth. You’ll be glad you did.

The enneagram type 5 is a wonderful person with extraordinary gifts. They just have to learn how to use them.