4w5 Vs 5w4: The Enneagrams (A 4 Point Guide)

This article will not only introduce both the enneagram types but also point out their differences with regards to their strengths and weaknesses as well as their major traits. The article will also comment on how they handle their relationships!

4w5 Vs 5w4: The Difference

The main difference between the enneagrams 4w5 and 5w4 is that the former one is more concerned with the image that they gave of their own self to the world which is why they spend more time on how they look with regards to their dressing and behaviour. The 5w4 enneagram is not that concerned with how they look and what identity they show to the world. 

Furthermore, the 5w4 enneagram will detach from their own self when they feel they are overwhelmed by their emotions while the 4w5 enneagram will dwell in them to really understand and experience how they feel!

In this article, we will comment on the differences between the 4w5 and 5w4 enneagram with regards to the following areas:

• Strengths
• Workplace Practices
• Relationships
• Desires & Fears

 Before we comment on each of the following areas and how the two enneagrams are different with regards to each other, we will introduce both of them to the audience!

The 4w5 Enneagram: The Free Spirit

This enneagram type is a combination of traits mostly from the enneagram 4 with some traits from the enneagram type 5 as well. Compared to most enneagram type 4’s, this one is not very concerned with their public image and hence do not worry too much about how others will think of them. Furthermore, the type 4 enneagram is more into developing a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

To develop a deeper understanding of things, the type 4w5 enneagram tends to engage in behaviours like introspection, imagination and deep thinking. They are also very creative as a result and like to focus on their perception of their environment. This enneagram type is driven by a deeper desire to truly understand the world and how it operates. 

By engaging in such behaviours, the type 4w5 enneagram may seem distant at times; others may think they do not want to talk or interact, however in reality they are just too busy thinking about themselves and the world they live in. This might be one reason why people may think they are not too approachable or friendly!

The 5w4 Enneagram – The Philosopher

Possessing more traits associated with the type 5 rather than type 4 enneagram, the ‘Philosopher’ although reserved in their behaviour is quite the thinker and reflector! They like to take their time when it comes to pondering over things that amaze or fascinate them. Furthermore, they like to do this in a peaceful and quiet environment rather than brainstorm over it with others. They are indeed introverted because they need alone time not only to think but to also reflect and recharge their social battery.

Compared to type 5 enneagrams, they are more emotional and expressive. Hence, they do possess a more human element and do not just focus on the hard areas of life or use simple facts and figures to explain phenomena. This is because they realize the importance of human intervention and influence. Also, these individuals are quite expressive and like to do things in a manner that not only represents their opinions or beliefs but also feels comfortable to them.

Because of their nature and how they think or feel about others, these enneagram types may seem a bit distant – they remain guarded and withdrawn from others. This is not only because they need time alone but they prefer to keep a distance from other people. At the same time, they are very much open to gaining new skills and knowledge to increase their knowledge base as well as the resources – in the form of skills – that will help them strengthen their own standing and make them more capable of even greater tasks.

4w5 Vs 5w4: The Enneagram Types

In this article, we will comment on the differences between the 4w5 and 5w4 enneagram with regards to the following areas:

Strengths

When it comes to the 4w5 enneagram type, their basic strengths are quite a few. Firstly, they like to stay true to themselves and hence will do what makes them feel satisfied and happy. They are not fake to themselves or others. They are very clear about what they want and this allows them to make the right decisions. Furthermore, this enneagram type is fond of knowledge gathering and they are also great at problem solving. They have soft skills too which allow them to deeply connect with others.

The 5w4 has a very creative expression and can be unique in how they do things. They are also able to work well independently. Not only do they have great levels of focus and attention but they can also zoom in on the small details that allow them to make things perfect!

Workplace Practices

When it comes to the 4w5 enneagram, they prefer to have their workspace where they can get the peace and quietness they need to get things done! They become disturbed if they have to interact with others too much, possibly because working alone allows them more focus. However, they do desire to be appreciated by others and become demotivated greatly if they do not receive the recognition they deserve.

The 5w4 enneagram feels motivated and energized when they learn a new skill. They prefer to have their own time alone and like to work on tasks with much concentration – of course privacy. Too much interference or supervision upsets them.

Relationships

The 4w5 enneagram does well when it comes to relationships. This is because they are able to connect with their significant partner in a deep and meaningful manner. They are also true to themselves and others and this prevents any misconceptions from entering into the relationship. They are committed and put in the time and effort to make things work.

They deeply desire to be of use and significance to their significant other however at the same time they may withdraw from their loved one when there is too much stress or conflict.

Desires & Fears

Apart from having enough knowledge and wanting to impact the world in a positive manner, the enneagram type 4w5 wants to be able to develop their own personal identity in the entire process. They want to be known as someone who is unique and not just like others.

Hence, to achieve this, they will often stay put in their shell where they will introspect their inner selves to actually determine who they are and what purpose they have. They engage in deep thought that allows them to understand themselves more in light of the situation they are in and what is required of them. 

The type 4w5 enneagram also has their fears! The biggest fear they have – apart from not having enough knowledge – is to not be able to impact the world they live in. They want to be able to make a difference using the knowledge and skills they have and benefit people in such a manner that they are remembered or leave behind a legacy.

The main fear this enneagram type has is that of being helpless and incompetent. They do not want to be in a position where they cannot help themselves or defend themselves for that matter! Also, they are scared that they might feel useless. The 5w4 enneagram does not want to be in a position where they are not competent for a certain task or be of no use to others!

The basic desire of the type 5w4 enneagram stems from the fact that they want to feel competent and worthy. They want to be able to master a set of skills that they can use to not only ensure their independence and strong standing but also their ability to help others.

The type 5w4 enneagram wants to help and guide others too and they believe they can only do this if they have the right skills and knowledge. Hence they also desire that they possess a number of skills and much knowledge from different walks of life.

Conclusion

This article took a deep dive into the differences that exist between the 4w5 and 5w4 enneagram in a number of areas such as strengths, traits, work, relationships and their fears and desires.

If you’ve enjoyed the ”4w5 Vs 5w4” you should take a look at ”4w5 Vs 6w5” too.

References

https://www.crystalknows.com/enneagram/type-4/wing-5

https://www.crystalknows.com/enneagram/type-5/wing-4