5w4 Vs 5w6: Enneagram Types (A +3 Point Guide)

This article will take a look at both of these enneagram types and introduce them to the audience. Furthermore, the article will highlight and explain the differences between the both of them in terms of relationships, careers, strengths and of course fears and desires.

5w4 Vs 5w6: Enneagram Types – The Differences?

Here are the main areas we will be looking at with regards to the differences between the type 5w4 and type 5w6 enneagrams:

• Workplace Practices
• Relationships
• Strengths
• Fears & Desires

Before we look at these in detail, we will introduce the enneagram types under discussion to the audience.

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nature and how they think or feel about others, these enneagram types may seem a bit distant – they remain guarded and withdrawn from others.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.

Despite their introverted side, they love to explore new avenues! They will explore to find more opportunities, learn the truth regarding people or things that interest them and also just for the sake of it. They love exploring and they don’t mind doing this alone because it allows them to have the chance to think and reflect while on such ‘missions’.

The 5w6 Enneagram – The Troubleshooter

The troubleshooter is an enneagram type that is mostly made up of the type 5 enneagram but shares some traits with the type 6 one too. This enneagram is quite logical in their approach to how they understand themselves, others and the world. Hence they do not like to go on what they are told – in a sentimental manner – but how it is told and whether or not it appeals to one’s logic. They like to discuss things in  a systematic and structured manner so they can actually analyze whether everything makes sense or not!

As a result of being logical in their dealings, these enneagram types are quite practical and independent. They know how things work and prefer to keep things simple thus they take up practical steps. They are more of the doers rather than the ones who just keep talking about something and never appear to go forward with actually doing something! It is easier to deal with such individuals because they do what they say and they are action oriented – they actually work by showing and not just telling.

Although independent, these enneagram types are way more cooperative than the typical 5’s are! They like to take others’ opinions into view but this does not mean they won’t do as they wish. They respect how other people think or function but they only feel satisfied and comfortable going ahead with what they believe is right for their own self.

These enneagrams have a strong passion for learning and growing in terms of their skills and strengths. They will read, enroll in courses and attend training programs to boost their skills and knowledge. This helps them make better decisions because they have the right resources which include experience, knowledge and first hand exposure to the real world. They do not like to discuss or engage in things they do not know much about.

5w4 Vs 5w6: Enneagram Types – The Differences?

In this section, we will highlight and explain the differences that are present in the behaviours and attitudes of the 5w4 and 5w6 enneagram types with regards to the following areas:

• Workplace Practices
• Relationships
• Strengths
• Fears & Desires

Let us take a look at each of them in detail!

Strengths

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!

The 5w6 enneagram type has the ability to remain calm during a crisis. They can manage their emotions and not react negatively to any panicky situation. They will not only stay composed and focused in a troublesome situation but also help others do the same. Furthermore, they are well organized and focused when it comes to work. This enneagram can also solve complex problems.

Workplace Practices

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.

Although these enneagrams also need their time alone at work, the 5w6 enneagram is energized when they get to excel in areas they are keen about. They also like to work for organizations that give back to society. Even though they do not like too much interaction with others, they get upset if they are ignored or rejected by others!

Relationships

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.

In relationships, these enneagrams also withdraw when they are stressed. However, the 5w6 enneagram can help solve problems in a relationship because they can logically understand the issue and break it down into parts to be solved. They are also more likely to remain calm when a fight or misunderstanding occurs.

Desires & Fears

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.

What the 5w6 enneagram fears the most is being useless or unworthy. They are afraid they won’t develop any skills or traits that are actually useful and will help them stand out. They function on the belief that a person is only worthy if they are beneficial.

One of the ways they think someone can be worthy is by seeking to make the world a better place! They want to do this by employing the skills they have learnt of the knowledge they acquire. 

The basic desire of the 5w6 enneagram is to feel competent and useful of course! They want to feel needed and hence known for a certain skill or trait that people need or think is useful. This is why they set out to gain knowledge and don’t let any opportunity go when it comes to learning new things, gaining experience through courses or programs! 

Conclusion

This article took a deep dive into the differences that exist between the 5w4 and 5w6 enneagram in a number of areas such as strengths, traits, work, relationships and their fears and desires.

References

https://www.crystalknows.com/enneagram/type-5/wing-6

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