5w4 Vs 6w5: The Enneagrams (+3 Guide)

This article will take a look at the differences between the two enneagram types 5w4 and 6w5 by highlighting how they behave when it comes to relationships, the workplace, their strengths and fears and desires.

5w4 Vs 6w5 Enneagrams: How Are They Different?

The 5w4 and 6w5 enneagram behave differently in the following areas:

  • The Workplace
  • Relationships
  • Strengths
  • Desires & Fears

We will explain how they differ from each other in the above highlighted areas. However, before we do that, we will introduce both of them to the readers.

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nature and how they think or feel about others, these enneagram types may seem a bit distant – they remain guarded and withdrawn from others.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 Guardian: Enneagram Type 6w5

Compared to most type 6 enneagrams, this one is more serious and focused on what they want to do! The type 6w5 enneagram is mostly made up of traits from the type 6 enneagram but also shares some with the type 5 enneagram too! Some traits that describe them include hard working, independent, intellectual and cautious. Although they are independent, they are very loyal to their loved ones and the people they genuinely care about.

These enneagrams prefer to take things for as they are. They are logical and analytical. They want things to make sense and not just accept things just because someone said them or they have some sentimental value. Furthermore, this enneagram type likes to weigh the pros and cons of certain behaviours, actions, events, things or individuals especially when they need to make a decision. Why? Well of course because they are analytical. They do not like passing judgement on someone or something until they fully scrutinize it in a manner that is just and objective.

However, this very same enneagram type is fearful of losing their stability. They want to remain strong and independent. They do not want to become weak, dependent or confused or even lose track of what it is they do. So, this is one reason why they tend to work so hard in what it is they want to achieve!

Sometimes their fears get the best of them and they engage in behaviours that are not so healthy. The enneagram 6w5 type has the habit of projecting their fears onto others. They will view people in light of their own fears, insecurities, problems and desires or unmet needs.

Regardless of that, these enneagrams seek support and guidance. They value the advice and input from others although at the end they will take their own decision. They want to feel supported and loved especially by those to whom they are very loyal to. This is regardless of their independent behaviour and self confidence.

5w4 Vs 6w5 Enneagrams: How Are They Different?

The 5w4 and 6w5 enneagram behave differently in the following areas:

  • The Workplace
  • Relationships
  • Strengths
  • Desires & Fears

In this article, we will comment on the differences between the 5w4 and 6w5 enneagram with regards to the following areas:

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 6w5 enneagram on the other hand also has a passion for knowledge gathering and is quite good at solving problems. At the same time they do well independently and do not mind being alone in their endeavors. They have the ability to focus on the small things and details that allow them to do things in a very accurate and perfect manner.

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.

The 6w5 enneagram on the other hand places more emphasis on the relationships they form at work and depend on them greatly for motivation. They are fond of problem solving and like to talk to their coworkers whenever they get the time.

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.

Following a more analytical approach, the 6w5 enneagram may have issues understanding how emotions work when it comes to the other person. They may have issues with regulating their own emotions and hence may experience small issues or outbursts with their spouse. Also, they may withdraw from their relationship when they are quite stressed out. In this case, they need to have a relationship with a mature and supportive partner who can understand their personality and needs.

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.

The 6w5 enneagram is scared of losing their guidance and stability. They like to be independent and do not want to have to depend on others so much. They prefer doing things their own way and having some control over their life. They realize this is only possible if they have a stable future and are well guided.

They have a strong desire for security, which they tend to show by protecting themselves and others. They seek close and stable relationships.

Guardians tend to defend themselves by projecting their own feelings onto others, which can often enhance their distrust of the world.

Conclusion

This article took a deep dive into the differences that exist between the 5w4 and 6w5 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-4

https://www.crystalknows.com/enneagram/type-6/wing-5#:~:text=People%20with%20an%20Enneagram%20type,loyal%20to%20those%20they%20support.

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