5w6 & 7w6 Enneagram Types: The Differences (+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.

5w6 Vs 7w6: Enneagram Types – The Differences?

Here are the main areas we will be looking at with regards to the differences between the type 5w6 and type 7w6 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 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.

The Pathfinder – The 7w6 Enneagram

Extremely enthusiastic individuals with a lot of energy, the type 7w6 enneagram is made up of traits mostly from the type 7 enneagram but also shares some with the type 6 enneagram. These individuals love looking forward to interesting and exciting experiences with a lot of excitement and of course enthusiasm – they never want to miss out on the fun! 

Having such a personality also necessitates that they be adventurous. These individuals love to venture into new experiences or opportunities and explore. They will try out new things just for the sake of it and possibly take a lot of risk too if required. The type 7w6 enneagram thus has an explorative trait that allows them to look for and grasp opportunities that they can experience or try out because one of the things that motivates these individuals the most is being a part of experiences.

Regardless of all the fun and exploring, the type 7w6 enneagram is very responsible and they like getting things done on time. They prefer to follow their own schedules but meet deadlines, complete tasks or fulfill commitments as agreed beforehand with another party – in their own way. This is one trait that allows them to successfully pursue relations with others. Being someone who fulfills their word puts them at a great edge in relationships – especially work or intimate ones.

This enneagram type is full of happiness and optimism – they like to see the bright side in things. Because of this reason, the Pathfinder is able to come across a lot of opportunities and benefit from them unlike those individuals who might see the bad side in things and hence not expect or look for the golden opportunities that are usually hidden in the dark. This is something that keeps this enneagram type lively and happy as well as a source or beacon of hope for others. They uplift people with their positive attitude and this helps them become someone who has a good rather than bad effect on others.

However, sometimes this enneagram can end up justifying or rationalizing the actions of others even though these specific actions or behaviours cause hurt and pain to the type 7w6 enneagram.

5w6 Vs 7w6: Enneagram Types – The Differences?

In this section, we will highlight and explain the differences that are present in the behaviours and attitudes of the 5w6 and 7w6 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 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.

The 7w6 is an enneagram that also has a number of traits. Firstly, they are very much sensitive to the feelings of others. They are also very productive and like to cooperate with people around them, especially those who they work with.

Workplace Practices

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!

Too much time alone, strict supervision and a boring old routine will definitely demotivate this enneagram type. The 7w6 enneagram prefers to be around people helping them. They like to meet new people and enjoy social gatherings or events even inside of work or those with whom they work! This enneagram type likes to incorporate aesthetics into the workplace, especially their own cubicle or desk. Furthermore, they like to have a flexible routine that allows them a number of options on how and when to work.

Relationships

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.

These enneagrams do pursue relationships with others however they always seek something exciting and want gratification. If they do not get it then they become grumpy or disinterested. They are happy and optimistic and sometimes justify the actions of their partners to avoid getting hurt.

Desires & Fears

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! 

One of the fears the 7w6 enneagram type has is that they will miss out on great opportunities. They want to have the most in life and believe that one should grasp all the opportunities that come to them. However, one problem they don’t realize is that a lot of opportunities may come to them and they take too much on themselves!

The most strong desire this enneagram has is that to feel happy and content. They want to experience what life has to offer and this is why they are so quick when it comes to grabbing the opportunities that pass by in front of them! This is most apparent when they express a lot of happiness even in the small things of life that they want to give recognition too – the things that people often overlook or disregard!

Conclusion

This article took a deep dive into the differences that exist between the 5w6 and 7w6 enneagram in a number of areas such as strengths, traits, work, relationships and their fears and desires.

References

https://www.crystalknows.com/enneagram/type-7/wing-6