The Enneagram is a personality typing system that has gained popularity in recent years. It categorizes people into nine different types, each with their unique traits, strengths, and weaknesses. The Helper, also known as Type 2, is one of these types.
If you identify as the Helper, you are someone who finds joy in helping others. You are generous, empathetic, and intuitive. You are often the first person that others turn to when they need emotional support or practical assistance. However, you may struggle with setting boundaries and taking care of your own needs.
In this article, I will explore the Helper type in more detail. I will look at its core characteristics, how it relates to other Enneagram types and tips for personal growth.
Core Characteristics of the Helper
The Helper is a caring and empathetic person who values relationships and connection with others. Here are some of the core characteristics of the Helper type:
- Generous: Helpers enjoy giving to others, whether it’s their time, resources, or emotional support. They often put others’ needs before their own.
- Empathetic: Helpers have a keen ability to sense and understand others’ emotions. They are often attuned to the needs of others and can offer comfort and support when needed.
- Intuitive: Helpers have a natural ability to read people and situations. They often know what others need before they ask for it and are skilled at anticipating others’ needs.
- Relationship-focused: Helpers place a high value on relationships and often prioritize them over their own needs. They enjoy connecting with others and building meaningful connections.
- Fear of being unloved: Helpers have a deep fear of being unloved or unneeded. They may worry that if they stop helping others, they will lose their sense of purpose or value.
- Difficulty setting boundaries: Helpers may struggle with setting boundaries and saying no to others’ requests. They may feel guilty or selfish for putting their own needs first.
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How the Helper Relates to Other Enneagram Types
Each Enneagram type has a unique set of strengths and challenges. Here’s how the Helper type relates to some of the other types:
- Type 1 (The Perfectionist): The Helper can learn from the Perfectionist’s attention to detail and focus on improvement. However, the Helper may struggle with the Perfectionist’s critical nature and tendency to judge others.
- Type 3 (The Achiever): The Helper may admire the Achiever’s drive and ambition but may struggle with the Achiever’s tendency to prioritize success over relationships.
- Type 4 (The Individualist): The Helper may relate to the Individualist’s emotional depth and sensitivity. However, the Helper may struggle with the Individualist’s tendency to isolate themselves from others.
- Type 5 (The Investigator): The Helper can learn from the Investigator’s analytical approach to problem-solving. However, the Helper may struggle with the Investigator’s tendency to withdraw from social situations.
- Type 6 (The Loyalist): The Helper may appreciate the Loyalist’s loyalty and commitment to others. However, the Helper may struggle with the Loyalist’s tendency to worry and fear the worst.
- Type 7 (The Enthusiast): The Helper may enjoy the Enthusiast’s enthusiasm and spontaneity. However, the Helper may struggle with the Enthusiast’s tendency to avoid negative emotions.
- Type 8 (The Challenger): The Helper may struggle with the Challenger’s confrontational nature and need for control.
- Type 9 (The Peacemaker): The Helper may appreciate the Peacemaker’s desire for harmony and their ability to see multiple perspectives. However, the Helper may struggle with the Peacemaker’s tendency to avoid conflict and their passive approach to life.
How a Life Coach Can Help The Helper
A life coach can be a valuable resource for the Helper type, as they can help the Helper develop skills and strategies to balance their desire to help others with their own well-being. Here are some ways a life coach can help the Helper type:
- Set boundaries: It’s essential to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs. Learn to say no when necessary and communicate your limits to others.
- Practice self-care: Make time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
- Develop independence: Focus on developing your sense of identity and independence, rather than relying solely on the approval and validation of others.
- Practice assertiveness: Learn to express your needs and desires clearly and assertively.
- Challenge your assumptions: Take a step back and challenge your assumptions and beliefs about your role in relationships and your value as a person.
- Develop other interests: Focus on developing other interests and hobbies outside of helping others. This can help you gain a more balanced perspective on life.
FAQs about the Helper Type
Q: Is the Helper type always altruistic and selfless?
A: While Helpers are often altruistic and selfless, they may also have their agenda and motivations for helping others. They may enjoy the validation and approval they receive from helping others, or they may be seeking to avoid their emotional pain.
Q: Can the Helper type become codependent?
A: Yes, the Helper type may become codependent if they prioritize others’ needs over their own to the point of neglecting their well-being. Helpers need to set boundaries and take care of their own needs.
Q: How can I support a Helper in my life?
A: If you have a Helper in your life, it’s important to appreciate and acknowledge their generosity and caring nature. However, it’s also important to respect their boundaries and encourage them to prioritize their own needs.
Conclusion
The Helper is a caring and empathetic personality type that values relationships and connection with others. While the Helper has many admirable qualities, they may also struggle with setting boundaries and taking care of their own needs. By practising self-care, assertiveness, and independence, the Helper can learn to balance their desire to help others with their well-being.
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