The Enneagram Type Six, often called the "Skeptic," “Loyalist,” or "Loyal Skeptic," is characterized by the need for safety and security. They're also highly responsible, faithful, and reliable individuals who value loyalty, stability, and predictability. They like to stick to the environment that makes them feel secure and comfortable.
More than any other Enneagram personality type, Sixes are regarded as steady, methodical troubleshooters and devil's advocates. They can detect potential issues from miles away.
While Sixes are also very good at making projects practical and realistic, they tend to get trapped in catastrophizing mode and worry about the future.
Is this because they're hopeless pessimists? No. This results from their attempt to feel secure by anticipating potential dangers, having backup plans, and preparing for contingencies.
In this article, we'll go deep into the psyche of the Enneagram Six and learn more about their thought processes, behaviors, and motivations. Moreover, we'll discuss how their skeptical personality affects their relationships.
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What are the Key Personality Traits of an Enneagram Type Six Personality?
Type 6 Enneagram personalities are defined by their desire for safety. This desire often stems from a deep-rooted fear of being abandoned or left to face potential dangers alone. As a result, Sixes are driven by the need for reassurance and external validation.
Sixes are also populated mostly by Myers-Briggs sensing (S) types. They have a strong sense of loyalty towards their beliefs, values, and relationships. They want to be part of something bigger than themselves, whether it's a group or a cause.
In short, the main Type 6 personality traits include:
- Preparedness
- Detail-oriented and organized
- Loyalty and commitment
- Reliable, hardworking, and responsible
- Great troubleshooters
- Fear of insecurity
- Anxiety and worry
- Questioning and skepticism
- Adaptability and resourcefulness
- Sense of connection and belongingness
Enneagram 6 Blind Spots
Each personality archetype has blind spots, often amplified during stress or when they feel out of balance. Some common weaknesses and limitations associated with the Enneagram 6 personality include:
- Low self-esteem
- Rigidity and lack of adaptability
- Indecisiveness
- Pessimistic
- Difficulty controlling anxious thoughts
- Exaggerated need for security
- High levels of self-doubt and insecurity
Think you may be a Type Six? Take an Enneagram test to find out for sure!
What is Enneagram 6 and What Makes Them Tick?
Type 6s are named "The Skeptic Loyalists" because, of all the nine Enneagram types, Sixes are the most loyal and dependable. They are strongly committed to their beliefs, values, systems, and relationships—sometimes to a fault. They'll "go down with the ship" and stay true to their commitments despite adversity or doubt.
Of course, not all the Enneagram 6s follow the “status quo." Some Enneagram 6 individuals are rebellious, anti-authoritarian, and even revolutionary. However, they'll always fight for their beliefs and defend their community or family more fiercely than they defend themselves.
This loyalty is because Enneagram 6s are driven by a deep fear of being abandoned or left without support —their Basic Fear. Thus, they believe they don't have the internal resources to handle life's challenges and uncertainties alone. So, they increasingly rely on external structures, allies, beliefs, and authority figures for guidance and security. In cases where there is a lack of suitable structures, they'll help create one themselves.
Moreover, Enneagram 6's skeptical nature is another underlying factor that makes them "tick." As a child, a Type 6 Enneagram may have grown up in an unsafe neighborhood, had overprotective guardians, or experienced a traumatic event that led them to develop a deep-seated fear of the unknown and insecurity.
As they grow older, this skepticism translates into an ongoing worldview of anything or anyone outside their circle of trust being a potential threat. They're always on high alert and see the world as dangerous.
In addition, Enneagram 6 personalities are extremely logical types. They're often trapped in a pattern of excessive thinking, strategizing, and planning for future events to protect themselves from harm. This constant "worst-case scenario" mindset makes the stereotypical "survivalist" image.
Despite this, Enneagram 6 persons are known to be the primary type in the "Thinking Center" of the Enneagram system. This means they have a lot of difficulty connecting with their inner guidance and instincts. As a result, they lack confidence in their own feelings, thoughts, and judgments.
Does this mean that they don't think? Not at all! On the contrary, Sixes thinks—and worries—a lot! They have a fear of making important decisions. And at the same time, they resist having anyone else make decisions for them. They avoid being controlled—but are also afraid of taking responsibility in a way that might put them "in the line of fire."
As part of the "head-based" triad, Sixes deal with fear as their core emotion, much like Type Five and Type Seven. However, no type tackles fear as head-on as Type Six does.
At their best, Sixes are trustworthy and protective individuals you want to have on your side. In disintegration, they're a bundle of opposites. They try to create self-fulfilling prophecies through fear-based decision-making without resolving their own emotional insecurities.
Examples of Famous Enneagram 6s
The best way to identify if you're an Enneagram 6 type is by taking an Enneagram test. However, real-life examples can also provide a better understanding of Type 6s.
Based on public perception, here are some famous individuals who likely fall on the Enneagram 6 spectrum:
- Ben Affleck
- Joe Biden
- Tom Hanks
- Ellen DeGeneres
- George H.W. Bush
- Prince Harry
- Diana, Princess of Wales
- Woody Allen
- Johnny Carson
Subtypes of Enneagram Type 6 Personality
The Enneagram 6 personality shows up in four different subtypes or variations. Let's get into the laydown of these Enneagram 6 subtypes and see how they differ from one another:
Phobic Sixes Subtypes
The Phobic Type 6 subtype is the most classic representation of Sixes. These individuals tend to lean towards caution and avoidance in response to fear. When they sense any danger or threat, their instinct is to deliberately move away from the source of fear. They often fly under the radar and try not to attract too much attention or stir trouble.
Phobic Sixes also display a high level of self-awareness. They're open and expressive about their worry, anxious thoughts, weaknesses, and vulnerability, which they use as a defense mechanism against manipulation or control by others. This also makes them more relatable to others and helps allies understand their thought processes better.
Counterphobic Sixes Subtypes
Counterphobic Type Six individuals actively confront their fears head-on. Instead of retreating, they tend to have a high-strung and irrational fear of fear itself, which translates into rebellion or confrontation. They're risk-takers, challenge conventional beliefs and authority, and are ready to confront challenges aggressively.
Counterphobic Sixes also don't seek security from others, as they prefer to prove their self-sufficiency. This makes them more independent and leaves them vulnerable to isolation and loneliness. While they may seem bold and confident on the outside, they can also be restless and quick to react when they sense a threat.
Social Sixes Subtypes
Typically, Sixes are true ambiverts, meaning they can lean towards both introversion and extroversion, depending on the situation. However, Social Sixes tend to be more extroverted than the other subtypes. They focus on gaining a sense of security through social connections to groups or causes. These are the Type 6s who will be seen as the "glue" of their community or the cause they serve.
Self-Preservation Sixes Subtypes
Unlike other subtypes, Self-Preservation Sixes tend to be more introverted and prioritize their safety and well-being above all else. They focus on practical matters and are highly attentive to their immediate environment and the resources they have. This focus on security can also manifest in their health and self-care habits. They're also risk-averse and may avoid situations that could jeopardize their physical well-being.
Core Fears and Desires of the Type 6 Enneagram
Like other Enneagram types, Type Six individuals are driven by a basic fear and desire, which influences how they see the world and engage with others. These basic desires and fears also shape their motivations and behavior patterns.
Basic Fear for Type Six
The core fear of Enneagram Type 6 is that they're without support and security. More specifically, they fear being alone and unable to cope with life's challenges independently. This fear stems from deep insecurity and self-doubt, giving them an "expect the worst, hope for the best" mindset.
Basic Desire for Type Six
The basic desire of Enneagram Type 6 individuals is to have security and support. They want to feel physically and emotionally safe in their relationships and environment. Sixes crave a sense of belonging and seek reassurance from others. However, there is a downside to this desire for security, as it can make them struggle to defend themselves by projecting their feelings — positive or negative.
How Are Enneagram 6 at their Best and Worst?
While we can't change our basic personality type, we can become more mature and healthy versions of ourselves within it. Let's see how it unfolds for Sixes when at their best (healthy version) and worst (unhealthy).
Healthy Type 6s
Once Enneagram Type 6s learn how to face their anxieties and realize the world isn't as insecure as they thought, they transcend to the highest levels of development. This allows them to be more authentic, integrate all their good qualities, and live a life of inner peace.
They no longer need to hold their banners high to prove their worth and are comfortable being vulnerable around people they trust. During stress, healthy Type 6s know how to handle and diffuse the nerves with finesse. They become masters of managing their insecurities and develop secure attachment styles, making it easy to trust others.
At this level, Sixes can also let go of their need to be in control and become more open-minded and flexible. They're grounded in reality, accepting both the good and the bad while remaining courageous, independent, and self-confident.
Average Type 6s
In an average state, Enneagram 6 tends to overthink things, but it's not as paralyzing as when they're at an unhealthy level of development. Sixes know their anxieties and shortcomings but may struggle to regulate their emotions and reactions. They're also highly skeptical and may over-analyze information to the point of confusion.
This can cause them to act defensively or aggressively when they feel threatened, which can strain relationships with others. Sixes may also swing between being dutiful, hardworking, anxious or hesitant, pessimistic, and fearful at this level.
They may become agitated and nervous when disconnected from their group or position. To maintain balance and prevent disappointments, they try hard to become mentally acute and prepare for the worst-case scenario before taking action.
Unhealthy Type 6s
When Enneagram Type 6 individuals are at their worst, they become highly paranoid and anxious. Their constant fear of being abandoned or without support makes them excessively clingy or mistrustful in relationships. They become so consumed with their worries that they may even start to imagine and believe things that are not true.
This can result in false memories, projection of insecurities onto others, and codependency on a protective figure. Sixes may also struggle with managing their emotions at this level and tend to react impulsively or self-sabotage when overwhelmed.
They can become highly defensive and lash out at others as they try to protect themselves from perceived threats. This level of development is not sustainable in the long run and can lead to physical and mental health burnout if left unchecked.
Enneagram 6 Wings
Typically, each of the nine personality types in the Enneagram system has two or more "wings," which are the numbers on either side of their primary type. These wings can add different traits and characteristics to a person's dominant personality, making them unique. Enneagram Type Sixes can have a Five or a Seven wing.
Enneagram Type 6 Wing 5 (6w5)
Six Wings Five individuals typically have an intellectual bent and share characteristics with Type Fives. They're more introverted than other Sixes and often prefer to keep to themselves. Due to their protective nature, they may find opening up and trusting others challenging.
They also take in the 5's highly analytical and curious nature and always seek knowledge and information to mitigate their fear and anxiety. This can sometimes lead them down the path of overthinking and analysis paralysis.
Enneagram Type 6 Wing 7 (6w7)
A Six with a Seven wing has a more outgoing and friendly personality than other Sixes, often resembling Type Sevens in some ways. They're highly driven by activity and thrive in group settings. They use positive framing to manage their fears and anxieties and are more optimistic and adventurous than other Sixes.
However, they struggle to maintain and set boundaries and have difficulty saying no, leading to overextending themselves to keep up with their active lifestyle.
How Do Type 6s Relate with Others in Relationships?
In relationships, Type 6s tend to engage with others through loyalty, warmth, and a deep concern for security—characteristics shared with both the Myers-Briggs ISFJ and ISTJ personalities — balancing positive aspects of strong bonds with the challenges of navigating anxieties and fears. Let’s look at how most Sixes relate with others.
Enneagram 6 at Work
Type 6s often bring their loyalty and hardworking nature in a professional setting. Just like other Enneagrams at work, type 6s value stability and security, making them excellent team players who can be counted on to get things done. They know potential risks and can develop contingency plans, making them reliable problem-solvers. However, they may also struggle with asserting themselves and advocating for their needs, which can lead to them being taken advantage of in the workplace.
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Enneagram 6 in Love
In romantic relationships, Type Sixes are a true definition of "through thick and thin." They make loyal, reliable, and dependable partners; you can always count on them to be there. With acts of service as their love language, they excel at expressing love through practical actions that provide a sense of security and protection to their loved ones. For them, trust is everything.
Sixes also craves for fairly transparent relationships early on. They want to know whether their partner is in as much as they are and if it's a well-matched union. It can be deeply hurtful for Sixes to discover later that the relationship was not what they thought it would be.
When less aware, Six's skepticism and fear of being let down by nature may cause them to freeze out and become insecure. They become overly clingy or possessive, trying to control the relationship out of a need for security. It also drives them to plan out worst-case scenarios and prepare for every possible outcome. However, this, at times, can also lead to overthinking and worrying about their relationship, which can ultimately strain it.
Remember to be patient and understanding if you love the Enneagram 6. Understand that their fear of the unknown runs deep within them, but they're also capable of great love and loyalty. Please encourage them to practice self-care and independence while being there for them when they need a safe place to share their worries and anxieties. Keep the feedback on the gentler side and offer constructive criticism when needed.
6 Growth Tips for Enneagram 6s
Regardless of your level of personal development or wing, there are always ways to continue growing and evolving as a Type 6 Enneagram. Some tips for growth include:
1. Learn to Trust
Secure and healthy relationships are built on trust. Therefore, Sixes needs to work on building trust with themselves and others. This means letting go of the constant need for reassurance while understanding you cannot control everything. Start by trusting yourself, your instincts, and your capabilities before extending that trust to others.
2. Face Your Anxieties
Avoiding or suppressing your anxieties will only make them grow stronger. Instead, work on acknowledging and facing your fears head-on. This is because your fearful thoughts weaken your ability to improve things. The more you confront your worries, the less control they will have over you.
3. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is an excellent tool for Type Sixes to learn how to live in the present moment. Take time to pause, breathe, and focus on your surroundings. Incorporating grounding techniques and mindfulness practices like yoga into your daily routine will help you achieve better focus and reduce your stress and anxiety levels.
Check out our Mindfulness Meditation series for a better understanding.
4. Focus on the Positive
Always preparing for the worst-case scenario can lead to a negative outlook on life. It can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. Practice shifting your focus toward positive aspects of situations and challenges. This will help you maintain a more optimistic outlook and reduce excessive worrying, leading to a more fulfilling life.
5. Question your Self-Fulfilling Prophecies
Often, Enneagram 6 individuals may create self-fulfilling prophecies by constantly expecting the worst in situations. This can become a vicious cycle that reinforces negative thoughts and beliefs. Take time to question these beliefs and ask yourself if there is any evidence to support them or if they are just fears created in your mind.
6. Be Strong and Own Your Power
Enneagram Type Sixes may struggle to view life as a journey that they have control over. Instead, they may feel at the mercy of outside forces and circumstances. Practice owning your power and recognizing that you cannot always manage external events but have a say in how your life unfolds. Trust in your abilities to make decisions and navigate challenges. You are strong!
Are You an Enneagram 6 Personality Type?
It's common for individuals to mistype themselves or others when it comes to the Enneagram system. Some Enneagram traits may overlap, making it challenging to accurately determine one's dominant type. For instance, an Enneagram 6 may exhibit traits from other types, such as Type 2's helpfulness or Type 9's desire for harmony. Sometimes, Sixes may also mistype themselves as Type Four or Type Eight.
And since every Enneagram type has two or more wings, you may wonder if Type 6 with Five or Seven wings is your main type. Remember, the Enneagram system doesn't look at behavior but rather the motivation behind it, as highlighted in the Journal of Adult Development.
That said, the best way to determine your type is by taking an Enneagram test and reflecting on your results. You can also read about the different types and their core motivations to see which one resonates with you the most.
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