How Enneagram Wings Shape Your Personality: A Simple Guide to Better Understanding Your Enneagram Type

If you’re familiar with the Enneagram system, you’ve likely heard of “Enneagram wings.” But what exactly are wings, and how do they influence your core personality type?

Enneagram wings are the two personality types adjacent to your core type. They introduce new strengths and perspectives that help you navigate life’s complexities with greater flexibility.  

While not the primary focus, these wings add important nuances that shape your decision-making, interactions, and behavior. Understanding your dominant wing can improve how you manage relationships, work, and personal growth.

Whether you’re a self-disciplined Type 1, a socially aware Type 9, or anywhere in between, learning about your Enneagram wings can lead to deeper self-discovery. 

Read on to learn how wings work, how to identify your dominant wing, and how they can support your journey toward self-knowledge, self-reflection, and self-awareness. 

This guide explores the essential role of Enneagram wings in shaping who you are, offering valuable insights into how these neighboring types can enhance your self-understanding and personal development.

If you don't know your main Enneagram type, you can take a break from reading this article and find out before learning how Enneagram Wings can shape your personality. 

How Enneagram Type Wings Work

The Enneagram framework consists of nine distinct personality types, each defined by core motivations, strengths, and fears. When you take an Enneagram-type test, you gain insight into these foundational aspects of your personality, but there’s more to the story.

However, we humans are nothing if not complex, and while your dominant Enneagram type likely resonates with you, it may not capture the full picture of who you are. This is where Enneagram wings come into play, adding nuance and depth to your personality profile.

Enneagram wings function in the background, subtly influencing how your dominant personality type is expressed. They guide your strengths, shape your motivations, and provide additional dimensions to your personality. Think of your wings as the second side of your personality, helping you navigate life with greater flexibility and adaptability.

Wings are particularly useful in explaining contradictory desires or behaviors you might have noticed in yourself. For instance, if you're a self-critical Type 1 with a dominant Type 2 wing, your natural perfectionism might be channeled into advocacy and community service, rather than solely focusing on individualistic goals. The Type 2 wing adds a layer of compassion and a drive to improve the well-being of others, balancing the Type 1’s tendency toward rigidity.

In this way, Enneagram wings enrich your self-awareness, offering a more complete understanding of how different aspects of your personality interact and influence your behavior. They allow you to see yourself from multiple perspectives, making it easier to adapt to various situations and grow as an individual.

How to Identify Your Enneagram Wing

The most straightforward way to identify your wings is to take the Enneagram test and look at the chart you receive with the results. When the Enneagram types are organized in a circle, your potential wings are the two adjacent types to your primary, dominant personality type. 

For example, if you are a Type Four, your wings could be either a Type Three wing or a Type Five wing. The test results will tell you your personality type and how you scored in other categories. Then, in the above example, you would check if you have more points for the Type Three wing or Type Five wing. The one with the higher score is your dominant wing. 

Wings are not interchangeable or reversible; the order of your core type and wing matters significantly. For instance, 1w9 (Type 1 with a 9 wing) differs from 9w1 (Type 9 with a 1 wing), as the dominant type in each combination uniquely influences the core traits and behaviors. This distinction is crucial for understanding how wings shape your overall personality.

That raises the question of whether a person has only one dominant wing or if both wings impact their personality.

Different traditions have different views on this question. However, practice shows that it is possible that either one wing strongly impacts a person or they feel the influence of both wings.  Some people might feel they use both wings equally in different circumstances, leading to a more balanced expression of their core type. In such cases, individuals may find themselves drawing on the strengths of both wings, depending on the context or situation they are in.

This is where you must resort to introspection to determine the case for you. People are often naturally attracted to one of their wings, noticing they lean more toward behaviors, attitudes, and motivations associated with that neighboring type.

You should also reflect on behaviors, motivations, and attitudes that seem to come from one or the other wing. For example, a Type Three with a Type Two wing might focus more on relationships and helping others than a Type Three with a Type Four wing, who would be more reflective and emotionally aware.  

Can Your Dominant Wing Change?

Personality traits are generally stable throughout life, but certain aspects can evolve due to maturation, life experiences, personal growth, or significant life events.

While it’s possible for both your wings and your entire Enneagram type to theoretically change over time, what’s more common is a shift between your two wings. 

Wings are not static; the influence of one wing may become more pronounced depending on your personal growth, context, or life stage. Cultural influences, life experiences, and changing environments can also play a significant role in which wing becomes more dominant. For instance, younger individuals may resonate more strongly with one wing, while maturity or life experiences could bring out the other wing more prominently.  

Recognizing this potential for change can deepen your self-awareness, helping you adapt to different phases of life with greater understanding and flexibility.

The Role of Enneagram Wings in Personal Growth

One reason the Enneagram system has gained popularity is its ability to act as a blueprint for self-exploration. Not only does it reveal your personality type, but its dynamic nature provides insight into how your traits shift under stress or during personal growth.

A key aspect of the Enneagram’s flexibility lies in the wings. Whether you primarily draw from one wing or feel the influence of both at different times, wings add layers of depth and adaptability to your core personality. By integrating these elements, you can become more self-accepting and better equipped to handle a variety of situations.

Wings also help address blind spots or weaknesses associated with your core type. For example, Type Eights, known for being assertive and even confrontational, may find balance through a Type Nine wing, which brings calmness and diplomacy. This blend softens Type 8’s intensity, promoting healthier relationships and a more balanced approach to life.

How Wings Influence Growth and Stress Paths

In the Enneagram system, each personality type follows distinct paths of integration (growth) and disintegration (stress). Your wings can play an important role in how you navigate these paths.

For instance, when moving toward growth, your dominant wing may provide additional strengths that support positive development. Conversely, during periods of stress, your wing can either help balance your response or, if underdeveloped, may amplify negative tendencies associated with your disintegration path.

This interaction between wings and growth/stress paths highlights the dynamic nature of the Enneagram. Understanding your wings can deepen your self-awareness, enhance your ability to adapt to life's challenges, and positively impact both your physical well-being and mental health. 

The 9 Enneagram Types and Their Wings

The Enneagram framework includes nine Enneagram types, each representing a basic personality type with its own unique traits and motivations. These nine personality types can be further influenced by one of two adjacent wings, adding depth and variation to how each type expresses itself. 

Below are brief descriptions of the 18 possible wing combinations, showing how these wings shape and enhance the characteristics of each basic personality type. Understanding these combinations can offer valuable insight into your personality and support your journey of self-development.  

Wings of Enneagram 1

The wings of Enneagram One are 1w9 and 1w2, each bringing different aspects of discipline and compassion to how Type Ones strive for perfection and integrity.

• 1w9 (The Advocate): Precise and disciplined perfectionists with a keen ability to spot flaws in reasoning or judgment, aiming for fairness and consistency. Learn more about Enneagram 1w9.
• 1w2 (The Idealist): Compassionate advocates who channel their energy into improving the well-being of others, often driven by a strong sense of responsibility for social causes. Learn more about Enneagram 1w2.

Wings of Enneagram 2

The wings of Enneagram Two are 2w1 and 2w3, influencing how Twos express their need to connect with and support others.

• 2w1 (The Servant): Empathetic and dedicated helpers who find joy in contributing to others' happiness and making a positive impact through service. Learn more about Enneagram 2w1.
• 2w3 (The Hostess/Host): Energetic and sociable coordinators who excel in bringing people together and thrive in group settings where they can contribute to collective success. Learn more about Enneagram 2w3.

Wings of Enneagram 3

The wings of Enneagram Three are 3w2 and 3w4, shaping how Threes channel their ambition and desire for success.

• 3w2 (The Charmer): Outgoing and adaptable achievers with strong interpersonal skills, enjoying social settings and networking to further their goals. Learn more about Enneagram 3w2.
• 3w4 (The Professional): Ambitious and creative leaders, often juggling multiple projects, who take pride in their accomplishments and efficient execution. Learn more about Enneagram 3w4.

Wings of Enneagram 4

The wings of Enneagram Four are 4w3 and 4w5, adding different dimensions to how Fours express their creativity and emotional depth.

• 4w3 (The Aristocrat): Artistic and expressive individuals who seek to stand out through unique self-expression, while also being charismatic and aware of social dynamics. Learn more about Enneagram 4w3.
• 4w5 (The Bohemian): Deeply introspective and creative individuals who use art and self-expression as a way to explore and communicate the complexities of human experience. Learn more about Enneagram 4w5.

Wings of Enneagram 5

The wings of Enneagram Five are 5w4 and 5w6, highlighting how Fives engage with knowledge and the world around them.

• 5w4 (The Iconoclast): Independent and intellectually curious individuals who prefer working alone, seeking mastery and understanding through a deep exploration of their chosen fields. Learn more about Enneagram 5w4.
• 5w6 (The Problem Solver): Analytical and thoughtful investigators who enjoy researching and discovering, often preferring to observe from behind the scenes. Learn more about Enneagram 5w6.

Wings of Enneagram 6

The wings of Enneagram Six are 6w5 and 6w7, impacting how Sixes balance their need for security with their search for guidance.

• 6w5 (The Defender): Loyal and knowledgeable team players who value security and are resourceful in solving problems, often displaying a dry wit and keen sense of humor. Learn more about Enneagram 6w5.
• 6w7 (The Buddy): Optimistic and adventurous individuals with a zest for life, tempered by a need for stability and reassurance in uncertain situations. Learn more about Enneagram 6w7.

Wings of Enneagram 7

The wings of Enneagram Seven are 7w6 and 7w8, affecting how Sevens pursue their love of adventure and new experiences.

• 7w6 (The Entertainer): Enthusiastic and humorous individuals who are always in pursuit of new experiences, while also valuing a sense of safety and support. Learn more about Enneagram 7w6.
• 7w8 (The Realist): Inventive and bold pioneers who love experimenting with new ideas and methods, confidently pushing boundaries in their endeavors. Learn more about Enneagram 7w8.

Wings of Enneagram 8

The wings of Enneagram Eight are 8w7 and 8w9, influencing how Eights assert their power in daily life and careers and protect those they care about.

• 8w7 (The Maverick): Determined and dynamic self-starters with a fearless approach to both work and play, tackling challenges head-on with enthusiasm. Learn more about Enneagram 8w7.
• 8w9 (The Bear): Supportive and steady leaders who focus on maintaining harmony and guiding others toward action in a gentle and considerate manner. Learn more about Enneagram 8w9.

Wings of Enneagram 9

The wings of Enneagram Nine are 9w8 and 9w1, shaping how Nines maintain peace and harmony while managing their inner world.

• 9w8 (The Referee): Calm and self-sufficient individuals with a quiet determination, driven to make the world more harmonious and accepting without drawing attention to themselves. Learn more about Enneagram 9w8.
• 9w1 (The Dreamer): Grounded and cooperative individuals who seek justice and fairness, valuing connection with others and contributing to the greater good. Learn more about Enneagram 9w1.

Common Misconceptions About Enneagram Wings

Several potential misunderstandings exist regarding Enneagram wings, Enneagram types, and some other elements of the elaborate Enneagram universe. Let's look at some of the most common ones.

• First, wings are not entirely separate personality types. Think of them as more of adjustments, a unique blend with your main Enneagram type. They are also not additional or optional features of the Enneagram.
• Also, a perfect balance between wings is not necessary, nor does one wing necessarily stay rigidly dominant throughout life. We have already talked about this aspect of understanding your personality type.
• You can use the Enneagram framework without knowing your wing. While understanding your wing can provide more nuance and depth, your core Enneagram type is the most essential aspect of self-discovery. The wing adds flavor to your core type but does not change its primary motivations or fears.
• Wings are not the same as Enneagram subtypes. Subtypes deal with instinctual drives (self-preservation, social, and one-to-one). Learn more about Enneagram subtypes.
• Wings are not meant to be seen as ‘good’ or ‘bad.’ Both wings serve a purpose in your personal growth, offering different strengths and perspectives. It’s important not to view one wing as more desirable than the other, as each provides valuable insights that contribute to a fuller understanding of yourself.

Why Knowing Your Enneagram Wings Is Important  

Understanding your Enneagram wings is not just an intellectual exercise; it has practical applications in your daily life. Here are some ways you can apply this knowledge:

• Navigating Challenges: Recognize which wing might offer the best approach in a challenging situation. For example, if you're a Type 1 with a 9 wing (1w9), you might lean into the peaceful, mediating qualities of the 9 wing when conflict arises, helping you to navigate disagreements with more diplomacy. 
• Balancing Behavior: Consciously develop your less dominant wing to create a more balanced personality. If you're a Type 7 with a strong 8 wing (7w8), you might work on cultivating the 7w6 qualities of caution and consideration to balance your adventurous, risk-taking nature.
• Personal Growth: Use your understanding of wings to guide your personal growth. By identifying which wing is more active during times of stress or growth, you can focus on developing its positive traits to enhance your overall well-being.
• Enhancing Relationships: Apply your wing knowledge to improve relationships by understanding how your wings influence your interactions. For example, a Type 2 with a 3 wing (2w3) might use their social adaptability to connect more effectively with others, while a 1 wing (2w1) might focus on acts of service and reliability.

Embrace Your Unique Enneagram Wing Combination 

Understanding the interplay between your core Enneagram types and your wings offers invaluable insight into your inner world and outer behaviors. Your dominant wing — whether it is the nurturing Type Nine wing, the assertive Type Eight wing, or the introspective Type Four wing — shapes how you navigate life’s complexities.

Yet, it is important to remember that we are also a product of our past experiences. Therefore, the same personality type may express itself differently in each person, creating a unique blend of traits and motivations.

Wings are not fixed, and as we grow and face new challenges, our dominant wing can shift, offering fresh growth opportunities. Whether you lean into the self-confident drive of the Type Three wing, tap into your Type Six wing loyalty, or embrace the adventurous spirit of the Type Seven wing, the Enneagram symbol provides a roadmap for greater self-awareness and self-development. 

Although knowing your core motivations represented by the primary Enneagram type is key to self-discovery, exploring the influence of your wings can deepen your understanding of your dominant emotion, core fear, and relational dynamics. By recognizing how your type and wing interact, you unlock new pathways for integrating both the instinctive center and the intellectual and emotional aspects of your personality.  

Ultimately, the nine types of the Enneagram, combined with their wings, provide a nuanced view of human nature and highlight how we balance our own needs with the world around us. Exploring both your core type and wings empowers you to live with greater authenticity, harnessing both your strengths and vulnerabilities as you embark on your self-development journey.