Enneagram and MBTI Cohesion

Hello, my name is Seth Hart, and this is a document about the cohesion of Myers-Briggs type and Enneagram type- specifically, sorting MBTI types into Enneagram numbers. I hope this list serves to spark some conversation about this topic, although it has somewhat frenetically been put together. This has been something of a passion project for me, as I believe typology, especially these two practices, has a lot to offer and the more people who become involved at a more integrated level, the better. The list itself does not have exhaustive text for each category, although it is hopefully enough to point people who do know one of the typing practices in the right direction. For people interested in both, I hope it either mostly elucidates things you don’t know, confirms things you do know, or gives cause to disagree in a way that is novel and interesting.

I am a certified MBTI practitioner and an Enneagram enthusiast, and therefore the comprehension of this text tends to the Myers-Briggs side of things. I have studied the literature on Jung-typing and its development (MBTI) by other authors insofar as it has been compiled by Alexis Kingsley, some of the basic elements of Cognitive Personality Theory as laid out by Harry Murrell, and neuroscience work as it has been pursued by Dr. Dario Nardi, as well as the Enneagram literature from sources such as Chestnut and Paes by content creators like Dr. Tom LaHue, as well as a host of other enneagram coaches online.

I will be going through each Enneatype numerically, including through the wings, and stating what MBTI types I believe are the most associated with each number. Comparing Myers-Briggs and its derivations with the Enneagram is an early field, so I expect that there will be a lot of necessary contention in this list. At my current point of understanding about these typologies, I do believe they are somewhat fluid, but also hinge on a central ‘anchor’ for each person. It is in tandem with this point that I also would like to mention that if you, as the reader, have strong notions about any aspect of your type that is not in concordance with this list, I do not mean to invalidate you- I do, indeed, hope that you are able to share your own understanding such that the information on this topic can be furthered.

1w9, 1, 1w2- ISFJ

For classic Enneagram enthusiasts, it might be difficult to consider the hyper-critical 1s as Feeling types. ISFJs do, however, fit the harmonic triad (Enneagram) characteristic of being ‘competent’, and the hornevian triad (Enneagram) characteristic of being ‘compliant’, thanks to their Introverted Sensing primary cognitive function (MBTI) and Introverted Thinking tertiary cognitive function (MBTI). This configuration possibly creates the ISFJ’s profound sense of duty, wrongness and rightness. Introverted Sensing generally indicates a keen sense of detail and due process, and Introverted Thinking clarifies detail quantitatively into more definite categories- yes or no, true or false. Their secondary process, Extraverted Feeling (MBTI), also is likely responsible for developing these categories into the aforementioned ‘right’ or ‘wrong’, the added social flavour. The part of their neocortex that is involved as a Process Manager (D. Nardi)- that considers all information present regardless of the discomfort it generates in the individual- a sort of relentless search for the ‘truth’, if you will- is more active than in any other MBTI type. Similarly, the area that regulates social responsibility is more active than in any other Extraverted Feeling type. This renders 1 ISFJs philosophical, wider-socially-concerned Idealists (Enneagram).

Their propensity for Extraverted Feeling seems to mostly correspond to judgement around how people ‘should’ interact with each other in 1 (winged) ISFJs. 1w9s, the most Introverted 1 ISFJs, seem to generally operate in their Introverted Thinking, making moral judgements from a dispassionate position. The nineness in this instance seems to indicate a general detached quality that ensures social harmony from a reasonable distance, but, in the case of a 1w9, with a heavy emphasis on criticality. 1w2 ISFJs, however, appear to be much more in their Extraverted Feeling, and therefore engender much more of the persistent quality present in Extraverted decisionmakers. They will be much more Extraverted with their opinions, and offer them at any opportunity. They are also more practical and hands-on.

2w1, 2, 2w3- ENFJ

This will probably be one of the least contentious entries on this list. They fit the harmonic triad (Enneagram) characteristic of being ‘positive’, and the hornevian triad (Enneagram) characteristic of being ‘compliant’. ENFJs have the habit of seeing a vague image of whatever needs to be done coming to fruition- that is likely the work of their secondary cognitive process, Introverted Intuition (MBTI) where they have a very focused, active imagination that is goal oriented and supplemented by their tertiary cognitive process, Extraverted Sensing (MBTI), which means they have the ability to navigate the physical and practical world adeptly. This is all in service to their primary cognitive process, Extraverted Feeling (MBTI), seeking the perfect social harmony in the way of a classic 2. 2s Tend to have a habit of solving (or trying to solve) all of the physical and emotional needs of a person or the people around them to enforce their pride (which they may or may not be aware of). This collection of cognitive traits allows them to do this perfectly- perceive the nature of the person’s existence (Extraverted Feeling), internalise this as a concept and comb through its various iterations for solutions (Introverted Intuition) then navigate the physical space to meet the solution (Extraverted Sensing) if a physical solution is required. This gives them a benefactorial Relationalist (Enneagram) overtone. Their fourth cognitive process, Introverted Thinking (MBTI) may also play a role if the ENFJ 2 is cognizant of the need to do this in ‘the right way’ (does this person really need my help? Do they have any specific requirements? Am I technically doing things right?) which may be more present in 2w1s who are more self-critical in nature.

2 and 2w1 ENFJ Extraverted Feeling tends to be more focused around the careful preservation of a social milieu they perceive as intrinsically beautiful and fair. Indeed, ENFJs have a region that is very active for them in the neocortex dubbed the Flowing Artist (D. Nardi), which has a lot to do with the co-ordination of their body’s left-hand side and is particularly receptive to aesthetic quality. This is present in conjunction with a region that regulates social responsibility. These qualities are largely similar to those of the ISFJ, except that ENFJs are more decisive, having the Chief Judge (D. Nardi) region more active than its Process Management (D. Nardi) counterpart, and have the Precise Speaker (D. Nardi) region more active which considers the detail of another person’s speech, and may account for their attentive processing of others’ verbal demands. This is likely also true for ENFJ 2w3s, except that their idea of an emotionally sublime environment has more to do with the contentment and belonging of those who, in their eyes, truly deserve to be cared for- and that consideration is based around the potential of these people to achieve great things.

3w2, 3, 3w4- ESFJ

3s are the impinged Feeling type of the Enneagram, and as such behave in many ways differently than the other two Feeling types. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram), they are ‘competent’, and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram), they are ‘assertive’. 3s are renowned for their tenacity in achieving whatever success means to the people around them. Their secondary cognitive process, Introverted Sensing (MBTI) has a lot to do with correct application of process, and as an Introverted Perceiving function contributes towards focus in goal-oriented thought. This means their third function is Extraverted Intuition (MBTI), which chiefly helps them evaluate (social) context. These blending with their first cognitive process, Extraverted Feeling (MBTI), makes them very alert to and practical about how other people perceive them- they are therefore Pragmatists (Enneagram) who alter the spirits of the individuals around them to keep a working community in place. Willing to put as much effort in as needed to alter others’ image of them, they tend to conflate approval with inner nourishment and their projected image constantly reflects their mounting achievements back to them. They therefore are often in a state of productive self-deception and have few qualms deceiving other people if needs be, although this may not be malicious in nature.

In terms of their neocortical activity (D. Nardi), they have lots of regions in the left hand-side of their brain very active, while they have few on the right. This manifests in such ways as being very grammatical and instruction-oriented while not being particularly considerate of or interested in tone and emotional inflection in (casual) speech, although they tend to have a keen grasp on social rules and etiquette. Their talents lead them to be very reasoned and cool-headed in their approach- eminently ‘competent’. This is in combination with a good propensity for information recall, since the part of their neocortex dubbed the Factual Storekeeper (D. Nardi) is quite active- this deals with attending to method-based thought, remembering the date and time things have occurred, and is also quite adept at portraying information in an orderly, visual way.

3w2s are pragmatically giving, and very public in that giving, making them somewhat of a philanthropist in nature. ESFJs in general are attentive to the potential of the people around them, which is perhaps due to their Extraverted Intuition third. This wing is much more likely to dedicate large amounts of time towards developing those who have caught their eye, although can become fatigued in the process. 3w4s, on the other hand, may feel a keen sense of potential in themselves and work with great personal difficulty to guide themselves towards a more self-chosen (usually professional) ideal.

4w3, 4- INFP

People often think of 4w3s specifically as E-TJs (MBTI), who I believe are variations of 8s, and later in this section I will explain why I do not think this is the case. The harmonic triad designation ‘reactive’ (MBTI) may do some work in this regard, but more on that later. I think classifying most INFPs as ‘withdrawn’ is, on its face, less controversial, and that is their trait in the hornevian triad (Enneagram). This combination makes this type reserved, but they will boil over with an inner intensity if provoked, usually, in the case of an INFP, if the values that they live by come under attack. Their primary cognitive process, Introverted Feeling (MBTI) has a lot to do with emotional decision-making, often having a qualitative aspect and especially being more focused on the subjective in nature. Along with their tertiary cognitive process, Introverted Sensing (MBTI), which regards instance-related detail, they are often intent on clarifying the value of the things that they encounter rigorously, and contemplate their responses accordingly- this last action having much to do with their secondary cognitive process, Extraverted Intuition (MBTI), which combs through a pattern’s possible relationship with other potential patterns, and is therefore adept at helping the individual recognise how to treat situations that are (appearing to be) new. Many 4’s reactivity- their quick response to agitating stimuli- could be because of this.

I believe that the reason some people may believe 4w3s in particular are E-TJs is because both can often be perceived as businesslike and aggressive. I think this is partially due to the propensity of many INFPs to operate in much larger part on their fourth cognitive process Extraverted Thinking (MBTI). With this in the picture, INFPs’ inclination towards a systems-based approach intensifies, and they focus more on acquiring success in a 3-like manner because their self-image develops such that they feel they deserve that externally-focused success. Their Introverted Feeling helps them to then understand how to treat others in a way that they can offer them inner nourishment, and gain their admiration. Having this function first instead of their fourth may explain why they are much more emotional than their E-TJ counterparts. Their Extraverted Intuition and Introverted Sensing can then function a lot like an ESTJ (MBTI) or ESFJ (the latter of whom I have placed as 3s).

Neocortically speaking, INFPs are most prominently wired for listening, having both relevant centres very active. This is not shared by any other MBTI type. Since we do not have specialised brain areas for reading and writing, it is possible this affects those skills as well, and they are generally considered natural speakers and writers as one might consider many 4s. The region dubbed the Grounded Believer (D. Nardi) is also very active, accounting for the individual’s acknowledgement of specific details, ability to rank things based on importance and opinionated stance on what they believe. This is, apparently, in common with both E-TJs..

4w5- INFJ

I have come to think of INFJs as 4w5s instead of INFPs, mainly because I think they are slightly more Cognitive in nature. The harmonic triad (Enneagram) places them, as a 4, in the ‘reactive’ group. They are also, in the hornevian triad (Enneagram), ‘withdrawn’, and possibly being a wing to the adjacent ‘withdrawn’ type, 5s, they are even more so. If you know some INFJs, you have likely found they value their own space intensely. Their primary cognitive function Introverted Intuition (MBTI) is likely the reason for this need. Introverted Intuition is about following patterns and ideas to their ultimate conclusion and, as such, requires lots of time without interruption. Many INFJs are drawn to niche subjects and systems that have, at least, an ‘ethereal’ flavour to them. This is likely due to their Extroverted Feeling (MBTI) which, while making many of them very considerate and people-oriented when they have the energy, gives them a qualitative tone and as such enjoy broader ideas and categories. They also have Introverted Thinking (MBTI) as their third cognitive process which makes them often cool-headed and rational, and, in my opinion, accounts in large part for their 5 wing- specifically, in the harmonic triad, 5s are classed as ‘competent’. Male INFJs are often far more logic-focused and detached from sociality than their female counterparts.

In terms of their neocortical tendencies, they, like INFPs, who I have labelled as 4s, have the Grounded Believer (D. Nardi) region very active. This helps an individual list items in order of importance and recall details. Their Intuitive Listener (D. Nardi) region is, on the other hand,  not very active, which helps individuals recognise tonality in speech. Among other things, it renders the individual more irascible when ill intent is registered. This is very much unlike a 4, but like a 5- they remain calm and monitor content to reach their conclusions, and indeed their Precise Speaker (D. Nardi) listening region is very active. Another turned-on region for them is the Visual Engineer (D. Nardi) area, which aids in rotating objects in one’s imagination. This may facilitate INFJs (and INTJs, 5w4s) navigating complex concepts.

The point may be brought up that IN-Ps tend to do the best overall out of any of the types on IQ tests (you may find others cited as having the highest) and are therefore more suitable for being the Cognitive wing types. However, I would argue that most IQ tests consider more the speed which individuals solve relatively simple logical questions and that the IN-Js are more suited to thinking in depth about, perhaps, fewer things. This may give the IN-Ps an unfair advantage. This also does not mean the IN-Js are always ‘better’ at deep quantitative or qualitative reasoning than the IN-Ps- they can just see the other side more clearly.

5w4- INTJ

I have come to think of INTJs as 5w4s instead of INTPs, mainly because I think they are slightly more Cognitive in nature. The harmonic triad places them, as a 5, in the ‘competent’ group. They are also, in the hornevian triad (Enneagram), ‘withdrawn’, although they can be quite socially gregarious in nature. This may be because of their secondary cognitive function, Extraverted Thinking (MBTI) which is largely productive as a facet. It can also mean that the individual is slightly more calloused to social situations in favour of their ability to generate output. They can be significantly less so when utilising their primary cognitive function, Introverted Intuition (MBTI), which revolves around following patterns and ideas to their ultimate conclusion and so requires much uninterrupted time, and their tertiary cognitive process, Introverted Feeling, which is concerned with subjectively focused or value based decision-making. With their first two cognitive functions in use, they can become able at building lasting structures- even physical ones, if their fourth cognitive process, Extraverted Sensing (MBTI), is applied. With their first and third in use, they can be adept about ideating how to create a transition into their desired life, and fluent in qualitative reasoning. This last point in my view accounts largely for their 4 wing.

INTJs display high activity in the Purposeful Futurist (D. Nardi) area which helps them consider their future, interpret information as symbolic, and place themselves within systems. This is a region quite active for 4s, and, indeed, helps to ground an individual’s identity within time. Both their listening regions are active, especially the Precise Speaker (D. Nardi) area on the left side of their head, which may also partially account for their 4 wing as other Feelers I have identified (and Enneagram Feeling types) are often active listeners. INTJs are one of only two Thinking types to have the Intuitive Listener (D. Nardi) area quite active. INTJs also have the Visual Engineer region very prominent, which is responsible for the ability to rotate objects in one’s imagination, and possibly to navigate complex concepts (they share this with INFJs, 4w5s).

The point may be brought up that IN-Ps tend to do the best overall out of any of the types on IQ tests (you may find others cited as having the highest) and are therefore more suitable for being the Cognitive wing types. However, I would argue that most IQ tests consider more the speed which individuals solve relatively simple logical questions and that the IN-Js are more suited to thinking in depth about, perhaps, fewer things. This may give the IN-Ps an unfair advantage. This also does not mean the IN-Js are always ‘better’ at deep quantitative or qualitative reasoning than the IN-Ps- they can just see the other side more clearly.

5- INTP

This type is one of the more easily-recognised, as they are often both stringent realists and far-out conceptualists at the same time, although they are more likely to show the former. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram), they are ‘competent’, and in the hornevian triad they are ‘withdrawn’. Being towards the Cognitive side of the Enneagram and being unwinged to 4, they are generally very rational people, although perhaps slightly less so than 5w6s. They are also often ideative and aloof. This is likely because of their secondary cognitive function, Extraverted Intuition (MBTI) which is about perceiving patterns as they relate to other patterns, being contextual in nature and is adept at solving ‘novel’ problems. That means they also have Introverted Sensing (MBTI) as their tertiary cognitive function which, along with their primary cognitive function, Introverted Thinking (MBTI), makes them painstaking about logical thought, and they will spend much time clarifying their ideas- they are natural mathematicians and inventors. They can seem unresponsive and uncaring- and indeed as a result of being an I-TP have a Thinking function first- they can potentially use their Extraverted Intuition and Extraverted Feeling (MBTI), which is their fourth cognitive function, at the same time, and can therefore tell what matters to the people around them, although it can take a lot of energy for them. Therefore, they are avoidant-Relationalists (Enneagram).

INTPs have very high use in many of the analytical Thinking regions of their neocortex- among them the Expert Classifier (D. Nardi) area, which categorises all sorts of information, and can compare concepts and the Deductive Analyst (D. Nardi) area that can help the individual tell when their reasoning is or is not sound based upon the sequential information leading up to their conclusion. They also possess very high activity in the Factual Storekeeper (D. Nardi) area which is unshared by any other MBTI type. This facilitates the recollection of facts and what actions to perform to create a correct sequence- it also is involved with the movement of the body’s right hand side, and is adept at constructing visual representations of data.

5w6- ISTP

The logicality of the 5 combines with the practicality of the 6, and comes together to produce the 5w6 ISTP. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘competent’ and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘withdrawn’. ISTPs are often very adept at projects, and can follow through calmly and with great perseverance. This is likely a combination of their primary cognitive function, Introverted Thinking (MBTI), which is painstaking at solving things logically, and their tertiary cognitive function, Introverted Intuition, which is a goal oriented, imaginative function that sees through ideas to their ultimate conclusion. They also have Extraverted Sensing (MBTI) as their secondary cognitive function which makes them very adept in the physical space and can be quite good with technical Sensing fields. ISTPs can also be very philosophical, much of the time stoic, in nature because of the blend of these functions: Introverted Thinking attempts to find definite correct answers, Introverted Intuition is focused on patterns following through to their end result, and Extraverted Sensing applies these things to the real world. These things contribute to ideas around how people ‘should’ live to produce as well as they can, which is quite 6-like in fashion.

The neocortical functions of the ISTP mainly help with things like mathematics, risk management, and spatial intelligence. Their Tactical Navigator (D. Nardi) area is highly active and aids in solving problems through routine function, telling where one’s physical limits end, and apprehending objects. This area is good at both numbers and physical movement- between the cerebral 5 and the able 6. They also have the Strategic Gamer (D. Nardi) area very active, which helps to judge lots of different factors at the same time, consider the rewards for a risky situation in comparison to the risk and to apply personal force to affect probabilities. In addition to this, they have the Abstract Impressionist (D. Nardi) area highly active which helps to consolidate the theme in an image or a set of images and comb its elements such as shape and colour to determine its fit. This is likely important for ISTPs so they can approach productivity with a certain industriality.

6w5, 6, 6w7- ISTJ

6s are the impinged member of the Head triad, and as such behave in many ways differently to the other two Head types. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘reactive’ and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘compliant’. The first designation may have something to do with the ‘get up and go’ attitude of the ISTJ, having Introverted Sensing (MBTI) as their primary cognitive function, which deals with due process and details, and their secondary cognitive function, Extraverted Thinking (MBTI), which is about (systematically) getting things done. Their ‘Compliant’ nature may have something to do with both their Introverted Sensing first and their Introverted Feeling (MBTI) third- they can get their feelings in line with what needs to be done, and understand how to do so for others on their level. As such, 6 ISTJs are usually committed workers who, while they may grumble occasionally, are able to perform unglamorous tasks with a remarkable reserve. They may also take up habits about expressing the value of old things, an Introverted Sensing- Introverted Feeling trait, and stockpile or trade in all sorts of archaic things. They are attached to what they know, and are therefore adverse to change- they are hard-and-fast Pragmatists (Enneagram).

Neocortically speaking, ISTJs are geared for knowing how to perform objective tasks in good order. Their Sensitive Mediator (D. Nardi) area is very active, which helps the individual be curious about how people think about them, notice when something is being said about them and to adjust their behaviour accordingly. This is usually a trait of Extraverted Feelers (primary or secondary function), but in this case it may be useful for a team of workers to be on the same page to be able to get something done. They also have the Visual Engineer (D. Nardi) area highly active, which facilitates perceiving the dimensions of and altering visual objects internally, as well as understanding comprehensive visual information like a chart. In addition to this, they have the Grounded Believer (D. Nardi) area very active which helps rank things in order of importance. There is also the Tactical Navigator area, for ISTJs, quite active, which aids in solving rote tasks, telling when and how to move and noticing physical objects.

All ISTJs are aware of their resources, but this is particularly more evident in 6w5s, who can be quite scrappy about guarding what they have, and they can be vulnerable in affect. This is in contrast with 6w7s who, while they are still security-minded, are looking to greener fields and thinking about what they could do with what they have to get there- perhaps an exaggeration of their fourth cognitive process, Extraverted Intuition, which compares patterns with others to come to a groundbreaking result- they scent out the possibilities.

7w6- ENFP

Combining the characteristic search for better ways of a typical 7 and the ability to keep one’s values in line of a 6, we have the ENFP 7w6. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘positive’, and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘assertive’. Indeed, ENFPs are both ‘positive’ and ‘assertive’- their primary cognitive function, Extraverted Intuition (MBTI), is all about comparing patterns to others and trying to fuse them into a (better) solution or thing. To do this particularly well, one must be keen and expectant about the things going on around them, which fits with their harmonic triad designation. In combination with their tertiary cognitive function, Extraverted Thinking (MBTI) they can be radical, persistent go-getters who are always present. Their secondary function, Introverted Feeling (MBTI), however, helps them look on the more humanistic, subjective side. They are often obsessed about how to create the right emotional impact in people. This can definitely reflect in their occupation, and they may be trainers of some sort or go into a psychological field. Although they are wing 6s, they are still mostly scattered like a 7 and generally active rather than responsible.

ENFPs are geared, neurocortically speaking, to fit in somewhat well with groups, think creatively, and listen (and perhaps create) emotionally. They have the Sensitive Mediator (D. Nardi) area quite active, which helps interpret and respond to social cues. Notably, this area is even more active in ISTJs, who I have labelled as 6s, but not as much for other 7s. There is, as well, the Imaginative Mimic (D. Nardi) area highly active for them, which is particularly noticeable in their personality- it is also quite active for ISTJs (6s). It aids in imaginative scenario-construction, mimicking others’ behaviour, and evaluating context. The Intuitive Listener (D. Nardi) area is also highly active for them, which helps them understand tonality, mediate emotional resonance and detect falsehood, among other things.

7- ENTP

Although they can be quite laid-back, the frenetic mental energy of the 7 ENTP is quite easily noticed. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘positive’, and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘assertive’. The ENTP’s incredible brainstorming capacity does a lot for their positive attitude, and may be to do with their primary cognitive function, Extraverted Intuition (MBTI). This matches patterns to come to a new, fused result and is therefore very much open to considering new things and believes there will always be something to discover that will serve their needs. The ‘assertive’ element may come from their overall Extraverted nature (which makes them expansive rather than extensive and although many will judge them as clever they will still likely be somewhat light-headed as an Intuition-primary MBTI type) combined with their secondary cognitive process, Introverted Thinking (MBTI), which is all about clarifying information down into exact truths. This means they generally believe that getting right down to the point quickly is essential, even if they are embedded in their ideation a lot of the time. Their third cognitive process, Extraverted Feeling, can make them very eager to please the people around them, and they may grow to be comedians or the clown of their team.

In terms of their neocortical function, they are generally geared towards being receptive to new ideas, and managing the risks associated with them. Most prominently, their Imaginative Mimic (D. Nardi) area is highly active, which aids scenario-based processing, understanding through context and coming up with situations of a different temporal or spatial context. This works in concert with the Strategic Gamer (D. Nardi) area which calculates risks, weighs many different things at the same time and evaluates for positive or negative outcomes. This makes the ENTP 7 very switched on at generating and assessing new ideas. To add to this, they also have the Precise Speaker (D. Nardi) area very active, which helps the individual with grammar and producing long sentences. It is also active when listening to other people’s speech, which may mean it does a lot to take in information logically.

7w8- ESTP

Combining the 7s’ enthusiasm for new experience with the 8s’ sense of indefatigability, we have the 7w8 ESTP. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘positive’, and in the hornevian triad they are ‘assertive’. It may be important to note that as a wing 8 they also somewhat share the harmonic trait of 8s, ‘reactive’, while in the hornevian triad 8s are also ‘assertive’. These designations may seem correct for this type when we consider, for instance, their primary cognitive function, Extraverted Sensing (MBTI), which is about taking in senses and acting accordingly to their intensity, and therefore being very physically inclined. Matched with their secondary cognitive function, Introverted Thinking (MBTI), they can also be very cool-headed, and have an eye for objective truths. This makes them, in many ways, ‘assertive’- they are particularly calm in emergencies, and will rationally perform the right actions to alleviate disasters in the moment. Their third cognitive function, Extraverted Feeling (MBTI), makes them quite social in nature and, combined with the other two functions, they may jostle amongst others in their social circle to determine who is the most impressive in a sensory context.

There are many areas that are highly active for ESTPs, broadly focused on the regions implicated in objective analysis. One such region is the Expert Classifier (D. Nardi) area which helps place all sorts of different categories for a stimulus, fit common concepts, and tells how well something fits a given category. With the analytical-dynamic temperament of the 7w8, it may be important to quickly place something in its context to be able to move forward quickly, and for it to not get out of hand if it is a risk factor- there is also the Strategic Gamer (D. Nardi) area very active which aids in weighing risks, rewards, and altering the chances of an outcome. This is common for both -STPs (MBTI), and is likely to do with the in-person reality management an Extraverted Sensor (primary or secondary function) has to perform, particularly if they are a 7w8. In addition to this there is the Deductive Analyst (D. Nardi) area highly active which facilitates fact checking in reasoning, namely self-identifying steps in the individual’s logic and checking them for error. This may help the 7w8 determine any mistakes in the conception of an enterprise, for example, before making it a reality.

8w7- ENTJ

The E-TJs can both be explorative and physically indefatigable, but this one is more the latter, and analytical in temperament, making them much like a 7w8 and, indeed, likely the adjacent Enneagram type, the 8w7. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram), they are ‘reactive’ and in the hornevian triad, they are ‘assertive’. Their primary cognitive function, Extraverted Thinking (MBTI), gives them a focus on organisation and time management. Their tertiary cognitive function, Extraverted Sensing (MBTI), makes them able to navigate physical tasks well and they may be somewhat athletic in nature. These combined traits make them an in-the-flesh leader capable of assessing new terrains and getting things done. Their secondary cognitive function, Introverted Intuition (MBTI), provides them a goal-oriented imaginative perception of patterns driving forward to their ultimate conclusion(s). This often makes them self-assured and decisive, but also flexible. It also makes them somewhat ideative and Idealistic (Enneagram) like a 7. Their fourth cognitive function, Introverted Feeling (MBTI), often gives them a sense of certainty about their objectives.

In terms of their neocortical activity, they are mostly geared towards listening (unusual for Thinking types) and assessing things visually. For instance, they have the Precise Speaker (D. Nardi) and Intuitive Listener (D. Nardi) areas very and quite active respectively. This may help with their speech, making them convincing and compelling orators, potentially very useful in encouraging productivity. They also have the Visual Engineer (D. Nardi) and Abstract Impressionist (D. Nardi) areas active in the same configuration. The former facilitates rotating and altering objects in one’s imagination, the latter helps notice themes in visual images. Altogether, this makes them adept at ‘solving’ visual information- very much helping leader-like 8w7 personalities assess and work through problems efficiently. They also have the Factual Storekeeper (D. Nardi) area quite active, which aids the individual in remembering the steps to sequences, physical or mental, and generally to recall specific information. In addition to this, common to most Extraverted Thinkers (primary or secondary function), they have the Grounded Believer (D. Nardi) area very active, which helps the individual rank things in order of importance and to recall details, and therefore possibly helps them identify what work needs to be completed how urgently.

8w9- ESTJ

Both E-TJ types are persistent and focused decisionmakers, but this one tends more to overall consensus and societal expectation, making them more harmonious and 9ish in nature. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘reactive’ and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘assertive’. With their primary cognitive function, Extraverted Thinking (MBTI), which focuses on organisation and time management, and their tertiary cognitive function, Extraverted Intuition (MBTI), which compares and combines patterns to achieve a new understanding, they can be quite mindful of context in a business or in practical situations- they tend to splice similar concepts together into a (potentially) cohesive product. This is in conjunction with their secondary cognitive process, Introverted Sensing (MBTI), which has a lot to do with detail and due process and is likely to perceive information based on how accepted it tends to be overall. This makes them reliable and relatively uniform decisionmakers. With their fourth cognitive process, Introverted Feeling, in the mix, they can be both assured and direct.

Neocortically speaking, they have much the same activity as ISTJs. They may be relatively straightforward in terms of ideas about work and concepts, having the Visual Engineer (D. Nardi) and Tactical Navigator (D. Nardi) areas highly and quite active respectively. The former helps the individual flip, alter and rotate objects in their imagination, while the latter aids in perceiving objects physically and in understanding where the self ends and the outside world begins. This combination could help them particularly with building concretely observable structures to help ta community, bringing out their Pragmatic (Enneagram) 9-ishness with their decisive 8-ishness. They also have the Imaginative Mimic (D. Nardi) area quite active, which helps them infer based on context and imitate their peers. In addition, as with most Extraverted Thinkers (primary or second function) they have the Grounded Believer (D. Nardi) area highly active, which they will likely use in determining the importance of a project or procedure in relation to others.

9w8- ESFP

This combination of 9 and 8 creates both a willingness to co-operate with the group’s agenda and a sense of indomitability. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram), they are ‘positive’ and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘withdrawn’. This is mixed with the 8’s configuration of ‘reactive’ and ‘assertive’. With their primary cognitive function, Extraverted Sensing (MBTI), they take in sensory detail and act accordingly to it. This makes them often very at home in the world. They are often loud or boisterous, with a subsequent element of passiveness or quietness- their secondary cognitive function, Introverted Feeling (MBTI) is all about clarifying qualitative, subjective information. Their third function, Extraverted Thinking (MBTI), is generally about organisation and time management. This can make them vigorous go-getters with an emphasis on productivity and leadership, especially along with their Extraverted Sensing, which gives them a physical gravitas which is hard to ignore. They also have Introverted Intuition as their last function, which gives them an impression of future goals and patterns coming to fruition- there may be a vague sense of destiny about them.

In terms of their neocortical activity, they are generally wired for emotional interaction in a productive environment. Their Intuitive Listener (D. Nardi) area is very highly active, which helps the individual distinguish tone and verify for personal resonation in speech. This is in conjunction with their Imaginative Mimic (D. Nardi) area being very active, which aids the individual in imagining different times and places, using context to come to a solution, and mimicking their peers. They may, therefore, be observed to be good at detecting lies- they can both use straightforward auditory processing and social imagination in determining what a person would be like if, indeed, they were claiming to be honest, and they themselves tend to be direct in addressing discrepancies. This may be a key 9w8 trait of being both deeply interested in keeping people in balance with each other but also being observably confrontational. They also have the Grounded Believer (D. Nardi) area highly active, which helps them rank things in order of importance and recall detail. This is a trait of most Extraverted Thinkers (primary or secondary function) and to a lesser extent, Introverted Feelers, which is useful for coming to a moral or practical decision on what should be prioritised. In addition to this, they also have the Flowing Artist (D. Nardi) and Factual Storekeeper (D. Nardi) areas quite active, which, among many other things, are the two neocortical areas most associated with bodily movement- the right and left hand side, respectively.

9, 9w1- ISFP

As the impinged type of the Body centre, they will act in many ways differently to the others of this triad. In the harmonic triad (Enneagram) they are ‘positive’ and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) they are ‘withdrawn’. This peculiar combination could be partially due to their primary cognitive function, Introverted Feeling (MBTI), which is all about clarifying qualitative, subjective information down for decisionmaking, and their secondary function, Extraverted Sensing (MBTI), which is all about the perception of their immediate, recognisable environment. These two used together in this configuration may lead to a sort of enhanced ‘gut instinct’ whereby the personality has an above-average propensity for discerning the boons and threats of the immediate environment, and can act directly in regards to them. As a 9 trait, this would be particularly useful for gauging the emotional temperature and resulting consequences of those around them. In addition to this, their third function is Introverted Intuition, which is about following patterns through to their ultimate conclusion(s). As a result, this type is often entrenched between action and ideation, although, with the right combination, they can be startlingly effective personalities.

Neocortically speaking, their most prominent traits are their visually-based perceptive capacities and their future-oriented thinking. Both their Visual Engineer (D. Nardi) and Abstract Impressionist (D. Nardi) areas are highly active, which makes them adept at both the rotating and altering of images in their imagination, and sorting images for theme and content. This likely makes them very quickly able to assess all sorts of situations in a very rapid manner. This is not shared to this extent by any other MBTI type. They also have the Purposeful Futurist (D. Nardi) area very active, which helps them plan for temporally-distant scenarios. As a 9-like quality, it may be to do with ensuring one lives a stable and unobtrusive life for as long as an individual is able to live it, and under growth as a 3-like personality, to champion moderateness and sustainability in wider society. In addition to this, they have both the Intuitive Listener (D. Nardi) and Precise Speaker (D. Nardi) areas quite active, which naturally helps them to monitor and potentially adapt to auditory information in others.

The unwinged type 9 ISFP is mostly avoidant in nature, and will avoid getting into scruples if at all possible. The 9w1, on the other hand, is often relatively dour or gothic and may be moody or sarcastic in temperament. Both types are better suited to slightly different levels of necessary or ideative conflict.

ALSO

9, 9w1- ISFJ

The ISFJ is the only MBTI type I have personally observed so far as to most likely fall within two Enneatypes. These personalities, in the harmonic triad (Enneagram), are ‘positive’ and in the hornevian triad (Enneagram) are ‘withdrawn’. For them, their primary cognitive function, Introverted Sensing (MBTI), which has a lot to do with detail and due process, combines with their secondary cognitive function, Extraverted Feeling, which is about the exchange of feelings and emotions, to make them very cognizant of and careful about intruding on others’ inner spaces and values and to modulate their approach accordingly to make the others feel more comfortable. Their tertiary cognitive process, Introverted Thinking, which is about clarifying information in a quantitative manner, is mainly used to evaluate others’ positions and Pragmatically (Enneagram) assess them for cohesion with those of their peers. This, to an observer, appears very energy intensive and, indeed, it must be, which accounts for their ‘withdrawn’ temperament and the need to keep using their primary and tertiary functions to sift through their perception of reality for aesthetic beauty and therefore purpose. Indeed, neocortically speaking, their Flowing Artist (D. Nardi) area is highly active (as with the other ISFJ) which monitors instinctively for that beauty, and helps the individual to make engaging freeform illustrations. People of this configuration may therefore often be artists or designers of some description. Their Process Manager (D. Nardi) is as highly active as the 1 (winged) ISFJ and is therefore as highly conscientious of information, along with their Sensitive Mediator (D. Nardi) area which is also as receptive and attentive to social feedback as that of the other ISFJ.

Altogether I believe that this MBTI type has separate Enneatype designations mainly because one is noticeably more Pragmatic and the other is noticeably more Idealistic- one will attach itself to other individuals almost regardless of the situation, and the other will be more Idealistic and therefore in an altogether different (head)space. There are also possible developmental reasons for this distinction.