The Enneagram is the hottest thing in personality types right now, and military spouses are nothing if not trendy.
The Enneagram model has nine numbers, each showing how that personality type views the world. Ideally, these numbers and personality types give followers opportunities for personal development and help in understanding other types.
Sounds kinda hokey, right? Well, I thought so too. Then, I took the test, discovered I am an 8, and the whole world made sense.
Kind of.
You see, 8s are referred to as "The Challenger," someone who is powerful, dominating, self-confident, decisive, willful and confrontational. Even better, one graphic on Instagram showed how people view taking the Enneagram test, and for 8 it was simply, "No."
So, when I took it and typed myself as an 8, I felt justified in my response. And now every time someone I know reveals their number, I can immediately see it.
What would each of these Enneagram types look like when we apply them to military spouses? Read on.
Type 1: The Reformer
The military spouse who always exhibits self-control, maintains the perfect PCS binder and brings reusable bags to the commissary every time. Type 1 military spouses make you a better person just by being around them.
Type 2: The Helper
This military spouse takes care of everyone else. They are generous, caring and live to please others. They bring baked goods to the family readiness meetings and always have an encouraging response on Facebook groups.
Type 3: The Achiever
This military spouse is driven and success-oriented, which is why having them on the ball committee is a win-win for everyone. And if you have a goal, find a type 3 military spouse to hold you accountable.
Type 4: The Individualist
This military spouse likes to hide that they are a military spouse because "dependent" is not a term they like to use. They're sensitive and dramatic, and are usually artistic. They also don't mind being alone, so you may need to take time to pull them out of their shell.
Type 5: The Investigator
If you have an upcoming PCS, a question about pay and benefits, or need to find a regulation to support your cause, talk to this military spouse. They always have a stack of great books to read and tons of useful things at the ready.
Type 6: The Loyalist
If you're having a rough deployment or a bad day, find your type 6 military spouse. They are encouraging and responsible and always have cute mugs to drink tea out of while they listen to you pour your heart out. They're also the perfect person to call at 2 a.m. when your child wakes up sick because you know they have medicine on hand.
Type 7: The Enthusiast
This military spouse is the one you go to for fun! They are spontaneous, fun-loving and versatile. They know all the fun spots in town to find a new hobby and love to travel. If there's a party in need of livening up, make sure this military spouse is on the guest list.
Type 8: The Challenger
This military spouse is someone you definitely want around for the tough conversations. They aren't afraid of confrontation -- even with their spouse's boss -- and they are decisive. You'll never need to worry about 30-minute-long conversations about where to go for dinner, they aren't easily offended and you can rely on them when things are going wrong.
Type 9: The Peacemaker
When you need someone to listen, reassure and agree with you, find your type 9 military spouse friend. They're the ones who will do yoga with you because you asked and encourage you to bring your slippers over to their house for tea.
There you have it: the Enneagrams as military spouses. Have you taken the Enneagram test yet? Do it! It's fun and eye-opening as you look at your relationships inside and outside of the military community.
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--Rebecca Alwine can be reached at rebecca.alwine@monster.com.
