8w7 The Maverick

So, I finally took an Enneagram personality test, and apparently I'm a Type 8 with a 7 wing, otherwise known as The Maverick. And after reading the description, I have to admit, it makes a whole lot of sense.

Apparently, 8w7s are known for having big personalities. We're outspoken, independent, assertive, energetic, and sometimes downright loud. We have a strong sense of humor, enjoy social interaction, and tend to approach things with a certain intensity. We're not particularly fond of being told what to do, and subtlety isn't always our strong suit. I have to admit, I found quite a bit of myself in that description.

The 7 wing is often associated with enthusiasm, humor, spontaneity, and a tendency to do things with a little extra intensity. I can certainly relate to having a big personality and enjoying people, even though I'm actually a very content homebody. I love being at home and have absolutely no desire to be constantly on the go. Apparently, I can have a big personality without needing a big social calendar. 😂

Of course, the less flattering characteristics are just as interesting. Eights can be stubborn, impatient, confrontational, quick to anger, and occasionally temperamental. The 8w7 combination is also described as having a tendency toward excess, impulsiveness, and overindulgence. That particular part really caught my attention, considering my own history with alcoholism and what I've always recognized as an addictive personality. I'm certainly not saying a personality type causes addiction, but I can absolutely recognize some of those tendencies in myself. I've always been someone who can take things to extremes, so that part gave me a little something to think about.

I don't put a whole lot of stock in personality tests defining who we are, but I do think they're interesting tools for understanding ourselves a little better. Some of the descriptions didn't really fit me at all, but others were surprisingly accurate.

Apparently, I'm a Maverick. Gary probably could've saved me the trouble of taking the test. 😂

xoxo - Jenny