Enneagram Type 2, also known as “The Helper” or “The Giver,” is one of the nine personality types on the Enneagram. Type 2s are driven by a deep need to be loved and appreciated, often showing their affection by being helpful, caring, and generous towards others.
Core Motivations of Type 2
Type 2s are primarily motivated by the desire to be needed and loved. They find their sense of self-worth in being indispensable to others and taking care of their loved ones. Their motivation stems from the fear of being unloved or unimportant.
Core Fears of Type 2
The fear that drives Type 2s is the possibility of being rejected or unwanted. This fear often leads them to go above and beyond to make others feel cared for and appreciated, but it can sometimes lead to overgiving and neglecting their own needs.
Strengths of Type 2
- Empathy and Compassion: Type 2s are highly empathetic and intuitive, able to sense what others need before they even express it.
- Supportive and Caring: They are excellent at providing emotional support and making others feel valued and loved.
- Selfless and Generous: Type 2s tend to be generous with their time, energy, and resources, often putting others’ needs before their own.
Challenges of Type 2
- Neglecting Self-Care: Type 2s can struggle to prioritize their own well-being because they are so focused on the needs of others.
- Difficulty Accepting Help: They may find it hard to ask for or accept help, fearing it might make them seem weak or unworthy of love.
- People-Pleasing Tendencies: The desire to be loved and appreciated can lead to a tendency to please others at the expense of personal boundaries and authenticity.
How Type 2s Can Grow
- Set Boundaries: Learning to say “no” and recognizing that their worth does not depend on constantly helping others is essential for growth.
- Embrace Self-Love: Type 2s must focus on nurturing themselves and practicing self-care without feeling guilty.
- Accept Help from Others: Understanding that receiving help is just as valuable as giving help can allow Type 2s to build more balanced relationships.
- Develop Emotional Independence: While they thrive on relationships, Type 2s can benefit from learning to be emotionally self-sufficient.
Famous Examples of Enneagram Type 2s
Many famous people are thought to embody the characteristics of Type 2, including Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to helping others, and Oprah Winfrey, known for her compassionate and supportive nature.
Enneagram Type 2 in Relationships
In relationships, Type 2s are deeply nurturing, often doing everything they can to make their partners feel loved and cared for. However, they may sometimes struggle with expecting the same level of affection in return, which can lead to resentment if their emotional needs aren’t met.
Enneagram Type 2 at Work
Type 2s excel in roles that require empathy, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. They often thrive in caregiving professions, teaching, counseling, or customer service, where their ability to connect with others and anticipate their needs is highly valued.
For a deeper dive into all Enneagram types, check out this comprehensive guide.
Last modified: February 5, 2025
