Self-confident, strong, assertive, protective, straight-talking, realistic and decisive—all of these words describe Enneagram 8 leaders, also known as “The Challenger.” Their lust for life can make them seem larger than life and endows them with superior physical and psychological qualities along with a compelling charisma that persuades others to follow them. In Western culture, they are often seen as the “Archetypal Leader” — someone who cultivates a cadre of people around them by taking bold action with purpose, direction, and confidence.
Type 8s trust their gut more than anything else, and this compels them to stand up for themselves and say what they mean, giving them an inherent ability to make things happen and overcome adversity. Their innate fear of being harmed or controlled by others also motivates them to be in control of their own lives and destinies.
Trilogy Effect’s leadership development experts employ the Enneagram framework to identify nine distinct personality Types. It is an instructive tool that assists their clients in building self-awareness and seeing how an Enneagram Type may influence behaviors, reactions and worldviews. It facilitates their clients’ growth, ultimately bringing the untapped potential of their teams to the forefront.
The Challenger Triumvirate
The predominant characteristics of Type 8s translate into a formidable triumvirate of leadership styles—the Boss, the Archetypal Leader, and the Maverick.
Wendy Appel, a founding partner of Trilogy Effect, thinks that the term the “Challenger” accurately describes the Enneagram Type 8, “It captures their essence and assets, which is why they are also known as ‘bosses.’ They challenge people and give them opportunities to exceed their limitations. They are constantly pushing on others, challenging their thinking and actions. They are trying to find out where the boundaries are.”
“Yet, at the same time, while Type 8s are driven to challenge others, they are not afraid of taking on big challenges themselves and bringing others along with them. This is where the “Archetypal Leader” comes into play — their power to carve a path forward for others to follow. While they demand loyalty from those around them, in return, they will protect, support, encourage, and take care of them.”
Type 8s are also the tough individuals, the “Mavericks” of the Enneagram — they stand alone. This intense independence often drives them to reject social convention regardless of the consequences or what people may think of them. They are not easily influenced by the opinions of others and go about their work with a hardy resolve that can either inspire or intimidate. Still, they are ready to “take the heat,” recognizing that not everything they do will please everyone.
Type 8 Carving the Pathway
Wendy Appel says that Martin Luther King Jr., generally viewed as one of the most respected leaders of modern time, is possibly a Type 8. She explains, “Their strong instincts provide a lens through which they see the world and choose their actions. It’s how they determine what’s fair, what’s right, and what’s just. King was a man looking for justice, and doing what was just. He took action based on that, and carved the path for others to follow.”
Enneagram 8 Leadership
Due to their forceful nature, Type 8s can sometimes come across as bullies. Trilogy Effect’s Managing Partner, Heather Marasse, explains, “There is this underlying emotional engine that starts to rev, and when they lose awareness of that force, it can come across like anger. It’s often said that excessive force comes from not being aware of this anger and rising passion. For Type 8s the challenge is to stop expressing anger, and actually feel it instead.”
Wendy agrees, “They have a lot of force and energy that may overwhelm others. When they become aware of this they can dial it down, almost like using an inner volume control. Type 8s have to realize that there isn’t a one size fits all and that, in some cases, their full force is not required. It’s a matter of recognizing this if you want to engage people as leaders.”
They tend to tell people what to do rather than ask. Often they shoot first, and ask questions later. When angry they can appear dominating, harsh, impatient, threatening, and insensitive, all traits that Type 8s must keep in check to let their leadership skills shine through.
At their best, Type 8s have a “can do” attitude that drives them to use their talents and stamina to make the world a better place. They are honorable, and as natural leaders they have a commanding presence. With their sense of honor and honesty, they take pride in looking after the best interests of those around them without playing favorites. And when they are at their best, they share their vulnerabilities and depth of caring for all that comes within their purview. Their big hearts shine and illuminate the humanity in us all.