Type 1: The Reformer

Principled | Purposeful | Self-controlled | Hard-working

Type 1s are motivated by a desire to be good and improve the world. They aim for excellence and are committed to self improvement.

Seeks

Integrity and high standards

Avoids

Error or not being good enough

Strengths

  • Ethical and conscientious

  • Hardworking and reliable

  • Attention to detail

Growth Opportunities

  • Learning to relax and recognize the perfection in the imperfections

  • Developing flexibility and tolerance for different viewpoints

  • Practicing self-compassion and reducing self-criticism

How Type 1s Think, Feel, and Act

Pragmatic and detail-oriented, Type 1s have a sharp focus on improvement, often zeroing in on the gap between what is and what could be better.

Driven by a strong sense of duty and integrity, they can tightly regulate emotions and often wrestle with frustration when reality falls short of their high expectations.

Guided by a gut-centered sense of right and wrong, Type 1s are constantly aligning their actions with their principles.

Insights in Professional Life

In the workplace, Type 1s bring a strong commitment to excellence and integrity, ensuring the job is done right. Their purposeful leadership inspires others to uphold the same high standards.

Leadership

Type 1 leaders are ethical and lead by example. They prioritize integrity and high standards, inspiring others through their commitment and reliability.

Communication

They communicate clearly but may need to soften their critical tone. Encouraging open dialogue and practicing active listening can enhance their communication skills.

Conflict

Type 1s tend to handle conflict with a focus on principles and fairness. Their opportunity for growth is to remain open-minded and avoid being overly critical or rigid.

Decision-Making

Type 1s can be thorough and deliberate decision-makers. Considering multiple perspectives will balance their tendency to overanalyze.

Giving Feedback

Feedback from Type 1s is constructive and aimed at improvement. To be effective, balancing their high standards with empathy and encouragement will bring greater success.

Team Dynamics

In teams, Type 1s contribute organization and structure. They excel in roles requiring attention to detail and accountability and will grow if they work on accepting diverse approaches and ideas.

Type 1s grow by embracing acceptance and flexibility. Practicing self-compassion and acknowledging their inherent worth can help them balance their drive for improving things with a more forgiving perspective on life.

Professional Relationships

Being Managed by a Type 1

Type 1 leaders set high standards with integrity and fairness. When they encourage flexibility and innovation alongside their pursuit of excellence, they create a balanced, high-performing team driven by accountability and continuous improvement.

Managing Others as a Type 1

Employees managed by a Type 1 can expect clear expectations and ethical leadership. Open communication regarding progress and challenges helps align goals and minimize potential tension.

Managing a Type 1

When managing a Type 1, recognizing their dedication and attention to detail can be valuable. Offering constructive feedback and opportunities for personal growth can further their development while helping them maintain a balanced perspective.

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Explore The Other Enneagram Types

  • Type 1: The Reformer

    Purposeful, self-controlled, strives for improvement.

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  • Type 2: The Helper

    Generous, empathetic, and people-pleasing.

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  • Type 3: The Achiever

    Driven, goal-oriented, and adaptable.

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  • Type 4: The Individualist

    Expressive, creative, and authentic.

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  • Type 5: The Investigator

    Analytical, private, and perceptive.

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  • Type 6: The Loyalist

    Reliable, responsible, and prepared.

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  • Type 7: The Enthusiast

    Adventurous, spontaneous, and optimistic.

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  • Type 8: The Challenger

    Assertive, decisive, and self-confident.

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  • Type 9: The Peacemaker

    Receptive, accommodating, and harmonious.

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