The Myers Briggs and Enneagram test are two of the most popular personality assessment systems in the world. While they are based on different psychological models, many people use both together to gain a more complete understanding of their personality. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) focuses on cognitive preferences, while the Enneagram explores emotional motivations and behavioral patterns.
Combining the insights from the Myers Briggs and Enneagram test can help individuals discover not only how they think and make decisions but also why they behave the way they do.
What Is the Myers Briggs Test?
The Myers Briggs test, formally known as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), categorizes people into 16 distinct personality types. These types are based on four pairs of opposing preferences:
- Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I) – How a person directs and receives energy.
- Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N) – How one gathers information.
- Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F) – How decisions are made.
- Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P) – How a person organizes their external world.
The result is a four-letter personality code, such as INFJ, ENTP, or ISFP. Each combination reveals unique traits, behaviors, and communication styles.
What Is the Enneagram Test?
The Enneagram test is a model of nine personality types that describe people based on their core motivations, fears, and desires. Unlike the Myers-Briggs system, which focuses on cognitive processes, the Enneagram emphasizes emotional patterns and inner drives.
The nine Enneagram types are:
- Type 1 – The Reformer: Ethical, disciplined, and perfectionistic.
- Type 2 – The Helper: Caring, empathetic, and people-oriented.
- Type 3 – The Achiever: Ambitious, driven, and success-focused.
- Type 4 – The Individualist: Creative, sensitive, and introspective.
- Type 5 – The Investigator: Analytical, independent, and curious.
- Type 6 – The Loyalist: Responsible, security-focused, and cautious.
- Type 7 – The Enthusiast: Spontaneous, optimistic, and adventurous.
- Type 8 – The Challenger: Assertive, confident, and protective.
- Type 9 – The Peacemaker: Calm, agreeable, and peace-loving.
Each type also has “wings” (neighboring types that influence behavior) and stress/growth paths that explain how individuals change under pressure or when thriving.
How the Myers Briggs and Enneagram Test Work Together
Although the Myers Briggs and Enneagram test use different frameworks, they complement one another beautifully. The Myers-Briggs test explains how you think, while the Enneagram explains why you think and behave in certain ways.
Here’s how the two systems differ and connect:
| Aspect | Myers Briggs | Enneagram |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Cognitive preferences and behavior | Motivations, fears, and emotional patterns |
| Structure | 16 personality types (based on 4 dichotomies) | 9 types with wings and growth/stress paths |
| Goal | Understanding communication and decision-making | Understanding inner drives and personal growth |
Using both tests together allows for a deeper psychological profile. For example, two people with the same Myers-Briggs type (like INFP) might express themselves differently depending on their Enneagram type—one could be a Type 4 (driven by identity and authenticity) while another might be a Type 9 (motivated by peace and harmony).
Common Myers Briggs and Enneagram Pairings
Some personality types and Enneagram types naturally align due to shared traits and motivations. Here are a few common combinations:
- INFJ – Type 4 or Type 1: Deeply principled and idealistic, often motivated by meaning and purpose.
- ENFP – Type 7 or Type 4: Energetic, creative, and driven by exploration and emotional expression.
- ISTJ – Type 1 or Type 6: Structured, reliable, and motivated by duty and security.
- ENTJ – Type 3 or Type 8: Assertive leaders focused on achievement and control.
- ISFP – Type 9 or Type 4: Sensitive, artistic, and driven by a need for harmony or individuality.
It’s important to note that while these pairings are common, there is no fixed rule—each individual expresses their personality uniquely.
Benefits of Taking Both the Myers Briggs and Enneagram Test
Exploring both personality systems together offers a more complete understanding of who you are. Some key benefits include:
- Improved self-awareness: Understand both your thinking patterns and emotional motivations.
- Better relationships: Learn how to connect with others more effectively by recognizing differences in personality and values.
- Career clarity: Identify roles that align with your strengths, values, and inner drives.
- Personal growth: Gain insight into your stress triggers and growth opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The Myers Briggs and Enneagram test provide two perspectives on the same goal—understanding yourself and others. The Myers-Briggs framework highlights how you process information and interact with the world, while the Enneagram reveals the emotional core that drives your choices and reactions.
By combining both systems, you can uncover not just what type of person you are, but also why you think, feel, and behave in the ways that make you unique. Together, they form a powerful foundation for personal insight, emotional growth, and authentic self-discovery.