@LindsBrac

For the rest of the year, we’re discussing the Enneagram as a tool for building authentic (and flawed) characters. I am by no means a psychologist or an expert, but I have found that a general understanding of this ancient personality-typing tool helps me build better characters. There’s a link to the other posts in the series at the end of the one.

Really wish I had discovered it before I wrote my first book. But now with my second set to hit shelves in late July and another being shopped (that had a beta reader saying, “you’re so good at creating well rounded characters!”) I think I’ve found a niche that works for me—and maybe for you.

Last month we discussed Enneagram Type One: THE PERFECTIONIST. This month we’re diving into the type that likely causes the most mischaracterization. Let’s talk about Enneagram Type Two: THE HELPER.

Twos are the type of people everyone needs in their lives—selfless, giving, involved. They remember birthdays and anniversaries, give thoughtful gifts, and will be on our doorstep with a casserole at the first sign of distress. (Disclaimer: I wing hard Type 2 and have been known to bring strangers dinner.

Unfortunately Twos also tend to repress their own needs and prioritize others over themselves, which can lead to their own burnout. Women, especially young mothers, often mistype as Twos because they are caring for young children, so their own needs are usually set aside. But a true Enneagram Type Two is driven by the need to be needed and “love is their highest ideal”.

Type Two Characteristics:

• Devoted to personal relationships.
• Want to be appreciated for what they’ve done.
• Often found in “helping” professions: nurse, teacher, public service.
• Helping elevates their sense of worth and virtue.
• Can become bossy and manipulative when own emotional needs aren’t met.
• Proud.

According to the Enneagram Spiritual Formation Plan, type twos besetting sin is that of pride and their emotional response is shame. Unlike a type nine, for instance, who is inherently humble, a Two gains their sense of worth from the praise received when helping.

Famous literary Twos include: Peeta Melark from the Hunger Gamestrilogy, Samwise Gamgee from the Lord of the Rings, Mrs. Weasley from the Harry Potterseries, and Emma Woodhouse from Emma. Also making this list would be Mr. Rogers and some of our more villainous characters—which just goes to prove being a helper doesn’t make you a good person. Bellatrix Lestrange (Harry Potter) and Thanos (Avengers: Endgame) come to mind.

What about your characters? Is there anyone you’ve written who fits this profile? Grace Watson in my upcoming release, The Bridge Between, knows herself well:

Tennessee covered her hand with his work-calloused one. She closed her eyes, and for a moment she could feel Patrick, as palpable in the room as the smells of beef stew and fresh biscuits.

“Someday, Mom, if you want it, I think God will send you someone.”

Grace repeated the words she needed to be true. “You and your dad are all I’ve ever needed.”

Too bad no one needed her. Not anymore.

Your turn! Tell me about your favorite Type Twos.

For more Enneagram Type Two Study:

• Modern Mrs. DarcyEnneagram.netThe Enneagram at WorkEnneagram and Coffee on Instagram

  Eclectic Energies

  Enneagram Types of 99 Fictional Characters

  Don’t miss the rest of the posts in this series!

  • Part 1: How to Use Enneagram to Type the Characters You Write
  • Part 2: THE PERFECTIONIST: How to Type Your Characters with the Enneagram
  • Part 3: Enneagram Type 2—How to Use Enneagram to Type the Characters You Write
  • Part 4: Use Enneagram to Type the Characters You Write – Type Three
  • Part 5: Use Enneagram to Type the Characters You Write – Type Four
  • Part 6: Use Enneagram to Type the Characters You Write – Type Five
  • Part 7: Use Enneagram To Type Your Characters – Type Six
  • Part 8: Type Your Characters – Enneagram Seven
  • Part 9: Type Your Characters – Enneagram Eight
  • Part 10: Type Your Characters – Enneagram Nine

Lindsey P. Brackett writes southern fiction and cooks big family meals, but she complains about the dishes. Her debut novel, Still Waters, released in 2017 and was named the 2018 Selah Book of the Year. Her follow-up, The Bridge Betweenreleases July 31, 2019. Someday she hopes to balance motherhood and writing full-time. Until then, she’s just very grateful for her public school system.

Connect with Lindsey and get her free newsletter at lindseypbrackett.comor on Instagram@lindseypbrackett.