Enneagram Type 1: The Reformer, The Perfectionist

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Understanding the Perfectionists in Your Life

Type ones have a desire to be good and right. Ones are ethical, principled, detail-oriented, conscientious, and constantly work to improve the things that matter to them. Ones have high standards to which they hold themselves and others. There types can be seen as perfectionists. They value truth, justice, and self-discipline as well as having a strong sense of right and wrong. Out of all the Enneagram types, ones have the toughest inner-critic that nags at them about how they are not good enough and could be better. Ones like ordered and tidied spaces. 

When at an unhealthy level, ones can be very critical and judgmental, self-righteous, dogmatic, and inflexible. Ones struggle to accept grace for themselves and to give grace to others because they do not see it as being earned or deserved. Ones struggle with anger and resentment due to unmet standards. At their best, ones can be very inspiring, discerning, and dedicated to the greater good. Ones work hard to make positive changes that matter. Because ones believe that tasks should be conducted methodically and following the proper procedures and details, they are highly sought after for certain careers. 

Who are Famous Examples of Enneagram Type 1’s?

Plato, Ghandi, Joan of Ark, Nelson Mandela, Margaret Thatcher, Prince Charles, Hilary Clinton, Michelle Obama, Jerry Seinfeld, Meryl Streep, Tina Fey, SNL’s “the church lady”, Martha Stuart

Enneagram Ones in Relationship

Ones value quality and effort. They put high amounts of effort into almost all that they do, and they expect others to do the same. If they perceive that someone is not giving as much effort as they are, it can cause resentment. Ones value a high moral standard, that when violated can cause big riffs in the relationship. Loyalty and honesty are important. Ones can struggle to identify their needs as well as to ask for what they need and want. It is helpful to ask questions, particularly to ask them about their day, about what they need, and about the cause of any anger they may be experiencing.  Despite the struggles for ones in relationship, Suzanne Stabile summarizes that, “Ones love deeply and well. They do all they can to protect and care for those they are in relationship with.”