Enneagram Type 6: The Loyalist

Question Everything

Enneagram sixes are typically logical, reliable, loyal and honest. Sixes tend to be loyal to whatever organization fits their values, such as church, military, or political party. They are also loyal to their beliefs, convictions, friends, family, and systems. Sixes are hard-working and can be good judges of character. They are often the ones that are running different organizations or volunteer programs. 

Enneagram sixes are always thinking about the worst case scenario and preparing for different disasters. As a result, they are always prepared, from having a “go bag” for a tornado or earthquake to having extra tissues or a first aid kit in their purse or car. This can cause them to be anxious and struggle to enjoy certain outings or occasions, as they are fearful of what could happen. For some, this can turn to paranoia. Six’s can struggle to trust people and themselves. Six’s struggle to believe that they have the answers and as a result, seek authority for guidance. 

Who are Famous Examples of Enneagram Type Sixes?

Mark Twain, Sigmund Freud, J. Edgar Hoover, Robert F. Kennedy, George W. Bush, J.R.R. Tolkien, Mike Tyson, Bruce Springsteen, Spike Lee, Marilyn Monroe, Robert De Niro, Sally Field, Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Katie Couric, Chris Rock, Seinfeld’s “George Costanza” and Lord of the Rings “Frodo Baggins”

Enneagram Sixes in Relationship

There are two types of sixes, distinguished by how they manage fear. Phobic sixes are focused on feeling safe based on commonality, such as having the same belief system or common interests. Phobic sixes like to live by rules that are seen to be “tried and true”, set in place by a credible authority. Phobic Sixes manage fear by being safe. They like to provide security and structure for different people to come together and learn from each other in diverse groups and settings. Sixes struggle to forgive and forget as they are concerned with keeping themselves safe and are always aware of potential danger. Sixes can be slow to complete a project or have input in a meeting as they give great thought to it as far as safety, but also can be unsure of themselves.