Type 8

An Overview of the Eight (pg 219-220)

Everyday language comments regularly on the reasons for wich power is being pursued. If it is narrowly confined to the interest of an individual or group, one says it is being sought for selfish ends; if it reflects the interest or perception of a much larger number of people, those involved are thought inspired leaders or statesmen...

Much less appreciated is the extent to which the purpose of power is the exercise of power itself. In all societies, from the most primitive to the ostensibly most civilized, the exercise of power is profoundly enjoyed. Elaborate rituals of obeisance - adbanquets, a place in the motorcade, access to the corporate jet, the military salute - celebrate the possession of power. These ritual are greatly rewarding; so are the pleas and intercessions of those who seek to influence others in the exercise of power; and so, of course, are the acts of exercise - the instructions to subordinates, the ...

Self-help Practices for Enneagram Type Eight

• The suggestion to get in touch with your feelings may be something of a psychologicall cliche, but in your case, it is a helpful one. No one would question and Eight's passion, and no one knows as much as you do how much you secretly want to feel closer to people, but only you can learn to allow those feelings to surface. Vulnerability lets others know that they matter, that you care about them. No one is suggesting that you walk around with your heart on your sleeve, but denying your hurt or acting it out is not the solution.
• Grief work is very helpful for Eights. You are not the kind of person to sit around feeling sorry for yourself for long, but if you are suffering, it is important to find constructive ways of grieving your losses and hurts. That tough shell of yours got there for a reason. Maybe it's time to explore what some of the reasons were.
• Eights generally have a hearty sense of camaraderie and enjoy

...

...

Overview
You want to be open, honest, direct and straightforward. More importantly, you want to be independent, make your own decisions and direct your own course. You see yourself as assertive, decisive and resourceful. You would like others to see you as strong, fair-minded and magnanimous. Your idealized image is that you are protective and powerful.
You are charismatic and exude confidence. You have a take-charge, no nonsense, can do attitude. You have great pride in your ability to face, endure and overcome adversity, believing that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Your assertive stance and imposing presence make you a ‘force of nature’. You like challenges and usually overcome the kinds of obstacles that limit or deter others. You have a lust for life and want to experience everything to the fullest. You believe that ‘too much of a good thing is almost enough’. ...