We’re uncovering the Core Desire of each Enneagram Type this week.
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde
The Core Desire of each Enneagram type is what they are always striving for - the deep longing that motivates their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Achieving the Core Desire often feels like the key to our happiness, it’s a fulfilling outcome because we do so much to achieve it - whether we're aware of the attempt or not.
The Core Desire is an internal motivation for each of us but since we cannot see what’s inside and pushing someone towards their desire, we see the external actions and behaviors (and probably make assumptions 🫢). Here are some examples of what we might see externally in someone's actions and behaviors as they seek their Core Desire.
Type 1 – The Reformer
Core Desire: To be good, ethical, and have integrity.
Example: A Type 1 might feel an internal drive to do things the “right” way. They may correct a coworker’s mistake at work, not to be critical, but because they deeply believe in fairness and excellence.
Type 2 – The Helper
Core Desire: To be loved and appreciated.
Example: A Type 2 might go out of their way to bring a friend their favorite coffee or offer emotional support, hoping their kindness will make them feel valued and connected.
Type 3 – The Achiever
Core Desire: To be successful, admired, and valuable.
Example: A Type 3 may work late to perfect a project, striving for excellence, not just for the achievement itself but because they equate success with personal worth.
Type 4 – The Individualist
Core Desire: To be unique, authentic, and deeply understood.
Example: A Type 4 might reject mainstream trends and express themselves differently - often through art, music, or fashion to showcase their individuality and feel truly seen.
Type 5 – The Investigator
Core Desire: To be capable and knowledgeable.
Example: A Type 5 may spend hours researching a topic before making a decision because they feel safest when they fully understand something and can rely on their own knowledge.
Type 6 – The Loyalist
Core Desire: To feel secure and supported.
Example: A Type 6 may double-check plans and seek reassurance from trusted friends or mentors before making a big decision, ensuring they are making the safest choice.
Type 7 – The Enthusiast
Core Desire: To be happy, free, and experience joy.
Example: A Type 7 might plan spontaneous road trips, fill their schedule with exciting activities, or avoid difficult emotions to keep life feeling fun and fulfilling.
Type 8 – The Challenger
Core Desire: To be strong, independent, and in control of their own life.
Example: A Type 8 may take charge in a crisis, making bold decisions to protect themselves and others because they never want to feel powerless.
Type 9 – The Peacemaker
Core Desire: To have peace, harmony, and inner stability.
Example: A Type 9 may go along with the plans of friends or family, even if they have a different preference, just to avoid conflict and maintain a sense of calm.
Do a few of these sound like something you’d like to experience? Your true Core Desire will bring a sense of fulfillment, but it’s common to identify with other descriptions too. If you continue to get curious about the motivation behind what you do, you’ll discover your true Core Desire and ultimately your Enneagram Type.
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4
Deep down what truly drives you?
What is fueling your passion and decisions?
When do you feel the most fulfilled and alive? What is happening in those moments that speak to a deep need within you?
The answers to these questions is why it matters to understand your Core Desire - knowing the desire motivating you helps you:
▪️Make healthier decisions aligned with your true self
▪️Identify when you’re seeking fulfillment in unhealthy ways
▪️Understand why you react to certain situations the way you do
As you contemplate the real reason you crave certain things, get curious and honest about what you truly want to see happen in your life.
Ask yourself…what do I strive for in different areas of my life - relationships, work, personal growth? And why does it matter so much to me?
Please remember this along the journey…True fulfillment isn’t about what we achieve—it’s about who we become and how we love along the way.
You were uniquely designed with a deep desire shaping your choices, your passions, your dreams, and your purpose. It is not a random longing, it’s a God-given guide to living a life of meaning, delight, and impact.
Embracing your Core Desire propels you into the freedom, confidence, and fulfillment you were made for.
Cheering on Your Discovery!
Katie and Kristan