Type 5
Type 6

Type 5 and Type 6 Relationship

Learn about Enneagram types and relationships

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thought

What is Enneagram Type 5
(The Thinker)?
People with an Enneagram type Five personality tend to be curious, independent, and observant in their behavior. They love to pursue knowledge and seek a deeper understanding of the world around them. They often prefer privacy and time alone to think, which may lead them to withdraw from others.

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What is Enneagram Type 6
(The Loyalist)?
People with an Enneagram type Six personality tend to be engaging, hard-working, and responsible in their behavior. They want to feel safe and tend to be concerned with outside threats. They are very loyal and want to build close relationships with others.

Communication

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Communication

How can Fives and Sixes communicate effectively with each other?

Enneagram Fives are motivated by the desire to feel useful and competent, while Sixes are driven by the need to feel safe and secure.

Fives should be calm and logical when addressing Sixes.

Sixes should communicate clearly and concisely with Fives.


Resolving Conflict

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Conflict

How can Fives and Sixes resolve conflict?

Fives need to express their perspective gently to Sixes while providing them with the safety and support they need to feel comfortable. Sixes should share their point of view calmly, allowing Fives to have personal space to process if needed. Fives and Sixes should work together to find an appropriate, mutually beneficial solution.


Building Trust

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Trust

How can Fives and Sixes build trust?

Fives tend to trust Sixes who are curious and intellectual. Sixes should allow Fives to have plenty of time to themselves.

Sixes are likely to trust Fives who can are reassuring, supportive, and loyal. Fives should spend intentional, quality time getting to know Sixes.

Working Together

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Working Together

How can Fives and Sixes work together?

Fives tend to be quiet and calm, while Sixes are usually responsible and loyal.

Fives bring insight and knowledge to a workplace; they can help Sixes feel more confident in themselves.

Sixes offer hard work and practical solutions to a work environment. Sixes can help Fives connect more deeply with others.


Dealing with Change

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Change

How can Fives and Sixes deal with change?

Fives tend to only be impacted by change if it harms or disturbs their personal space or independence.

Sixes, however, are likely to be disrupted by unexpected change, as they tend to seek consistency. They are likely to adjust after taking time to process and understand the benefits of the situation.


Managing Stress

Fives and Sixes need to seek to understand what brings stress to the other type and should try to avoid causing it when possible.

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Stress

Fives are easily stressed by...

  • Large groups of unfamiliar people
  • Emotional expressions and situations
  • Being required to meet other people’s needs
  • Overstimulation or lack of peace
Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Stress

Sixes are easily stressed by...

  • Unreliable people and relationships
  • Negativity in their work or personal environment
  • Feeling as though they aren’t needed
  • Failing or making the wrong decision

Fives should avoid being critical of Sixes, while Sixes should give Fives space to reflect and recharge.


Encouraging and Motivating

Fives and Sixes can encourage and motivate each other in their personal and professional lives.

Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Encouragement

Fives are motivated by...

  • Discovering something new about the world
  • Alone time to think and reconnect with themselves
  • Learning a new skill or technique
  • Feeling valued, able, and appreciated
Enneagram Type 5 & Type 6 Encouragement

Sixes are motivated by...

  • Consistent and trustworthy relationships
  • Time spent with people they love
  • Offering help and assistance to others
  • Advocating for personal beliefs and values

Fives can motivate Sixes by spending quality time with them.

Sixes can encourage Fives by asking them for input or advice.


Enneagram Test

Complete the Enneagram test below to find your Enneagram type.