In a thought-provoking conversation, Emily Aborn, a seasoned Content Copywriter, Speaker, and Podcast Host, dives into the interplay of curiosity and the Enneagram Six personality. She and the hosts unpack the layers of genuine curiosity versus the need for control. They explore how self-doubt impacts curiosity and communication, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability for growth. Emily also discusses building confidence through self-compassion and the transformative power of curiosity, urging those identified as Sixes to confront fears and embrace new experiences.
Curiosity is essential for Enneagram Sixes to navigate anxiety and overthinking, helping break free from automatic patterns of fear.
Effective communication relies on distinguishing genuine curiosity from defensiveness, promoting deeper connections and healthier dialogues for Sixes.
Sixes often struggle to trust their intuition due to seeking validation from authority, but understanding this can reclaim their personal authority.
Deep dives
The Significance of Curiosity for Enneagram Sixes
Curiosity holds particular importance for individuals who identify as Enneagram Sixes, as it helps navigate their inherent patterns of anxiety and overthinking. Often, questions posed by Sixes may stem from a desire to confirm their existing beliefs rather than genuine curiosity. This leads to a mindset of seeking to validate fears rather than exploring the unknown. By fostering an authentic sense of curiosity, Sixes can break free from these automatic patterns, allowing for a deeper understanding of themselves and more meaningful interactions with others.
Curiosity vs. Judgment in Communication
The distinction between genuine curiosity and judgment in conversations is crucial for effective communication. Sixes may often approach discussions with a defensive mindset, interpreting questions as implicit judgments instead of sincere inquiries. This defensive stance can hinder true connection and understanding in conversations. Shifting from a mindset of defense to one of curiosity can pave the way for more intimate relationships and healthier dialogues.
The Role of Authority in Sixes' Lives
For Enneagram Sixes, authority plays a central role in shaping their decisions and actions. Sixes often seek reassurance and validation from external authorities, leading to a struggle with trusting their inner voice. This desire to align with or push against authority can manifest as a persistent search for information, clouding their ability to rely on their intuition. Understanding this dynamic allows Sixes to reclaim their personal authority and move toward a more aligned and self-assured existence.
The Four Types of Curiosity
Curiosity can be categorized into four primary types: fascination, problem-solving, empathy, and avoidance. Each type reflects different motivations behind the desire to know or understand something. For Sixes, often aligning with problem-solving curiosity, the challenge lies in recognizing when their inquiries stem from a need to control rather than a genuine desire to learn. By exploring the spectrum of curiosity, Sixes can engage more deeply with the world and those around them.
Building Confidence Through Curiosity
Cultivating curiosity can significantly enhance confidence, especially for Enneagram Sixes who typically second-guess themselves. Engaging in self-reflective practices, such as journaling or exploring new interests, fosters a sense of curiosity that counters self-doubt. Celebrating small victories and acknowledging the learning process is essential for building this confidence. This shift toward a curiosity-driven approach helps Sixes embrace their unique perspectives while empowering them to step outside their comfort zones.
In this interview, Kristin and guest Emily Aborn discuss all things sixes and curiosity. What is it? What isn’t it? How does all this work together in sixiness? Why might we actually avoid being genuinely curious. You will have a more clear sense of some of your internal workings and all those questions after this episode!
Emily Aborn is a Content Copywriter, Speaker, and Podcast Host of Content with Character and She Built This. Since 2014, she’s had experience running brick-and-mortar as well as online businesses. She’s worked with 97+ industries and loves helping others increase their visibility, connect with their clients, and open up to creativity in their content. For fun, she enjoys word games, reading, listening to podcasts, and tromping about in the woods with her husband, Jason, and their dog, Clyde.