Enneagram Trick-or-Treat Bag: The Scary Mistakes vs. The Sweet Alternatives

Like a Halloween trick-or-treat bag, the Enneagram can hand you some surprises. Sometimes, you’ll find tricks that limit growth. Other times, you’ll find treats that bring compassion and clarity.

At Clarus, we use the Enneagram as a practical framework for understanding leadership and team dynamics, not as any kind of belief system. It’s simply a tool to strengthen self-awareness, communication and collaboration.

Here are five common “tricks” to avoid and the “treats” that lead to real understanding and connection.

1. Using the Enneagram as a Weapon in Conflict

· Trick: Saying things like, “You’re just being a typical [Type X]!” to dismiss someone or win an argument.

· Treat: Use the Enneagram as a mirror not a weapon. Notice your own conflict patterns first and approach the other person with curiosity and respect.

2. Leaving People Out Based on Their Type

· Trick: Assuming someone’s type disqualifies them from a role or project (“Nines avoid conflict, so let’s not put them in leadership” or “Fours are too emotional for this work”).

· Treat: Every type brings unique strengths. The best teams are diverse, blending perspectives and skills across the Enneagram spectrum.

3. Reducing People to a Stereotype

· Trick: Flattening someone into a single trait: “Twos just want to help,” “Threes only care about success,” or “Eights are bossy.”

· Treat: Remember, the Enneagram is a growth map, not a label. Invite people to share how they experience their type and how they’re growing beyond it.

4. Treating Your Type Like a Life Sentence

Trick: Using your type as an excuse for unhealthy patterns: “I’m a One, so of course I’m critical,” or “I’m a Seven, I can’t commit.”

· Treat: See your type as a starting point, not a life sentence. The Enneagram reveals blind spots and growth edges so you can move toward greater balance.

5. Forgetting the Humanity Beyond the Numbers

· Trick: Getting so caught up in typing, traits, and theory that you forget people are more than their number.

· Treat: The Enneagram is just one lens. See the full person, their story, experience and individuality.

Final Thought

As October rolls on, a little Halloween spirit reminds us that the Enneagram’s true purpose isn’t to spook or divide. When used with humility, curiosity, and respect, it shines light on strengths, deepens understanding, and supports lasting growth

This Halloween, skip the tricks and savor the treats. The real sweetness of the Enneagram is how it helps us connect more deeply with ourselves and others.

“Want to learn how your team can use the Enneagram in more productive, growth-oriented ways? Reach out to us at Clarus. We’d love to partner with you.