For centuries people have been studying what makes us behave the way we do, how we can change,and how we can reduce our own suffering. Cultures separated by mountains, oceans and languages have all come up with personality (or "false self") as a major barrier to our wholeness and to getting in touch with our essential self. Wisdom traditions like Judaism, Christianity, Sufism, Buddhism, Hinduism all look at resolving the various fixations of personality as a major path to fulfillment. Each points to transcending the limits of personality in order to live more harmoniously.

The Enneagram addresses the limits of personality and dovetails seamlessly with modern psychology. We are challenged to look at the hidden parts of our personality and begin noticing what habits of attention hold these patterns in place. We begin to see things that have operated outside our awareness and we bring them forward into the light. In this way our actions can become more conscious.

In learning about all nine styles, we notice how they all operate to varying degrees within us. By gaining a better understanding of all types, we enhance our self-knowledge and, most important, learn to stand in the shoes of another. We can become more empathic with our children, parents, siblings, spouses, friends, co-workers, and people in other cultures.

The Enneagram provides tools that begin to make a difference right away, allowing us to step outside the familiar box. Its effectiveness with individuals, families and workplaces in cultures all over the world speaks to its universal appeal.