18 Signs You’re an Enneagram 8

People with an Enneagram 8 personality are usually easy to recognize. They’re the ones who seem extra confident and independent, but who can also come across as a little intimidating. Think you might be the Challenger of the Enneagram? Here are 18 signs you’re an Enneagram 8 and the traits that make this type unique.

1. You’re known for being independent

If you’re someone who values independence and self-sufficiency, you might be a Type 8. Type 8s don’t like to be reliant on anyone and they’ll do everything they possibly can to stand on their own two feet - financially, emotionally, intellectually and more!

2. You hate feeling vulnerable 

A clear sign you’re a Type 8 is if you get nervous about being vulnerable in front of others. If you worry about sharing your feelings or you avoid opening up, especially with people you don’t know, you could be a Type 8.

3. You’re never the one asking for directions

One thing’s for sure about Enneagram 8s - they don’t ask for help. You’ll never catch this personality type asking for directions or getting someone to help with their bags. Type 8s will do everything they can to solve their problems themselves, even if it takes longer or makes the task harder. They’d rather deal with their own problems than get someone else involved.

4. Some people find you intimidating

Have you ever been described as aggressive or intimidating? You might be a Type 8! If you notice that people get nervous around you, especially when you’re in a bad mood, this is a pretty good sign you’re a Type 8. The fiercely confident persona of the Type 8 can make others feel unnerved, especially when the full force of the 8’s bluntness is turned on them.

5. You hate people telling you what to do

Whether it’s in relationships, at work or in your day-to-day life, if you have problems with people telling you what to do, it’s likely you’re a Type 8. This Enneagram type rejects authority and anything that tries to control them. If you recognize this in yourself, it’s a strong sign you’re a Type 8.

6. You have a tough exterior

For Type 8s, it’s normal to put up barriers between yourself and the outside world. You present a “don’t mess with me” front to strangers and you come across as strong and solid. While this tough exterior might melt away with people you know, it’s what most people see when they first meet you.

7. When you put your mind to something you get it done

People who fit the Type 8 personality type are extremely determined and single-minded. You probably find goal-setting comes naturally to you and you pour a lot of energy into achieving what you set out to do. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely to be a Type 8.

8. People describe you as confident and charismatic

You’ll know you’re a Type 8 if everyone you know describes you as extra confident, charming and/or charismatic. Maybe people also call you direct or headstrong too - these are all clear signs of the Enneagram 8 personality.

9. You don’t like feeling restricted

Do you resist people who try to put boundaries or restrictions in your life? If you hate feeling like you’re restricted and avoid situations that create these feelings - including close romantic relationships or jobs that involve a lot of monitoring and oversight - you’re probably a Type 8.

10. You look out for yourself first

Type 8s are strong believers in putting themselves first in every situation. While they make good leaders and build strong connections with people they trust, they will always prioritize their own well being above others. This can be a problem for Enneagram Type 8 females, who often rub against the ‘nurturing female’ stereotype.  

11. You’re extremely protective

Type 8s fit the classic protector personality trait, automatically standing up for people they see as more vulnerable than themselves. It could be a close friend, loved one or complete stranger - if you can be immensely protective when you need to be, you’re probably a Type 8.

12. You don’t try too hard to please people

You know those people who bend over backwards to help others and make new friends? You’re not one of those people! A clear sign that you’re an Enneagram Type 8 is that you don’t care too much what people think and you refuse to change to suit others. Sounds stubborn? That’s just the Type 8 way!

13. You’re good in a crisis

One thing that Type 8s are known for is their ability to stay rock solid in a crisis. Type 8s are the people that can be relied upon to keep their cool, whatever the situation. They avoid drama and instead come up with solutions to solve any challenge big or small.

14. If someone breaks your trust you cut them off

Another key part of the Type 8 personality is their attitude towards relationships. People with Type 8 traits don’t let many people get close to them. When they do, they are choosing to trust that person deeply and unconditionally. But beware of breaking that trust. Type 8s will never forgive you. They will cut you out of their life and never let you back in.

15. You’re usually the person who takes charge

Thanks to the natural confidence of Type 8s, they’re usually the ones who take the lead in every situation. If you automatically take charge, give instructions and make decisions, regardless of what environment you’re in, you’re probably a Type 8. 

16. You’re a big believer in tough love

If you’re the type of person who presents solutions rather than consolation when a loved one is having problems, you could be a Type 8. Type 8s will listen to your problems but you can bet they’ll give you a 10 point plan to solve them at the end! This Enneagram type is proactive and solution-oriented - and that’s how they show love to others.

17. You’re not afraid of confrontation when it’s necessary

Unlike other Enneagram types, Type 8s don’t thrive on drama - in fact, they avoid it as much as possible. However, this personality type isn’t afraid of conflict and confrontation when they see it as necessary. They’ll stand up for the things and the people they believe in, even if it means getting into uncomfortable situations.

18. You have many different sides to your personality

For Type 8s, the face they present to outsiders is very different to the one they have with people they love and trust. If you find yourself putting on a “game face” when you go out into the world and then taking that mask off when you’re with close friends and family, this is a strong sign you’re a Type 8. While Type 8s can seem tough, once you get to know them you’ll see a completely different side to them.

If you recognize a lot of these signs in yourself, you could be an Enneagram Type 8! Take the test here to find out for sure.