Your Best Summer Adventure, by Enneagram Type
The sun is shining, the ice cream is melting, and the sizzling aroma of grilled burgers is drifting our way! After waiting months, we’re ready to enjoy the summerly stir of warm weather and cool experiences.
Yet, the summer adventure of our choice may depend on our Enneagram type. What appeals to one type may keep another tethered to the porch swing. With plenty of room for variation, here are suggestions for your best summer adventure, based on common Enneagram-type characteristics.
Type 9: Go with the flow
Summer is a time for relaxation … and also harmony. Since Type 9s will always prefer a peaceful discussion over a tense exchange, they are likely to fall in with what everyone else wants to do this summer rather than having a forthright opinion of their own. If family members prefer an amusement park over an afternoon drive, who’s to say that’s wrong? For Type 9s who want to appease loved ones and also soak in the serenity they crave, consider these adventures:
- An amusement park with the kids. This may be more stimulating than you want, yet it fulfills the wishes of your young ones, and that fills you with joy. Slot in a calm, moonlit dinner for some relaxation after your busy day.
- Relax by the ocean with family members. This invites you to spend time with those you care about and feel the soothing rhythm of the gentle waves around you—such an irresistible combination!
- Join best friends for a spa getaway. Now, we’re speaking the Type 9’s language! Laughter, lightness and calm all in one tranquil, unhurried package.
Type 8: Challenging and in charge
Commanding and compelling, protective and persistent, Type 8s want their summer adventures to match their energy. Mostly, they want to remain in control, yielding nothing. Whether that means leading the golf tournament or the neighborhood barbecue, they are in front of it all. These scenarios may appeal to Type 8s who run on vitality:
- A get-together with friends who love to debate: Arguing your position on political dynamics is a year-round treat for Type 8s, though adding a few chilled pints on the patio makes it more enticing!
- Sailing across a lake. Sailing puts Type 8s in pilot mode – you literally are in command of your own vessel while surrounded by the tranquil waters.
- Hunting for a vacation rental for the tribe to escape to. You love being the main organizer and discoverer, so a search for an idyllic location can be quite satisfying for you, Type 8. Plus, bringing your friends and family together under one roof makes it easier to take charge of the fun!
Type 7: Anything!
Did someone say adventure? Type 7s created the concept! This playful type savors the unexpected, and they always seek something new to explore. To sustain momentum and stave off boredom, choose action-packed hijinks or a little lighthearted fun:
- Take trampoline lessons. If you're up for a physical challenge, trampolining checks all the boxes -- it's as demanding as it is entertaining! Plus, a Type 7 will relish the opportunity to master something new.
- Lead the summer holiday parade. Type 7 will make a lasting impression by adding some pizazz to the procession.
- Participate in open mic night. Type 7s have a flair for the dramatic, so this could be an ideal opportunity to showcase their talents and leave crowds in awe.
Type 6: Rooted and secure
Why go hang-gliding when the rope may break? Who needs the anxiety of getting lost? Rather than a summer more fear-inducing than fun, Type 6s will be happier when they choose familiar activities with loyal pals.
- Staycations with a water park nearby. You'll get to stay safely in your comfort zone as you keep a watchful eye on the kids splashing around.
- Plan a neighborhood garage sale. Want to earn extra cash while decluttering the basement? Garage sales are perfect for a Type 6 because it allows you to interact with the community and take charge of events, but without becoming too overwhelmed.
- Camping under the stars. A campfire under the stars is the perfect setting for a Type 6 to connect with friends, nature and the night sky, all in safety.
Type 5: Intellectually rigorous
The thrill is in the knowing for Type 5s, who love nothing more than engaging their curiosity. For your best summer adventure, choose activities that let you fill up on information and explore.
- Research your family history. This may be your moment to uncover long-lost relatives, forgotten stories and centuries of culture.
- Visit a museum or gallery or tour your local historical buildings. A Type 5 may appreciate the chance to get lost in the details while still receiving a wealth of knowledge.
- Start a book club or join one. This is the perfect way to stay up-to-date on the latest reads and exchange ideas with others who share your passion for literature. You can even go super-niche and join the ranks of a sci-fi, mystery or quantum physics book club – whatever interests you the most!
Type 4: Creative and meaningful
Nothing speaks to a Type 4 more than creativity, artistic appreciation or a satisfying weekend of personal growth. These adventures may add to your portfolio of experiences.
- Picnic by sunset. Choose a scenic setting like a beach, park or lake to take in the sky's colors as they change with the setting sun.
- Go on a spiritual retreat. This fills the bucket of depth for a Type 4 as you spend time marinating in your spiritual life and nature away from a noise-saturated world.
- Take a summer writers’ workshop or sculpting workshop. Lean into your creativity this summer by signing up for a summer creative workshop. Creating—in words, song, paint, clay, video, or other form—makes your heart sing.
Type 3: Enhance your influence
While Type 3s enjoy a getaway as much as anyone, they truly relish opportunities that allow them to shine. Resume-enhancing events offer more oomph than a standard road-trip style of adventure. For memory-making experiences, Type 3s may ponder these possibilities:
- Take the stage at the regional playhouse. Be the chameleon you often play in real life by acting in a summer production.
- Make a documentary film about the area you are visiting. With your natural drive and knack for influencing others, you can make a movie that will have people talking.
- Organize a charity event in the local community. Your leadership and organizational skills can be put to good use by hosting a fundraiser to benefit the less fortunate.
Type 2: People-oriented
Where are my people? Relationship-focused Type 2s find joy in activities that cultivate and strengthen bonds with others. If they can be helpful, they are even happier. Summer is a prime time for scooping up family and friends for get-togethers or getaways, so Type 2s may light up with these adventures:
- A multi-family vacation. Your family, your significant other's family, your found family... why not gather all your favorite people together for a memorable holiday?
- Host a series of summer potluck suppers. This is the perfect opportunity to bring your community together (and show off your culinary prowess as well!).
- Organize a community clean-up event. Not only will you be doing something good for the environment, you'll also have the chance to bring people together and do good work!
Type 1: Planned and efficient
The well-organized and conscientious Type 1 excels at pursuing quality in their summer adventures - and that means leaving nothing to chance. Pursuits that allow you to make lasting improvements are worthwhile to you. Perhaps these...
- Mapping out a 500-mile road trip. You will love the responsibility of plotting a course that blends efficiency with great experiences (and well-planned stops for breaks) – just remember to transition to "vacation" mode yourself at some point!
- A group hike. With your tendency to feel a little restless, a hike is the perfect way to get your blood flowing, clear your mind and explore the great outdoors.
- Join a service project. For you, a summer spent helping others or a cause you care about is always worthwhile.
A sensational summer awaits each Enneagram type. It’s time to choose our next adventure!
