The Enneagram for Teensنموونە

Type Four: The Unique Creative

Type Fours are known as the Individualist, the Romantic, or the Creative. They’re super interesting people because each person strives for a unique identity, creating their own brand of “them.” Usually this type can be harder to identify than others because they don’t want to be like anyone else, so one Four can have different preferences or “vibes” than another Four.

Overall, a Four is usually the person who appreciates the aesthetic or vibe of a room or person. Type Fours are deep feelers and can’t stand small talk, so don’t be surprised if you get a deep question thrown at you within the first five minutes of meeting them. The faster you become vulnerable with them, the more connected they feel. They value authenticity and creativity, which makes them fascinating people in general. Your Enneagram Four friend is likely shopping at thrift stores, finding the craziest piece of jewelry, and pulling off a style you wouldn’t dare attempt.

They do, however, struggle with always feeling like something is inherently wrong with them, creating insecurity and anxiety within. They can be emotionally demanding, self-absorbed, and dramatic. They may think the world revolves around them, which can cause a strain on their relationships.

Their core fear is that they have no identity or significance in the world, eventually leaving this planet with their name forgotten and having made no change to society. That of course isn’t true, because they impact the people around them in a beautiful way, but it certainly is a fear of theirs. To combat this fear, they work hard in setting themselves apart, focusing on creative self-expression.

There is also a fear in them of being inauthentic, because they are always searching for their true identity. A Four has idealized a person or identity they dream of becoming and constantly compare themselves to that. When they fail to become that “dream person,” they begin to question who they really are and what is wrong with them that is keeping them from become that person.

The little Four’s wounding childhood message is “You are simultaneously too much and not enough” or “You will be forgotten if you aren’t unique.”

Their core desire is to have an identity and be known for something. They long to find themselves and find self-expression. They are searching for the ideal self. Because of this search and the disconnection it puts between who they are and who they want to be, they feel like they aren’t really their true self. This creates a desire in them to find their authentic self as a unique, creative, special person, and for other people to love them for being that person.

It’s important for Fours to recognize who they are trying to define themselves as. Are they following the world and their own idea of the ideal person, or are they able to rest in who God created them to be? Are they placing their identity in their creativity or in God’s creation? Searching for oneself without being rooted in the peace of God’s love can put you on an emotional roller coaster.

The thing that can bring healing and hope to a Four is remembering God doesn’t make mistakes, so they are not a mistake. Their unique gifts, talents, and perspectives were designed intentionally and beautifully.

Consider the words son or daughter and how impactful those words really are. Children are treasured by their families, and God treasures his children a million times more than anyone could ever comprehend. The gravity of God sending his Son to die for us can ground a Four’s faith and allow them to walk in freedom.

When a type Four meditates on the magnitude of God’s love, they’re able to believe their unique, authentic self is whole and perfect, just as it is, without conditions. God wants you to know you are seen and treasured for all that you are.

Are you a type Four? Before we move on to the next type, there’s one thing I want you to know. When the Lord sees you, he truly sees you. He created you on purpose, for a purpose, and knows exactly who you are. He loves you so much. Walk in confidence, dear Four, that you are seen and understood just as you are.