This current pandemic situation has many people feeling boxed in, and not just literally.
Working from home is a whole new dynamic for many of us. It’s not surprising that this isolation can leave someone feeling fearful, overwhelmed and a little panicky.
“Take a deep breath. Remind yourself the birds are singing, you are safe and, at this moment you have a lot of freedom and choice,” advises Managing Partner Heather Marasse. This brings us back to the present moment - that place of choice in terms of "what action can I take right now?" Supporting leaders to not only cope, but thrive, during these stressful times is a priority focus for Trilogy Effect.
One way they work with leaders is to use the Enneagram as a framework for exploring people’s core motivations, strengths and capabilities. By looking through the Enneagram lens, people become aware of their patterns of reacting to situations and their triggers. With this knowledge leaders can make conscious choices when leading themselves and their teams.
Partner Wendy Appel explains, “The Enneagram describes nine fundamental worldviews and their associated habits of thinking, feeling and acting. Each is undergirded by beliefs that we have about how the world is, how others are, and who we are. Then we act from that place. Learning about the Enneagram helps you see yourself and others more clearly. It shows you the perspective from which you view the world. You may have assumed everybody shares it, and then come to realize they don’t. This is where the growth journey begins.”
Leaders create possibility
Particularly now, it’s essential for leaders to see possibility; to create and imagine futures that haven't happened yet. Often, what limits a leader from stepping up is their worldview.
Being an effective leader means developing self-awareness and encouraging self-awareness among all team members. The more people become aware of their self-limiting beliefs, behaviors, thoughts and feelings, the more they can choose how to lead.
“This pandemic is bringing out some stress behaviors among leaders, but it's also bringing out beautiful humanity,” says Partner Mary Beth Sawicki.
The Best of Each Enneagram Type Leader
Type Ones will establish new structures and protocols to help bring order to chaos. When tough decisions need to be made, you can count on them to act with integrity.
Type Two leaders are giving of themselves to others during this crisis. They are keeping in close contact with their colleagues and making sure that each one has everything required to do the job. For Type Twos, it’s important to make sure the team knows they can depend upon their leader.
Type Three leaders bring people together. They stay focused and will support their teams in learning and growing from the experience. These leaders want their teams to be their “best selves” and to continue to perform and deliver with goals in clear sight.
When compassion and sensitivity are required, Type Four leaders are there. Type Fours will make sure that people orient to the meaning and value in their work. They want to make a difference and often use creativity in problem-solving.
In challenging times, Type Five leaders will ensure that their people have all the information they need to make decisions. They’ll focus on the facts and relevant information to make informed decisions. Their objectivity provides a sense of calm in a time when we need it most.
Type Six leaders offer guidance and wisdom and will bring the team together -- all for one and one for all. In a crisis, Type Six is prepared and takes courageous action.
Leaders who take decisive, systemic action with a vision to the future are usually Type Seven. They see opportunity in crisis. These leaders are optimistic and will inspire and catalyze others to action. Sevens bring a playfulness and humor to their work and tend to be altruistic.
Leading the charge
Type Eights are leading the charge. They make sure stuff gets done and provide ground cover for the rest of the team. They will take necessary risks to forward action.
Type Nine leaders are providing their teams with balanced grounding. They remain calm and ensure the team is provisioned and are focused on ensuring everyone knows that, in the end, it’s all going to be okay.
Heather Marasse explains, “We are seeing these essential leadership qualities show through. This pandemic is a global wake-up call. It is reminding us that together we are stronger. This is what the Enneagram captures, and how it helps us rise above our habitual patterns and connects us to our best selves.”
Learn more by contacting us to set up a call: ClientCare(at)TrilogyEffect.com.