Eights, also known as Challengers, are motivated by a need to be strong and avoid feeling weak or vulnerable. Fueled by intensity, they are domineering and confrontational, unafraid to speak their mind—and they expect you to do the same. Residing in the Gut Triad, Eights externalize their anger, naturally exuding strength and projecting an intimidating exterior to mask vulnerability. Expressing true emotions can feel like weakness to Eights.
At their best, Eights are dynamic, confident leaders who are unafraid to challenge authority and act as champions for the underdog. At their worst, Eights struggle to understand that vulnerability is not a weakness, often unaware of the domineering way others experience them in relationships.
Your wing is one of the two numbers on either side of your main type. You may lean in the direction of one of these types and pick up some of its characteristics.
Content adapted from The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile. Type names also appear at The Enneagram Institute®.