Finding a Job for Enneagram Type 4 Personalities

The Enneagram is a system for mapping and explaining unique personalities. The Enneagram system explains patterns in how people interpret things, deal with their emotions, and how they view the world overall. The Enneagram consists of nine personality types and then maps these personalities on a 9-pointed diagram. So, you not only understand your Enneagram personality, but how your Enneagram type relates to other Enneagram types. It’s no wonder why offices use the Enneagram personality to determine the distinct personalities of the employees, as well as how these personalities can best work with each other. A person with a Type 4 Enneagram is also known as The Individualist or The Creative. Type 4s are often quite creative, independent, and expressive. They love work that is individualistic and shows their self-expression. They will thrive in any job that lets them express their uniqueness. On the downside, Type 4s can be a little moody, too focused on themselves, withdrawn, and sensitive to criticism. The worst jobs for Type 4s are ones that focus on administration and rules such as a police officer, assistant, financial advisor, or lawyer. So instead, let’s focus on the jobs that Type 4s will find the most fulfilling.

Here are some of the best jobs that will suit someone with an Enneagram Type 4 personality:

Actor

Average Base Pay: $38,166 per year

An actor interprets characters that are written in a script and brings them to life on the stage, television, or even the big screen. Some acting may be more unconventional, such as acting in a theme park or other non-recorded role. No matter where they are working, actors get to help create a character with their own unique takes and characteristics. This is the perfect job for a Type 4, as they can express their emotions and opinions through their art while connecting with other actors. No formal education is needed to become an actor, but there are many universities that offer degrees in acting.

Photographer

Average Base Pay: $30,367 per year

A photographer takes and sells photographs. They can be employed by a magazine or newspaper, or they may be self-employed. An Enneagram Type 4 is someone who has a unique style and unconventional way of seeing the world — two qualities that make an excellent photographer. A photographer is considered an isolated job by many people, but for an Enneagram Type 4, it’s a job that allows freedom and a chance to connect with their photography subjects meaningfully. Formal education is unnecessary to become a photographer, although many photographers will want to enroll in educational courses to improve their methods.

Hair stylist

Average Base Pay: $20,188 per year

Hair stylists cut and style people’s hair. Depending on the salon or barbershop where they are employed, they will need to be familiar with several hair styling techniques such as braiding, weaving, dying, and creating formal hair styles. An Enneagram Type 4 in this job will love how much they can show off their unique style and creativity to their clients. Creating and maintain a professional yet meaningful relationship with clients is another reason a Type 4 will love this job. Hair stylists need at least a high school education and certification from a state-approved cosmetology program.

Graphic designer

Average Base Pay: $45,677 per year A graphic designer makes visual creations and concepts through drawing or computers. Their visual creations are usually used for websites, logos, advertisements, and brochures. They can work in advertising companies, publishing, or may even work freelance. Graphic designers usually work in an environment with coworkers and managers that understand their vision and are open to unique and creative ideas — something incredibly important to Type 4s. To become a graphic designer, you need at least a bachelor’s in graphic design.

Musician

Average Base Pay: $43,742 per year

A musician writes and performs music. They play an instrument or dedicate themselves to song writing. They usually perform their music live in front of an audience or it may be recorded. Creating music is an excellent way for a Type 4 to express their unique abilities and individuality. Type 4s also crave acknowledgement and appreciation of their talents — something easy to find in front of a live audience! To become a musician requires no formal education. However, because music requires a good deal of technical skill, it’s a good idea to seek some schooling.

Dance instructor

Average Base Pay: $45, 371 per year

A dance instructor works with people interested in learning a type of dance. They must have experience in the dance they are teaching such as jazz, tap, salsa, or ballroom. They must also be able to create their own dance routines that they can teach to students with different experience levels. Type 4s get to express themselves through dance and share their unique vision with their students. Dance instructors may need a bachelor’s degree in teaching or only proof that they are certified to teach this type of dance. It will all depend on what studio employs them.

Therapist

Average Base Pay: $48,905 per year

Therapists help people overcome trauma in their lives and understand their own feelings. They work with patients to create a plan and strategies for dealing with these feelings. Type 4s are in touch with their feelings, and they feel most energized when talking with others about their feelings productively. Therapists are free to express and examine their feelings and only have to follow the schedules they set for themselves. Becoming a therapist requires a great deal of schooling. They must have at least a master’s and be licensed to practice therapy where they live.

Artist

Average Base Pay: $41,897 per year

An artist is someone who specializes in an art form such as painting, sculpting, illustrating, or pottery. An artist is an extremely creative job that does not usually work within the constructs of an office. Artists are free to pursue their own desires and express their opinions, feelings, and emotions through their work. It’s an excellent job for a Type 4 that thrives on individualism, self-expression, and being authentically themselves at all times. Becoming an artist requires no formal education, but much like a musician, most artists find it beneficial to take university courses to further hone their skills.

Writer

Average Base Pay: $51,395 per year Very few jobs allow for more self-expression than a writer. A writer is someone who writes books, stories, or articles. They may write for a publication or self-publish their own work. While it can be a job of uncertainty, it allows for a lot of freedom and offers unique ways for the writer to express their views and ways of thinking. Also, depending on what they choose to write about, they may connect with other people in a way they find meaningful. To become a self-published writer does not require a formal education, but those employed by a magazine or newspaper must have at least a bachelor’s degree.

Personal trainer

Average Base Pay: $42,010 per year

A personal trainer works with individuals and groups and teaches them exercise methods. Personal trainers can be certified to teach a variety of things such as yoga, weight-lifting, and general fitness. They often work at gyms and motivate their clients to set goals for themselves and improve their physicality. This job is great for the Type 4 who likes to connect with others and set their own schedule. A personal trainer rarely requires a formal education, but they may have to be certified in the form of exercise they are teaching. It all depends on the gym or studio that employs them. They may also need to be certified in CPR.

Journalist

Average Base Pay: $44,477 per year

A journalist is someone who writes for newspapers, magazines, and local news stations. They generate, investigate, and then write story ideas that are relevant for their community. Type 4 personalities are contemplative and are always trying to look at the world through a new perspective. They can put this contemplativeness to excellent use as a journalist who is trying to learn more about a community and look for solutions to life’s big problems. They will love the amount of individuality and self-motivation that comes with this job. A journalist needs at least a bachelor’s degree in writing, journalism, or telecommunications.

There are plenty of Enneagram Type 4 careers for all types of interests. Find the one that best fits yours.