How Authors can use the Enneagram
Character development in fiction novels can be tough. Between character interviews, finding a muse, or muddling through the development mid-write - often our characters are a little… inconsistent in their delivery. Recently, I found an easy, paint-by-number way of developing your characters into deep, three-dimensional personalities that are realistic, consistent, and relatable.
My cheat-sheet tool for authors is called the Enneagram. It’s a system of 9 different personality types. These 9 types each have distinct personality traits and motivations. Here’s my easy way to use the Enneagram:
Read through the list of 9 personality types. Find the one or ones that best fit each of your main characters.
Research the selected personalities deeper.
Compare that character’s motivations, fears, strengths with your current plot (or develop your plot with those in hand) and make sure they are a match.
I learned about the Enneagram from Karla Sorensen at a presentation she did for Inkers Con 2019. Karla is returning for Inkers Mini-Con! She’s joined by her good friend and New York Times bestselling author Nana Malone. They are both passionate about the Enneagram and have teamed up to present our "Character Development Masterclass".
If you’re interested in learning more about and using the Enneagram in your own writing process, I’d start by taking the test to see what personality type you are.
There are a few main places to take the test:
The Enneagram Institute - Test is $12, but the site is filled with tons of info
Truity - Limited test results are free, you can find out more for $19. Limited results are enough to show you your scores.
Personality Path - Free and easy
Give the free test a shot - you have nothing to lose and it might just show you a different way of looking at your own emotions, fears, and motivations. Here’s what a sample result looks like (this is my results):
Enneagram map that shows heavy 7 and 9 preference.
Breakdown of percentages Alessandra received for each personality type. Type 9 had a 96% match and Type 7 had a 98% match.
Have you ever used the Enneagram or a different personality typing system for your characters? Do you have a different method that helps you with your development? Please share in the comments section!
Interested in taking the full Enneagram for authors Character Development Masterclass class? It's part of Inkers Mini-Con! This short weekend conference offers five great classes, live Q&As, and access for a full six months! Click below to see all of the details and save your spot. Tickets are only $29 and only available for a limited time! More info here.
