Who is the enneagram Self-Preservation Three? What makes up their instincts and what are their vices? If you’re an SP3, then this article is for you.
The Self-Preservation Three is known for their strong sense of security. They spend their time trying to attain as much security as possible which can be both financial and material. So as you can tell, they are very focused and do not shy away from decision making as the Self-Preservation Two. They do not believe someone should look after their needs but themselves and those around them.
Who Is The Enneagram Self-Preservation Three?
When children do not get all their protection and resources needs met, they tend to turn out as an SP3 in most cases. Their overwhelming need to have all they lack and more could be a response to that. They eventually develop authority over others and even themselves.
Their confidence and assertiveness makes them the go-to guy for so many people. They are go-getters who appear calm and in control at all times. If you’re an Enneagram Self-Preservation Three, you’ve probably been asked how to stay under control and have your life figured out even when you don’t feel like you do. This is because of your problem solving abilities. You believe every problem has a solution if you analyze it properly.
Does this mean the SP3 does not battle anxiety? Sadly, no. They also have bouts of anxiety and worry but they charge and put that underneath. Therefore avoiding showing their stress and uncertainty to the rest of the world.
The Self-Preservation Threes strongly believe in carrying out the best quality in anything they do. In any field they venture in, they truly bring their A-game while aspiring to be the best. At their jobs, relationships or friend groups. Whatever they do, they do it well and others around them are sure to notice. They do not just care about being thought of as a good person but actually being one.
So if you’ve ever wondered if you are a Self-Preservation Three, here are undeniable signs that you are.
Undeniable Traits of The Enneagram Self-Preservation Threes
1. They Overly Simplify Life
The Self-Preservation Threes are very simple by nature. Most of all they want is security and that’s what they focus on. This makes them only interested in useful things and wouldn’t pay mind to anything else. They just want to do what’s good for them and everyone around them.
They can be considered boring by others but they don’t mind. Producing efficiency is very important to them and that’s why they tend to do things themselves most times. They feel they can do it better.
2. They Struggle In Maintaining Relationships
This subtype can easily be obsessed with providing security so much that they may miss out on other factors of human relationships. Engaging with family and friends on deeper levels can be a challenge even when they are there for them financially.
They may struggle in keeping and maintaining connections which makes their relationships suffer. When they are less self aware, this isn’t a primary challenge. The SP3s aren’t very much in touch with their emotional side and feel it can make a person weak.
3. They View Themselves As Virtuous
Unlike other threes that are motivated by vanity, this three tries to suppress it even when their need for security may stem from it. What this simply means is, they know what drives them but they don’t want other people knowing that. They do not want to be viewed as vain and cling on to their virtue.
The fact people admire them for their overall quality is something they want but would never admit to others for fear of being seen as vain. They believe wanting the approval of others can be wrong even when they possess this desire.
4. They Want To Be The Best In All They Do
As mentioned above, SP3s pay attention to achieving the best quality in whatever they go. They desire to be the best and a great role model for people around them. They do not take any role for granted.
By doing this, they achieve a strong sense of security, respect and admiration for others which they inwardly desire but wouldn’t say to not appear vain. They are achievers who complete their tasks and make their parents proud. Not being able to achieve this can be a stressor.
Work For The Enneagram Self-Preservation Three
Although these threes have a good number of inspiring factors, it doesn’t change that they are always at war with themselves and bother about what people think of them. Here is work that can be done for the Self-Preservation Three:
- Being more present in their own lives and those around them. The world isn’t scripted neither does it go by their plans.
- Planning is great in getting tasks done but always sticking to rules and lists is bound to make a person rigid. Allowing yourself to be spontaneous ever so often wouldn’t hurt.
- Allow space for emotions even if you think they are a waste of time. It is a great way to connect deeper with people.
- Running away from emotions also makes you a slave to them. Instead, create a safe space for love, companionship and trust with people who feel the same way about you.
- Constantly thinking everything will fall apart without you can be risky. It makes you over indulged in activities that can wear you out. Understand that you cannot be responsible for everything.
- The anxiety you feel when things aren’t going as planned is completely normal. It can be an opportunity for you to take a step back and take a deep breath.
- Share your pain and worries with loved ones. Vulnerability is nothing to be ashamed about.
This is a guide for the enneagram self-preservation three. What do you think I missed?
