Enneagram Type 2: Step 6

Enneagram Type 2: Working Step 6 in Overeaters Anonymous

Step 6: “Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.”

For Type 2s, Step 6 involves confronting their character defects related to their need for approval, self-worth issues, and tendency to prioritize others’ needs over their own. Type 2s must be willing to let go of these patterns and trust that they are deserving of love and support, not because of their ability to serve others but simply because of their inherent worth. This step is about becoming ready to relinquish their dependency on external validation and learn to embrace their true selves.

Here’s a detailed approach for Type 2s to work Step 6:

1. Identify Your Defects of Character

Questions to ask:

  • What patterns or behaviors have I identified in my Step 4 inventory that relate to my need for approval or fear of rejection?
  • How have my attempts to meet others’ needs or gain approval contributed to my struggles with food and self-worth?
  • What defects of character have I recognized that prevent me from fully accepting myself and my needs?

Example:

  • Reflect on how your need to be seen as helpful has led you to overextend yourself, creating burnout and resentment. Consider how this pattern has affected your relationship with food and your self-esteem.

2. Reflect on Your Willingness to Change

Steps to take:

  • Acknowledge Your Desire for Change: Recognize that change requires a willingness to let go of old patterns and trust in a higher power or the process of recovery.
  • Explore Your Fears: Identify any fears or doubts you have about letting go of these defects. What makes you hesitant to fully embrace this change?
  • Consider Your Motivation: Reflect on why it is important for you to work on these defects. How will letting go of these patterns improve your life and your relationship with food?

Example:

  • Reflect on your fear of not being needed or valued if you let go of your need to be indispensable. Consider how embracing your own worth, regardless of your ability to serve others, will lead to healthier relationships and a more balanced life.

3. Seek Support and Guidance

Steps to take:

  • Talk with a Sponsor or Mentor: Discuss your readiness to address your character defects with someone who can offer guidance and support. They can help you navigate your fears and stay committed to the process.
  • Engage in Self-Reflection: Use tools like journaling, meditation, or prayer to deepen your understanding of your defects and your readiness for change.

Example:

  • Share with your sponsor how you feel about the idea of letting go of your need for approval. Discuss any fears or resistance you have and seek their advice on how to overcome these obstacles.

4. Make a Commitment to Change

Steps to take:

  • Set Specific Goals: Define clear, actionable goals for addressing your character defects. This could include practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and learning to say no when necessary.
  • Develop a Plan: Create a plan to implement these changes, including steps you will take to address your defects and build healthier patterns.

Example:

  • Set a goal to establish specific boundaries with friends or family to prevent burnout. Commit to regularly practicing self-care and seeking feedback from others about your progress in reducing your need for external validation.

5. Practice Self-Acceptance and Patience

Steps to take:

  • Embrace Your Worth: Remind yourself that you are worthy of love and support simply because you exist, not because of what you do for others. Practice affirmations and self-compassion.
  • Be Patient with Yourself: Recognize that change is a process and will take time. Be patient with yourself as you work through letting go of old patterns and embracing new ways of being.

Example:

  • Regularly practice affirmations that reinforce your self-worth and value beyond your ability to help others. Be patient with yourself as you work through challenges and celebrate small victories along the way.

Summary

For Type 2s, working Step 6 involves recognizing and being willing to let go of defects related to their need for approval and their tendency to prioritize others’ needs over their own. This step requires Type 2s to confront their fears, seek support, and make a commitment to change. By embracing self-acceptance, setting clear goals, and practicing patience, Type 2s can begin to release old patterns and move toward a more balanced and self-affirming approach to their recovery.