Enneagram Type 3 (The Achiever) and Step Two:

For Enneagram Type 3, working Step Two in Overeaters Anonymous involves facing the idea that their success, image, or willpower alone cannot fix their relationship with food. Type 3s often believe that if they just try harder or present the right image, they can control their eating, but Step Two asks them to believe in a Higher Power for real restoration.

1. Admit That Success and Image Can’t Fix Your Relationship with Food:

Type 3s often think that if they just achieve more or look better, they will be able to fix their eating habits. Step Two requires them to admit that success and image won’t lead to true sanity in their relationship with food.

• Reflection question: “How have I used success or image to try and manage my eating, and how has this approach failed me?”

2. Recognize the Unmanageability of Trying to Control Food for Approval:

For Type 3s, there’s often a strong link between their desire for approval and their relationship with food. Step Two asks them to recognize that trying to control food to fit a certain image is unmanageable, and they need to trust in a Higher Power to restore them.

• Reflection question: “How has my need for approval or recognition impacted my eating habits, and how has this approach become unmanageable?”

3. Acknowledge That Worth Is Not Based on Accomplishment:

Step Two teaches Type 3s that their worth is not determined by their accomplishments or how others see them. Healing comes through believing in a Power greater than themselves to guide them, not through striving for constant achievement.

• Reflection question: “What would it feel like to let go of needing to achieve or control everything, and to trust that I’m worthy as I am?”

4. Surrender the Fear of Failure or Not Being Enough:

Type 3s often fear failure above all else, and this can translate into their relationship with food. They may fear they’re not doing enough, eating well enough, or looking good enough. Step Two asks them to surrender this fear and trust in a Higher Power to guide them.

• Reflection question: “How has my fear of failure or not being enough influenced my relationship with food, and how can I begin to surrender this fear?”

5. Trust in the OA Process and Letting Go of Control:

For Type 3s, Step Two is about learning to trust that healing doesn’t come from more effort or control but from surrendering to a Power greater than themselves. This belief helps them let go of their constant striving and allows space for true recovery.

• Reflection question: “How can I trust that by letting go of control and focusing less on success, I will find true peace and healing in my relationship with food?”

Summary: Type 3s work Step Two by admitting that their desire for success and approval can’t restore sanity to their relationship with food. By trusting in a Higher Power, they can let go of the fear of failure and learn to accept themselves as they are.