Enneagram Type 5 (The Investigator) and Step Two:

For Enneagram Type 5, working Step Two in Overeaters Anonymous means accepting that their need for knowledge, control, and isolation can’t solve their relationship with food. Type 5s often turn to food as a way to conserve energy or avoid emotional involvement, but Step Two asks them to trust in a Higher Power for real restoration.

1. Admit That Knowledge and Control Can’t Solve Your Relationship with Food:

Type 5s often believe that if they gather enough information or maintain enough control, they can fix their eating habits. Step Two asks them to admit that their need for knowledge and control won’t bring lasting peace with food.

• Reflection question: “How have I relied on knowledge or control to manage my eating, and how has this kept me stuck in unmanageable patterns?”

2. Recognize the Unmanageability of Isolation:

Type 5s often withdraw from others when they feel overwhelmed, and this can extend into their relationship with food. Step Two requires them to recognize that isolating themselves has made their eating habits unmanageable and that they need help from a Power greater than themselves.

• Reflection question: “How has my need for isolation or independence contributed to an unmanageable relationship with food?”

3. Acknowledge the Importance of Emotional Engagement:

Step Two encourages Type 5s to engage emotionally with their recovery. They need to trust that real healing comes not from retreating into their minds, but from opening themselves to a Power greater than themselves.

• Reflection question: “What would it feel like to allow myself to engage emotionally with others and trust in a Higher Power to restore my sanity around food?”

4. Surrender the Fear of Depletion or Invasion:

Type 5s often fear that if they open themselves up to others or to a Higher Power, they will be depleted or overwhelmed. Step Two asks them to surrender this fear and trust that they can find balance without feeling drained.

• Reflection question: “How has my fear of depletion or invasion influenced my eating habits, and how can I begin to surrender this fear?”

5. Trust in the OA Process and the Power of Connection:

For Type 5s, Step Two is about trusting that connection and reliance on a Higher Power will restore them to sanity, without depleting their energy. They must trust that they don’t need to solve everything alone.

• Reflection question: “How can I trust that by connecting with others and allowing a Higher Power to guide me, I will find balance and peace in my relationship with food?”

Summary: Type 5s work Step Two by admitting that knowledge and isolation can’t restore their relationship with food. By trusting in a Higher Power and engaging emotionally, they can find the balance and connection they need for healing.