Enneagram Type 7 (The Enthusiast) and Step Two:
For Enneagram Type 7, working Step Two in Overeaters Anonymous involves acknowledging that their pursuit of pleasure, distraction, and excitement can’t fix their relationship with food. Type 7s may use food as a way to avoid discomfort or boredom, but Step Two asks them to trust in a Higher Power for true restoration.
1. Admit That Pleasure and Distraction Can’t Fix Your Relationship with Food:
Type 7s often use food to bring excitement or distract from discomfort. Step Two requires them to admit that pleasure-seeking and distraction won’t lead to sanity in their relationship with food.
- Reflection question: “How have I used food to distract myself or bring excitement, and how has this approach kept me from real peace?”
2. Recognize the Unmanageability of Avoiding Pain or Boredom:
Type 7s tend to avoid pain or boredom at all costs, and this can lead to compulsive eating. Step Two asks them to recognize that constantly seeking pleasure through food has led to unmanageable habits.
- Reflection question: “How has my avoidance of discomfort or boredom contributed to an unmanageable relationship with food?”
3. Acknowledge the Need for Balance and Presence:
Step Two encourages Type 7s to find balance by staying present in the moment, even when it’s uncomfortable. Healing comes from allowing a Higher Power to restore sanity, not from constantly chasing pleasure or excitement.
- Reflection question: “What would it feel like to stay present with my emotions and trust a Higher Power to help me find peace without constantly seeking distractions?”
4. Surrender the Fear of Being Trapped or Limited:
Type 7s fear being trapped in negative emotions or limitations, and food may have been used to escape this fear. Step Two asks them to surrender the belief that food can prevent discomfort and trust that a Higher Power can bring true freedom.
- Reflection question: “How has my fear of being trapped or limited led to unhealthy food behaviors, and how can I begin to surrender that fear?”
5. Trust in the OA Process and the Power of Slowing Down:
For Type 7s, Step Two is about trusting that by slowing down and staying present with their feelings, they will find more lasting joy and peace. The OA process teaches them that real happiness comes not from constant excitement but from inner balance.
- Reflection question: “How can I trust that by slowing down and staying present, I will find the peace and joy I’ve been seeking without relying on food for excitement?”
Summary: Type 7s work Step Two by recognizing that their pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of discomfort won’t restore their relationship with food. By trusting in a Higher Power and staying present, they can find the balance and peace they truly desire.