Which Enneagram Type are You?

Find out which Enneagram matches your personality type, and gain deep insight on how to enrich your life, relationships, career and more.

Enneagram 8 Relationship Compatibility

enneagram 8

Compatibility with Type 1: The Perfectionist

A relationship between a Type 8, “The Challenger,” and a Type 1, “The Perfectionist,” has the potential for mutual respect and productivity. Both types value integrity and justice and are willing to fight for what they believe in. Type 1’s strong moral compass and tendency for fairness can align well with Type 8’s desire for control and influence.

However, tensions can arise when both types’ dogmatic tendencies collide. While Type 8 seeks control and directness, Type 1 focuses on righteousness and propriety, often leading to clashes when their distinct approaches to life do not align.

Communication is key in this relationship. Type 8s need to respect Type 1’s moral integrity, and Type 1s need to understand Type 8’s need for control. Both must learn to compromise and appreciate the other’s strengths while mitigating their weaknesses.

In terms of personal growth, Type 8 can learn restraint and the value of methodical approaches from Type 1. Conversely, Type 1 can learn assertiveness and decisiveness from Type 8. Both have a lot to offer in terms of making each other more balanced individuals.

In summary, a relationship between Type 8 and Type 1 can be strong and mutually beneficial, provided both parties learn to respect the other’s core values and find a middle ground through effective communication.

Compatibility with Type 2: The Helper

A relationship between a Type 8 and a Type 2, known as “The Helper,” is often marked by mutual admiration. Type 2 is attracted to the strength and confidence of Type 8, while Type 8 values the caring and nurturing aspects of Type 2. There’s a natural balance as both types can offer what the other lacks.

The main challenge for this pairing is ensuring a balance of power. Type 8’s natural desire for control can overshadow Type 2’s needs, while Type 2’s tendency to be overly accommodating may lead to resentment later on.

For this relationship to work, Type 8s need to let their softer, more vulnerable side show, allowing Type 2 to care for them in a genuine way. Likewise, Type 2s need to establish boundaries and assert their needs to avoid being overwhelmed by Type 8’s strong personality.

In terms of personal growth, Type 8 can learn the importance of vulnerability and emotional availability from Type 2, while Type 2 can gain a sense of empowerment and learn to stand up for themselves more readily.

In summary, while challenges exist, a Type 2 and Type 8 relationship can be a harmonious one, blending strength with care. With effective communication and mutual respect, the relationship can offer balance and satisfaction to both types.

Compatibility with Type 3: The Achiever

When Type 8 partners with Type 3, known as “The Achiever,” the result is often a power duo. Both types are ambitious, assertive, and focused on achieving their goals. They admire each other’s strengths, and both are oriented toward practical action and results.

However, potential tensions can arise in terms of competition and emotional unavailability. Both types may struggle to be vulnerable and open about their emotional needs, leading to a relationship that, while efficient, lacks emotional depth.

Communication and vulnerability are key elements for the success of this partnership. Both parties need to set aside their competitive natures and strong personas to engage in genuine emotional exchange and share their true feelings and vulnerabilities.

In terms of growth, Type 3 can learn from Type 8’s directness and willingness to confront issues head-on. Type 8 can benefit from Type 3’s focus on goals and efficiency, refining their sometimes scattered approach to challenges.

In summary, a relationship between a Type 3 and Type 8 can be an energetic and successful partnership, but both must work on their emotional intelligence to create a balanced, fulfilling relationship.

Compatibility with Type 4: The Individualist

A relationship between Type 8, “The Challenger,” and Type 4, “The Individualist,” can be a mix of intrigue and challenge. Type 4’s depth of emotion and introspection can be appealing to Type 8, who often hides vulnerability under a layer of strength. Conversely, Type 4 can be drawn to the raw, unfiltered power and certainty of Type 8.

The primary challenge for this pair lies in their differing emotional needs and communication styles. While Type 4 values emotional authenticity and depth, Type 8’s focus on control and suppression of vulnerability can create tension.

For this partnership to work, both types need to find a way to meet each other’s emotional needs without compromising their own core values. Type 8 needs to tap into their hidden vulnerabilities and share them with Type 4. In turn, Type 4 needs to understand and respect Type 8’s need for control and directness.

In terms of growth, Type 8 can learn the value of emotional depth and vulnerability from Type 4. Conversely, Type 4 can learn to be more assertive and to stand up for themselves, benefiting from Type 8’s natural strength.

In summary, a Type 8 and Type 4 relationship can offer a fascinating blend of strength and sensitivity. With conscious effort from both sides to understand and meet each other’s emotional needs, this relationship can offer both partners significant growth and fulfillment.

Compatibility with Type 5: The Investigator

When a Type 8 “Challenger” is in a relationship with a Type 5 “Investigator,” there can be a mutual appreciation for each other’s intellect and individuality. Both types value independence and are generally respectful of each other’s space and autonomy. Type 8 admires the wisdom and depth of Type 5, while Type 5 respects the assertiveness and strength of Type 8.

The main challenge in this relationship is emotional engagement. Type 5’s need for privacy and introspection can clash with Type 8’s desire for intensity and direct engagement. Both types tend to suppress their vulnerabilities, which can lead to emotional distance.

To bridge this emotional gap, both types need to make a conscious effort to open up to each other. Type 8 needs to learn to tone down their intensity to give Type 5 the space they need for intellectual pursuits. Similarly, Type 5 needs to occasionally step out of their comfort zone and engage with Type 8 in a more direct and emotional manner.

In terms of growth, Type 5 can learn to be more assertive and directly confrontational from Type 8, while Type 8 can learn the benefits of introspection and analytical thinking from Type 5. These learning experiences can help both types become more well-rounded individuals.

In summary, a relationship between a Type 8 and a Type 5 can be highly compatible, provided both are willing to work on their emotional communication and appreciate the different ways they approach life. With mutual respect and some adjustments, this relationship can offer both types a sense of empowerment and intellectual satisfaction.

Compatibility with Type 6: The Loyalist

When a Type 8 “The Challenger” pairs with a Type 6 “The Loyalist,” the relationship can be characterized by a strong sense of loyalty and mutual commitment. Type 6’s keen focus on security and support can dovetail well with Type 8’s need for a dependable partner. Both types are drawn to each other for their capacity to dig in and weather life’s challenges.

However, the relationship can be fraught with conflicts and misunderstandings. Type 8’s assertiveness may at times feel overpowering to Type 6, who may retaliate with passive-aggressive behavior or retreat into anxiety. Similarly, Type 6’s tendency for worry and skepticism may clash with Type 8’s straightforward and domineering style.

Communication is the linchpin in making this relationship work. Type 8 has to be sensitive to Type 6’s anxieties and fears, while Type 6 needs to find a way to cope with Type 8’s need for control and assertiveness without getting anxious or passive-aggressive.

From a growth perspective, Type 8 can learn the value of vulnerability and caution from Type 6, who is often good at spotting pitfalls and risks. On the other hand, Type 6 can benefit from Type 8’s natural capability to take charge and make decisions, learning to be more assertive and straightforward in their dealings.

In summary, while this relationship presents some unique challenges, with effective communication and compromise, a Type 8 and Type 6 pairing has the potential to be balanced and mutually supportive, marked by a strong sense of loyalty and mutual respect.

Compatibility with Type 7: The Enthusiast

Type 8’s relationship with a Type 7, known as “The Enthusiast,” can be exciting and dynamic. Both types are action-oriented and love new challenges. Type 7’s enthusiasm and zest for life can be invigorating for Type 8, who appreciates a partner who can keep up with their intensity and energy.

The challenges in this relationship arise from their different approaches to dealing with emotional complexities. While Type 8 confronts issues directly and values transparency, Type 7 has a tendency to avoid emotional pain by focusing on future possibilities and adventures, which can lead to avoidance issues.

For this relationship to work, both types need to address their emotional avoidance tendencies—Type 8’s avoidance of vulnerability and Type 7’s avoidance of emotional depth. Both need to learn to be present with each other, embracing both the highs and lows of emotional experience.

When it comes to personal growth, Type 8 can learn from Type 7’s optimism and adaptability. This can lighten up Type 8’s often intense focus on control and confrontation. Conversely, Type 7 can learn from Type 8’s groundedness and sense of purpose, offering them a framework to channel their boundless energy.

In summary, a relationship between Type 8 and Type 7 can be lively and fulfilling if both types learn to address their avoidance tendencies and commit to emotional and communicative transparency. The potential for mutual growth and enjoyment is high, but requires conscious effort from both parties.

Compatibility with Type 8: The Challenger

A relationship between two Type 8s can be incredibly intense and dynamic. Both are strong-willed, assertive, and direct in their approach to life. This can make for a powerful partnership where both individuals are equally committed to taking on challenges and gaining control over their environment.

However, the very traits that make them so alike can also lead to significant conflicts. Both may compete for control and dominance, leading to power struggles that can escalate quickly. With two formidable wills in a relationship, things can either go very well or very poorly.

For the relationship to work, both Type 8s need to make space for vulnerability and compromise. Effective communication can help in diffusing tensions and avoiding unnecessary conflicts. Each must learn to occasionally relinquish control and allow the other to take the lead.

In terms of personal growth, each Type 8 can learn from the other’s strengths and weaknesses. They both understand the need for control, but can learn different ways of achieving it from each other. This can be an enriching experience that allows both to grow as individuals.

In summary, while a relationship between two Type 8s can be fraught with challenges, it can also be extremely rewarding. Both parties will need to work on opening up and compromising to ensure a balanced, harmonious relationship.

Compatibility with Type 9: The Peacemaker

When a Type 8 is in a relationship with a Type 9, known as “The Peacemaker,” there can be a strong sense of complementary strengths. Type 9’s easygoing nature can balance out Type 8’s intensity, while Type 8’s assertiveness can help Type 9 become more proactive and engaged.

However, there can be some tensions as well. Type 8’s confrontational style may become overwhelming for Type 9, who generally avoids conflicts. On the flip side, Type 9’s complacency and passive-aggressive tendencies can frustrate Type 8, who values directness and action.

Communication is essential in this relationship, with both parties needing to be sensitive to each other’s fundamental approach to life. Type 8 needs to respect Type 9’s need for peace and harmony, and must try not to steamroll over them. Conversely, Type 9 should work on becoming more assertive and sharing their own needs and wants openly.

In terms of growth, Type 8 can learn the art of patience and the value of inner peace from Type 9. On the other hand, Type 9 can learn the benefits of taking direct action and standing up for oneself from Type 8.

In summary, while a relationship between Type 8 and Type 9 can offer a beautiful balance of strength and peace, it requires open communication and mutual respect. With the right balance, this relationship can offer a harmonious blend of qualities that can be deeply enriching for both.