Outdoor Activities for every Enneagram type

November 6, 2019

Written by Maria Campanella

As I’m sure anyone who attends Liberty University has noticed, the Enneagram is a constant topic of discussion. For those of you that don’t know, it is a set of nine personality types and meant to help people understand themselves and others better. The Enneagram Institute has far more information on each type, the correlation between all the types, and how to determine what number you are. It can be beneficial in relationships, the workplace, and to know yourself better to help you grow as a person.

The outdoors are more appealing to some types rather than others, but I feel that the Outdoor Recreation department has something to offer every enneagram type. Hopefully this will give you a better idea of what we do as a department and how you can utilize what we have available.

 

Type One – Ones have a very strong sense of right and wrong and strive for perfection. The Reformers are known for wanting to change the world, and they have goals and visions for how to make a difference. They are wise and discerning and, at their best, know what is best in every situation. Ones often like to have an escape and a way to “blow off steam” which is why I think that our trail races and trail running in general would be a beneficial thing for them to utilize at Hydaway. We have two races left this semester, the Valley View 5-miler and the Reindeer Run. We’ve also got two races set for the spring semester!

Type Two – Twos are the most generous and kind people you will meet. They are warm-hearted and driven to please others and love the people around them. They are titled The Helper because of their constant desire to help and love others. That being said, Hydaway can be a great escape and every two I have asked said that they just enjoy relaxing in and being in the presence of the outdoors, so the beach and lake would be a perfect relaxing escape for a two to soak in to the moment.

Type Three – Known as The Achiever, threes are competitively driven, and goal oriented.  They desire to impress others and to be admired. They are self-motivated and good at encouraging others. I think that threes have the potential to really enjoy our challenge course. The challenge course is very goal oriented and is a whole team activity. This would be a great time for a three to help encourage and motivate others on their team or in their workplace to do their best and achieve their goals as well.

Type Four – Type fours are individualistic, creative, and sensitive. They are known as The Individualist and like to have an identity different from everyone else. Fours appreciate beauty and their surroundings and tend to enjoy time to themselves to be alone with their emotions so Fours would really like our kayaks or paddleboards which provide time to themselves in nature and beauty – especially this time of year as nature begins to quiet. It gives a great opportunity to enjoy their surrounding and have time to think.

 

Type Five – The type five loves to learn. They are perceptive and innovative which is why they are titled The Investigator. The main desire of the five is to be competent and to be knowledgeable on useful things. Something that the investigator could definitely enjoy and find useful through our department is the NOLS Wilderness First Responder course. It happens every other spring semester, so it will be taking place this spring! It is a useful course that will provide you with an extreme amount of knowledge – learn more about what the course will teach you.

 

 

Type Six – The Loyalist; six’s are security oriented and stability craving. They are very trustworthy and loyal friends. They are worrisome and suspicious, so they crave reassurance and support. This tends to be found in people, once a six trusts and draws close to someone, they don’t let go easily. Sixes thrive in situations with people closest to them, so camping at Hydaway would be a fun way for them to relax and enjoy the company of those around them. They can also plan and prepare before they go, taking away worries they may have. If you are interested in renting a campsite, you can call the Outfitter (434-592-6284) to reserve a site.

 

Type Seven – Sevens are known for being outgoing, optimistic, and spontaneous. They enjoy trying new things and experiencing new activities and are commonly referred to as The Enthusiast. This is why one of our many trips would be something that a type seven would enjoy. We have a variety of off-site trips that go out each semester – caving, horseback riding, kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, fly fishing, white water rafting, and overnight camping. There are many experiences to choose from and they could have the opportunity to meet new people as well.

 

Type Eight – At their best, The Challengers have great, “go get ‘em” attitudes. They are passionate and take initiative on making important things happen. They have the power to effect change and gain followers in all they do. They can command attention and prompt people to feel what they are feeling. Something new to the Outdoor Recreation department is the Outdoor Club. This is an experience and opportunity for eights to make a change and affect the environment in a positive way and gives them leadership opportunities.  If you would be interested in helping us get the Outdoor Club going at Liberty, send us an email at outdoorrecreation@liberty.edu!

 

Type Nine – The Nine, also known as The Peacemaker, are easy-going, laid back, and supportive. They tend to see the positive side of things and all sides to each story. They have a calming presence and are go-with-the-flow kinds of people. As a Nine myself, I find that hammocking is my favorite thing to do at Hydaway. It is a peaceful and calming activity that pulls together those aspects of my personality and makes me feel at peace. Fellow nines, I would advise you try it!

Of course, this is general and will not be completely accurate for every person, but either way, Hydaway has so much to offer for people to enjoy. The Outdoor Recreation department strives to engage with all of the community by providing diverse experiences for everyone!  We hope to see you soon!