One of the things we see when we’re working with leaders is that leadership development is hard work — and it isn’t always visible on the outside. The real transformation often happens deep within: in how we make decisions, how we show up, and how we relate to ourselves and others.
The Enneagram has so much to teach us in this regard, especially in how we lead and what we prioritise.
Here are three powerful indicators that you’re doing what we call the inner work of growing in your leadership.
1. You’re Making Three-Centred Decisions
The Enneagram teaches that we have three centres of intelligence: the head (thinking), the heart (feeling), and the body (instinctive knowing). Each centre offers valuable insight, and the most grounded, emotionally intelligent leaders draw on all three when making decisions.
“Wise leadership integrates all three — feeling, thinking, and instinct — to guide responses that are both human and strategic.”
Heart: How will this decision affect others? How do I feel about it?
Head: What does the data say? Have I thought it through clearly?
Body: What’s my gut telling me? What energy or movement does this decision require?
You’ll find your decisions land better with others when all three centres are engaged in your discernment.
2. You’re Less Reactive
A sure sign of growth is reduced reactivity. When we’re no longer ruled by our defences — the automatic habits and protections of our Enneagram type — we become less reactive and more grounded.
When we start to notice how and when our type’s defence mechanism kicks in, it creates space for an alternative response — one that is more compassionate, wise, and aligned with our deeper values.
“Leaders who are secure in who they are can listen more, defend less, and stay open — even in challenging situations.”
This shift reflects a deeper maturity: the ability to be present without the need to control or protect ourselves at every turn.
In my experience, this level of development is often formed through adversity. Hold in there — a calm sea never did make a skilful sailor!
3. You’re Facing What Your Type Wants to Avoid
Each Enneagram type has a core avoidance — an experience it would rather escape. For example, Type Seven avoids pain and limitation, while Type Three might avoid failure or lack of achievement.
Growth means being able to sit with that very thing. To stop running. To face discomfort without needing to fix it, numb it, or deny it.
“That’s where leadership strength is forged — in the ability to be with what’s hard without being overtaken by it.”
This is the courageous work of becoming a leader who is both emotionally present and deeply resilient.
In Closing
These three signs — three-centred decision-making, decreased reactivity, and the courage to face your core avoidance — are strong indicators that your leadership is maturing from the inside out.
Real leadership development isn’t about adding more; it’s about integrating, deepening, and showing up with presence and courage.
It’s hard and often lonely being a leader, but be encouraged: you are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are so much more than your type pattern — and you can do this.
Andy Proudfoot — Founder, Enneagram Global