168. Big Ideas vs. Deep Thinking: How Type 7 and Type 5 Brainstorm Differently

2025-03-15

Some team members fire off ideas like a creativity machine while others sit back, take it all in, and analyze before making a move. If you’ve ever worked with a Type 7 (The Enthusiast) or a Type 5 (The Strategist), you know there are some key differences to the way they approach work, including when it comes to generating new ideas and brainstorming. Type 7 might say: "Let’s put all the ideas out there - no judging them yet!"Type 5 might say: "Let’s think this through logically before jumping in."In this episode of Enn...

Some team members fire off ideas like a creativity machine while others sit back, take it all in, and analyze before making a move.

If you’ve ever worked with a Type 7 (The Enthusiast) or a Type 5 (The Strategist), you know there are some key differences to the way they approach work, including when it comes to generating new ideas and brainstorming.

Type 7 might say: "Let’s put all the ideas out there - no judging them yet!"
Type 5 might say: "Let’s think this through logically before jumping in."

In this episode of Enneagram at Work, we’re looking at:

The strengths of Type 7s in the innovation process (visionary, energetic, adaptable)
How Type 5s bring strategy, depth, and expertise to decision-making
Where they each struggle (Too scattered? Too withdrawn?)
How to find the balance between big-picture thinking and deep analysis
The best way to work with both styles in a team setting

Whether you’re a fast-moving innovator or a deep-thinking strategist, this episode will help you become aware of your own tendencies and help you navigate your co-worker relationships.

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🗓️ Book an Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops

✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet

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