Everything an Enneagram 1 Needs to Know About Love & Compatibility

Including which Enneagram types are your best match…
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Erin Celletti
by
Erin Celletti
Erin Celletti
Erin Celletti
The Knot Contributor
  • Erin is a freelance contributor to The Knot and loves creating lifestyle, travel, beauty, relationships and commerce content.
  • In addition to writing for The Knot, Erin contributes to a wide range of publications including The Everygirl, The Everymom, Scary Mommy, Romper, Bustle and Brides.
  • Erin lives just outside of New York City, has a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and two Master’s degrees in Education and Administ...
Updated Jan 29, 2024

It's no wonder that Enneagram 1, "The Perfectionist," would want to gain insight into their patterns of behavior and emotions. Also known as "The Reformer," they're the Type-A, Hermione Grangers of the Enneagram system, so a yearning to learn everything from Enneagram 1 compatibility to Enneagram 1 traits makes sense.

Many use the Enneagram system, a popular typology with nine different personality types, to better understand their own or their partner's strengths, motivations and core needs—and how to best navigate their intimate relationships and find lasting, fulfilling love. (If you still don't know what your Enneagram is, Truity's free Enneagram test is one of the most popular in the US and is even psychologist-reviewed. You can take it here.)

OFC, it's what you do with that information that matters. So if you're an Enneagram 1 (or are in a relationship with one), here's everything you need to know, including Enneagram 1 compatibility, their preferred communication style and more.

In this article:

Enneagram 1 Traits & Personality

Aforementioned, Enneagram 1s are known for being perfectionists. They go all in and typically give projects and new endeavors their all.

Enneagram 1s are often successful and goal-oriented both professionally, personally and romantically. Determined, focused and committed, they often have an innate sense of purpose and discipline. Enneagram 1s usually hold very high standards for themselves—and often, their partners.

They like structure and routine and don't do so well with failure or unexpected surprises. At times, their perfectionist nature can make it hard for them to relax or ask for help.

Enneagram 1 Communication Style

It is in an Enneagram 1's nature to prefer structured and clear communication. Facts, evidence and clear examples are their friends—not dancing around issues or glossing over important details. They also are generally open to feedback as long as it is actionable and thoughtful.

To communicate with an Enneagram 1, be direct and keep it simple when you can. They'll do the same in return.

How Enneagram 1 Is in a Relationship

When it comes to romantic relationships, Enneagram 1s are committed and loyal. Their logical mindset makes them pretty emotionally neutral, without too many highs and lows. If conflict in a relationship does arise, they are committed to figuring things out and finding a solution.

They have strong problem-solving skills because they tend to be analytical and methodical in their approach—but at times, it can be hard to know if they're truly listening because their minds move so quickly.

Enneagram 1s show support for their partner by striving for improvement. They are willing to put in work to be a supportive partner, and their strong communication skills transfer into direct and loving relationships.

Enneagram 1 in the Bedroom

In the bedroom, Enneagram 1 still likes structure, which may manifest as planning out acts of intimacy or clearly expressing their wants, desires and needs. And because they're perfectionists, they tend to be very in tune with their partner's needs and desires, too.

They might not be the most adventurous in the bedroom because they like to stick with what they know—but if you ask to try something new, you know you'll get their best efforts.

For Enneagram 1s, the mind and body connection is important. Thus, they likely prioritize physical intimacy and feel closest to their partners when expressing their love through actions both in and outside of the bedroom.

The Most Compatible Enneagrams for Type 1

So now that you have a thorough understanding of the personality type, here are some of the most compatible Enneagram pairings for Type 1. Of course, this doesn't mean you can't have a great relationship outside of these pairings. The matches below are just popularly thought to be compatible due to the traits typically associated with the Enneagram types.

Enneagram 1 and Enneagram 2

Enneagram 2s are known for being supportive and loving, and can help Type 1 partners go a bit easier on themselves. Together, 1s and 2s can create a loving and nurturing relationship where both feel supported and fulfilled.

Enneagram 1 and Enneagram 6

Enneagram 1 and Enneagram 6 share similar top values: stability, security and loyalty. Enneagram 6s are known as "The Loyalist," and are very much dedicated to their relationships. They make for great team players, too, which fits in beautifully with Enneagram 1's core principles.

Enneagram 1 and Enneagram 9

Another great pairing when it comes to relationships is Enneagram 1 with Enneagram 9. Because 9s are generally easygoing and accepting by nature, they can help to dilute a Type 1's intensity when warranted. Enneagram 9s are the peacemakers of the Enneagram world and can help complement the perfectionist Type 1.

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