Everything an Enneagram 3 Needs to Know About Love & Compatibility
Ah, Enneagram 3…. You know them as the go-getters, the ones who never quite seem to slow down as they achieve success after success—which, of course, only keeps them going after more. Enneagram 3s leave tangible imprints on the world and those around them, often in the best ways. Who wouldn't want to score high on the charts of Enneagram 3 compatibility?
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.)
If you're an Enneagram 3 and are wondering about your potential compatibility with a partner, here's how "The Achiever" fares in relationships and love—from Enneagram 3 personality traits and communication style to what to expect in the bedroom.
In this article:
- Enneagram 3 Traits & Personality
- Enneagram 3 Communication Style
- How Enneagram 3 Is in a Relationship
- Enneagram 3 in the Bedroom
- The Most Compatible Enneagrams for Type 3
Enneagram 3 Traits & Personality
Known as "The Achiever," Enneagram 3s are equal parts ambitious and charming with a zest for all life has to offer. They are charismatic and pragmatic, giving much thought to almost everything—and sometimes, too much thought.
Driven by their goals and achievements, the boundaries of a work/life balance tend to be blurred for the Enneagram Type 3. Oftentimes though, their work is fulfilling and makes them happy instead of perpetually stressed or anxious.
Enneagram 3s also care about how they are perceived, as their image is important to them and they find comfort and confidence in how they present themselves to the world. Hearing feedback or criticism may be a bit of a pain point for an Enneagram 3, but it ultimately drives them forward.
Though they're always thinking about their next move, task or achievement, Enneagram 3s are also surprisingly adaptable. They can be flexible when needed and can roll with changing plans.
Enneagram 3 Communication Style
When it comes to communication style and preferences, Enneagram 3s don't tiptoe around. They prefer direct, open and honest communication that goes both ways. For the most part, they are considered to be excellent communicators and often make for awesome public speakers, too.
Because they can be image-conscious, they may prefer private forms of communication when it comes to the more serious stuff. In conversation, they may seem distracted at times as their mind is always thinking of what comes next. And when it comes to conflict communication, they have one thing on their mind: a solution.
How Enneagram 3 Is in a Relationship
As they do in all areas of their life, Enneagram 3s are always striving for success in relationships. This looks like being a supportive partner, fostering clear communication and exuding a passionate energy when it comes to all things romance.
For date nights, they are fans of heading out to social places and often embrace a "more the merrier" mentality—so if 1:1 time is important to you (and it should be!) you may have to push for it just a bit. They also thrive on affirmation and recognition, so regularly voicing your appreciation for them and your relationship will go a long way.
Enneagram 3 in the Bedroom
Enneagram 3s are as goal-oriented in the bedroom as they are in the boardroom. Sex and intimacy are high on their list of priorities and they pride themselves on giving pleasure, satisfying their partners and exploring new experiences.
Things won't get boring in the bedroom with an Enneagram 3, as they love trying new things and spicing things up with adventure, toys, and even giving new trends a try. But as much as Enneagram 3s cherish closeness and intimacy with their partner, they might need a small nudge to put down the work and actually get into the bedroom. But once they're there, they're all there.
The Most Compatible Enneagrams for Type 3
So who are the ideal partners for the focused and determined Enneagram 3? Scroll on to see their made-in-heaven matches. 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 3 and Enneagram 9
True to the old "opposites attract" adage, Enneagram 3 and Enneagram 9 are so different from one another, their combined traits create a unique balance: Because 3s are so high energy and 9s have a soothing, calming presence, together they achieve a lovely harmony that just kind of works.
Enneagram 3 and Enneagram 6
Enneagram 6s are strong and steady, often serving as the anchor in a relationship which an Enneagram 3 will certainly appreciate. While the 3s are out there working hard to chase after their latest dream or achievement, 6s are great at holding down the fort, cheering them along and providing support along the way.
Enneagram 3 and Enneagram 7
Together, Enneagram 7 and Enneagram 3 have enough ambition and drive to achieve any goal they set. Plus, they'll remain playful and will keep the "fun" in all of life's journeys—which there will be many of since both personality types love adventure.