Writing Enneagram 7 Characters

Enneagram Type 7s, known as “The Enthusiasts,” are energetic, optimistic, and adventurous. They’re driven by a desire to experience all that life has to offer while avoiding pain and boredom. These high-spirited characters can bring vibrancy to your story, but their depth lies in their attempts to grapple with the inevitable struggles and limitations of life. Here’s how to craft compelling Type 7 characters.

1. Capture Their Love of Adventure

Type 7s are always seeking the next big thing—a new experience, idea, or opportunity. Their curiosity and zest for life are contagious, making them dynamic characters who drive the story forward.

• Example: A travel blogger who is always chasing the thrill of their next destination, no matter the risks.

• Quick Tip: Give them a goal or pursuit that showcases their adventurous spirit, and let their excitement ripple through their interactions.

2. Show Their Avoidance of Pain

Sevens tend to avoid negative emotions or situations that feel limiting. This can lead to a pattern of distraction or escapism, which adds layers to their personality.

• Example: A party planner who buries their grief by throwing elaborate events and keeping busy.

• Quick Tip: Write moments where their attempts to dodge discomfort create complications or deepen their struggles.

3. Highlight Their Optimism

Sevens are natural optimists, always seeing possibilities where others see problems. This positivity can be inspiring but also lead to denial or unrealistic expectations.

• Example: A startup founder who rallies their team with big dreams, even when the odds are stacked against them.

• Quick Tip: Balance their optimism with moments of reality that challenge their worldview.

4. Explore Their FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

Type 7s hate the idea of missing out on something exciting. This can make them indecisive or prone to overcommitting as they try to do it all.

• Example: A college student who joins every club and activity but struggles to keep up with their commitments.

• Quick Tip: Show how their fear of missing out affects their choices and relationships, for better or worse.

5. Reflect Their Charisma and Energy

Sevens are often the life of the party, drawing people in with their infectious enthusiasm and charm. Use their energy to create dynamic group interactions.

• Example: A comedian who always finds a way to make others laugh, even in tough situations.

• Quick Tip: Write scenes where their charisma wins people over, but also where it hides their deeper vulnerabilities.

6. Dive Into Their Inner Restlessness

Beneath their vibrant exterior, Sevens often feel restless, always searching for fulfillment that seems just out of reach. This internal conflict can drive their story arc.

• Example: An inventor who constantly jumps from one project to another, never feeling satisfied with their accomplishments.

• Quick Tip: Highlight moments where their restlessness pushes them to grow or creates tension with others.

7. Use Their Adaptability

Sevens are quick thinkers who excel at improvising and finding creative solutions. This adaptability can be a strength, but it can also lead to a lack of follow-through.

• Example: A con artist who thrives on thinking on their feet but struggles to maintain long-term schemes.

• Quick Tip: Show how their adaptability saves the day, but also how it creates challenges when consistency is required.

8. Reflect Their Stress and Growth Arcs

Under stress, Sevens can lean into Type 1 traits, becoming rigid and perfectionistic. When they grow, they adopt Type 5 traits, seeking focus and depth instead of endless distractions.

• Example: A stressed Seven might become overly critical of themselves while a growing Seven learns to slow down and delve deeply into a single passion.

• Quick Tip: Use their reactions to stress and growth to shape their development over time.

9. Create Tension Between Freedom and Commitment

Sevens crave freedom and struggle with the idea of being tied down. This tension can lead to fascinating conflicts in their relationships and goals.

• Example: An entrepreneur who dreams of settling down but fears losing their independence.

• Quick Tip: Write moments where they’re forced to choose between freedom and meaningful connections.

10. Show Their Growth Through Grounding

Healthy Sevens learn to embrace stillness and face their fears instead of running from them. This growth can add depth and resonance to their arc.

• Example: A globetrotting journalist who finally takes time to process their emotions and build deeper relationships.

• Quick Tip: Include small but significant moments where they begin to find joy in simplicity and stability.

Final Thoughts

Enneagram 7 characters bring energy, excitement, and a sense of possibility to your story. Their love of adventure and optimism can make them inspiring, while their struggles with restlessness and avoidance add depth. Whether they’re chasing thrills or learning to embrace stillness, their journey is sure to captivate readers.