The Neuroscience of Coaching: How to Use Your Brain to Improve Your Performance

Executive coaches can benefit from understanding the neuroscience, neurobiology, and neurotransmitters of each Enneagram type because it can help them to better understand how their clients' brains work and how they respond to stress or underperformance. This knowledge can then be used to develop more effective coaching strategies that target the underlying brain mechanisms.

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Here is a detailed explanation of how the neuroscience, neurobiology, and neurotransmitters of each Enneagram type can be used to develop coaching strategies:

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Enneagram Type 1

Neuroscience: Type 1s are often perfectionists and have a strong sense of right and wrong. They may be critical of themselves and others, and they may have difficulty relaxing and letting go. The brain regions that are associated with Type 1s include the prefrontal cortex, the anterior cingulate cortex, and the insula. These regions are involved in planning, decision-making, and emotional regulation.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 1s include oxytocin, vasopressin, and dopamine. Oxytocin is a hormone that is involved in bonding and trust, vasopressin is a hormone that is involved in social attachment, and dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in motivation and reward.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 1s by teaching them how to be more flexible and forgiving of themselves and others. They can also help them to develop a more balanced approach to life. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 1s to understand the role of

• The prefrontal cortex in planning and decision-making. This can help them to learn how to slow down and make more thoughtful decisions.
• The anterior cingulate cortex in emotional regulation. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The insula in self-awareness. This can help them to learn how to be more mindful of their thoughts and feelings.
• The role of oxytocin, vasopressin, and dopamine in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 1s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:?

• Increased activity in the prefrontal cortex. This can lead to better decision-making and problem-solving skills.?
• Reduced activity in the amygdala. This can lead to decreased anxiety and stress levels.?
• Increased levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and dopamine. This can lead to increased motivation, self-confidence, and well-being.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased ability to manage stress and anxiety
• Improved decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Increased self-confidence and well-being
• Reduced perfectionism and self-criticism
• Increased ability to relax and let go

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Enneagram Type 2:

Neuroscience: Type 2s are often selfless and caring, and they may put the needs of others before their own. They may have difficulty setting boundaries and asking for help. The brain regions that are associated with Type 2s include the ventral tegmental area, the hypothalamus, and the amygdala. These regions are involved in reward, motivation, and emotion.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 2s include oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin. Oxytocin is a hormone that is involved in bonding and trust, vasopressin is a hormone that is involved in social attachment, and prolactin is a hormone that is involved in nurturing and caregiving.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 2s by teaching them how to take care of their own needs and to set boundaries. They can also help them to develop a more assertive communication style. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 2s to understand

• The role of the ventral tegmental area in reward and motivation. This can help them to learn how to focus on their own needs and to take care of themselves.
• The role of the hypothalamus in motivation and the regulation of emotions. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The role of the amygdala in fear and anxiety. This can help them to learn how to overcome their fears and to take risks.
• The role of oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 2s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Increased activity in the ventral tegmental area. This can lead to increased motivation and well-being.
• Reduced activity in the amygdala. This can lead to decreased anxiety and stress levels.
• Increased levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and prolactin. This can lead to increased bonding, trust, and nurturing behaviors.

Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased ability to take care of themselves
• Improved communication skills
• Increased self-confidence and well-being
• Reduced anxiety and stress
• Increased ability to set boundaries

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Enneagram Type 3:

Neuroscience: Type 3s are often driven by success and recognition, and they may be competitive and image-conscious. They may have difficulty relaxing and being authentic. The brain regions that are associated with Type 3s include the striatum, the amygdala, and the hippocampus. These regions are involved in motivation, learning, and memory.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 3s include dopamine and cortisol. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in motivation and reward, and cortisol is a hormone that is involved in stress.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 3s by teaching them how to be more authentic and to focus on their own inner goals rather than external validation. They can also help them to develop better stress management skills. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 3s to understand

• The role of the striatum in motivation and reward. This can help them to learn how to focus on their own goals and to achieve them.

• The role of the amygdala in fear and anxiety. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The role of the hippocampus in learning and memory. This can help them to learn from their mistakes and to improve their performance.
• The role of dopamine and cortisol in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 3s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Increased activity in the striatum. This can lead to increased motivation and goal-directed behavior.
• Reduced activity in the amygdala. This can lead to decreased anxiety and stress levels.
• Increased levels of dopamine. This can lead to increased feelings of satisfaction and well-being.
• Reduced levels of cortisol. This can lead to decreased stress levels.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased ability to focus on their own goals
• Reduced anxiety and stress levels
• Increased feelings of satisfaction and well-being
• Improved performance and productivity?
• Increased authenticity and self-acceptance

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Enneagram Type 4:

Neuroscience: Type 4s are often introspective and sensitive, and they may have a strong sense of their own individuality. They may be creative and imaginative, but they may also be moody and withdrawn. The brain regions that are associated with Type 4s include the limbic system, the insula, and the anterior cingulate cortex. These regions are involved in emotion, self-awareness, and empathy.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 4s include oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin. Oxytocin is a hormone that is involved in bonding and trust, vasopressin is a hormone that is involved in social attachment, and serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 4s by teaching them how to manage their emotions and to develop a more positive self-image. They can also help them to develop better communication skills. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 4s to understand

• The role of the limbic system in emotion. This can help them to learn how to identify and manage their emotions.

• The role of the insula in self-awareness. This can help them to learn how to be more mindful of their thoughts and feelings.
• The role of the anterior cingulate cortex in emotional regulation. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The role of oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 4s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Increased activity in the limbic system. This can lead to increased emotional awareness and expression.
• Reduced activity in the insula. This can lead to decreased rumination and self-absorption.
• Increased activity in the anterior cingulate cortex. This can lead to improved emotional regulation and stress management.
• Increased levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin. This can lead to increased feelings of well-being and self-acceptance.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased emotional awareness and expression
• Reduced rumination and self-absorption
• Improved emotional regulation and stress management
• Increased feelings of well-being and self-acceptance
• Increased creativity and imagination

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Enneagram Type 5:

Neuroscience: Type 5s are often withdrawn and reserved, and they may have a strong need for knowledge and understanding. They may be intelligent and analytical, but they may also be isolated and socially awkward. The brain regions that are associated with Type 5s include the prefrontal cortex, the parietal cortex, and the temporal cortex. These regions are involved in thinking, reasoning, and memory.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 5s include acetylcholine and dopamine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in memory and attention, and dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in motivation and reward.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 5s by teaching them how to be more social and to take risks. They can also help them to develop better communication skills. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 5s to understand the role of

• The prefrontal cortex in thinking and reasoning. This can help them to learn how to focus their attention and to solve problems more effectively.

• The role of the parietal cortex in spatial awareness. This can help them to learn how to navigate their environment more effectively.
• The role of the temporal cortex in language and memory. This can help them to learn how to communicate more effectively and to remember information more easily.
• The role of acetylcholine and dopamine in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 5s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Increased activity in the prefrontal cortex. This can lead to improved thinking, reasoning, and decision-making skills.
• Increased activity in the parietal cortex. This can lead to improved spatial awareness and navigation skills.
• Increased activity in the temporal cortex. This can lead to improved language and memory skills.
• Increased levels of acetylcholine and dopamine. This can lead to increased motivation, focus, and well-being.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased ability to think, reason, and solve problems
• Improved spatial awareness and navigation skills
• Improved language and memory skills
• Increased motivation, focus, and well-being
• Increased social skills and ability to take risks

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Enneagram Type 6:

Neuroscience: Type 6s are often anxious and insecure, and they may have a strong need for security and stability. They may be loyal and dependable, but they may also be suspicious and easily stressed. The brain regions that are associated with Type 6s include the amygdala, the hippocampus, and the hypothalamus. These regions are involved in fear, anxiety, learning, and motivation.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 6s include oxytocin, vasopressin, and cortisol. Oxytocin is a hormone that is involved in bonding and trust, vasopressin is a hormone that is involved in social attachment, and cortisol is a hormone that is involved in stress.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 6s by teaching them how to manage their anxiety and to develop a more positive outlook on life. They can also help them to develop a more trusting relationship with themselves and with others. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 6s to understand

• The role of the amygdala in fear and anxiety. This can help them to learn how to identify and manage their anxiety.

• The role of the hippocampus in learning and memory. This can help them to learn from their experiences and to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress.
• The role of the hypothalamus in motivation and the regulation of emotions. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The role of oxytocin, vasopressin, and cortisol in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 6s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Reduced activity in the amygdala. This can lead to decreased anxiety and stress levels.
• Increased activity in the hippocampus. This can lead to improved learning and memory.
• Increased activity in the hypothalamus. This can lead to improved motivation and well-being.
• Increased levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and cortisol. This can lead to increased feelings of trust, security, and well-being.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Reduced anxiety and stress levels
• Improved learning and memory
• Improved motivation and well-being
• Increased feelings of trust, security, and well-being
• Increased ability to manage fear and anxiety

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Enneagram Type 7:

Neuroscience: Type 7s are often optimistic and fun-loving, and they may have a strong need for excitement and variety. They may be creative and resourceful, but they may also be scattered and unfocused. The brain regions that are associated with Type 7s include the ventral tegmental area, the amygdala, and the hippocampus. These regions are involved in reward, motivation, and learning.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 7s include dopamine and serotonin. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in motivation and reward, and serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 7s by teaching them how to focus their energy and to develop a more balanced approach to life. They can also help them to develop better coping mechanisms for dealing with stress. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 7s to understand the role of

• The ventral tegmental area in reward and motivation. This can help them to learn how to focus on their goals and to achieve them.

• The role of the amygdala in fear and anxiety. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The role of the hippocampus in learning and memory. This can help them to learn from their experiences and to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress.
• The role of dopamine and serotonin in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 7s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Increased activity in the ventral tegmental area. This can lead to increased motivation and goal-directed behavior.
• Reduced activity in the amygdala. This can lead to decreased anxiety and stress levels.
• Increased activity in the hippocampus. This can lead to improved learning and memory.
• Increased levels of dopamine and serotonin. This can lead to increased feelings of happiness and well-being.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased ability to focus and concentrate
• Reduced anxiety and stress levels
• Improved learning and memory
• Increased feelings of happiness and well-being
• Increased ability to cope with stress

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Enneagram Type 8:

Neuroscience: Type 8s are often assertive and decisive, and they may have a strong need for control and power. They may be protective and resourceful, but they may also be seen as aggressive or intimidating. The brain regions that are associated with Type 8s include the amygdala, the hypothalamus, and the prefrontal cortex. These regions are involved in fear, aggression, motivation, and decision-making.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 8s include testosterone and cortisol. Testosterone is a hormone that is involved in aggression and dominance, and cortisol is a hormone that is involved in stress.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 8s by teaching them how to be more compassionate and understanding of others. They can also help them to develop better conflict resolution skills. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 8s to understand

• The role of the amygdala in fear and aggression. This can help them to learn how to manage their anger and aggression.

• The role of the hypothalamus in motivation and the regulation of emotions. This can help them to learn how to manage their stress levels.
• The role of the prefrontal cortex in decision-making and impulse control. This can help them to learn how to make more thoughtful decisions and to control their impulses.
• The role of testosterone and cortisol in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these hormones to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 8s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Reduced activity in the amygdala. This can lead to decreased anger and aggression levels.
• Increased activity in the prefrontal cortex. This can lead to improved decision-making and impulse control.
• Reduced levels of testosterone. This can lead to decreased aggression levels.
• Reduced levels of cortisol. This can lead to decreased stress levels.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased ability to control anger and aggression
• Improved decision-making and impulse control
• Reduced stress levels
• Increased compassion and understanding of others
• Increased ability to resolve conflict peacefully

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Enneagram Type 9:

Neuroscience: Type 9s are often easygoing and agreeable, and they may have a strong need for harmony and peace. They may be patient and understanding, but they may also be seen as passive or complacent. The brain regions that are associated with Type 9s include the limbic system, the insula, and the anterior cingulate cortex. These regions are involved in emotion, self-awareness, and empathy.

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Neurotransmitters: The neuropeptides that are associated with Type 9s include oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin. Oxytocin is a hormone that is involved in bonding and trust, vasopressin is a hormone that is involved in social attachment, and serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation.

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Coaching strategies: Executive coaches can help Type 9s by teaching them how to be more assertive and to stand up for themselves. They can also help them to develop better communication skills. Some specific coaching strategies that can be used include helping Type 9s to understand

• The role of the limbic system in emotion. This can help them to learn how to identify and manage their emotions.

• The role of the insula in self-awareness. This can help them to learn how to be more mindful of their thoughts and feelings.
• The role of the anterior cingulate cortex in emotional regulation and stress management. This can help them to learn how to manage their anxiety and stress.
• The role of oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin in their motivation and behavior. This can help them to learn how to use these neuropeptides to their advantage.

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Possible changes at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level: When Type 9s go through these coaching processes, the following changes may occur at the neurobiology and neurotransmitters level:

• Increased activity in the limbic system. This can lead to increased emotional awareness and expression.
• Reduced activity in the insula. This can lead to decreased rumination and self-absorption.
• Increased activity in the anterior cingulate cortex. This can lead to improved emotional regulation and stress management.
• Increased levels of oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin. This can lead to increased feelings of well-being and self-acceptance.

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Benefits due to the changes: The benefits of these changes include:

• Increased emotional awareness and expression
• Reduced rumination and self-absorption?
• Improved emotional regulation and stress management
• Increased feelings of well-being and self-acceptance
• Increased assertiveness and ability to stand up for oneself

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(If you find this newsletter useful, please remember to like, share, and subscribe)

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Conclusion

Each Enneagram type has its own strengths, weaknesses, motivations, and fears, so coaching each type requires a different approach. Executive coaches can tailor their coaching strategies to suit the needs and preferences of each type by understanding how the brain functions and responds to different stimuli. Neuroscience can help coaches identify the cognitive biases, emotional triggers, and behavioral patterns of each type, and provide them with effective feedback, guidance, and support. Using neuroscience-based tools and techniques, executive coaches can help their clients improve their performance, achieve their goals, and overcome their challenges. Neuroscience can also help coaches enhance their own self-awareness, empathy, and communication skills, as well as adapt to different situations and personalities. The neuroscience of coaching each Enneagram type is a valuable and practical field that can benefit both coaches and clients alike. As the renowned neuroscientist David Eagleman once said, “The brain is like a secret universe waiting to be explored.”

If you want to know more about your own Enneagram type and how it affects your brain, don’t hesitate to contact me and I will be glad to assist you in finding out.

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About the Author

Dr James Leong is a leadership trainer and executive coach who empowers people and organizations to achieve their full potential. He combines neuroscience, psychology, hypnotherapy, and coaching to help his clients overcome challenges and reach their goals. He has trained thousands of individuals and organizations across various industries and sectors, sharing his expertise and insights with them. He is a member of several professional associations and a certified practitioner of various psychometric tools such as the Enneagram and MBTI. Dr Leong is also a longtime student of the creator of the Enneagram Dr Claudio Naranjo, whom he studied with from 2010 until his teacher’s passing in 2018. Dr Leong has helped many psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors integrate NLP and hypnotherapy, and the Enneagram into their practice to great success. Both his Masters and Doctoral dissertations are on the Enneagram Types, their Leadership Potential and Related Stress. He is also a sought-after speaker at global NLP and Hypnotherapy conferences.

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Dr Leong is based in Singapore and speaks English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. He enjoys traveling, reading, and practicing Mindfulness Meditation, Strength Training and Tai Chi Chuan. Dr Leong is a visionary leader who inspires others to pursue their dreams and passions. He believes that everyone has the potential to create positive change in themselves and the world.

Copyright (C) 2023 by Dr James Leong

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