Stop Wasting Time Trying to "Feel Balanced": With The Enneagram

The holidays are here—a season packed with joy, stress, and everything in between. For leaders, it’s a time when end-of-year goals, family obligations, and the pressure to “finish strong” collide. It’s easy to find yourself running on empty, chasing the elusive idea of “balance,” and just hoping to survive the season.

Here’s the truth: Balance isn’t the goal.

The holidays aren’t about perfectly managing it all—they’re an opportunity to lean into what you really want and need. By pausing intentionally, getting clear on your priorities, and leading with authenticity, you can turn this season into one of growth, connection, and purpose—not just survival.

Choose Intention Over Balance

What if this holiday season was your chance to step up—not by doing more, but by being more intentional? By understanding how stress affects you and using tools like the Enneagram, you can show up as your healthiest self and lead with clarity and impact.

Whether you’re a Type 1 perfectionist, a Type 2 helper, or a Type 3 go-getter, stress doesn’t have to derail you. Instead of chasing balance, it’s time to focus on pausing, reflecting, and choosing the direction that aligns with what matters most.

The Power of the Pause

Forget trying to juggle everything. One of the most effective tools for leaders during high-stress times is The Power of the Pause. Pausing isn’t about stepping away—it’s about stepping into intentionality.

Here’s how you can practice it:

Step 1: Reflect

Start each day with 2 minutes to check in with yourself:

• How am I feeling today?
• What’s one thing I can do to show up as my best self?
• What’s one thing I need to let go of to focus on what matters most?

Step 2: Breathe

When stress creeps in, take three deep breaths:

• Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts.
• Repeat until you feel grounded and present.

Step 3: Respond

Ask yourself:

• Am I reacting out of stress, or responding with intention?
• What’s the next best step for myself, my team, or my family?

Lead with Intention Based on Your Enneagram Type

Each Enneagram type has unique strengths and stress responses. Here’s how to align The Power of the Pause with your growth path:

• Type 1: The Reformer – Embrace imperfection and be kind to yourself. Focus on being present over getting everything “just right.”
• Type 2: The Helper – Check in with your own needs and set boundaries. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
• Type 3: The Achiever – Pause to remind yourself that your worth isn’t tied to performance. Connection beats perfection.
• Type 4: The Individualist – Use gratitude to ground yourself and take intentional steps toward meaningful connections.
• Type 5: The Investigator – Step out of overthinking and lean into vulnerability and trust.
• Type 6: The Loyalist – Calm your anxieties by trusting yourself and focusing on creating peace over control.
• Type 7: The Enthusiast – Slow down, reflect, and balance your energy with purposeful action.
• Type 8: The Challenger – Lean into collaboration and delegate to empower others while reducing your own stress.
• Type 9: The Peacemaker – Clarify your priorities and take decisive steps toward creating harmony in your leadership.

Stop Chasing Balance. Start Leading with Impact.

The holidays aren’t about doing it all—they’re about leading with clarity, compassion, and connection. By intentionally pausing, reflecting, and aligning with your growth, you can move through the season with purpose and power.

Ready to go deeper?

?? Read the full article now to explore how the Enneagram can help you cut through the stress and lead from your healthiest self this holiday season. Stop wasting time chasing balance—choose to lead with intention.

?? Your Next Step: Practice The Power of the Pause this week. Let go of balance as the goal and focus on intentional action. Share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear how this mindset shift changes your leadership!

Happy leading, Christine Hernandez

?? Bonus Round! Ready to dive deeper into how The Enneagram can transform your leadership this holiday season?

?? Read the article to explore a detailed breakdown of each Enneagram type, their unique needs, and growth opportunities during stressful seasons. Gain actionable insights to lead with clarity, connection, and authenticity no matter what challenges you face.

?? Click here to read the article and discover how to lead from your healthiest place this holiday season!

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