200. Against, Towards, Withdraw: How We Move Through the World at Work

Before we dive in: Most of our work at Enneagram MBA is rooted in the Awareness to Action model developed by Mario Sikora and team. But from time to time, we like to explore other Enneagram approaches and insights that come up in the workplace and coaching conversations. This is one of those episodes, so you may hear some differences from the ATA model we typically use.

In this week’s episode, D and I wrap up our three-part conversation on the Enneagram’s movement strategies: the compliant, assertive, and withdrawn ways we move through the world. These patterns influence how we lead, collaborate, and connect under stress and in safety, whether we lean toward others for belonging, push against for control, or pull away for clarity.

Together, we explore how each movement shows up at work, what it looks like in meetings, and how it impacts team relationships. You’ll hear us break down:

• The core logic of each strategy: If I align, I’m safe. If I take charge, I’m safe. If I retreat, I’m safe.
• What leadership strengths each brings, from empathy and reliability to bold vision and deep insight.
• The blind spots that can trip us up, like over-pleasing, control, or disconnection.
• How to apply this awareness in real life, using self-checks and reflection prompts to flex between all three strategies instead of staying stuck in one.

We also talk about the power of awareness in managing our instincts when “life gets loud,” how to communicate what you need before others misread it, and even how a “pineapple” code word or LED light system can help you hit pause before you hit conflict.

If you’ve ever wondered why some coworkers want to talk everything out while others disappear to think, or why your team clashes when deadlines hit, this episode can help you see those dynamics with more clarity, compassion, and choice.

Key Takeaways

• Each movement strategy serves a purpose. Compliant types seek connection, assertives create motion, and withdrawns bring meaning. We need all three for healthy collaboration.
• Awareness creates choice. Once you know your instinctive movement (toward, against, or away), you can flex as needed.
• Communicate your coping strategy. “I’m taking a day to think” can go a long way toward preventing misunderstandings.
• Reflection practice: Think of a recent workplace conflict. How did you move...toward, against, or away? What might a different movement have looked like?

Listener Challenge

Reflect on your go-to strategy this week.

• Where do you naturally thrive: connection, courage, or clarity?
• Which situations call for the opposite?
• How can you intentionally lead with one of the others when the moment calls for it?

Resources & Next Steps

• Bring this to your team: We’re already booking year-end closers and 2026 kickoffs. Explore workshop options at EnneagramMBA.com and invite us in to blend theory with your team’s real dynamics.
• Say hello / suggest a topic: enneagrammba.com/contact... I’d love to hear your 4/5/9 stories or questions f

🗓️ Book an Enneagram Workshop for your team retreat at work:
https://www.enneagrammba.com/enneagram-team-workshops

✏️ Get an overview of all nine types inside the Understanding People at Work Cheat Sheet
https://www.enneagrammba.com/cheatsheet