Despite the fundamental differences in Ones’ and Eights’ characteristics, Type 1 compatibility with Type 8 scores relatively well. So if both parties are willing to work on their relationship using Enneagram personality typing, they could develop into a couple who are focused and driven toward their common goals, encouraging each other in both personal and work-related objectives.
Type 1 Compatibility With Type 8
Here’s what the compatibility score looks like for Type 1 and Type 8.
Compatibility Score
Enneagram Type 1 compatibility with Type 8 scores 68%. While it may not seem high, this relationship ranks at number four on the compatibility scale for Ones.
Wings and Growth
As with any other Enneagram Type, it would be wise to take wings into account when talking bout Enneagram Type 1 compatibility with Type 8. Because one wing will dominate, this has a marked impact on the overall personality—and, therefore, potential matches. Additionally, integration and disintegration lines of the dominant type and dominant wing might have some pull on the individual’s personality.
Anxiety and Avoidance
In 2022, a study showed each Enneagram type’s anxiety and avoidance categorization. It is believed that high anxiety Enneagram types usually present poor self-confidence while possibly overvaluing others. High avoidance Enneagram types see neither themselves nor others as having much importance, manifesting as, for example, the inability to trust.
What Each Type Brings to the Relationship
In an Enneagram Type 1 and Type 8 relationship, both Ones and Eights bring a strong sense of direction. Both enjoy making decisions and will sacrifice and persevere to obtain their goals.
Enneagram Type 1: The Perfectionist
Diligent and responsible Ones are serenely idealistic. Their need to be perfect may lead to them being self-critical. They probably never reach their high expectations of themselves and in stress, could become resentful.
They may criticize others’ judgment and achievements. This may well be in an attempt to guide since they enjoy imparting their dualistic view on others. Ones would thrive in joining their partner to fight for a noble cause, especially something for the greater good of the family or community.
Enneagram Type 8: The Challenger
Boldly protective and confident, Enneagram Type 8 have a honed understanding of their goals with the determination to achieve them. They’re decisive when met with difficulties and can even turn obstacles into opportunities. They’re highly energetic, are always rushing, and dislike waiting. Eights will go all out, though they may turn to an extreme lifestyle.
Despite their tendency to bully, Eights have a helpless and warm-hearted side, though they’ll do their best not to show this. Procrastination doesn’t feature in the world of Eights. Being independent, resourceful individuals, Eights will be the partners who tackle all the home chores before their partner has even awoken. On the flip side, they may tend to rule the roost in the home and not give others much of a choice in most matters.
Enneagram Wings
When considering Enneagram Type 1 compatibility with Type 8, the analysis of wings will give additional insight into each partner’s overall Enneagram personality.
Enneagram Type 1w9
As the pacifists of the Enneagram group, the influence of Nines may see Ones lighten up a little. The relationship between Ones and Eights is less likely to grow irreversibly confrontational with a less critical One.
Enneagram Type 1w2
Throw a Two wing into the mix, and Enneagram Type 1 might become a more sensitive individual. If that helps rein in Ones’ tendency to criticize, then it will probably benefit the relationship between Ones and Eights. Of course, if Two’s controlling side enters the equation, it could cause a clash between the pair.
Enneagram Type 8w7
The weight of Seven on the already-excessive Eight might push them into unfamiliar territory. If the impulsive need for fun and novel experiences filters in, they might be less intense. If the aversion to conflict of Seven makes an appearance, they may be less inclined to argue, benefiting the union between Eights and Ones.
Enneagram Type 8w9
Enneagram Type 8 with a Nine wing could result in a less confrontational Eight. This could perfectly diffuse potential outbursts between Ones and Eights.
Positives of This Pairing
When this couple works together, they can be a force to be reckoned with. Both defenders and activists, if they champion the same cause—whether within the family, community, or simply in the relationship—it’s certain to succeed. The opposing forces of Eight’s zeal and One’s constraint could work either against them or in their favor.
Both Ones and Eights are decisive individuals, outcome-based, and willing to take charge. They’ll persevere in the face of adversity and make sacrifices to prevail. While Ones strive for structure and organization, Eights are exceptional at shuffling and restructuring to an improved end. This will probably win Ones’ respect since it’s rare that anyone can do a better job than they. Moreover, Eights may appreciate Ones’ unwavering standpoint, and their mutual strength of mind and balance will possibly keep both partners engaged.
Potential Issues
Every relationship comes with problems, and when dissecting Enneagram Type 1 compatibility with Type 8, you’ll note that this one is no different. Ones and Eights as a couple will probably not have the most romantic relationship.
Also, Ones might take exception when Eights make decisions on their behalf since they could see this as egotistical and selfish. Eights might view Ones’ painstakingly narrow perspective of the rights and wrongs of the world as childlike and guileless. Over time, the relationship between these two dominant types could erupt into something explosive and unpredictable.
To prevent this from happening, Ones need to try seeing things more realistically, while Eights should not take Ones’ tendency to engage in debates personally. Eights should try to exert more patience, avoid criticizing and arguing too much, and allow Ones some breathing space to process.
Conclusion
Enneagram Type 1 compatibility with Type 8 produces some interesting results. While it may not prove to be the romance of the century, this chalk-and-cheese couple can have a symbiotic relationship.
Their collective predilection for goal-setting and achieving successful results will probably earn each partner’s respect. However, if they notice things they dislike in their partner, things could quickly turn nasty. This relationship could take a sudden and irrecoverable downward spiral if that happens.
To prevent that from occurring, it would be wise for this couple to use Enneagram personality typing to understand each other better. In growth, this partnership could be unstoppable.
To discover your Enneagram type, complete the Enneagram Personality Test.