Human Design, Enneagram & MBTI: How Three Maps Changed the Way I See Myself

I still remember the first time I stumbled across a personality test. It was the MBTI. I was a fresh-faced university student, feeling both excited and overwhelmed, and someone handed me a quiz that promised to tell me who I was. I filled in the bubbles, scored my results, and proudly announced to anyone who would listen: “I’m an ENFP!”

Back then, it felt like someone had finally handed me a mirror. Words I didn’t know how to string together suddenly gave language to the way I experienced life. My curiosity, my enthusiasm, even my tendency to jump from one idea to the next—it all made sense. MBTI showed me I wasn’t broken; I was wired differently.

But over time, I started to notice its limits. “ENFP” was a good starting point, but what about my patterns under stress? Or why certain habits seemed to run deeper than personality quirks? That’s when I met the Enneagram.

The Enneagram: Layers Beneath the Personality

I was at a leadership weekend retreat when someone introduced the Enneagram, describing it not as a personality type, but as a map of our core motivations and fears. Suddenly, it felt like someone had peeled back another layer of my inner world.

I discovered I was a Type 7—the Enthusiast. And it clicked. My love of adventure, my drive to explore new ideas, and my fear of being trapped or missing out weren’t just personality quirks; they were a blueprint for how I navigate life. The Enneagram showed me the shadows as well as the gifts: my tendency to avoid discomfort, my habit of scattering energy, and my incredible ability to bring joy and possibility to everything I do.

The Enneagram was less about who I was on the surface and more about why I did what I did. It wasn’t always comfortable, but it was deeply transformative.

Still, something in me craved an even more practical framework for everyday decision-making. That’s when Human Design entered the picture, although this was much later in life.

Human Design: A User Manual for My Energy

The first time someone explained Human Design to me, I’ll admit, I thought it sounded a little wild. Birth data? Energy types? Strategy and Authority? It felt like astrology had been mixed with personality typing and a dash of science fiction.

But then I had my chart read. And wow.

I learned I was a Manifesting Generator with Sacral Authority. Suddenly, my constant need to pivot, my dislike of rigid structures, my bursts of energy followed by crashes…it all made sense. Human Design didn’t just describe my tendencies; it gave me a roadmap for how to live in alignment.

It told me:

• I don’t need to force decisions. My sacral “yes” or “no” will tell me what’s right.

• I’m not here to do everything the “linear” way—I thrive when I allow myself to move fast, experiment, and follow what lights me up.

• And most importantly, life flows when I trust my body’s signals instead of trying to “figure it all out” in my head.

Unlike MBTI or the Enneagram, Human Design felt less like a mirror and more like a user manual. It gave me tools for daily choices: what to say yes to, how to conserve energy, even how to approach work and relationships.

So, What’s the Difference?

Here’s how I like to describe them when people ask:

• MBTI is like looking at the style of your car. Are you sporty, practical, adventurous, elegant? It’s about how your personality shows up in the world.

• Enneagram is like looking under the hood. It reveals the engine driving you forward—your core motivations, fears, and desires.

• Human Design is like the owner’s manual. It tells you how to drive the car in the way it was built to run—your energy flow, your decision-making process, and your natural strengths.

Each system has been a milestone in my journey. MBTI gave me language. The Enneagram gave me depth. Human Design gave me permission to live aligned.

Why I Use All Three

Today, I don’t see them as competing systems. Instead, I see them as different doorways into self-awareness.

• If you want to understand your preferences and how you interact with the world, MBTI is a wonderful start.

• If you want to dive into patterns and core fears that shape your growth, the Enneagram is powerful medicine.

• If you’re craving a practical guide for daily alignment and energy management, Human Design offers something refreshingly actionable.

And the beauty is that you don’t have to choose. Like different friends, each system brings out something unique in you. Together, they create a fuller, richer picture of who you are and how you’re designed to thrive.

Who’s Really in Charge? Your Human Design Authority Explained

Let’s play a quick game.
Think about the last time you made a big decision.

• Did you talk it out with 17 friends, your hairdresser, and your dog?

• Did you make the call instantly, no second-guessing?

• Did you “sleep on it” but really just binge Netflix until your gut spoke up?

Spoiler alert: there’s no “right” way to decide things… but there is a way that’s right for YOU.
That’s what your Human Design Authority is — your built-in decision-making superpower.

And no, it’s not your mind. (Sorry, overthinkers. Your brain can do spreadsheets and remember your Netflix password, but it’s not here to run the show.)

Your Authority is the part of you that’s wired to make your best decisions so you stop flip-flopping, overthinking, or saying “yes” when you really mean “ugh, no.”

Let’s meet the decision-making dream team…

Emotional Authority – Ride the Wave

If you have Emotional Authority, congratulations — you’re basically the human equivalent of a fine wine: better with time.

Your decisions come from feeling it out over your emotional highs and lows. Instant decisions? Nope. You need to wait until you’re at that sweet “emotional neutral” to know if it’s really a yes.

Pro tip: If it’s a “Hell yes!” in the heat of excitement, WAIT. You might wake up tomorrow and think, “Why did I agree to salsa classes with Steve from accounting?”

Sacral Authority – Trust Your Gut

You’ve got a built-in truth detector in your belly. Your gut makes decisions faster than you can say, “I’ll check my calendar.”

You’ll often get that instant “uh-huh” (yes) or “uh-uh” (no) feeling. Your job? Listen to it before your brain barges in with logic or social guilt.

If you’re a Sacral, your gut will literally make sounds sometimes. It’s not weird. It’s genius.

Splenic Authority – Blink and You’ll Miss It

The spleen whispers. Like… whisper-whispers. It gives you instant hits of intuition in the moment, but they don’t stick around.

If you have Splenic Authority, you’ll just know. And then if you don’t act quickly, you’ll start doubting it, overthinking, and eventually convincing yourself you imagined the whole thing.

Your spleen is basically your cool, mysterious bestie who drops wisdom bombs and disappears.

Ego Authority – Desire Drives the Bus

Ego Authority is all about… wanting what you want. If your heart’s in it (literally), your willpower and desire are lit up, it’s a yes.

This isn’t selfish. It’s alignment. Your decisions should be based on what you truly desire, not what you “should” do.

Your mantra: If it’s not a full-body “I want this,” it’s a no.

Self-Projected Authority – Follow Your Voice

If you’ve got this one, you’re here to hear yourself. Your truth comes out when you talk things through. Ideally with someone who’ll listen without pushing their opinion.

You’re basically your own life coach. The trick? Find a sounding board who can just nod, smile, and say, “Tell me more,” while you figure it out.

Mental/Environment Authority – Change the Scenery

Your best decisions come when you’re in the right environment and bouncing ideas with trusted people.

You need space, stimulation, and people who spark your clarity but ultimately, you’re not looking for them to tell you what to do. You’re listening to yourself respond in their presence.

Think of it like decision-making feng shui.

Lunar Authority – The Cosmic Slow Burn

If you’re a Reflector, you’ve got Lunar Authority — which means you’re designed to take a whole lunar cycle (about 28 days) to decide on big things.

You’re the moon-child of the Human Design world. Your clarity comes from seeing how you feel about something across all your different phases.

If that sounds slow… it’s because it is. And that’s your superpower.

So, Why Bother Knowing This?

Because when you follow your Authority, you stop asking strangers on the internet to vote on your life choices. You start trusting your body, your timing, your way.

No more decision regret. No more “But what if…” spirals. Just clear, confident calls that are 100% YOU.

Homework (but make it fun):
Find out your Authority (you can get your chart for free online).
Then, for the next week, make every decision — from lunch to life goals — using your Authority.

Watch what happens.

Why Getting Clear on Your Values is your GPS

Imagine this: You’re cruising down a highway with your windows down, music blasting, feeling unstoppable when suddenly, you realise you have no idea where you’re headed. No exit signs, no GPS, no map. Just a vague hope you’re somewhere close to your destination. That, my friend, is life without clear values.

We all want to feel like we’re living with purpose, making choices that resonate with who we really are. But without getting crystal clear on what truly matters to us, we’re basically driving blindfolded, prone to detours of doubt, confusion, and maybe a few “What was I thinking?!” moments (or, you know, existential crises).

Here’s the not-so-secret thing though. Your values are your life’s GPS, the core compass that guides every decision, relationship, and twist in your story. They aren’t just fancy words to sprinkle in a newsletter. They are the essence of your authenticity, your sanctuary, and your connection to yourself and the world around you.

So buckle up, because we’re going on a cheeky, soul-stirring ride into why knowing your values matters more than you think — and how Life By Your Design’s values of inclusivity, authenticity, exploration, empowerment, and growth can make that journey a whole lot richer.

First off, if you’re sitting there thinking, “Uhhh, values? Aren’t those just buzzwords?” you’re not alone. I’ve been there. Sometimes it feels easier to just roll with the punches, follow the crowd, or Google “how to live a good life” and hope for the best.

But here’s the thing: when your values aren’t front and centre, your life starts feeling like a complex logic puzzle: problems pop up, and you’re reacting, not creating. You feel pulled in a million directions, second-guessing your choices, and wondering if you’re even on your own path or just someone else’s highlight reel.

That’s where inclusivity comes in. Your values are 100% unique to you. No one else has your exact blend of experiences, dreams, and quirks. Owning your values means giving yourself permission to be exactly who you are and that’s the first step to real freedom.

Authenticity: The Foundation

Once you start tuning into your values, you’ll notice something magical happens: your life starts aligning with your authentic self. It’s like your insides stop shouting at your outsides and suddenly, your decisions, your relationships, and your career feel right instead of exhausting.

Think about the last time you did something that felt totally off. Did you say yes to a work project that drained you, or did you keep up a friendship that felt more like a chore than a joy? That tension? It’s a classic sign your values are waving a red flag.

By getting clear on what really matters means you start making choices that nourish your soul instead of draining it. Authenticity is the juice that powers this whole gig.

Exploration: Because Life’s Too Short for Boring Values

Your values aren’t set in stone — they’re more like your personal playlist that evolves as you do. That’s why exploration is key. Maybe your value of growth led you to start journaling, take up a new hobby, or even change careers. Maybe your value of connection has you prioritising deep chats over endless scrolling.

At LBYD, we celebrate that curiosity. Exploring your values means giving yourself permission to question, shift, and grow.. Life’s too short for boring, cookie-cutter values that don’t light you up.

Empowerment: Taking the Wheel

When you know your values, you take the wheel of your own life with confidence. No more waiting for permission or validation from others. You become the boss of your own choices, your own boundaries, and your own happiness.

Empowerment is about owning your power, which means saying no to what doesn’t serve you and yes to what does. It means knowing that your values are your superpower, your secret weapon against overwhelm and indecision.

Growth: The Never-Ending Adventure

Clarity on your values isn’t a one-and-done kind of thing. It’s an ongoing adventure, a cycle of learning, evolving, and levelling up. The more you practice tuning in, the sharper your compass becomes, and the more you grow into the person you’re meant to be.

Growth is woven into the fabric of Life By Your Design because we know that when you invest in yourself, your values become clearer, your boundaries stronger, and your joy deeper. It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress.

So How Do You Get Started?

Great question! The first step is often the hardest: slowing down enough to ask yourself the real questions. What lights you up? What makes you feel safe? When do you feel most you? What would you stand up for, no matter what?

10 journal prompts to find your life purpose

Finding your life purpose sounds like a huge, daunting task. But here’s a secret: your purpose isn’t some mysterious destination you stumble on randomly. It’s already inside you, waiting to be uncovered with a little curiosity, reflection, and some good old-fashioned journaling.

Journaling is one of the most powerful tools for self-discovery because it helps you slow down, listen, and get honest with yourself. So grab your favourite notebook, a cosy spot, and get ready to dive into these 10 journal prompts designed to help you uncover your unique path and passion.

1. When do I feel most alive and energised?

Think about moments when time seems to fly and you feel deeply engaged. What were you doing? Who were you with? These moments are clues to what lights up your soul.

2. What are my natural talents and strengths?

We all have gifts that feel effortless and fulfilling to use. Write about what you’re naturally good at and how those strengths could serve others.

3. What problems or causes deeply move me?

What issues in the world or in your community tug at your heartstrings? Passion often points directly to purpose.

4. Who do I admire and why?

Identify people you respect or look up to. What qualities or life paths do they embody that inspire you? How does that reflect your own aspirations?

5. What legacy do I want to leave behind?

Imagine looking back on your life from the future. What impact do you hope to have made? What do you want to be remembered for?

6. What would I do if I knew I couldn’t fail?

Remove fear and doubt from the equation for a moment. What bold, exciting thing would you pursue?

7. What recurring themes or messages do I notice in my life?

Look for patterns in your interests, experiences, or advice others have given you. Sometimes our purpose is hidden in these repeated clues.

8. How do I want to feel every day?

Purpose isn’t just about what you do. It’s also about how you want to experience life. What feelings do you want to invite in daily?

9. What am I willing to struggle for?

Every meaningful path has challenges. What difficulties would you gladly face if it meant living your purpose?

10. What small steps can I take today to move closer to my purpose?

Purpose doesn’t need to be found overnight. Brainstorm simple, actionable steps that align with your reflections.

How to Find Your Way Back When You’re Already Burning Out

Let’s be real. Burnout isn’t a trendy hashtag or something you just “power through.” It’s that soul-sucking exhaustion that feels like you’re running on empty, on a treadmill that won’t stop, with no finish line in sight. Maybe your body is screaming for rest, your mind is foggy, and your heart is whispering, “Who even am I anymore?”

If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone — and more importantly, there is a way back to you. The question is: how?

Here’s the honest truth: recovering from burnout isn’t about bouncing back like nothing happened. It’s about reconnecting with your whole self — body, mind, heart, and spirit.

Step 1: Stop. Pause. Breathe.

It sounds simple because it is. But when you’re burnt out, the hardest thing to do is just stop. Give yourself permission to slow down, without guilt or pressure.

Take a deep breath (or ten). Allow yourself to feel whatever’s coming up. Whether it be frustration, sadness, exhaustion, feel them feelings without judgment. This pause is your first real step back to you.

Step 2: Reconnect With Your Body

Burnout often manifests physically before we even realise it. Your body is trying to send you SOS signals. Fatigue, headaches, restless sleep and muscle tension are all examples of these signs.

Try to tune in: What does your body need right now? Maybe it’s a nap, gentle movement like stretching or walking, or just some quiet time.

Honor your body’s wisdom. It’s your most loyal guide back to balance.

Step 3: Revisit Your Values and Boundaries

Burnout frequently happens when you’re living out of alignment . It could be that you are saying yes to everything, ignoring your limits, or pushing past your core values.

Now is a perfect time to pull out your journal and ask:

• What matters most to me right now?

• Where have I been saying yes when I really meant no?

• What boundaries do I need to set to protect my energy?

Being clear on your values and boundaries is like installing guardrails on the road back to yourself.

Step 4: Seek Support

Burnout recovery doesn’t mean “go it alone and toughen up.” It means reaching out. Maybe that’s talking to a trusted friend, joining a community like the LBYD Society, or working with a coach who gets it.

Connection and compassionate support remind you that you’re seen and valued, and that your healing journey is shared, not solitary.

Step 5: Experiment with Small, Nourishing Rituals

When energy is low, the idea of a total life overhaul can feel overwhelming. Instead, try micro-shifts that honour your current state.

Maybe it’s five minutes of morning journaling, a mindful cup of tea, or a short walk outside. These small moments are like little seeds. With time, they grow into a flourishing garden of resilience and self-care.

Step 6: Reclaim Your Joy & Curiosity

Burnout often robs us of the things that used to light us up. Start paying attention to what still sparks a flicker of joy, no matter how small or silly.

Can you dance to a fave song? Cuddle your dog? Laugh at a goofy meme? These tiny acts remind you there’s more to life than just surviving.

Step 7: Practice Patience & Compassion

Recovery is rarely linear. Some days will feel better, others harder. That’s okay. Be gentle with yourself — like you would a beloved friend.

Remember, burnout isn’t a failure; it’s a signal. Your courage is in showing up for yourself, day by day.

3 Powerful Self-Awareness Exercises

Self-awareness is the secret sauce for authentic living, better decision-making, and deeper connection — both with yourself and others. When you truly know who you are, your values, triggers, and desires, you unlock a whole new level of empowerment and growth.

Here are three simple yet powerful exercises to help you cultivate self-awareness and step into your fullest potential:

1. The Daily Emotional Check-In

Take a moment, ideally at the same time each day, to pause and ask yourself:

• What am I feeling right now?

• What triggered this feeling?

• What is my body telling me?

Write down your answers honestly. Over time, patterns emerge — you begin to see what environments, people, or thoughts uplift you and which ones drain your energy. This practice builds emotional literacy and helps you respond, not react, to life’s ups and downs.

2. The “Who Am I?” Reflection Journal

Set a timer for 10 minutes and write nonstop on the prompt: Who am I?
Don’t censor yourself or worry about grammar — just let your thoughts flow. Explore everything from your passions and fears to your quirks and dreams.

This free-flowing exploration reveals layers of your authentic self that often get buried under daily noise. Revisit this exercise regularly and watch your self-understanding deepen.

3. Values Alignment Audit

Grab your journal and list 5 core values that feel most important to you (if you’re stuck, think about moments when you felt proud or fulfilled).

Now, ask yourself:

• How well do my current actions reflect these values?

• Where am I living out of alignment?

• What changes can I make to better honor my values each day?

This audit is a powerful way to course-correct and ensure you’re living a life that feels truly you.

Try these exercises for a week and notice how your awareness expands.

Self-awareness is a daily practice; a little spark of curiosity about yourself that grows brighter with attention.