Empty Nest to Self-Discovery: The Power of Understanding Your Enneagram

Empty Nest Quest

Discover the transformative power of the Enneagram for empty nesters with Debbie Huckabee, certified Enneagram coach and therapist. After spending years prioritizing others' needs as a Type Nine "Peacemaker," Debbie found liberation through understanding her personality type just before her nest began emptying. This knowledge sparked an inspiring journey from advertising executive to mental health counselor, proving it's never too late to pursue your passions.
The conversation demystifies the Enneagram's nine personality types, explaining how this framework reveals our core motivations and fears, not just our behaviors. Unlike typical personality assessments, the Enneagram illuminates why we do what we do, helping empty nesters develop profound self-compassion during this transitional life phase. Whether you're feeling lost without your parenting role or uncertain about your identity beyond "mom" or "dad," understanding your type creates a foundation for authentic growth.
Particularly enlightening is the discussion about how the Enneagram transforms marriages during the empty nest years. When children leave, couples suddenly face each other again, often discovering they've grown apart or communicate differently than they once did. Debbie shares how knowledge of her husband's Type Seven personality completely changed their interaction patterns, turning potential conflicts into opportunities for deeper connection. For anyone navigating this relationship transition, the recommended resources—including "Becoming Us" by Beth McCord and "The Path Between Us" by Susan Stabile—offer practical guidance for reconnection.
Ready to transform your empty nest into what one guest calls "free birding"? This episode provides concrete next steps for exploring your true self through the Enneagram, whether you're completely new to the concept or looking to deepen your understanding. Discover how this ancient wisdom tool can help you embrace the next chapter of life with renewed purpose and authentic joy.

We want to hear from you! Reach out to us on socials or at [email protected] to share how our conversations are landing with you! xo-Melynda and Jennifer

Chapters

1. Introducing Empty Nest Quest and Debbie (00:00:00)

2. Debbie's Journey to Enneagram Coaching (00:04:15)

3. Understanding the Enneagram's Purpose (00:10:07)

4. How Numbers Reveal Core Motivations (00:17:26)

5. Enneagram in Relationships and Marriage (00:26:05)

6. Free Birding: Empty Nesting Reimagined (00:34:10)