Core Need/Motivation
Type Eights have a need to use strength to avoid being controlled by external forces.

Characteristics
Type Eights are assertive, challenging, decisive, and protective.

Description
Type Eights believe that they need to be strong to protect themselves and others from the threats of the world. They are sure of themselves and have a gut sense of what is right and wrong, often making them justice-warriors; they don’t just speak of justice, but move towards action. They want to get things in motion, whether in work or in play. They love a challenge and find it energizing. Type Eights want the truth and will often challenge someone in order to elicit it. 

As protectors, Type Eights will defend and fight for those in their circle. They will also challenge those in their circle to do more and be more, hoping to strengthen and protect them. For Type Eights, control of themselves and their environment happens instinctually. Even if not officially in charge, Type Eights often behave as if they are. At the end of the day, they judge themselves based on how much they accomplish and they often feel the responsibility to do what they perceive others can’t.

Primary Center: Body/Instinctual

Type Eights are usually in touch with their gut-level instincts and use those towards right action. Their intensity can get stuck at a level 10. They can miss their body’s alarm bells, and then over-exert, leading to chronic body tension. As strong body types, they can miss out on or avoid the softer feelings and experiences of the heart center.

The Gifts of Type Eights

Type Eights take on obstacles with exuberance and energy and they challenge others to do the same. They defend and protect those they care about. Seeking justice with courage and determination, they become advocates for others and empower them to strength.

The Challenges for Type Eights

Type Eights spend a great deal of energy being strong and prepared, and so they have trouble admitting their own vulnerability or experiencing weakness and sadness. Type Eights can be seen as overly intense, intimidating, and controlling. 

Communication with Type Eights

Type Eights’ conversational style is direct and authoritative. 

When interacting with Type Eights, remember that they don’t circle around or couch anything, and they dislike it when others do so. They would rather hear bad news than have someone try to protect them from it. Be direct and hold your ground, but also show them a softer side along with an openness and respect for emotional vulnerability.