As an Enneagram 6 and an ISTJ, the meeting of loyalty and tradition are especially noticeable this time of year. The holidays are more than just a season of celebration for me—they’re a carefully structured time that provides comfort and meaning. During such a hectic season for so many, it is helpful for me to stay loyal to my traditions, and I believe it shows my care for making things festive for the people around me, too.
Loyalty: What It Really Means
Enneagram 6 is commonly referred to as “The Loyalist,” and loyalty isn’t just a nice word us. It’s a way of protecting what matters most. During the holidays, this means holding tight to the people and practices that give me a sense of security. That doesn’t just mean loyalty to the people I love, though. There is also loyalty to my beliefs and my traditions.
Tradition: My Personal Roadmap
As an ISTJ, tradition isn’t just something sentimental. It’s a precise way of doing things that helps me navigate the emotional complexity of the holiday season. Each tradition is a tried-and-true method that brings me peace. Having solid traditions alleviates much of the decision-making that has to happen around the holidays, which also helps my Enneagram 6 tendency to struggle with make decisions. I can free my mind from deciding what to make for Thanksgiving or where to buy a Christmas tree. Instead, I can put that energy toward deciding on gifts for my family and friends because my traditions free up head space for that.
Our Holiday Rituals
Growing up, it was tradition that we went to my grandparents’ house for Thanksgiving. As I grew older and moved farther away, it was difficult to spend it with my family. Returning to Thanksgiving at my parents’ house isn’t just a visit—it’s a return to a familiar traditions with them. Although we did add mashed potatoes to the meal, which we didn’t do when I was a kid.
Our annual tree-hunting trip to the Michigan tree farm is another example. This isn’t about getting any tree. It’s about continuing a specific ritual that brings me joy. We have a process, and we stick to it. Breakfast and a hot drink at The Electric Brew and a drive to the tree farm are a comfort!
The tree decoration follows a strict order—lights first, then ornaments. This isn’t random. It’s a procedure that gives me a sense of control and satisfaction. Each carefully placed light represents my need for order and my commitment to doing things the right way. Plus, the tree looks good. But it isn’t just about needing control. It’s about the effort that goes into making everything look nice during such a special time
How Loyalty and Tradition Connect
What might seem rigid to others is, to me, a way of expressing how much I care. My loyalty means these traditions aren’t just actions. They are a way to demonstrate that I can be counted on, that you can depend on me to have a plan and take care of things.
My ISTJ nature ensures that I stick with what works, and that I follow through. Nobody has to wonder about whether or not I’m going to follow through on a tradition. They know they can count on it.
Understanding My Approach
I used to worry that my constant need for loyalty and tradition made me inflexible or weird. Now, I recognize it as a strength. In a world of constant change, I offer reliability and commitment.
This holiday season, I’ll continue our traditions—not out of habit, but as a way to show that I care.
