Michael Scott Enneagram – A Social Type 7

If you’ve watched the US Office, you know what a character Michael Scott is. He’s super enthusiastic, not very tactful but has a good heart and wants the best for those he cares about. One of my favorite things to do is analyze the enneagram numbers of famous people and TV characters!

I’m convinced Michael is a Social Type 7. Type 7s, aka “The Enthusiasts,” are all about chasing fun, avoiding hard feelings, and bringing energy to every situation. Let me break it down and explain why he’s a 7 and not a 2, 3, or 6 like some people think.

He avoids serious stuff by being goofy

Whenever things get awkward or serious, Michael does anything to avoid it. He cracks jokes, makes ridiculous comments, or does something super random to distract people. Like, instead of fixing real office problems, he hosts “The Dundies” or “Diversity Day.” Classic Type 7 move—they avoid anything uncomfortable by shifting to fun.

He’s got major FOMO

This social Seven has a big fear of missing out on good social interactions and experiences. They want to be where the action is and can become anxious if they feel excluded from important social events or gatherings.

Michael has FOMO in almost every episode. He’s terrified of missing important moments or gatherings. He’s the guy who has to be at the center of every event, whether it’s a casual office lunch or a company party. Remember the episode where Jim doesn’t invite him to a barbecue? Michael spirals, going so far as to crash the party because he can’t stand the thought of being excluded.

Constant search for new ideas and fun

Type 7s thrive on variety and excitement, and Michael’s behavior reflects this perfectly. He’s always coming up with new (often terrible) ideas, like the Michael Scott Paper Company or his “Fun Run for Rabies Awareness.” He’s bored by routine and constantly disrupts the monotony at Dunder Mifflin. His need for new drives impulsive decisions, like when he rents a limo for “Lunch Party” or dives into cringy new hobbies.

Always optimistic

Despite the setbacks he faces, he remains optimistic. He has this idealistic view of how office relationships should be, and he sees his coworkers as family members and himself as the “world’s best boss.” This lines up with type Seven’s tendency to see the world through a lens of endless possibilities.

He’s scared of being stuck

Michael can’t handle feeling trapped. Whether it’s his job, relationships, or boring routines, he freaks out when things feel too restricting. Like when he started his paper company out of nowhere—it wasn’t a smart move, but it gave him the freedom he craved. That fear of being stuck or unhappy is a huge Type 7 trait.

He’s all over the place

Michael has a million ideas and can’t stick to one. He’s constantly distracted by random things and abandons tasks halfway through. Whether it’s his messy management style or his chaotic personal life, this scattered focus is so Type 7.

He’s super social and loves attention

Michael thrives on being liked. He’s awkward and tries too hard, but he’s always throwing parties or cracking jokes to get people to like him. Sevens love being around people and use humor to connect, even if it doesn’t always work out.

He hides his anxiety with fun

Underneath all his jokes and over-the-top behavior, Michael is actually super anxious about his life and career. Instead of dealing with it, he throws crazy office parties or plans random events to distract himself. For example, those elaborate birthday parties and “Fun Runs” aren’t just for fun—they’re his way of avoiding the not-so-great parts of his reality. Type 7s are known for using fun and excitement to escape their deeper worries.

Mistypes

I’ve read articles where people say he could be a type 2, 6 or 3 but I disagree. Here’s my reasoning!

Type 3 Mistype

Michael constantly says he’s the “World’s Best Boss”—he even has a mug to prove it! But unlike Type 3s, who are super aware of how others see them, Michael doesn’t seem to pick up on how little his team agrees. Threes would adjust their behavior to make sure they’re admired, but Michael just keeps doing his thing, even if it gets him eye rolls or awkward silences.

Michael doesn’t care about actual success or recognition in his career. Instead, his obsession with being the “World’s Best Boss” comes from a need for personal affection and approval. He wants his employees to love him, not because he’s a great boss, but because he’s fun and entertaining. This is way more like a Type 7.

Type 2 Mistype

Sure, Michael tries to support his team, but his efforts often feel more about him than them. His “fun runs” and over-the-top parties? They’re less about making people happy and more about getting attention and approval. A Type 2 would focus on what others actually need, while Michael just assumes everyone wants what he thinks is fun.

Michael also struggles with emotional regulation, often reacting impulsively or dramatically. Twos can be emotional, but they usually manage their feelings in a way that strengthens their relationships and keeps their “helper” image intact. Michael, on the other hand, is often self-centered. He prioritizes his own need to be liked over what’s best for others.

When Michael tries to manipulate situations, it’s usually super obvious. Unlike Twos, who can be subtle and use their help to gain emotional control, Michael’s efforts are all about avoiding discomfort or making things more fun for himself.

Type 6 Mistype

Michael’s impulsive decisions completely rule out Type 6, which is known for being cautious and skeptical. Whether it’s starting his own paper company on a whim or making wild managerial choices, his behavior screams novelty-seeking Seven, not a security-focused Six.

Michael is also way too trusting for a Type 6. Sixes tend to be wary and skeptical, especially of authority figures, but Michael often comes across as naive and overly optimistic in his relationships.

While Michael does show loyalty to his team, it’s inconsistent and usually driven by his need for approval. A true Type 6 would stick to their beliefs or make tough decisions to ensure stability, even when it’s hard. Michael’s loyalty often takes a back seat to his need to be liked, which is more in line with a Type 7.

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree? Leave a comment below! 😀