Attraction
This is a powerful, highly complementary relationship filled with deep mutual admiration.
The Type 2 is attracted to the Type 8’s self-confidence, authority, determination, honesty, intensity, and passion.
Type 8 is drawn to Type 2’s positive energy, charm, kindness, goodness, purity, and passion.
Type 2 identifies Type 8’s needs and wins them over with affection and interpersonal skills.
While Type 2 is more emotionally in tune, Type 8 can be surprisingly tender and sentimental when comfortable.
Both are responsible, loyal, action-oriented, enthusiastic, hardworking, generous, big-hearted, protective, and strong-willed.
They can become each other’s most faithful and reliable partners, placing one another at the center of their lives.
Potential Challenges
Although Type 8s can be sociable, they don’t easily attach to others’ needs the way Type 2s do.
Type 2 may see Type 8 as too combative, excessive, insensitive, domineering, and reluctant to show vulnerability.
Type 8 may view Type 2 as manipulative, overly emotional, indirect, intrusive, and too attention-seeking.
Over time, Type 8 might feel that Type 2 is trying to manipulate them emotionally, inciting intense anger and conflict.
The "potential challenges" arise in an Enneagram-type couple primarily when they are not in harmony with themselves. With communication, each person's investment in the relationship, and mutual understanding, these challenges can certainly be avoided and resolved.