Why tell them apart from Fear
In any process of identifying an E-Mode, it is clearer and simpler to find stable patterns that can be attributed to an E-Mode by focusing on the behaviors, emotions or thoughts that arise from Fear. This is because fear leads us to act in an automatic, conditioned and repetitive way.
Fear produces a range of stereotyped behaviors, feelings and thoughts, because it leads us to act, feel and think only about what directly responds to the fear, and we lose flexibility, adaptability and proactivity. That is why it is possible to identify fixed, easily recognizable patterns of behavior when we act from Fear.
By contrast, when we act from Trust, our behaviors tend to expand, our emotions and feelings become more adaptable, and our thoughts gain flexibility and creativity. This makes it harder to identify a fixed, repetitive pattern in the ways we face life.
To tell two E-Modes apart, it is better to do it from Fear, because Fear gives us elements that can be attributed to each E-Mode with greater precision and consistency.
The E-Mode pairs
For each documented pair: how they are alike, how they differ in the effective, affective and perspective dimensions, the key to identifying one or the other, and the connection between them (through a C-Mode, through integration or disintegration, or through a harmonic group).
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Yellow cells are the documented pairs. Tap one to see how they are alike and how to tell them apart.
16 documented pairs out of 36
Documented pairs
E-Mode 1 · GoodnessE-Mode 5 · Personal Competence
Why they get confused
Both can seem meticulous, critical and distant, because they seek precision and correctness in what they do; their rigor makes them easy to confuse, although E-Mode 1 lives it as a moral duty and E-Mode 5 as an intellectual need.
Differences by dimension
Effective
Both avoid improvising and are very demanding about quality.
Affective
Both seem contained and reserved in their emotional expression, but E-Mode 1 tenses up out of indignation at what is wrong, while E-Mode 5 withdraws to protect their energy and privacy.
Perspective
Both look for order and clarity when looking at the future, but E-Mode 1 sees it as a task to be perfected and E-Mode 5 as a system to be understood.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 1 gives itself away through a language of "should" and moral correctness, while E-Mode 5 does so through a language of "understanding" and analytical distance; what makes it hard is that both convey discipline and seriousness.
Connection between them
E-Modes 1 and 5 belong to a harmonic group characterized by instrumental dissociation, or operational coldness: both tend to disconnect from their emotions in order to focus on execution.
E-Mode 1 · GoodnessE-Mode 6 · Confidence
Why they get confused
Both can be critical and demanding of themselves and others. They are structured and organized.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 1 acts out of responsibility; E-Mode 6 out of caution.
Affective
E-Mode 1 tends toward rigid perfection; E-Mode 6 seeks emotional security.
Perspective
E-Mode 1 sees purpose in improvement; E-Mode 6 in mutual support.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 1 acts from an internal ideal; E-Mode 6 from external worries.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 1 · GoodnessE-Mode 7 · Happiness
Why they get confused
In certain settings (particularly at work), E-Mode 7 disintegrates into the negative behaviors of E-Mode 1, becoming rigid, demanding and inflexible as a way of making sure the planned goals are met properly and on time.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 7 does several tasks at once (multitasking); E-Mode 1 focuses and acts methodically and with discipline.
Affective
E-Mode 1 manages emotions through self-control, suppressing impulses to live up to ideals; E-Mode 7 avoids negative emotions, focusing on positive emotional imprints.
Perspective
E-Mode 7 projects optimistic visions; E-Mode 1 pursues an ideal of perfection.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 7 runs from pain; E-Mode 1 faces problems with discipline.
Connection between them
E-Mode 7 disintegrates by taking on negative traits of E-Mode 1, and E-Mode 1 integrates by taking on positive traits of E-Mode 7.
E-Mode 1 · GoodnessE-Mode 8 · Self-Determination
Why they get confused
Both can be strong, impose their ideas and hold clear standards.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 1 follows rules and is methodical; E-Mode 8 challenges rules and makes their own.
Affective
E-Mode 1 has a controlled, demanding affectivity; E-Mode 8, an intense, confrontational one.
Perspective
E-Mode 1 seeks to improve the world; E-Mode 8 seeks to lead and to decide over reality.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 1 focuses on what is right; E-Mode 8 on what works and what they think is best.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 2 · LoveE-Mode 6 · Confidence
Why they get confused
Both can seem attentive, protective and devoted to others, but E-Mode 2 does it seeking to be needed and loved, while E-Mode 6 does it seeking security and support in the relationship.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 2 acts by offering direct, immediate help, while E-Mode 6 acts by assessing risks and organizing support; the confusion arises because both create closeness and care.
Affective
Both express sensitivity and concern, but E-Mode 2 fears not being loved and E-Mode 6 fears not having reliable support.
Perspective
E-Mode 2 sees the future as an opportunity to connect and to give, while E-Mode 6 perceives it as an uncertain scenario that must be secured and anticipated.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 2 seeks to consolidate the bonds that matter to them; E-Mode 6 seeks approval across the board.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 2 · LoveE-Mode 7 · Happiness
Why they get confused
Both are warm and stimulating. E-Mode 7 often takes on the role of solving other people's needs, and in doing so indirectly meets their own need for satisfaction.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 7 tends to scatter across ideas; E-Mode 2 focuses on the other person's needs.
Affective
E-Mode 7 avoids emotional discomfort and feeling smothered; E-Mode 2 seeks bonds of dependence and exclusivity.
Perspective
E-Mode 7 focuses on medium- and long-term events; E-Mode 2 focuses on pleasing right away.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 7 avoids inner suffering; E-Mode 2 uses it to connect with others. E-Mode 7 makes no emotional demands; E-Mode 2 asks for emotional reciprocity.
Connection between them
They belong to the positive attitude group. E-Mode 2 takes difficulty as an opportunity to position themselves emotionally in relation to the other person's need; E-Mode 7 keeps a positive attitude by holding on only to the positive side of reality.
E-Mode 2 · LoveE-Mode 9 · Harmony
Why they get confused
Both are warm, prioritize connection with others, are attentive and try to meet the needs of those around them. The difference is that E-Mode 9, when attending to needs, tries to minimize discontent and reduce the tensions that could put relationships at risk, and finds their reward in that. E-Mode 2, by contrast, when meeting a need, seeks to create an emotional debt that they will, in some way, expect to be repaid on the affective level.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 9 is receptive and passive; E-Mode 2 is active and intrusive in relationships.
Affective
E-Mode 9 seeks to create emotional comfort by adapting emotionally; E-Mode 2 seeks to get emotionally involved, securing affection.
Perspective
E-Mode 9 seeks meaning in peace; E-Mode 2 in human connections.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 9 avoids inner tensions; E-Mode 2 addresses them out of emotional need.
Connection between them
E-Modes 9 and 2 belong to the positive attitude harmonic group: E-Mode 9 tends to make problems invisible to preserve the peace, while E-Mode 2 uses them as an opportunity to position themselves and sustain their helping role.
E-Mode 3 · WorthE-Mode 5 · Personal Competence
Why they get confused
Both can seem reserved and self-sufficient, because they focus on concrete goals and do not easily show their emotions; the difference is that E-Mode 3 seeks efficiency and external achievement, while E-Mode 5 concentrates on accumulating inner knowledge.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 3 leans toward fast, visible action to achieve results, while E-Mode 5 takes time to process information before acting; the confusion arises because both convey discipline and focus, although one measures by achievements and the other by understanding.
Affective
Both tend to control what they show, but E-Mode 3 does it to keep up a successful image and E-Mode 5 to protect their privacy and energy.
Perspective
E-Mode 3 sees the future as a series of goals to reach and E-Mode 5 as a system that must be understood before moving; both plan, but with different motivations.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 3 is recognized by a language of performance, comparison and productivity, while E-Mode 5 is recognized by a language of analysis, observation and expertise.
Connection between them
E-Modes 3 and 5 belong to a harmonic group characterized by instrumental dissociation, or operational coldness: both tend to disconnect from their emotions in order to focus on execution.
E-Mode 3 · WorthE-Mode 6 · Confidence
Why they get confused
Both can be committed, active and driven by ambitious goals. E-Mode 6 is often confused with E-Mode 3 when they seek security by making sure those around them see them positively, which secures their support and, through it, a sense of security.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 6 overthinks before acting; E-Mode 3 makes quick, practical decisions.
Affective
E-Mode 6 seeks secure, stable emotional bonds; E-Mode 3 seeks admiration without deep emotional connection.
Perspective
E-Mode 6 finds meaning by transcending, in a search to stand on their own feet; E-Mode 3 in personal achievements that bring recognition and social validation.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 6 assesses risks; E-Mode 3 executes with ambition.
Connection between them
They are connected through integration and disintegration. E-Mode 3, integrating toward E-Mode 6, develops loyalty, collaboration and genuine connection. E-Mode 6, disintegrating toward E-Mode 3, seeks outside validation, becomes competitive and loses authenticity.
E-Mode 3 · WorthE-Mode 7 · Happiness
Why they get confused
Both can be motivated and energetic, although what they are seeking underneath is different. E-Mode 7 can be confused with E-Mode 3 when they seek to secure a good image or a professional or personal achievement that guarantees them everything they need so that none of their desires is frustrated (for example: if they are a good professional, they will earn well and have a network of contacts that will open doors for them).
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 3 is strategic and goal-oriented; E-Mode 7, scattered and creative.
Affective
E-Mode 3 seeks to be valued as a way of feeling loved; E-Mode 7 seeks pleasure, and pleasing others, as a way of loving.
Perspective
E-Mode 3 focuses on personal achievements; E-Mode 7 on stimulating experiences and possibilities.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 3 seeks approval through success; E-Mode 7 seeks satisfaction by fulfilling their own desires and those of the people around them.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 3 · WorthE-Mode 8 · Self-Determination
Why they get confused
Both can seem confident, dominant and results-oriented, but while E-Mode 3 seeks to stand out through achievements and efficiency, E-Mode 8 seeks to impose their presence and direct control.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 3 acts with strategic speed to reach visible goals, while E-Mode 8 acts with force and decisiveness to clear the way; the confusion arises because both have an immediate, pragmatic impact.
Affective
Both tend to come across as firm and to hide vulnerability, but E-Mode 3 does it to sustain their image and E-Mode 8 so as not to feel weak or dominated.
Perspective
E-Mode 3 sees the future as a set of goals to meet and E-Mode 8 as a territory of power to conquer and protect; both have a practical vision, but with different intentions.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 3 is recognized by a language of success, efficiency and adaptation, while E-Mode 8 by a language of strength, confrontation and their own sense of justice.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 4 · IdentityE-Mode 6 · Confidence
Why they get confused
Both can be reflective, anxious and find it hard to fully trust others. E-Mode 6 can be mistaken for E-Mode 4 when they try to set themselves apart from others through particular ways of dressing or acting, as a way of stepping outside the yardsticks of evaluation set by normal, socially established references.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 4 is introspective and oriented toward their inner world; E-Mode 6 is practical and focused on external security.
Affective
E-Mode 4 seeks emotional authenticity, expressing their feelings deeply; E-Mode 6 seeks emotional security, managing their fears through reliable relationships.
Perspective
E-Mode 4 finds meaning in exploring and expressing their unique identity; E-Mode 6 finds purpose in meeting responsibilities and ensuring a stable, secure future.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 4 focuses on what they feel; E-Mode 6 on what could go wrong.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration. They belong to a reaction group (4, 6, 8) in which both look for a response or confirmation from others.
E-Mode 4 · IdentityE-Mode 7 · Happiness
Why they get confused
Both can seem creative, sensitive and passionate about what they do, but E-Mode 4 centers on emotional depth and authenticity, while E-Mode 7 centers on a variety of experiences and enjoyment.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 4 acts with selective intensity on what resonates with them inside, while E-Mode 7 acts with expansive speed so as not to miss opportunities; they get confused because both seek what is new, but with different motivations.
Affective
Both express a great deal of emotion, but E-Mode 4 tends toward melancholy and the need to be understood, while E-Mode 7 tends toward enthusiasm and avoiding pain.
Perspective
E-Mode 4 sees the future as a path of meaning and personal authenticity, while E-Mode 7 sees it as an open field of possibilities to explore; both imagine scenarios, but with opposite approaches (depth vs. breadth).
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 4 is recognized by a language of identity, lack and inner search, while E-Mode 7 by a language of alternatives, plans and enjoyment.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 5 · Personal CompetenceE-Mode 9 · Harmony
Why they get confused
Both can seem distant and avoid confrontation in social situations. E-Mode 9 is often confused with E-Mode 5 because of their need for isolation or social withdrawal. This comes from their wish to find autonomy by not feeling obliged to adapt when they are not socially engaged.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 5 focuses on accumulating knowledge; E-Mode 9 on keeping the peace.
Affective
E-Mode 5 distances themselves emotionally and physically; E-Mode 9 withdraws to gain some autonomy.
Perspective
E-Mode 5 finds meaning in what they can know rationally; E-Mode 9 in what they can stabilize and harmonize.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 5 observes from a distance; E-Mode 9 harmonizes from within.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration.
E-Mode 6 · ConfidenceE-Mode 8 · Self-Determination
Why they get confused
Both can be protective and distrustful in relationships. When E-Mode 6 is counterphobic, they tend to come across as decisive, imposing and aggressive, which can lead people to mistake them for E-Mode 8.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 6 is hyperactive, anticipatory and reactive; E-Mode 8 is intense, controlling and directive.
Affective
E-Mode 6 seeks external security; E-Mode 8 takes control of their surroundings.
Perspective
E-Mode 6 seeks mutual support; E-Mode 8 seeks to lead with determination.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 6 over-consults, over-analyzes and hesitates before acting, investing a lot of energy; E-Mode 8 is resolute, firm in their ideas and preferences, and acts on their own perception.
Connection between them
They have no direct connection through a C-Mode, integration or disintegration. They belong to a reaction group (4, 6, 8) in which both look for a response or reaction from their surroundings and from others.
E-Mode 7 · HappinessE-Mode 9 · Harmony
Why they get confused
Both avoid uncomfortable, tense situations.
Differences by dimension
Effective
E-Mode 7 is active and dynamic; E-Mode 9 tends to be slower, more unhurried and passive.
Affective
E-Mode 7 avoids pain; E-Mode 9 tries to avoid external conflict.
Perspective
E-Mode 7 seeks stimulating experiences; E-Mode 9 seeks inner or outer peace.
Key to telling them apart
E-Mode 7 is quick to decide; E-Mode 9 tends to procrastinate.
Connection between them
They belong to the positive attitude group. E-Mode 9 makes problems invisible or isolates them; E-Mode 7 holds on to the positive side of reality.