What Are Archetypes

Posted on 10. Sep, 2009 by Katie Todd in Archetypes

Archetypes were first defined by Carl Jung. They describe our core energies, traits, talents and challenges that make up our unique personality and soul, our holistic DNA, so to speak.

Archetypes are compulsive, driving forces within that dominate and motivate every choice we make in life.

Our tastes, styles, values and choices in careers, relationships, homes, cars, music, books, TV, movies, hobbies, loves, hates and interests all reflect our archetypes. We may have been unconscious of the fact that our archetypal DNA was making these decisions, but they do influence every moment. Becoming conscious of this information is transformational.Archetypes

Archetypes are all neutral. None is better than another, an important fact to keep in mind as you explore your unique archetypal cluster.

If we do not allow our archetypes freedom of expression they express themselves in shadow.

The archetypes provide a wonderful, non-judgemental language, clarifying who we all are and what we are here for. We all speak and understand this innate language fluently without realising it.

I will introduce you to four archetypes taken from over 100 types in the book – Who Am I.

The first is:

ACTOR-STORYTELLER/ENTERTAINER

Light – Authentic, performing, wise, passionate, honest, emotionally brave, dramatic, true, colourful, touching, experiencing all, transforming, teaching, opening others, inspiring, enriched, generous, sharing.

Shadow – Gossiping, manipulative, exaggerating, alienating, attention-seeking, self-absorbed, overly dramatic, insensitive, fighting for the spotlight, disconnected to true story, fears stability, addicted to intensity.

Is this you?

Are you an open book about your life?
Have you often been in trouble for telling another’s private (personal) story?
Do you love being the focus of attention?
Do you love to exaggerate when retelling stories?
Can you be a drama queen?

About This Archetype

They are born entertainers and natural performers, whether on the professional stage or the stage of their own circle. They may be shy at times, but when it’s their turn to shine in an area they’re comfortable with, they know how to turn on that switch and bring the drama to life.

They tend to be completely open about every aspect of their live. They find it difficult to understand why others don’t share the entirety of their lives as they do. They often get into trouble by repeating a “good story” when others wish for it to be private. They’re literally shocked to have done the wrong thing without thinking.