Human personality is a complex and fascinating subject, with countless theories and models attempting to explain its intricacies. One such model, which has gained popularity in recent years, is the four personality paradigms (archetypes): warrior, dreamer, lover, and ruler. There are different variations of these particular personalities, so you may be familiar with other terms but these fit the same basic structure. Sometimes the dreamer is called the wise man or counselor. The ruler is also known as the sovereign or king/queen.
For the past few months Misty and I have been reading lots of books, taking online courses and I’ve been finishing certification to become a life coach. In fact, we enrolled in a course with Tony Robbins and enjoyed it immensely! Throughout this experience we’ve come to learn that 4 personality paradigms (archetypes) represent fundamental aspects of the human experience, and understanding them can provide valuable insights into our own behavior and motivations, as well as those of others.
The Warrior: Action & Achievement
The warrior paradigm (archetype) embodies strength, courage, and determination. Warriors are driven by a desire to achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. They are often competitive and assertive, and they thrive in environments that demand action and decisiveness. Warriors are natural leaders, and they are not afraid to take risks to achieve their objectives.
The Dreamer: Creativity & Innovation
The dreamer paradigm (archetype) is characterized by imagination, creativity, and a deep sense of wonder. Dreamers are often drawn to art, music, and other forms of creative expression. They are visionaries who are able to see possibilities that others cannot. Dreamers are often introspective and contemplative, and they value personal growth and self-discovery. They can be child-like in faith and matters of spirituality. Always thinking deep and asking lots of questions.
The Lover: Connection & Harmony
The lover paradigm (archetype) is defined by compassion, empathy, and a desire for connection. Lovers are often warm and nurturing, and they value close relationships with others. They are skilled at creating harmony and resolving conflict. Lovers are often drawn to careers in helping professions, such as nursing, teaching, or social work.
The Ruler: Leadership & Responsibility
The ruler paradigm (archetype) represents leadership, responsibility, and a desire to create order and structure. Kings and queens are often charismatic and confident, and they have a natural ability to inspire and motivate others. They are skilled at delegating tasks and making decisions. Rulers are often drawn to positions of power and authority, such as business leaders, politicians, or military officers.
Understanding the Paradigms Within Us
It is important to note that all of us possess elements of all four paradigms (archetypes) within us. The dominant paradigm may vary depending on the situation or context. For example, a person may be a warrior in their professional life, but a lover in their personal life. Or one may be a ruler at school and a dreamer at home. By understanding the four personality paradigms, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. This knowledge can help us to build stronger relationships, communicate more effectively, and achieve our goals.
How They Connect to Our Creator
Jews and early Christians were familiar with the "Shema." It is a central Jewish prayer, considered the most important in Judaism, which essentially declares the belief in ONE God. The Shema is often translated as "Hear, O Israel" - the opening line of the prayer, "Shema Yisrael" (Hebrew: שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל), found in Deuteronomy 6:4. It is traditionally recited twice a day, in the morning and evening prayer services, affirming the core tenet of Jewish faith that "the Lord is our God, the Lord is One."
Jesus was once challenged by a scribe to declare which of the commands could be labeled as the “greatest.” Without any hesitation Jesus began to quote the Shema: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:29-30). Have you ever wondered why? What’s the real meaning behind that message?
The greatest command is to love the Lord with your whole self. When you see yourself through God’s eyes you can appreciate all that He has called you to be. All that He made you to be. Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle wrestled with aspects about the human psyche, including the nature of the soul, the role of the brain, and the relationship between the body and the soul. It seems that the Savior may have both clarified and quantified the essence of the whole of man in his response to the scribe.
The four archetypes (or personality paradigms) are represented in the biblical formula offered by Jesus in the greatest command. Within our core being we have a warrior (strength), a dreamer (soul), a lover (heart), and a ruler (mind). Each part of our essence yearns to connect to the divine nature of God. We should long to love Him as He loves us. After all, we are created in His image and likeness.
If we can appreciate this connection it is only the beginning of a real paradigm shift. Only when we’re truly connected to God, through His Spirit, can we become most like our Heavenly Father. Our love for God must be evident in the way we treat others. Jesus also said, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). Only God can see us thoroughly complete. He longs for us to become ONE. He longs for us to love Him. He longs for us to love ourselves. And He longs for us to love our neighbor.
Loving your neighbor as yourself must be a fundamental principle within Christianity. It is a hallmark that emphasizes treating others with the same compassion (heart), kindness (soul), thought (mind) and energy (strength). The Christian way of life is more than just one of value, ethics, morality and integrity.
Putting It All Together
When you see yourself through God’s eyes, and all that He longs for you to be, you see your neighbor differently. You consider their needs, wants, feelings, and well-being as important as your own. It encourages empathy and a sense of shared humanity. Do you love God with your whole being? Do you love your whole self? Do you love your neighbor in the same way?
I want to challenge you to think about these aspects in your own daily walk. Which part of your own essence do you emphasize the most? Are you the courageous and fearless warrior? Do you feel more tapped into the compassionate lover? Are you a visionary and a dreamer? Or are you drawn to a life of authority and structure?
God has placed each of these personalities within us. We just have to tap into them in the moment. Don’t neglect them or let one completely control you. Too much or too little of one archetype can create conflict. God is ONE. We must also be ONE with Him and with ourselves. Only then can we see the tremendous benefits of unity with our neighbor. It’s all connected.
You are loved.
Ray Reynolds, PhD
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** Material used in this blog was gleaned and adapted from Tony Robbins, Dr. Phil Mango, Dr. Marcel Lanahan, Dr. Steve G. Jones, Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette.
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