What archetype are you hiding in?

Which role have you been playing?

Back in 2003, I learned about the idea of archetypes through Carolyn Myss's book, "Sacred Contracts." At that time, I began to explore the idea of archetypes and how they shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

But soon focused my attention on the next shiny inspiration. 

Recently, I had such a great ah-ha moment while listening to Robert Edward Grant as he discussed the villain archetype. Robert questioned whether there was even a need for anyone to play the role of the villain in his life any longer.

This just made me smile because I have been wondering if I needed to play the victim archetype any longer. Robert took this archetype idea to another level for me. 

I’ve shared in the past that my journey with an autoimmune disease led me to confront my own deeply embedded pity party or victim archetype. I had been playing the role of the wounded healer for far too long.

However, 2023 has been a transformative year for me as I've developed a deeper understanding of my victim archetype and its presence in all of us. 

In my work with couples and my own relationship with my husband, it has become evident that the desire to play the victim is a common thread. Imagine, though, what our romantic relationships would look like if none of us felt the need to be the victim?
This awareness has not only transformed my relationships with others but, more importantly, my relationship with myself.

None of us are immune to the victim archetype. It shows up in creative levels. And of course, it boils down to self-love. It always will! 

If we no longer require the role of the victim to seek acceptance or love, we liberate ourselves completely. The truth emerges that, deep down, we all yearn for pure love and acceptance. 

In fact, I believe that if we release the need to embody any specific archetype – whether it's the hero, the villain, or the victim – we can embrace a purer form of love and acceptance.

After all, we've all played these roles at different points in our lives. When we shed these labels, we become free to be our authentic selves and contribute from the heart to the collective consciousness. 

This month let’s explore these three archetypes within ourselves and find ways to release the need for such roles so that we can shine our Light of pure Love, Acceptance, and Authenticity. 

Grab your journal, or self-reflect on some of these prompts: 

The Victim Archetype: 

Empowerment Over Victimhood: The victim archetype often comes out of a sense of powerlessness. To move beyond it, we've got to cultivate empowerment by recognizing that we are the creators of reality. 

What can I do now to feel good without needing someone else to suffer? 

Self-Compassion: Growth involves developing self-compassion and realizing that acknowledging our vulnerabilities doesn't equate to weakness. We can learn to be kinder to ourselves. 

Talk to your inner child in the ways you need to be spoken to. 

The Hero Archetype: 

Authenticity: Moving past the hero archetype requires embracing authenticity. We must let go of the need to always appear strong and perfect and allow ourselves to be genuine, flaws and all. 

How would it feel to be courteous and allow myself to be seen fully? 

Emotional Balance: Instead of constantly seeking external validation, we grow when we are able to find validation from within. 

Make a list of things about you that you are proud of.

Allow your body and mind to feel valued. 

The Villain Archetype: 

Self-Reflection: To transcend the villain archetype, we must cultivate compassionate understanding. We can no longer blame anyone or anything for our unhappiness. 

I wonder how I would experience life if I wasn’t allowed to blame anyone else for my unhappiness.

What would it feel like to feel the emotions I have spent my life avoiding? 

Forgiveness: Releasing the need for a villain archetype requires forgiveness, not just of others but also of ourselves. We must let go of grudges and judgments to find inner peace. 

In what ways can I take my power back from those who have hurt me?

When the old hurtful stories pop up in your mind, state over and over, “I Love me more.”

Choose to no longer live in the past. 

Moving Beyond Archetypes in into your Authentic Self:

To really move beyond these archetypes, keep journaling and digging into these, and continue to focus on being self-aware and committed to doing the work to grow and be your favorite version of you! 

Remember that we have the power to shape our responses to life's challenges.

When we feel safe to be who we are the rest of the world can do the same. 

Let’s create a better reality.

You don't have to do it alone! If you are needing some help working through and releasing stuck emotions and limiting beliefs, and finding your Light 💫 Come in for a session with me💫 or join some of my upcoming workshops. 

Much Love, 

Dena