
Generation, Organization, Destruction
In Hindu mythology there are three recognized forms of divinity: Brahma who generates the universe, Vishnu who organizes or maintains the universe, and Shiva who destroys the universe. The three aspects work in a perpetual cycle. The philosophical assumption is there can be no creation without destruction; similar to a theory of contrast.
A similar sentiment is expressed by the dynamic between order and chaos; where there is a universal tendency for entropy to influence things back into a state of homogeneity. There would be no order - without it's contrast of chaos. The most creative ideas are usually found wandering the fine line between chaos and order. Where there is too much order creativity is stifled, and where there is too much chaos creativity has no consistent catalyst to grow from.
The most stable ideas are those that have a balance of order and chaos - despite the misconceptions of our current epoch that order is associated with stability. Too much order, and it becomes very difficult for an idea to grow or step into the unknown. Like the analogy of an ivory tower; too many rules and too much isolation from the universal reality of the balance between order and chaos, and ideas become unnatural abominations that will struggle to resist destruction. Shiva destroys ideas which are no longer able to grow, and entropy acts on things when they stagnate and are no longer maintained.
Maintaining an optimal balance between order and chaos
The function of the Realist is located between finding limitations for your idea, and finding the will of your idea. A balanced foundation is the key; you may be able to spot the foundation shaking, before the entire structure comes crashing down. To ask ourselves if we have too much order we can check our hubris or arrogance.
We have a tendency towards hubris or arrogance when we think that the order we have established is so infallible that it does not need to be flexible to change. Destruction universally follows arrogance like a moth to a flame; so ask yourself if the ambitions that you have, or the will of your idea might be likened to that of an ivory tower narrative. During your exploration of your idea's will, did you notice anything that might sound like the idea is striving to dominate the universe, or usurp universal laws or incumbent influences that command our times? Remember the more humble you are during this period or reflection the more balanced the idea may become.
This same process of humility can be applied to your own desires for the idea's development. Have you discovered through thinking your idea to this stage that perhaps your original inspiration was an ivory tower story; are you trying to isolate yourself from the world and sit above it by working with this idea? What do you want to achieve by working with this idea? The more honest you are at this stage, the more you will be able to stave off those influences of destruction and balance your own needs with that of the idea's needs. Are you and your idea able to adapt to reality, or are you trying to defy reality. Are you able to adapt to your idea's will, and is the idea able to adapt to your will?
If you are struggling to define if your idea is too isolated or restricted from reality, or if you and your idea are aligned, or would like to predict if your idea is prone to undergoing a destructive phase, then please reach out. We thrive on engaging with the community and would relish the chance to discuss your ideas with you.
Realist
“Every act of creation is first an act of destruction” - Pablo Picasso
Unlike the other archetypes, this archetype doesn't create a new perspective, the will to live or die, or force us into observation; The realist is here to remind us nothing is permanent. Destruction doesn't depend on virtue, choices, alignment with truth; it is the natural force which follows and precedes creation.
It seems rather ominous but we can be proactive in understanding what accelerates the destruction of your ideas. We can condition ourselves to accept it as an inevitability and make the most of it rather than trying to avoid it. Being able to embrace this archetype will prepare you identifying why an idea may be destroyed, predict when chaotic forces of destruction might impact your idea and hopefully extend the longevity of your idea via being able to work with this natural force.
Attributes
Humble
Realistic
Grounded
Relativist
Embodiments
Tower of Babel
Shiva
Ivory Tower
In life
Historic examples
Mythology
Mysticism
Can help you
Predict destructive cycles
Accept chaos & change
Ground you