Motivational Archetypes

I think I could argue myself into or out of high percentages on several of these categories:

  • Philosopher — better understand the universe, live the life of the mind

I love learning, so I should rate this high, right? But this description sounds like someone who loves learning without regard to its application to the world, and I love learning because I sense that what I learn can be applied to the world, so perhaps I’m really low on this.

  • Hedonist — go on adventures, have wild romances

I’m prone to akratic & compulsive behavior, so maybe I should rate this highly. But I also prioritize squashing those akratic behaviors. And I’m prone to skipping on needed relaxation and healthy pleasure seeking. So I’m low in it?

  • Caregiver — have meaningful relationships, raise children

I care deeply about certain people, so I could make a case for being high in this. But I have difficulty prioritizing my social connections over work and productivity. So, low?

The other two, Creator and Politician, I’m pretty clearly high in.

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