Exploring out of the definitions of yourself
Most of what I'm about to write is hugely inspired by this video. Consider watching it. I promise you it's worth it!
It's cool to categorize and, sometimes, be categorized. It's an interesting aspect of human nature for sure. It can be a way to understand mroe about yourself, and feel like being part of something bigger. Common examples are personality type and zodiac signs.
The video linked above uses the elements from Avatar: The Last Airbender. While the main concept is nothing new, I loved how the video doesn't use the elements to just make you categorize yourself, but pushes you to explore more of what you are not.
What follows mostly comes from the video, but rearranged in a way that makes more sense for me.
Each of us can be categorized using the 4 elements, offering us a part of ourselves to be explored. It's cooler, though, to consider each element in a spectrum. All the elements are present within yourself, but some are more dominant than others.
Activities can lead to elements as well
Earth
Foundation, substance, diversity and strength. You're able to face your problems head on. Earth means structure: control of your environment.
Earth also means community: we are talking about a group of people you want to show up for. We live in an era where communities are easy to find, yet feel like belonging has never been lower. I still believe we can take advantage of the tools at our disposal to find the right people for us.
A good example on improving the earth element would be things like habits, routines. It's all those things that are small by themselves, but persevere and build up over time.
Focusing on earth only can make you get stuck within your stability.
Fire
Power, forging, desire and willpower. Fire people draw out the energy to achieve what they want. You thrive when there are stakes. You can reach the outline of your limits and keep pushing. You're able to accept pain and discomfort. You don't stop.
Your spark not only fuels yourself, but can ignite other people as well. Fire is something that gives you power while burning you at the same time. Still, you accept the burn and continue forward.
A good example on how to improve the fire element would be a sport like boxing.
Focusing on fire only will burn you out eventually. Fire grows to no end and becomes impossible to handle when it becomes too big.
Water
Flow, change, adaptability, and coolness. You can get out of your head and feel your body. You don't ruminate in your own thoughts. You can clear your head and rejuvenate your creativity.
You stick to the present. You can get completely absorbed in your activities and letting them cleanse you.
A good example on how to improve the water element would be running or skating.
Focusing on water only can make you drown in your own present. While it's crucial to be in the present, that alone won't get you some parts of the life you need.
Air
Freedom, peace, direction, and detachment from wordly concerns. Air is the sail that channels all the other elements into it and drive your life forward. While you could still achieved a balanced life without air, you can't achieve a sinergistic life.
You're quick-witted, and you're good at finding clever solutions to get out of situations. It doesn't matter where your life goes, or whato you choose to do with your time
Focusing on air only can get you stuck in vicious thought loops that spiral uncontrollably, to the point that you will suffocate.
Most of us over-rely on the element we're strongest in to do everything for us. Each of these elements, on its own, becomes stale. If you are tunnel-visioned in your own element, it will be hard for you to find inner balance and a satisfying life. Your greatest strengths are also your greatest weaknesses when left unchecked.
There are other parts of yourself worth to be explored. Understanding from other elements can help you become whole. They don't have to be learned all at once. You can focus on one at a time.
I think it can be a cool journey to start. I may use this blog for some updates on it. If you're interested, let me know what you think!