Bird in Flight

The Bird in Flight archetype represents a person who operates on the belief that to get weighed down by worry, or distracted from what is unnecessary, is pointless. They are very goal-oriented, as birds are when they fly and are looking for the next spot to land to either find food, scope out their environment, or rest. It can look from the outside that this person is detached from the world, but they are instead focusing on what has true meaning to them and not bothering with what does not. They can look purposeless to others, but they would say they are only doing what truly matters to them.

A person with the Bird in Flight archetype can sometimes appear selfish because they can focus so intently on what interests them, but to them, it is the object of that focus that matters most, not them personally. Often highly creative, they can have obsessive tendencies toward what they find important. They sometimes ‘eat like a bird’ when they are working on something intently and sleep less whenever needed. They are devoted to what matters to them, including other people, so they can make good partners both professionally and personally. Because they can lose themselves in what they are working on, like a bird searching for food, to be with them requires patience and understanding. Like birds, they often just want to soar and experience the joys of life, so they can be a good traveling companion as long as the itinerary isn’t too structured and they can set the pace.

The Bird in Flight archetype does not do well in extreme environments either physically, emotionally, or mentally over-taxing ones. They are not especially fragile, but they do less well when they are over-extended, so it is wise of them to know their limits. Birds enjoy a gentle rain shower but seek cover during heavier rains. So too, the Bird in Flight archetype can flourish by recognizing what works best for them. This archetype has an inner courage and curiosity that results in an adventurous spirit that can sometimes become anxious if a new adventure is not on the horizon. Avid travelers, they are the happiest out in the world. The pandemic was particularly challenging for them since it was harder for them to travel beyond their own backyard. In the same way many birds are driven to migrate each year, this archetype can also enjoy traditions and repeating experiences that are positive to them. As much as they like new adventures in the world, they also connect to internal adventures experienced through reading, meditation, or their imaginations.

The Bird in Flight archetype is happiest when not entirely alone. They enjoy groups and are also comfortable in a couple. Since they can be so singularly focused on what matters to them they will sometimes step into the spotlight and other times sit comfortably on the sidelines. It all depends on their mood. They are usually stable emotionally but not afraid to express themselves whenever it feels right to them. This archetype is an air element so regular gentle grounding is a must for them.