ARCHETYPE COMPARISON
The Achiever vs The Wounded Healer
Understanding the tension and harmony between your inner The Achiever and The Wounded Healer
Shadow Pair — These archetypes often represent opposing forces within you
The Achiever
Your Inner Builder
"There's a goal in your mind. Maybe you haven't fully admitted it yet, but it's there. The question isn't if you can reac..."
- Drive
- Accomplishment
- Focus
- Ambition
The Wounded Healer
Your Inner Transformer
"You've been through something. Maybe you're still going through it. The wound is real. But here's the strange truth: you..."
- Transformation
- Empathy
- Shadow work
- Healing
When These Two Conflict
The Achiever runs toward goals; the Wounded Healer needs to pause with pain. When you're hurt, the Achiever says "push through it" while the Wounded Healer says "this needs tending." The Achiever fears stopping; the Wounded Healer fears endless running.
How They Complement Each Other
Together, they create sustainable ambition—the ability to pursue goals without abandoning yourself along the way. The Achiever transforms pain into purpose; the Wounded Healer ensures the pursuit doesn't create new wounds.
Finding Integration
Integration Tip
Your wounds don't disqualify you from achievement—they inform it. Let pain teach you what truly matters to achieve.
Explore More Archetypes
Consult Your Inner Builder and Your Inner Transformer
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