Unapologetically enjoying life.
This is the motto of the Hedonist.
Can you identify with this motto?
How does it make you feel?
Does it invite you to dance or is it more like “ugh, leave me alone”?
The Hedonist is one of the oldest characters of the Selves Card deck. I have created the first version of it back in 2015 and although I have experimented with other drawings, eventually I decided to stick with the old one. The image of the blond woman with round shapes enjoying beach life just stuck. She sais: yeah, this is me, this is my body, I love life and I love myself as I am.
There is this American comedy called I feel pretty. The full-figured main character, played by Amy Schumer struggles with low self-esteem. One day she hits her head badly during her spinning class. As a result of the injury, she suddenly sees herself differently: she finds her curvy body beautiful and incredibly attractive. I think the story reflects quite accurately and sarcastically that in a society that emphasizes appearances above other qualities, a woman needs to be mentally unstable see herself as beautiful.
The Hedonist however does not need head injuries or artificial confidence boosts: she feels good in her own skin and does not only accept herself, but also knows that she is sexy and revels in the pleasures of life. “I’m sexy and I know it!”
Connecting with the inner Hedonist is especially important for those struggling with low self-esteem, and for those who have difficulty caring for their own needs. It can be really important for example for mothers with small children to recharge themselves inspired by the Hedonist for a few minutes every day. (For me this means sipping a cup of warm drink by myself or dancing freely for a few minutes.)
These coaching questions can help you connect with your inner Hedonist:
Let's see where the Hedonist is located in the system of Selves.
The Hedonist’s Enneagram type is Seven, the Enthusiast.
Type Seven characters are often optimistic, versatile, cheerful and impulsive, but they can also be scattered, unfocused, and irresponsible.
As for spiral dynamics, the Hedonists level is orange.
Important values of the orange level are independence, achieving one’s own goals, material well-being, and personal advancement.
What does the Hedonist mean to you?
Share your thoughts in the comments section of related posts on the Selves’ Facebook or Instagram channels, or send me an email at hello@selvescards.com.
I look forward to reading about your experiences!
Réka Livits, the Creator of Selves