Update 1.23 — Movement between High and Low Self-Esteem States

This update concerns the movement between:

• High Self-Esteem State (I also call this state: Strong Self-Esteem State or Power State),
• and Low Self-Esteem State (I also call this state: Soft Self-Esteem State or Vulnerable State).

The Strong or Soft Self-Esteem States can be activated when we start behave differently than in our typical Conscious State. Then, our behavior is similar to the other types.

I took this idea from Enneagram. In the Enneagram, a given type under stress or comfort (relax) behaves similarly to certain types of characters. In the Mandala of Characters, instead of the terms stress and relax, I use the terms Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States. The terms “Strong Self-Esteem” and “Soft Self-Esteem” I used, among others, because they are broader in meaning and they can be both positive and negative.

For example, Strong Self-Esteem can include relax (or comfort) and also other feelings. It means, when it comes to negative features, they could be:

• feeling more valuable than others,
• lack of understanding, empathy, respect,
• a tendency to manipulate others,
• etc.

And when it comes to positive traits of Strong Self-Esteem State, they could be:

• relax,
• kindness,
• being nice to others,
• being trustworthy,
• a tendency to help others,
• willingness to cooperate,
• etc.

In turn, Soft Self-Esteem may include stress and many other feelings as well. It means, when it comes to negative features, they can be:

• too much distrust,
• suspicion,
• withdrawal, lack of commitment,
• being too stressed,
• being too cautious,
• etc.

And when it comes to positive traits of Soft Self-Esteem, they can be, for example:

• sensitivity,
• subtlety,
• gentleness,
• showing sympathy and compassion,
• empathy, understanding,
• acceptance,
• etc.

Please do not treat the above list strictly, but only as in the illustrative example of some trends that may or may not occur. Personality traits, indeed, in Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States differ from each other for every type of character.

So, during states of Strong and Soft Self-Esteem, in the behavior of the given type appear various traits that have other types of characters. To illustrate this, I will use an example of Moist Air type in further considerations.

Symbolically we can say that our example type, that is Moist Air, moves to other types of characters, or in other words, connects with other types of characters.

On the Mandala of Characters, to show these connections (or movement) between different types of characters, I used arrows.

In the diagram below, we can see the scheme of the Mandala of Characters for Moist Air.

In this diagram, we can see that the Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are in two places. These are the points:

• Cool Water
• and Hot Fire.

I mark these points as “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, (I call them also “Power or Vulnerable State”).

Why is like that?

As I mentioned above, the idea of Strong and Soft Self-Esteem State I took from the Enneagram. In the Enneagram, we have three states:

• typical state for a given type of Enneagram (that is, the place where the given type is located),
• stress,
• and relax (or comfort).

In the Mandala of Characters:

• typical state in the Enneagram—it is Conscious State in the Mandala of Characters,
• stress in the Enneagram—it is Soft Self-Esteem State (or Vulnerable State) the Mandala of Characters,
• relax (or comfort)—it is Strong Self-Esteem State (or Power State) in the Mandala of Characters.

In the Mandala of Characters, I also distinguish the fourth state, that is, Unconscious State. To add this state to the Mandala of Characters inspired me the Jungian psychology and Ancient System.

So, in the Mandala of Characters, there are four states:

• Conscious State,
• Unconscious State,
• Strong Self-Esteem State, (or Power State),
• Soft Self-Esteem State, (or Vulnerable State).

For greater clarity, I put, so to speak, the psychological-personality states from the Enneagram and the Mandala of Characters in the table for comparison.

Conscious State is the main state. This state most often leads other states, and with this state, we identify the most. Therefore, types in the Mandala of Characters take their names from the places where their Conscious States are located. For example, type Moist Air has his in Conscious State in place, where on the Mandala is located Moist Air.

Unconscious State is opposite to the Conscious State.

When it comes to the Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States, in the beginning, I assumed that they should be fixed like in the Enneagram. That is, they should have clearly defined locations for individual types.

It means:

• In Strong Self-Esteem State, our Conscious State connects or moves to only one place on the Mandala of Characters. For example, I assumed that Moist Air in Strong Self-Esteem State moves only to the point—Cool Water.
• And in Soft Self-Esteem State, our Conscious State moves only to another place on the Mandala of Characters. For example, I assumed that Moist Air in Soft Self-Esteem State moves only to the Hot Fire point.

Over time, however, I discovered that in Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, we do not move only to one point. We can move to two points. (I wrote about it in “Update 1.12 — the changeability of Strong Self-Esteem State and Soft Self-Esteem State”). Therefore, in Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, we may have features similar to two other types of characters.

As a result of the above discovery, I assumed that in Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, we move mainly to one point. And sometimes we can also move to another point. For example, the above mentioned Moist Air in Strong Self-Esteem State mainly moves to the point—Cool Water, and sometimes to the point—Hot Fire. In turn, in Soft Self-Esteem State, Moist Air mainly moves to—Hot Fire, and sometimes to—Cool Water.

I make this assumption about moving mainly to one place, and sometimes to another because I still wanted to be in harmony with the philosophy of Enneagram. It means, according to the Enneagram philosophy would be the place to which we move mainly or most often. And where we move sometimes, or less often, resulted from analyzing the Mandala of Characters. The model, which is the Mandala, gives me more possibilities to analyze types of characters than the Enneagram. It is because the Mandala combines three typologies. That is Enneagram, Ancient System, and C. G. Jung’s—Psychological Types.

However, during my further observations and analysis, I came to the next conclusion. That is, it is difficult to clearly show to which of the two places on the Mandala, we move more often in the Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State? It can be, indeed, that:
— one representative of a given type moves more often to one place,
— and another representative of the same type can move to second place.

This movement between two places may also depend on many other factors, such as the specific situation, life circumstances, specific time, mood, level of fatigue, etc.

To explain this, I will use the metaphor.

If one day in the morning we observe a road, most cars can go one way, because, for example, a lot of people go to work, go towards the city, go to an event, etc.

However, if we observe the same road at a different time of day. For example, afternoon. Then, most cars can go in the opposite direction.

All in all, when it comes to traffic on the road, we mainly have three options:

1. Bigger traffic in one way.
2. Bigger traffic in another way.
3. Similar traffic in both ways.

If we now return to the Mandala of Characters, then, similar main three options can be distinguished, in the case where there can be located Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State? It means:

1. Can be located in one place.
2. Can be located in another place.
3. And can be in both places at once.

As for the third of the above cases, that is, the presence of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State in both places at once, then:

  3.1. Can be present in two places to a similar extent.
  3.2. Can be bigger in the first place than in another place.
  3.3. Can be bigger in another place that in the first place.

If we now return to the example of the type—Moist Air, then the places where it has Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State are the points:

• Cool Water,
• and Hot Fire.

So, the above considerations about where Strong and Soft Self-Esteem can be are very logical and meaningful.

However, this logic did not convince me for a long time, and I was not willing to accept it. Because how can it actually be that Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State can be in one place, or in another place, or even in two places at once? That is, in Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, we can have traits of either one or the other or two types of characters. So, we have here a kind of duality or dualism.

In that case, why finally did I convince myself to such duality of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State?

The decisive moment was when, once again, I was thinking about rationalism and irrationalism. It means, in the previous update, among other things, I updated the diagrams of rationalism and irrationalism, and it inspired me to analyze these concepts further.

Therefore, I came to the conclusion that rationality and irrationality are the main reason why it is more difficult to find out where we move more often. Rationality and irrationality were the cause, why I began to look at the movement during Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States differently than before.

To rationalism and irrationalism, however, I did not come right away. I came to this through consideration about the Extraversion and Introversion.

So, let’s start from the beginning. When I was thinking about movement during Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States, I considered this movement, among others, in the context of Extraversion and Introversion. Some types in Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States move in the areas of Extraversion and Introversion. These are the following types:

• Moist Air
• Wet Water
• Cool Water
• Cool Earth
• Dry Earth
• Dry Fire
• Hot Fire
• Hot Air

In my considerations about Extraversion and Introversion, I returned to the sources. That is the creator of these concepts, C. G. Jung. Jung, just, besides bringing these concepts to life, distinguish also their rational and irrational versions. Saying more precisely:

• Rationalism—is divided into the Extroverted and Introverted version,
• and Irrationalism—is divided into the Extraverted and Introverted version.

Then, in total, we have two types of Extraversion and Introversion, namely:

• Rational Extraversion, and
• Irrational Extraversion


• Rational Introversion, and
• Irrational Introversion.

Below I present this division on the Mandala of Characters.

In the above diagram, I have also added:

(In the above diagram I have placed another simplified version of the scheme illustrating the movement between states. It means, this version is without arrows and is transparent. I use transparency because I wanted, first of all, to show the areas of Extraversion and Introversion).

I found out where are areas of Extraversion and Introversion while creating the Mandala of Characters. I wrote about it in the chapter—“The Mandala of Characters—creation history”.

Then, in the above diagram, among others, we can see the division into:

• Rational and Irrational Extraversion, and
• Rational and Irrational Introversion.

When I was creating the above diagram, I was mainly interested in Extraversion and Introversion. The terms Rationalism and Irrationalism were in the background for me, and for a long time, they did not pay more attention to them.

I add Rationalism and Irrationalism to Mandala because it was a curiosity for me, which was in the Jung’s works. I thought this is a curiosity, which is probably worth keeping, and which someday be useful for any further considerations. As it turned out, this curiosity has become very useful for exploring Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

And, recently, to my mind came a simple idea. Maybe I should reverse the order of concepts. It means, the idea is to put the concepts of Rationalism and Irrationalism in the foreground. And in the background put Extraversion and Introversion.

Then, if we put Rationalism and Irrationalism in the foreground, the above diagram will look as follows:

So, in the diagram above instead of:

• rational EXTRAVERSION, there is—RATIONALISM, EXTRAVERSION
• irrational EXTRAVERSION, there is—IRRATIONALISM, EXTRAVERSION
• rational INTROVERSION, there is—RATIONALISM, INTROVERSION
• irrational INTROVERSION, there is—IRRATIONALISM, INTROVERSION

All in all, I just reversed the word order. For example, instead of “rational EXTRAVERSION” is “RATIONALISM, EXTRAVERSION”.

In addition to the fact that I reversed the word order, I also placed two nouns (for example, “RATIONALISM, EXTRAVERSION”), instead of the previous phrase, which contained a noun and adjective (for example, “rational EXTRAVERSION”).

I decided to use two nouns here, because, for example, Rationalism and Extraversion are separate factors that affect specific types of characters.

Whereas a term such as “rational Extraversion” is a combination of the noun and the adjective. So, it is a phrase, which can be described as an epithet. It means, the phrase, in which one word is a concept or name, and another word the first word somehow defines, enhances, underlines, emphasizes, highlights, etc.

Admittedly, in the diagram above I wanted to emphasize the concept of RATIONALISM and IRRATIONALISM. However, instead of epithets (for example, “extraverted Rationalism”) I decided to distinguish “RATIONALISM” and “IRRATIONALISM” by writing these terms in a larger font than the concepts of “EXTRAVERSION“ and ”INTROVERSION”.

Further in the following considerations about Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States, I will also use epithets, because they make it easier to present different thoughts and analysis. However, in general, please remember that we are dealing with separate factors. Factors that interact with each other in various ways.

I hope that it will be clear and intuitive enough to see which concepts I want to pay more attention to.

Let’s return to our example type of character. It means, let’s return to Moist Air and its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States. On these states of Moist Air, a great impact has RATIONALISM, which:

• on the one hand, is on the area of EXTRAVERSION,
• on the other hand, is in the area of INTROVERSION.

If now we are mainly interested in RATIONALISM, for greater clarity in the next diagram I will remove the areas of irrationalism.

The above diagram, below I also present in another perspective. I did it to make easier further considering the Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of type—Moist Air.

So the fact that Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State can be in two places, it may seem strange at first glance. However, it turns out that this solution is often for our psyche very useful.

How can this usefulness specifically look like?

For example, let us think about Self-Esteem.

Simply put, we can have Strong Self-Esteem in one place. However, because of some circumstances, we can lose Strong Self-Esteem in this place. Then, we can move to the other place where we can get Strong Self-Esteem again. In other words, if Strong Self-Esteem State cannot manifest in one place, then, it can move to another place to be able to manifest there.

How exactly is this happening?

If we use the example of Moist Air and we focus on its Strong Self-Esteem State, then this state manifests itself in these points:

• Hot Fire, and
• Cool Water.

Let us first consider the case when the Moist Air in its Strong Self-Esteem State moves to the point—Hot Fire.

Hot Fire is in the place where Rationalism is Extraverted. Extraversion often is focused on the outside world. In other words, in this place, the reasons (or Rationalism) that concern the outside world prevail. It follows from this that our Moist Air can get Strong Self-Esteem from some "rations" or reasons that are suitable for transferring them to others. By transferring some "rations" to others, I mean it, that Moist Air in this way wants to have an impact on its external world. Moist Air obviously expects that others will recognize its "rations", that they will draw their attention, convince them to something, cause their appreciation and sympathy, cause their willingness to offer favor, etc.

Here I am a little confused because, in the Polish language, the word “ration” is more ambiguous. That is, it has these meanings:

In English, “ration” mainly means—fixed portion, allowance, or provision.

So, dear reader, please forgive me if further, I will use the word “ration” similarly like in Polish language thinking.

OK, let us come back to consideration about Moist Air in its Strong Self-Esteem State moves to the point—Hot Fire

In life, however, it may turn out that the "rations" of Moist Air will not always be liked by others. Therefore, Moist Air may lose other’s appreciation, favor, approval, and sometimes even trust. Then, the Moist Air may lose its Strong Self-Esteem. And in this case, Moist Air often is moving to its Soft Self-Esteem State.

Looking at the diagrams that I put above, we can say, that Extraverted Rationalism of Moist Air, (which is at the point—Hot Fire), will stop giving him Strong Self-Esteem at that moment. Instead, this Extraverted Rationalism will bring him Soft Self-Esteem. So, Strong Self-Esteem will not be able to manifest itself at this point longer.

In this situation, Moist Air often moves to the point—Cool Water. And at the point—Cool Water the type—Moist Air can begin to rebuild its Strong Self-Esteem.

As a reminder, I say:

• at the point—Cool Water is the area of Introverted Rationalism, and
• at the point—Hot Fire is the area of Extraverted Rationalism.

So, when Moist Air moves to point—Cool Water, he can rebuild his Strong Self-Esteem. Moist Air, then, converts Extraverted Rationalism into Introverted Rationalism. And then, the Introverted Rationalism can bring him Strong Self-Esteem. In other words, Moist Air is guided by "rations" (or reasons) that relate to his inner world. Then, for example, Moist Air can get Strong Self-Esteem, because he is right in his inner world.

When the Moist Air is in the point—Cool Water (that is, in the area of Introverted Rationalism), then he can be satisfied with, for example:

• what he is thinking,
• or what he is doing,
• or what he is doing and thinking at the same time.

So, Moist Air is limiting access to the outside world and focuses more on his inner world. Thanks to this, he can rebuild this Strong Self-Esteem.

Looking at the Mandala of Characters, we can say, that Moist Air:
— is limiting access to the Hot Fire (Rationalism under the influence of Extraversion),
— and he focuses on the Cool Water (Rationalism under the influence of Introversion).

Thanks to this, as I said before, Moist Air can rebuild his Strong Self-Esteem. Simply put, if Moist Air cannot be right in the outside world, then he can be right in his inner world.

All in all, when Moist Air is in his
— Soft Self-Esteem State at the point—Hot Fire, then he can simultaneously connect with his
— Strong Self-Esteem at the point—Cool Water.

An analogous situation also occurs when, in the beginning, the Strong Self-Esteem of Moist Air is at the point—Cool Water. Then, too, something can cause Moist Air to lose his Strong Self-Esteem at that point. So, the inner world of the Moist Air will not be able to give him that Strong Self-Esteem.

Then, Moist Air can move to Hot Fire and rebuild his Strong Self-Esteem there. And there Moist Air will get Strong Self-Esteem from the outside world. That is, from Extraverted Rationalism.

There is also the third possibility. That is, Moist Air can draw Strong Self-Esteem at the same time from two points. It means, from points: Hot Fire and Cool Water.

How can this be explained?

I think, in understanding this, can help us that:

• at the point—Hot Fire—there is Extraverted Rationalism, and
• at the point —Cool Water—there is Introverted Rationalism.

So, we have Introverted and Extraverted Rationalism.

And if we focus more on the core, we are dealing mainly with Rationalism. Then, we have:

• the "ration" that flows from Extraversion (the outer world),
• the "ration" that flows from Introversion (the inner world).

In life, it may look like this, Moist Air will focus simultaneously on the external and internal world. On what is happening around him and what is happening inside him.

When can it be like that?

For example, when Moist Air talks to someone, plays or cooperates. Then, at the same time, he can conduct, so to speak, outer and inner dialogue. So, he may:

• cooperate with someone who is outside, and with himself inside;
• play with someone who is the outside world, and at the same time play with himself inside;
• get along with someone who is outside, and at the same get along with himself inside;
• etc.

Such outer and inner dialogue can, of course, conduct every type of character. The inner dialogue between what is inside and outside us can also take place when we are alone. For example, while working, playing, creating something, etc. Then the outside world is some matter, thing, machine, device, etc., with the help of which we are doing something. Actually, with which we are doing something together because these things somehow conduct a dialogue with us. They cooperate, collaborate, interact… with us

Therefore, the "ration" to which Moist Air is convinced at the given moment may flow both:
— from the outer world (Extraverted Rationalism), and
— from the inner world (Introverted Rationalism).

Here we can ask an interesting question. If Moist Air draws Strong Self-Esteem from two places, what happens when Soft Self-Esteem appears in these two places? How then, Moist Air can rebuild his Strong Self-Esteem, when places, where he can do it, are occupied by Soft Self-Esteem?

In this case, rebuilding Strong Self-Esteem is more difficult than when Soft Self-Esteem is in one place. Then there is nowhere to get away from Soft Self-Esteem. Therefore, Soft Self-Esteem can embrace Moist Air for longer.

Such situations, when it is difficult to escape from Soft Self-Esteem, are often disliked by Moist Air (and any other type of character). However, these situations are very much needed by our psyche. Generally speaking, such situations confront every type of character with reality or rationality. It helps us to get a more realistic, rational, and up-to-date assessment of the situation.

Coming back to our example type—Moist Air., he becomes more rational because of a deep entry into Soft Self-Esteem State. Or into Vulnerable State, as I am also calling this state. So, when Moist Air becomes more rational, it can help him recover his Strong Self-Esteem State (or Power State).

All in all, then, it seems that rationality can bring Moist Air both Strong and Soft Self-Esteem. Or can bring him Power or Vulnerability. The desire of Moist Air psyche to be rational will drive him to either into Power or into Vulnerability. And this will happen to him regardless of whether consciously Moist Air likes it or not.

So, rationality in Moist Air regulates his degree of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem. In other words, rationality takes care of the right balance between Strong and Soft Self-Esteem. Rationality maintains the cooperation of these two states. The purpose of this is to make this rationality—so to speak—as rational as possible.

Moist Air consciously, of course, would prefer to be in Strong Self-Esteem State whenever possible, and whenever he wants or needs to be in this state. However, the Soft Self-Esteem State (or Vulnerable State) is as necessary as Strong Self-Esteem State (or Power State).

Of course, going too deep and being too long in Soft Self-Esteem State can also be very undesirable. It can result in many problems, for example, such as:

• difficulties in overcoming sadness, regret, sorrow, shame, fear, anger, stress, powerlessness, depression and so on,
• low self-confidence,
• difficulties in taking on new challenges,
• etc.

So, too big Strong or Soft Self-Esteem can disturb the stability in the psyche. Especially when one or other of these states is harmful. It means, harmful in the sense that it is difficult to get out of it or somehow stop it.

In conclusion, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type—Moist Air can move in different ways between points:

• Hot Fire, and
• Cool Water.

In other words, Moist Air can draw Strong or Soft Self-Esteem from both Cool Water and Hot Fire.

Therefore, in general, there are such possibilities:

And we have here the third option:

The above table we can extend by other concepts from the Mandala of Characters:

And we have the third option here:

So, thanks to rationality, we can explain why Moist Air has his Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State in two places. In two places separately or in two places at once. We have here a kind of psychic feedback loop between Extraverted Rationality and Introverted Rationality.

However, the very interesting specificity of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem States results also from other factors. It means, on Strong and Soft Self-Esteem State can also have influence Consciousness and Unconsciousness. On the Mandala of Characters, I illustrated Consciousness and Unconsciousness using triangles. We have then, Conscious and Unconscious Triangles.

We have then these influences:
— the influence of Consciousness and Unconsciousness on Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States,
and vice versa,
— the influence of Strong and Soft Self-Esteem on Consciousness and Unconsciousness.

Such mutual interaction of Consciousness and Unconsciousness and Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States causes that this interaction may manifest in various ways. This may explain why Strong and Soft States are so specific.

So, on the Mandala of Characters, Consciousness and Unconsciousness symbolize Conscious and Unconscious Triangles. In both triangles, psychic energy circulates all the time.

In the following diagram, we can see the flow of psychic energy in the Conscious Triangle. I illustrated the energy flow using dashed arrows.

So, we can see that psychic energy flows between:

• point—Moist Air—Conscious State of the type Moist Air,
• point—Cool Water—Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type Moist Air, and
• point—Hot Fire—Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type Moist Air.

The analogous flow of psychic energy occurs in Unconscious Triangle. Energy flow I illustrated using dashed arrows.

In the above diagram, we can see that in the Unconscious Triangle of Moist Air type, psychic energy flows between:

• point—Dry Earth—Unconscious State of the type Moist Air,
• point—Cool Water—Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type Moist Air,
• point—Hot Fire—Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type Moist Air.

Please look at the flow of psychic energy between two points where there are speech bubbles—“Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”. These two points are Cool Water and Hot Fire. Between these points, we can see four arrows. It is because:

• two of these arrows belong to—Conscious Triangle, and
• other two arrows belong to—Unconscious Triangle.

They are, in a sense, two roads with two lanes. That is, two two-way roads. On each of these two roads, energy flows in two directions. One road belongs to the Conscious Triangle, and the other belongs to the Unconscious Triangle.

All in all, two roads where psychic energy flows are side-by-side between points Cool Water and Hot Fire. That is, between Conscious and Unconscious Triangle of the type—Moist Air. Between the remaining points of Conscious and Unconscious Triangle, we have one two-lanes roads. In total, psychic energy still flows along all these roads in two directions. This flow of energy between psychological states I show in the diagram below. I present the energy flow using dashed arrows.

In sum, the above diagram illustrates:

• Moist Air’s Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States influence his Conscious and Unconscious, and vice versa.
• Between Moist Air’s Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States, (which are in points Cool Water and Hot Fire), we have two two-line roads. One road belongs to Conscious Triangle and the other to Unconscious Triangle.

What results from this?

One fascinating correlation. That is the relationship, which results from the fact that Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are located between Consciousness and Unconsciousness.

For example, if we look at Strong Self-Esteem State, it can be, that:
— we consciously strive to have Strong Self-Esteem,
— but, at the same time, our Unconsciousness can cause our Soft Self-Esteem.

From this, it follows that the Unconsciousness can greatly limit or even block the efforts of our Consciousness when it tries to strengthen Self-Esteem.

There may be, of course, the opposite situation, that:
— when our Unconsciousness will boost our Strong Self-Esteem,
— at the same time, our Consciousness will limit Strong Self-Esteem or even effectively stop it.

Therefore, the greatest Strong Self-Esteem State appears when it is supported by both Consciousness and Unconsciousness.

Analogically, like in the case of Strong Self-Esteem State will be in the case of Soft Self-Esteem State. That is, Soft Self-Esteem State will also be strengthened or limited by both Consciousness or Unconsciousness.

In summary, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem States can be influenced by:

1. Consciousness.
2. Unconsciousness.
3. Consciousness and Unconsciousness at the same time.

Regarding the third possibility, if Strong of Soft Self-Esteem State can be created by Consciousness or Unconsciousness, then, there may also be the situation that the Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State will be:
— strengthened by Consciousness and weakened by Unconsciousness, or vice versa will be,
— weakened by Consciousness and strengthened by Unconsciousness.

I can summarize the above relations using tables, for greater clarity:

In general, in Conscious and Unconscious Triangle, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States can be supported in the following possibilities:

The above cases of relations of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem States and Conscious and Unconscious Triangle I also present on the diagrams.

In the diagram below, I would like to draw attention at the place where there is a border between Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

We can see two black points, which are marked as “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State (Power or Vulnerable State)”. One point is on the right, and the other is on the left.

Between these points, we can see that there are four arrows. Two of these arrows belong to Conscious Triangle and the other two to Unconscious Triangle. Above these arrows, I placed the label—“connections between Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States”.

As I mentioned above, in a symbolic sense, these are two roads. Each of these roads has two lanes, on which moves psychic energy.

Above I placed the table where I mentioned four possibilities to which Consciousness and Unconsciousness can support Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

I think that now it is worth considering how the above possibilities will look in the diagrams.

1. Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State is supported by Consciousness.

In this case, we have three options. Simply put, Conscious State can support Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State:

1.1. In one direction.
1.2. In other direction.
1.3. Or in both directions at the same time.

Ways through which Strong or Soft Self-Esteem is strengthened, I highlighted with the help of dashed arrows. It means, we can see on these arrows small shaded arrows which are symbolizing the flow of psychic energy on these ways.

1.1. The first option of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem in Conscious Triangle.

In the diagram below, we can see that psychic energy flows in one direction. Symbolically, we can say that energy flows along one lane of the road.

The above example of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State in the case of type—Moist Air will look as follows:

In the next diagram, in turn, I included Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

In the case of the type—Moist Air Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism has a big influence on its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

1.2. The second option of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem in Conscious Triangle.

In the diagram above we can see that psychic energy flows in the opposite direction than in the previous option 1.1. Symbolically, we can say that energy moves along the second lane on which energy can move the other way.

The above second example of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State by Consciousness in the case of the type—Moist Air will look as follows.

In the next diagram, we can see also areas of Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

In the case of type—Moist Air Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism has big influence on its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

1.3. The third option, where supporting of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, occurs at the same time in two directions in Conscious Triangle.

The next diagram shows the flow of psychic energy in Conscious Triangle. This flow takes place in both directions. That is, saying symbolically, along two road lines in opposite directions.

In the case of Moist Air, the mentioned above movement of psychic energy in both directions in Conscious Triangle looks as follows:

The next diagram we can see also areas of Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism, which has big influence on the type—Moist Air in its Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State.

So, in the above diagrams, I have presented 3 options how Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States emerge and move in Conscious Triangle.

In the case of type—Moist Air, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State is creating by the flow of psychic energy between the following points:

• Moist Air, that is, Conscious State of the type—Moist Air,
• Cool Water, and
• Hot Fire.

The points Cool Water and Hot Fire, are the points where (or thanks to which) are created Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type—Moist Air

Psychic energy can be created by various factors. For example, they can be certain: thoughts, information, statements, sentences, opinions, praises, criticism, assessments, etc. Factors like these may add or reduce Self-Esteem. As a result, every type of character enters into different states. Often these are Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State.

In summary, in the case of type—Moist Air going into Strong or Self-Esteem State is largely dependent on Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism. These rationalisms are part of Conscious Triangle of type—Moist Air. Then, they can influence the Conscious State of Moist Air.

So, in Conscious Triangle of Moist Air, we have:

• Point—Moist Air—the place where there is the Conscious State of the type—Moist Air.


• Point—Cool Water—the place where is created Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type—Moist Air. Among others, this Self-Esteem is created thanks to Introverted Rationalism. That is, thanks to the "rations" flowing from the inner world.


• Point—Hot Fire—the place where is created Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type—Moist Air. Among others, this Self-Esteem is created thanks to Extraverted Rationalism. That is, thanks to the "rations" flowing from the outer world.

2. Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State is supported by Unconsciousness.

In the previous point, I talked about options in which Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State is supported in the Conscious Triangle. In this point, I will talk about the options which we have in the Unconscious Triangle.

As in the Conscious Triangle, there are three options in the Unconscious Triangle. It means, Unconscious State may support Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State:

2.1. In one direction.
2.2. In other direction.
2.3. Or in both directions at the same time.

2.1. The first option of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem in Unconscious Triangle.

The above example of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State in the case of type—Moist Air look as follows:

In turn, in the next diagram, we can see Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism, which influence the Unconscious Triangle of the type—Moist Air.

The flow of psychic energy in Unconscious Triangle also influences Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

2.2. The second option of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State in the Unconscious Triangle.

In the next diagram, we can see that the psychic energy flows in the opposite direction than in the previous option 2.1. Symbolically, energy moves along the other lane opposite way.

The above second example of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State by Unconsciousness in the case of type—Moist Air, looks as follows.

In the next diagram, we can see areas of Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism, which has big influence on Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of the type—Moist Air.

2.3. The third option, where supporting of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, occurs at the same time in two directions in Unconscious Triangle.

The next diagram shows the third option of the flow of psychic energy in the Unconscious Triangle. In this option, energy flows at the same time in two directions. In a sense, energy simultaneously moves on two road lanes.

In the case of type—Moist Air, the mentioned above movement of psychic energy in both directions in the Unconscious Triangle looks as follows.

In the next diagram, we can see areas of Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism, which has big influence on the type—Moist Air in its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

So, in the above diagrams, I presented examples of how can emerge and move Strong and Soft Self-Esteem State in Conscious and Unconscious Triangles.

In the case of Moist Air, its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem appear through the flow of psychic energy between the following points:

• Hot Fire, and
• Cool Water.

The points Hot Fire and Cool Water are points where (or through which) is created Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State of the type—Moist Air.

Psychic energy in Unconscious Triangle arises and flows analogically like in the Conscious Triangle. We can notice these Unconscious energy flow thanks to factors like: various thoughts, visions, fantasies, associations, images, imaginations, etc. These factors flow from the Unconsciousness and add or reduce the Strong or Soft Self-Esteem.

In the case of type—Moist Air, its movement towards Strong or Soft Self-Esteem in Unconscious Triangle is analogical like in Conscious Triangle. Then, it is mostly dependent on Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism. These two kinds of rationalism influence Unconsciousness of Moist Air, and often create its Strong of Soft Self-Esteem.

In short, in Unconscious Triangle of the type—Moist Air it looks like this:

• Point—Dry Earth—the place where is the Unconscious State of the type—Moist Air.


• Point—Hot Fire—the place where arises Moist Air’s Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, on which big influence has Extraverted Rationalism. It means "rations" which are coming to Moist Air from the outer world.


• Point—Cool Water—the place where Moist Air’s Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State, on which big influence has Introverted Rationalism. It means "rations" which are coming to Moist Air from the inner world.

3. Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State is supported by both Conscious and Unconscious.

In the previous two points I talked about supporting the Strong or Soft Self-Esteem either in Conscious or in Unconscious Triangle. However, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State can also be supported by both Consciousness and Unconsciousness at the same time.

There are four options for supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem. It means, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem is simply supported:

3.1. In one direction in Conscious Triangle, and in other direction in Unconscious Triangle.
3.2. In other direction in Conscious Triangle, and in one direction in Unconscious Triangle.
3.3. In one direction, both in Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.
3.4. In other direction, both in Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

3.1. The first option of supporting Strong and Soft Self-Esteem in both Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

The diagram below shows two ways to support Strong or Soft Self-Esteem:

• one in the Conscious Triangle (clockwise),
• and the other in the Unconscious Triangle (counterclockwise).

In this case, there is an interesting situation. It is because:

• indeed, in the Conscious Triangle, psychic energy flows clockwise, but in the Unconscious Triangle—counterclockwise.
• then if we look at the border between the Conscious and Unconscious Triangle, we can see that psychic energy flows in both triangles in one direction.

So, it comes out that the point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the right side on the above diagram, is supported twice. It means psychic energy flows to this point:

• from Conscious State,
• and from Unconscious State.

Further, indirectly is strengthened the point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the left side in the above diagram. And both in the Conscious and Unconscious Triangle. It means, these two psychic energies flow to this point:

• from the point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is located on the right side.

In the case of type—Moist Air, the above situation looks as follows.

The above situation regarding the type—Moist Air I show yet in the next diagram. I include there also Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

3.2. The second option of supporting Strong and Soft Self-Esteem in both Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

The diagram below shows two ways of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem:

• one in the Conscious Triangle (counterclockwise),
• and the other in the Unconscious Triangle (clockwise).

In this case, there is an analogical situation like in the previous point 3.1. It is because:

• in the Conscious Triangle, psychic energy flows counterclockwise, but in the Unconscious Triangle—clockwise,
• however, if we look at the border between the Conscious and Unconscious Triangle, we can see that psychic energy flows there in both triangles in one direction.

Here we have a reverse situation to the previous point 3.1. That is, the point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the left side of the above diagram, is supported twice. It means psychic energy flows to this point:

• from Conscious State,
• and from Unconscious State.

Further, indirectly is strengthened the point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the right side in the above diagram. And both in the Conscious and Unconscious Triangle. It means, these two psychic energies flow to this point:

from the point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is located on the left side.

In the case of type—Moist Air, the above situation looks as follows.

The above situation regarding the type—Moist Air I show yet in the next diagram. I include there also Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

3.3. The third option of supporting Strong and Soft Self-Esteem in both Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

The diagram below shows two ways of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem:

• one in the Conscious Triangle (clockwise),
• and the other in the Unconscious Triangle (clockwise).

In this case, the situation is different than in previous points 3.1 and 3.2. It is because:

• both in the Conscious and Unconscious Triangles, psychic energy flows clockwise,
• however, if we look at the border between the Conscious and Unconscious Triangle, we can see that psychic energy there flows in opposite directions.

So, it comes out that:

• The point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the right side, is supported by Consciousness.
  Further, indirectly, Consciousness supports also the other point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the left.
• The point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the left side, is supported by Unconsciousness.
  Further, indirectly, Unconsciousness supports also the other point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the right.

In the case of type—Moist Air, the above situation looks as follows.

The above situation regarding the type—Moist Air I show yet in the next diagram. I include there also Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

3.4. The fourth option of supporting Strong and Soft Self-Esteem in both Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

The diagram below shows the fourth last example of two ways of supporting Strong or Soft Self-Esteem:

• one in the Conscious Triangle (counterclockwise),
• and the other in the Unconscious Triangle (counterclockwise).

In this case, the situation is analogical, like in the previous point 3.3. It means:

• both in the Conscious and Unconscious Triangles, psychic energy flows counterclockwise,
• however, if we look at the border between the Conscious and Unconscious Triangle, we can see that psychic energy there flows in opposite directions.

So, it comes out that now is the reverse situation that in the previous point 3.3. It means, this time:

• The point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the left side, is supported by Consciousness.
  Further, indirectly, Consciousness supports also the other point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the right.
• The point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the right side, is supported by Unconsciousness.
  Further, indirectly, Unconsciousness supports also the other point “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State”, which is on the left.

In the case of type—Moist Air, the above situation looks as follows.

The above situation regarding the type—Moist Air I show yet in the next diagram. I include there also Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

The above diagrams (in points 3.1 to 3.4) illustrate how Strong and Soft Self-Esteem arises through the flow of psychic energy both:

• in the Conscious Triangle,
• and in Unconscious Triangle.

In the case of the type—Moist Air, we can see that psychic energy flows between four points, where are:

• Point—Moist Air—that is, Conscious State of the type—Moist Air.


• Point—Hot Fire—that is, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State (Power or Vulnerable State) of the type—Moist Air.
  At this point, Moist Air gets Strong or Soft Self-Esteem, thanks to Extraverted Rationalism. It means, simply put, thanks to the "rations" flowing from the outside world.


• Point—Cool Water—that is, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State (Power or Vulnerable State) of the type—Moist Air.
  At this point, Moist Air gets Strong or Soft Self-Esteem, thanks to Introverted Rationalism. It means, simply put, thanks to the "rations" flowing from the inner world.


• And point—Dry Earth—that is, Unconscious State of the type—Moist Air.

Summary

The summary of the above considerations is based on three aspects:

1.
The creation of Strong or Soft Self-Esteem States we can consider in relation to:

• Conscious Triangle,
• Unconscious Triangle,
• and simultaneously in both triangles, that is, in Conscious and Unconscious Triangle.

All in all, it gives us many possibilities for considering the creation of Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

Among other things, there can be situations such as:

• Consciousness and Unconsciousness may:
  — either cooperate with each other in creating Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States,
  — or they may act in opposite directions and weaken each other actions.
• Consciousness can create Strong Self-Esteem State, and Unconsciousness can create Soft Self-Esteem State.
• Or vice versa that in the previous point, Consciousness can create Soft Self-Esteem State, and Unconsciousness can create Strong Self-Esteem State.

So, all in all, in this update, I created the new modified psyche model. That is, I modified the square model that symbolizes the psyche in the Mandala of Characters.

In this model, the states Strong and Soft Self-Esteem (Power or Vulnerable) are not precisely specified. It means they are not located in one point but at two. Thus, in each of these points, it can be created both Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State.

Looking at the above diagram, actually, we can say that Strong and Soft Self-Esteem states occupy an area located on the border of Conscious and Unconscious Triangles. In short, we can say that is is the area of two Self-Esteems.

In the area of two Self-Esteems there are:

• Strong Self-Esteem State (Power State), and
• Soft Self-Esteem State (Vulnerable State).

For greater clarity, below, I am putting the above two Self-Esteems in the table.

So, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem (Power or Vulnerability) move around the Self-Esteem area in various possible ways.

Nowadays are often used terms "High or Low" Self-Esteem State. However, as you see above, I prefer Self-Esteem describe as “Strong and Soft (Light)” (or “Power and Vulnerable”) instead of “High and Low”. In my opinion, adjectives “High and Low” have too narrow meanings. I think Self-Esteem is very complex, and it is not enough to describe it using just “High and Low”. Besides, the words “High and Low” are often giving the impression that “High” is more positive, desirable, and useful than “Low”. I think it is not quite right, because two sides of Self-Esteem can be equally positive, negative, or neutral depends on the given life situation.

Then, in sum, to describe Self-Esteem:
- instead of “High”, I prefer to use—Strong or Powerful,
- instead of “Low”, I prefer to use—Soft, Light, or Vulnerable.

2.
Each type of character has its own Strong and Soft Self-Esteem in specific places on the Mandala of Characters. The characteristics of the place where the given type has its own Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are very helpful in analyzing particular types. The locations of Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States for individual types are listed in the following tables:

First square:

Second square:

Third square:

In the above list, please note that we always have two points between which are created Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States. These are pairs of points that lie opposite each other. For example, in the first square, the points Moist Air and Dry Earth share the area where are created their Strong and Soft Self-Esteem states. These points are also opposite to each other.

We have analogical relationships for all pairs of opposite points. In the Mandala of Characters, we have the following opposing pairs of points:

• Moist Air and Dry Earth,
• Wet Water and Dry Fire,
• Water and Fire,
• Cool Water and Hot Fire,
• Cool Earth and Hot Air,
• Earth and Air.

3.
Important is also specific rationalism and irrationalism.

Rationalism and irrationalism can be strongly influenced by basic functions and adaptive-defensive mechanisms. I arranged these functions and mechanisms around the Mandala of Characters.

For example, in the case of the type—Moist Air, as we can see on the diagrams, which we can find in this chapter, Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State is created between Extraverted and Introverted Rationalism.

I talked more about basic functions and adaptive-defensive mechanisms in the previous update 1.22. Now, let me remind you that the basic functions are:

• Intuition,
• Sensation (or Sensing),
• Feeling, and
• Thinking.

In turn, adaptive-defensive mechanisms (defined by Jung as mechanisms of adaptation and defense, general attitudes, or modes of psychic reaction) are:

• Extraversion, and
• Introversion.

Thanks to the word of Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers, to the above functions (Intuition, Sensation, Feeling, and Thinking), and mechanisms (Extraversion and Introversion) have been added—Judging and Perceiving.

In the Mandala of Characters “Perceiving” and “Judging”, I added to the adaptive-defensive mechanisms. Thanks to this, in the Mandala, there are four mechanisms:

• Extraversion,
• Introversion,
• Judging, and
• Perceiving.

Although Jung mainly spoke about two mechanisms of adaptation and defense, that is, Extraversion and Introversion, he also mentioned the other two mechanisms. It means he talked about abstraction and empathy. For example, we can read about it in the following quote:

I think that “Empathy” we can treat as the equivalent of “Judging”. And “Abstraction” as the equivalent of “Perceiving”.

In my opinion, the terms “Empathy” and “Abstraction” are also relevant, but there can be a problem with differentiating between:

• the defensive-adaptive mechanism, which is Empathy, (equivalent of Judging), and,
• the basic function, which is—Feeling.

So, I think it will be better to stick to established and commonly accepted terms: Judging and Perceiving.

In conclusion, we have basic functions and adaptive-defensive mechanisms. Between the particular functions and mechanisms, there are pairs of opposites:

It means, among the adaptive-defensive mechanisms opposite to each other are:

• Extraversion and Introversion,
• Judging and Perceiving.

Among basic functions, opposite to each other are:

• Thinking and Feeling,
• Intuition and Sensation (or Sensing).

The above opposites I included in the Mandala of Characters. I think, in presenting the location of basic functions and adaptive-defensive mechanisms will help diagrams. About some of the diagrams which I present below, I also talked in the previous update 1.22. Now I remind them because it will be helpful to present the movement between Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States in the case of individual types of characters.

So, I will begin with Intuition and Sensation.

In the diagram below, I used shaded fields (gradients) to show areas of Intuition and Sensation.

Intuition is at the top of the Mandala of Characters. Its influence is the greatest there. The further down the influence of Intuition gradually decreases.

Sensation is at the bottom of the Mandala of Characters, where its impact is the greatest. The higher the impact of Sensation gradually decreases.

The diagram below shows the next two basic functions. That is Thinking and Feeling.

Thinking is on the left side of the Mandala. Its influence is the greatest there.

Feeling is on the right, and there is its the greatest influence.

The next two diagrams show the areas of Rationalism and Irrationalism.

The diagram below shows RATIONALISM. Rationalism we can find in the areas where there are two basic functions. That is, THINKING and FEELING.

Rationalism also covers areas where are adaptive-defensive mechanisms. It means Rationalism includes Extraversion, Introversion, Judging, and Perceiving. (Rationalism and adaptive-defensive mechanisms together I will present further in one of the following diagrams).

The next diagram presents the areas of IRRATIONALISM. Irrationalism, we can find in an area where there are other two basic functions. That is INTUITION and SENSATION.

Similarly to Rationalism, Irrationalism covers the areas of adaptive-defensive mechanisms. It means, Extraversion, Introversion, Judging, and Perceiving. (I will present Irrationalism and adaptive-defensive mechanisms further in one of the following diagrams).

In the next two diagrams I show adaptive-defensive mechanisms, it means:

1. Extraversion and Introversion, and
2. Judging and Perceiving.

The above adaptive-defensive mechanisms I also linked with the division into Rationalism and Irrationalism.

In the first of the two following diagrams, I will present Rationalism and Irrationalism linked with Extraversion and Introversion. In the second diagram, I will show Rationalism and Irrationalism, combined with Judging and Perceiving. I am doing it in this way because it would be difficult to show everything in one diagram.

1. Rationalism and Irrationalism combined with Extraversion and Introversion.

In this case, we can distinguish the following areas:

• RATIONALISM, EXTRAVERSION—that is, Rationalism, which is influenced by Extraversion.
• RATIONALISM, INTROVERSION—that is, Rationalism, which is influenced by Introversion.
• IRRATIONALISM, EXTRAVERSION—that is, Irrationalism, which is influenced by Extraversion.
• IRRATIONALISM, INTROVERSION—that is, Irrationalism, which is influenced by Introversion.

I put the above areas below on the Mandala of Characters.

In the top left corner, the greatest influence has Extraversion. In the bottom right corner, the greatest influence creates Introversion.

The degree of influence of Extraversion and Introversion I symbolically present using gradients. To the conclusion, where are areas of Extraversion and Introversion I came during the development of the Mandala of Characters. Information about this you can find in the chapter “The Mandala of Characters—creation history”.

White areas in the above diagram mean that there is so-called Ambiversion. It means, these are areas where Extraversion and Introversion are equal or close to each other.

2. Rationalism and Irrationalism combined with Judging and Perceiving.

In this case, we can distinguish the following areas:

• RATIONALISM, JUDGING—that is, Rationalism, which is influenced by Judging.
• RATIONALISM, PERCEIVING—that is, Rationalism, which is influenced by Perceiving.
• IRRATIONALISM, JUDGING—that is, Rationalism, which is influenced by Judging.
• IRRATIONALISM, PERCEIVING—that is, Rationalism, which is influenced by Perceiving.

I put the above areas below on the Mandala of Characters.

Judging is in the top right corner. Whereas Perceiving is in the bottom left corner.

Between Judging and Perceiving areas, there are white areas. In these areas, the degree of Judging and Perceiving is equal or similar.

Please note that in the diagram above, I place more emphasis on Rationalism and Irrationalism than on Perceiving and Judging. Rationalism and Irrationalism I wrote in larger font than Perceiving and Judging. So, in this way, I am taking Rationalism and Irrationalism to the foreground. And in the background, I put Perceiving and Judging.

As I mentioned above, the division into Rationalism and Irrationalism was introduced by Jung. But this division seems to me to be too little used now. In this chapter (that is, in update 1.23), I came to the conclusion that Rationalism and Irrationalism can be useful in considerations about Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

I think, that now we can come back to the thoughts about Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States. It means, I want to show in diagrams, where these states are for individual types of characters.

First Square:

First Square contains the following types:

• Moist Air,
• Dry Earth,
• Cool Water, and
• Hot Fire.

The type of character — Moist Air

I already mentioned Moist Air type above. It is because I used this type as an example for my considerations about the movement of psychic energy between Strong and Self-Esteem States.

Therefore, in the case of Moist Air Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between the points:

• Cool Water, where the main role plays—Introverted Rationalism.
• Hot Fire, where the main role plays—Extraverted Rationalism.

The type of character — Dry Earth

The Dry Earth type is in opposition to the type Moist Air. On the Mandala of Character, we can see that Dry Earth and Moist Air are on the opposite sides of the Mandala.

What results from it?

Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States for both types are located between points Hot Fire and Cool Water. So, the square that contain Conscious and Unconscious Triangles for these both types is located in the same position. We have here only one difference. That is, Conscious and Unconscious Triangles are inverted. Thus, the Conscious Triangle of the type Moist Air for the type Dry Earth is the Unconscious Triangle. And the Conscious Triangle of the type Dry Earth is the Unconscious Triangle of the type Moist Air.

In total, therefore, for both types, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are creating between points:

• Hot Fire—where the main role plays—Rationalism and Extraversion.
• Cool Water—where the main role plays—Rationalism and Introversion.

The type of character — Cool Water

In the case of the type—Cool Water, Strong, and Soft Self-Esteem States are created between the points:

• Dry Earth—where is located IRRATIONALISM, which is influenced by PERCEIVING.
• Moist Air—where is located IRRATIONALISM, which is influenced by JUDGING.

Therefore, for Coll Water, its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are created in the area of Irrationalism. It is because Irrationalism occurs between two basic functions. That is, Intuition and Sensation.

(So, it is a different situation than in the case of the types: Moist Air and Dry Earth. Their Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are in the area of Rationalism. That is, between basic functions: Feeling and Thinking).

Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of Cool Water type also influence two adaptive-defensive mechanisms. That is, Judging and Perceiving.

(This is a different situation compared to the Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of Moist Air and Dry Earth. It is because their Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are mainly influenced by two other mechanisms, namely, Extraversion and Introversion).

In summary, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of Cool Water (as we can see in the table above) influence:

• Irrationalism, which contains two basic functions:
  — Intuition and
  — Sensation,
• and two adaptive-defensive mechanisms, which are:
  — Judging and
  — Perceiving.

The type of Character — Hot Fire

The Hot Fire type is in opposition to the type Cool Water. On the Mandala of Character, we can see that Hot Fire and Cool Water are on the opposite sides of the Mandala.

What results from it?

Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States for both types are located between points Moist Air and Dry Earth. So, the square that contain Conscious and Unconscious Triangles for these both types is located in the same position. We have here only one difference. That is, Conscious and Unconscious Triangles are inverted. Thus, the Conscious Triangle of the type Hot Fire for the type Cool Water is the Unconscious Triangle. And the Conscious Triangle of the type Cool Water is the Unconscious Triangle of the type Hot Fire.

In total, therefore, for both types, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are creating between points:

• Moist Air—where the main role plays—Irrationalism and Judging.
• Dry Earth—where the main role plays—Irrationalism and Perceiving.

Second square

Second Square contains the following types:

• Wet Water,
• Dry Fire,
• Hot Air, and
• Cool Earth.

The type of character — Wet Water

In the case of the type—Wet Water, Strong, and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between:

• Cool Earth, where is the area of IRRATIONALISM, which is influenced by INTROVERSION, and
• Hot Air, where is area IRRATIONALISM, which is influenced by EXTRAVERSION.

So, in the case of type—Wet Water, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are in the area of Irrationalism. The area of Irrationalism is located between Intuition and Sensation.

Besides Irrationalism, Extraversion and Introversion influence Strong and Soft Self-Esteem of Wet Water.

The pole of Extraversion we can find in the top right corner. The pole of Introversion is in the bottom right corner. The inscriptions “EXTRAVERSION” and “INTROVERSION” I placed on the frames around the Mandala of Characters.

The type of character — Dry Fire

The Dry Fire type is in opposition to the type Wet Water. On the Mandala of Character, we can see that Dry Fire and Wet Water are on the opposite sides of the Mandala.

What results from it?

Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States for both types are located between points Hot Air and Cool Earth. So, the square that contain Conscious and Unconscious Triangles for these both types is located in the same position. We have here only one difference. That is, Conscious and Unconscious Triangles are inverted. Thus, the Conscious Triangle of the type Dry Fire for the type Wet Water is the Unconscious Triangle. And the Conscious Triangle of the type Wet Water is the Unconscious Triangle of the type Dry Fire.

In total, therefore, for both types, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are creating between points:

• Hot Air—where the main role plays—IRRATIONALISM and EXTRAVERSION.
• Dry Earth—where the main role plays—IRRATIONALISM and INTROVERSION.

The type of character — Cool Earth

In the case of the type—Cool Earth, Strong, and Soft Self-Esteem States are created between the points:

• Dry Fire—where is located RATIONALISM, which is influenced by PERCEIVING.
• Wet Water—where is located RATIONALISM, which is influenced by JUDGING.

Therefore, for Cool Earth, its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are created in the area of Rationalism. It is because Rationalism occurs between two basic functions. That is, Thinking and Feeling.

(So, it is a different situation than in the case of the types: Wet Water and Dry Fire. Their Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are in the area of Irrationalism. That is, between basic functions: Intuition and Sensation).

Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of Cool Earth also influence two adaptive-defensive mechanisms. That is, Judging and Perceiving.

(This is a different situation compared to the Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of Wet Water and Dry Fire. It is because their Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are mainly influenced by two other mechanisms, namely, Extraversion and Introversion).

In summary, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States of Cool Earth (as we can see in the table above) influence:

• Rationalism, which contains two basic functions:
  — Feeling and
  — Thinking,
• and two adaptive-defensive mechanisms, which are:
  — Judging and
  — Perceiving.

The type of character — Hot Air

The type—Hot Air is in opposition to Cool Earth. On the Mandala of Characters, we can see that Hot Air and Cool Earth are on opposite sides.

In the Mandala, Hot Air and Cool Earth also belong to the same square, that is, the second square.

Therefore, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are between:

• Wet Water—where we can find RATIONALISM, which is influenced by JUDGING,
• Dry Fire—where is RATIONALISM, which is influenced by PERCEIVING.

Third square:

Third Square contains the following types:

• Water,
• Fire,
• Air, and
• Earth.

The type of character — Water

In the case of the type—Water, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between the points:

• Air—where is IRRATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by INTUITION.
• Earth—where is IRRATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by SENSATION.

So, for Water type, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States create in the area of Irrationalism. And Irrationalism occurs in the area of Intuition and Sensation.

Type of character — Fire

In the case of the type—Fire, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between the points:

• Air—where is IRRATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by INTUITION.
• Earth—where is IRRATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by SENSATION.

So, for Fire type, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States create in the area of Irrationalism. And Irrationalism occurs in the area of Intuition and Sensation.

We can see that the Fire-type has its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States at the same points as Water-type. It means the points: Air and Earth. The difference is that Conscious State and Unconscious State are reversed. That is, where Fire has Conscious State, Water has Unconscious State. And vice versa, where the Water has Conscious State, Fire has Unconscious State.

The type of character — Air

In the case of the type—Air, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between the points:

• Fire—where is RATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by THINKING.
• Water—where is RATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by FEELING.

So, for Air type, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States create in the area of Rationalism. And Rationalism occurs in the area of Thinking and Feeling.

The type of character — Earth

In the case of the type—Earth, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between the points:

• Fire—where is RATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by THINKING.
• Water—where is RATIONALISM, which is mainly influenced by FEELING.

So, for Earth type, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States create in the area of Rationalism. And Rationalism occurs in the area of Thinking and Feeling.

We can see that the Earth-type has its Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States at the same points as Air-type. It means the points: Fire and Water. The difference is that Conscious State and Unconscious State are reversed. That is, where Earth has Conscious State, Air has Unconscious State. And vice versa, where the Air has Conscious State, Earth has Unconscious State.

In summary, for individual types of character, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States are formed between the following points:

First Square:

Second square:

Third square:

So, above, I listed in the tables and I showed on diagrams to what points on the Mandala of Characters individual types move when they are in Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State.

I think that is worth briefly recalling yet that:

1. Strong and Soft Self-Esteem State (Power or Vulnerable State) may arise:
   • in one, or
   • in the other, or
   • in two places at once.
2. Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States can be influenced by:
   • Consciousness, or
   • Unconsciousness, or
   • Consciousness and Unconsciousness simultaneously.

And, for now, it is how it looks like my considerations about movement during Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States.

From the above, probably many of us will be interested in how to strengthen our Strong Self-Esteem State (or our Power State)?

Such interest will probably be strong despite the fact that our psyche strives to keep the balance. And, it is why our psyche is putting us in Soft Self-Esteem State (or Vulnerable State) if Strong Self-Esteem State dominates us too much. Therefore, it is worth accepting our Soft Self-Esteem (or Vulnerable State) equally with our Strong Self-Esteem State (or Power State). Actually, it is not only worth accepting our Vulnerable State. It is worth consciously use it because it is also very beneficial in our life.

Well, after all, let us come back to the question, how to strengthen our Strong Self-Esteem State?

From the above considerations, it follows that the greatest Strong Self-Esteem is obtained when our Strong Self-Esteem is strengthened by both Consciousness and Unconsciousness. Then, Consciousness and Unconsciousness simultaneously support our Strong Self-Esteem State. They are united in this action.

In these situations, our Strong Self-Esteem State can be very strong.

It has its pros and cons.

The advantages of this can be that:

• We can be very focused on our actions.
• It will be easier for us to achieve our goals.
• We will be more determined and ambitious.
• We will be more convincing in what we say, and in what we do.
• Etc.

The disadvantages can be that:

• We will be too optimistic about our real skills and capabilities;
• We can be too brave, ambitious, daring …, and as a result, we can misjudge the reality around us. For example, we can wrongly assess the people we work with, matters and tasks we deal with, plans we make, and so on.
• We can take a too big risk, which may result in failures, injuries, accidents …
• Etc.

Usually, the strengthening Strong Self-Esteem by both Consciousness and Unconsciousness we welcome with contentment. We just feel more self-confident, and consciously we willingly agree with it. So, we welcome this state with joy.

In general, then, we do not mind. We consciously recognize that it is beneficial for us.

Of course, we usually do not think about it, from where is Strong Self-Esteem flowing to us? When Strong Self-Esteem is coming to us, usually we are just satisfied with it. It is especially at these moments when Strong Self-Esteem is very useful for us.

So, is it worth to recognize whether Strong Self-Esteem is created by our Consciousness or Unconsciousness? Or by Consciousness and Unconsciousness simultaneously? And also, is it worth recognizing whether Strong Self-Esteem is too strong?

I think so. It is because, Strong Self-Esteem is not always useful. In many situations, it can disturb us. Sometimes it can even harm us, as I mentioned above, in the list of examples of disadvantages of too Strong Self-Esteem.

So, it is worth developing a habit of conscious observation of what state we are in at a given moment? Then knowing (or consciously noticing) that our Strong Self-Esteem is too strong, we can modify it with our conscious thoughts. That is, weaken it if it is too strong.

For example:

• I know (I see, notice, and so on) that my Strong Self-Esteem is too strong. Therefore, I will not go too far in this state because I do not want to harm myself or others …

Of course, we are not able to control consciously our psychical states all the time. It is so for reasons such as:

• It is difficult to focus consciously on our psyche for a long time.
• We will not be able to direct our thoughts to the current state of our psyche in every situation.
• Our Unconsciousness still has a bigger or smaller influence on us. This influence of Unconsciousness also reduces the influence of our Consciousness and affects our Strong Self-Esteem.

However, it will indeed be beneficial for us if we, in a sense, switch on our Conscious attention when Strong Self-Esteem reaches a too high level.

Analogically, we can react in the case of Soft Self-Esteem State (or Vulnerable State). That is, in situations when Soft Self-Esteem is reaching a too low level.

In general, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States can be considered as a whole. Above, I analyzed two Self-Esteems, that is, Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States. However, we can also say that we have just one two-pole Self-Esteem. And this two-pole Self-Esteem can be: high or low, large or small, heavy or light, strong or vulnerable, hard or sensitive, strong and weak, etc. When we look in this way, two-pole Self-Esteem, we can treat as if it is a kind of scale or range. This range will occur:

• from too Soft Self-Esteem,
• through intermediate states (where Strong and Soft Self-Esteem will be in similar or close to each other),
• to too Strong Self-Esteem.

So, we can actually conclude from the above update 1.23 that there is no separate two Self-Esteem States, namely, Strong and Soft. There is one two-pole Self-Esteem that can manifest itself in different ways. It means, be either strong or soft or similar to each other.

However, in the descriptions which I will use in the Mandala of Characters, I will mainly use separate terms. That is, “Strong or Soft Self-Esteem State” or “Power or Vulnerable State”. I think it is more intuitive and easier to understand.

About this update concerning Strong and Soft Self-Esteem States, I was thinking for a long time. It means this topic was coming back to me like boomerang within a few years. Many times I had have many doubts, and many times I have modified my thoughts on this subject. Finally, I came to the version which I presented above. It is the version I am most convinced of. And I think that this version is already thoughtful enough that the main ideas which contain this update will remain unchanged. So, now I will work on the details. In that case, I decided that I can present my latest considerations about Strong and Self-Esteem, and I did it above.

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