Every type has another type that they aspire to be. This aspirational type has the opposite functions to our primary type. However, unlike the shadow type (which also has opposite functions) it matches our philosophical orientation. So, a spiritual type such as the seeker would aspire to be the guardian type.
The aspiration can be thought of as the conscience of the unconscious. The conscience is the aspiration of the shadow. The aspiration justifies and guides the shadow while the conscience condemns us for it. A healthy aspiration teaches an individual how to use that which they dislike about themselves for the good of others. By learning about the aspirational type, a person may avoid the self-destructive impulses that are caused by an unruly shadow type.
Gambler (aspiration of the hedonist)
The gambler encourages a grandiose and entitled hedonist to strive harder for the the things they desire. It teaches the hedonist the value of risk and reward. This helps the hedonist get out of their comfort zone and find things that may offer more pleasure than that which they already possess in the long run.
Provocateur (aspiration of the warrior)
The provocateur encourages the warrior to look beyond that which they desire when they are being to stubborn or greedy. They see the things they encounter on the journey to what they want as having value too. This helps them orient themselves more effectively. The warrior may avoid dissatisfying struggles and achievements by listening to the provocateur.
Hedonist (aspiration of the gambler)
The gambler may learn to stop and smell the roses by taking the advice of the hedonist. It prevents burnout, teaching them that there is pleasure to be found in achievements and that resting is necessary to grow. This gives the gambler time to enjoy what they earn. It gives them a taste of pleasure that provides motivation for any subsequent conquests.
Warrior (aspiration of the provocateur)
The warrior teaches the provocateur to focus on what they want and what they like. This opens up the doorway to satisfaction. By listening to the warrior, the provocateur can avoid being tempted by easy wins and irrelevant arguments. This makes it possible for the provocateur to pursue that which is more meaningful to them.
Healer (aspiration of the sage)
The healer teaches the sage that it’s necessary to take action and risks to be of greater benefit. This helps the sage overcome any analysis paralysis that they may be facing. Consequently, the sage may become more open about their thoughts and less reserved when it comes to pursuing their goals.
Guardian (aspiration of the seeker)
The guardian shows the seeker that everything they have found so far is worth something. It prevents perfectionism and black and white thinking. This helps the seeker take a kinder view of the things they have discovered. They are encouraged to preserve and share their discoveries with others.
Seeker (aspiration of the guardian)
The seeker encourages the guardian to move outside their comfort zone and try new things once in a while. This can help a particularly suspicious or uptight guardian relax and take a merciful view of the world around them. A guardian who listens to the seeker may consequently find more worth guarding.
Sage (aspiration of the healer)
An overly passionate or enthusiastic healer can be taught to pause for thought by the sage. This provides an opportunity to rethink their goals. Consequently the healer may make smarter decisions and do things with a greater degree of accuracy. This also prevents the healer from making discouraging, reckless mistakes.
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