Able Quote by Clarissa Pinkola Estes
“While archetypes may emanate through us for short periods of time, in what we call numinous experience, no woman can emanate an archetype continuously. Only the archetype itself can withstand such projections such as ever-able, all giving, eternally energetic. We may try to emulate these, but they are ideals, not achievable by humans, and not meant to be. Yet the trap requires that women exhaust themselves trying to achieve these unrealistic levels. To avoid the trap, one has to learn to say 'Halt' and 'Stop the music,' and of course mean it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Women Who Run With the Wolves (1992) – discussion on archetypal expectations
The passage warns that women cannot continuously embody archetypal ideals; attempting to do so leads to exhaustion, so they must set boundaries.
In simple terms: Archetype ideals are unattainable for humans.
Key Takeaway
Set limits to avoid burnout.
Themes
women
archetypes
self‑care
Mood
empathetic
inspirational
Type
reflective
motivational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- creative work
- leadership roles
Key Concepts
psychology
myth
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- How can women honor archetypes without overextension?
- What boundaries protect personal well‑being?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing archetypes can create unrealistic pressure.
![“To endow clock time with numinous meaning [is] hardly a fit occupation for an intelligent person.” quote by Alan McGlashan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0ca/alan-mcglashan-65367_clock_to-endow-clock-time-with-numinous-meanin_1069249.jpg)
