The Metal Type
Of all the Element types, I believe that Metals are the most misunderstood. Even when someone identifies themselves as a Metal in a group, they tend to do so in a slightly begrudging, self-deprecating way.
Apologizing for not being as fun as the Fires or as friendly as the Earths.
Sometimes they are just outright miscast as a Wood type (though it’s my opinion that Metals tend to be quieter and shyer). If you have Metal as your dominant Element or even your secondary, I want to start by telling you that you can stop apologizing for what you aren’t. The Metal Element is beautiful in its own right, necessary even. The world needs Metals, and I’m hoping that after reading this chapter dedicated to you, you will see yourself as I do.
A large part of why Metals tend to apologize for not being someone else is because they are motivated to be recognized and feel adequate.
They don’t usually find accolades and recognition in rooms full of other people because they tend to shy away from the spotlight. But all human beings want to be liked and included. Even though they may appear distant from the outside, Metals do too. And if they tend to have difficulty expressing their emotions, it doesn’t mean that those emotions aren’t there.
Often reserved, quiet and a bit standoffish to strangers, Metal types can be difficult to get to know. They don’t offer much in the form of small talk. They are protective of themselves and what they say, because behind that more rigid, conservative exterior is a very sensitive and vulnerable personality.
Criticism can feel harsh for a Metal They choose their words and actions carefully and purposefully, and because of that, they take the words and actions of others the same way.
Some people wouldn’t give a second thought to a joke or an off-the-cuff comment made about them. A Metal type may take it as a direct reflection of who they are, analyzing and dissecting it to the nth degree so that they can reconcile how it was meant. If they decide improvements to themselves can be made, they will make the necessary corrections. Metals often feel that it’s best to say little, to not open themselves up to possible criticism or ongoing discussion, especially when a smile and handshake will suffice.
Now if you’re lucky enough to be included within a Metal’s inner circle, then it’s a different story. Metal types remove their armour and relax in the presence of people they feel supported by or close to.
They can melt and transform before your eyes. Metals do appreciate conversation, particularly if it’s centred around something they care deeply about or have opinions on. Blessed with a way with words, most Metals that I have come to know have a witty, somewhat dry sense of humour, with a flair for sarcasm.
A Metal’s actions aren’t grandiose, and they have no bandwidth for drama. Instead, they convey their affection and intention in more subtle ways that nevertheless often result in the most profound impacts. This is due to the overarching governance of the Metal Element, which connects us to the present moment and reveals its preciousness and significance. Making the ordinary extraordinary is one of the Metal type’s talents. They accomplish this through a strong sense of presence and reverence.
Not overly impulsive or spontaneous, Metals aren’t known for throwing elaborate surprise parties for loved ones. They prefer to plan and have control over their environment whenever possible. Knowing what’s coming helps Metals secure their autonomy, make choices and anticipate their actions. Always wanting to put their best foot forward, Metals can find themselves riddled with anxiety when faced with the potential chaos of a surprise. While other types may feel constrained by structures and procedure, Metals feel the complete opposite. Structure provides the container within which they can surrender, be vulnerable, and allow their creativity to thrive.
Imbalances of the Metal Element
When the Metal Element is not in harmony, the first physical symptoms are likely to be related to the immune system. Metal governs the lungs and large intestine in Chinese medicine, so it’s common to see disharmony manifest as a propensity to catch colds and flu, experiencing allergic reactions in response to environmental factors, or being susceptible to asthma, bowel disturbances, and skin sensitivities.
Individuals experiencing disharmony of the Metal Element may also experience stress-related tension and an overall restlessness, clouded mind, and impairment to their balance, movement, and coordination.
When the mental and emotional capacities of the Metal Element are unsupported, obsessions, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders may result, due to the rigidity and structure that a Metal type may employ to protect themselves!
It’s All in the Details
Metal types find significance in and pay attention to small details. They like everything to have its place and be where it is meant to be. They double- and triple-check their work to ensure there are no errors. This precision is woven into most of a Metal type’s life – from their wardrobe, to how they choose to furnish their home, to the ways they present themselves and their work to others.
Clean lines and simplicity are how Metal types prefer to approach all tasks. Why duster up something’s inherent beauty with a bunch of stuff that doesn’t need to be there? They’re constantly refining themselves and their environment to seek greater efficiency and ultimate perfection.
Innate Strenghts of a Metal Type
- Hard-working and tenacious
- Appreciates competence, skill, and expertise
- Motivated by achieving personal excellence
- Can be objective and impartial
- A seeker of meaning and connection to the preciousness of life
- An affinity for words
Opportunities for Growth for a Metal Type - Tend to be cold and withholding to the point of self-isolation when feeling the need to self-protect
- Highly critical with perfectionist tendencies
- Addicted to struggle; always moving the target of what is worthy
- Propensity for pessimism and cynicism
- Difficulty letting go of control
- A capacity for righteousness that inhibits experiencing ordinary life”
Are you. Metal Type?