Episode 107: Human Design 101 with Erin Claire Jones
Episode 107: Human Design 101 with Erin Claire Jones
In this episode we sit down with....Erin Claire Jones.
Erin Claire Jones uses Human Design to help thousands of individuals and companies step into their work and their lives as their truest selves and to their highest potential. Her work as a guide, coach, and speaker has attracted a growing community of over 150,000 people who turn to her teachings for practical tools, digestible tips, and deeper self-knowledge they can access to live with greater ease and authenticity every single day.
With work featured in Forbes, mindbodygreen, Well&Good, and Nylon; words shared on over 150 podcasts such as Almost30, That’s So Retrograde, Highest Self, and Chatty Broads; and conversations with crowds of hundreds around the world, Erin’s insights are highly sought-after because they make Human Design pragmatic, tangible, accessible — and immediately applicable to everyday life.
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Human Design is a synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern science that sheds light on a person’s energetic makeup, as well as specific tools they can use to live at their happiest, healthiest, highest potential. It doesn’t change who they are; it teaches them who they are. It offers insight into what’s possible, and highlights the significance of understanding and living as the fullest expression of themselves.
By putting this tool to work in her own life, Erin is showing the world a new way of work, a new path toward success, and a new perspective on living as you truly are.
In this conversation we talk about:
Erin’s personal body image story- how exploration in her 20s impacted her relationship with self
Erin's interest and personal journey with entrepreneurship
How she discovered human design and began her career
All about the 5 different human design types and action steps for each
Practical tools for soul care and wellness based on your type
Connect with our guest...
Resources we mention in this episode…
Look up your Human Deisgn
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TRANSCRIPTIONEpisode 107: Human Design 101 with Erin Claire Jones
Katelyn:
Erin Claire Jones. Hi. Welcome to the show. I am so excited you're here.
Erin:
Thank you. I'm so happy to be here
Katelyn:
highly anticipated, as I was saying, I just love your work for a long time now. So it was really cool just getting this booked and being able to connect with you. So let's dive in. We've got so much to talk about. And the first question that we ask everybody on the show is your first body awareness moments. So that moment where you realized I'm in a body apparently mean something in the world that I'm living in? What did that moment look like for you? And also, how did that shape your relationship with your body and or food moving forward? What's your story?
Erin:
Yeah, I mean, I think the thing that comes up and I was obviously aware that I was in a body before that, but in high school, I like I went through puberty pretty late. And I also had like a massive growth spurt. So I was five one, I think my freshman year, I was used to always been the shortest person in the class, at least where I was in my classes. And then by senior year, I was five, eight. And so like, it just all happened very quickly, you know, in terms of just like getting boobs and getting my period. And just like growing really fast, I felt like, I could start to sense that the way that people around me were receiving me was really changing. But it was just like happening more quickly than I really had time for like Landon. And so I think it was like during that period that I really was just like so aware of how just people would interact with me based on my body and who I was. And, as I especially kind of like matured, but I think it took me a lot longer than that to kind of really settle into and really connect to my own body.
Katelyn:
Mm hmm. What did you notice about that time? Like, how were people responding to some of these changes? And who was responding? Was it like your immediate friends? Or just kind of people in passing? What did you observe?
Erin:
Yeah, I think it was just like, if things took on, like a more sexual nature, you know, I think things that were like, felt like friendships before, like people just started, like, assuming they're just like, kind of approaching this, like sexual or romantic dynamic. And a way that wasn't present, you know, before. And so I think it was mostly around just like romantic sexual dynamics and feeling like people were beginning to see me in a different way. And I was still kind of like adjusting and coming into that myself.
Katelyn:
Interesting. How did you feel just receiving this new type of attention? Do you remember?
Erin:
Um, I think that I just like I wouldn't say felt confused. I just feel like I was noticing it. And I think it just like happened. Like, I think the physical changes were faster than like, the emotional ones, or like the energetic ones. And so I think I was like, noticing and to be like, what is happening? Like, I'm clearly shifting, like, how can I really kind of like land in my body and land and where I am, and really kind of get comfortable in it. So I think that it was more just like noticing it. And it wasn't, it was more just like a curiosity. And like really noticing that I might need to have more boundaries. And also be a bit more proactive and kind of connecting to my body and myself and kind of really having a more rooted relationship there.
Katelyn:
Okay, I love this. And also, it's incredibly self aware. And this is happening in high school. So one of the things that I appreciate, appreciate about you and your work so much is your level of self awareness. Were you this aware back in high school? And what if so what was like fostering that? Or how did you begin cultivating this type of self awareness for yourself and just beginning to do some of this embodiment work that you're talking about?
Erin:
Yeah, I don't know, if I was that self aware that, you know, I think that like, it did feel like more of a curiosity, and I was just like, something's going on. I also like, I got my period when I was 16. You know, and so I think I also was like, witnessing a lot of my friends go through things much earlier and be like, a lot bigger than me and just like grown and so like, I think that I actually really like it. So I think that I was like really noticing that other people were quite ahead of me on that journey. And yeah, but I think that like I don't think I really started playing with embodiment practices, then I think it was a little bit more, you know, I went to college and and one of the big kind of investments of my energy there was a workshop like it was called femme sex. It was like a female sexuality workshop around kind of cultivating intentional relationships or sexuality and all kinds of things, you know, and I both participated in that facilitated and so I think that was actually a really beautiful place for me to just kind of start to explore this stuff and like and really kind of get all the options and what I wanted things to feel like look like, but I honestly See, I think about like embodiment practices like I think it was still a little bit heady. Like I think it was probably like not even until after college that I think that there was a bit more of an intentional relationship with kind of just like dropping into my body and really kind of connecting in a less mental and more grounded way.
Katelyn:
What did you study in college?
Erin:
I studied international development and education. And I wrote my thesis on impact driven entrepreneurship. So basically, businesses that were integrating social impact into what they did.
Katelyn:
Wow, was this something that you always wanted to go into before college? Or was it? Okay, yeah. So how did you get here? Because that's a pretty specific major, and, like, write a thesis on that, too. I have, like, so many questions right now.
Erin:
Oh, my God. I know. I mean, I feel like I just like, I, there's a lot of fear that's come up in my life. And I also look back, and there was also just like, a lot of trust, you know, I think that I haven't put really a lot of pressure on myself to, like, know, where it's all going. And I think when I entered into college, I studied education, and I was doing a lot of teaching. And, it was amazing, but it was also exhausting. Like, I really saw respect teachers, you know, it's like, really, it was something that I didn't really have the Sustainable Energy for. And, and I think that I had, yeah, it was just like curious about, like, international development. And basically, just like, all the courses I was taking, were kind of just like falling into that. And I think that I just got really curious about entrepreneurship. And there was like, a beautiful, I went to Brown, and there was like, a beautiful, kind of impact driven social entrepreneurship arm there. And it was just really fun. Like, my thesis literally involved, like talking to 90 entrepreneurs about like, how they really like, built social impact into their business. And what that looked like, and so it was amazing. I mean, I love talking to people, you know, and I think that, like, it was just a really cool exploration of how that could integrate. You know, like, I think that, you know, that was a while ago now. But like, whether it was like, you know, reinvesting profits, or whether the impact was like, built into the company. So it was really fun. And then that kind of led me to go straight into entrepreneurship, or straight into working at startups after school. And but yeah, it was, again, I my whole, I just love talking to people. So it was like a really beautiful avenue of that. And the things that I got really curious about business and like how businesses could be a force for good and have social impact as well.
Katelyn:
I love that. So I want to come back to you and your relationship with yourself during this time, because it sounds like a really pivotal time. And it is for most people, you know, early 20s, it's highly formative. So how would you describe your relationship with yourself, your mental health, your body, your relationship with food? If you were writing a chapter in a book about this time in your life, what would it be titled? And how would you describe it?
Erin:
Yeah, I think that it was like a lot of exploration. I think that like, you know, so much of my college experience was very much specifically around my relationships and all kinds of things, it was very much around, like, just getting a sense of all the options. Like, I think that I grew up, and I was like, This is what it supposed to look like, like monogamy, all these things. And I think that in my kind of early 20s, I was like, oh, there are a lot of options that I can choose from, you know, and so, I think when I think about my early 20s, it was just a time of like, massive exploration, you know, in romantic relationships with my body, all the things, you know, I think that like, I've tried so many different ways of eating, I think at that time, it was probably just like, I think it was probably just like gluten and dairy free and just having like some restrictions, but still really enjoying it. I think that I was like probably overworking out at that time. Like I was really like into hot yoga in a very intense way. But I think that like when I think of that time in my life, it felt very much around exploration. And I started there's a beautiful dance practice called by rhythms. And there's a beautiful Center in New York City where I was living. And I loved that. So that really felt like such an important kind of embodiment practice of really getting into my body through dance. And that's definitely been one of the most powerful tools for that. But I do think that it was a lot of gathering experiences, ultimately to discover what didn't work for me. But I think that it was more time of gathering than anything else.
Katelyn:
I love that. I'm so curious, did you grow up with this? Like, is this fundamental to your family environment? Or did you have a like, spiritual community when you were growing up before college or anything or was this completely new for you going into the college years just this? I don't know. Like kind of woke exploration that you're kind of describing?
Erin:
Yeah, it was definitely not, you know, not where I came from. I think that like I was such a weird kid, you know, and I was like really blessed to have parents that like, didn't question my weirdness. Like I remember, I shared this on a podcast before but I remember like, I grew up in Seattle, I was like seeking out like the Shambala centers. You know, in Seattle. My parents were like, What are you doing? And I was like sitting in these meditations. And then I was so lucky. Like, my second year of college, I like, I went on a meditation retreat with Thich Nhat Hanh, literally his last US retreat. I didn't even know who he was. I was like, I must go on this retreat. And so like, I think that I know, I think God I did, I think so like, I always had that draw. I don't I'm sure that there was conditioning that really supported me in that, but it wasn't direct to my family. And I think foods specific, like, I stopped eating red meat in high school, because I think that like, my parents didn't eat red meat. And I think that they felt like there were a lot of, for me at the time, I was really like, the this is not like a really smart industry. And so and environmentally, and so I stopped them. But yeah, I think that, like, I was always open to different stuff, you know, and I honestly, I can't tell you where it came from. I think it was just like a desire to really feel good in my body and my mind and my energy, and just like, do everything I could to kind of be my most elevated and just connect itself.
Katelyn:
Cool. Yeah, I'm always curious, because obviously, everyone has a different story and a different path. And one of the themes that I've just really recognized from talking to so many people is how much our environment shapes the people that we become in our interests and our hobbies and 100%. Yeah, so it's, it's interesting. And it sounds like, even though it wasn't directly related to your parents interest, there was the space to cultivate that curiosity and creativity. So that's pretty cool. Tell us about after college and just coming into your entrepreneur or not entrepreneurship at that time you were working with startups. So what was this part of your life like? And did you move? Did you stay close to Brown? What was the chapter like?
Erin:
I moved to New York City straight after Brown, I had just taken a semester off. And I spent six months in Brazil in a place called Sao Paulo, which was amazing. I've been learning Portuguese. And so I made it to New York. And I lived in Brooklyn with two of my college roommates. And it was amazing. Like I very early in my New York journey fell into like a community of entrepreneurs in New York City. And most of them were at least a decade older than me, I was like, so embarrassed at my age. But I think that it was like really an expansive, and I'm still they're still my community here. And I just think it was really like, I think back on my journey, and like how expensive it was, for me to be around people. So early on that we're just like, doing really, like, I don't even wanna say ambitious, more just like a big dreams, and we're just making them happen. Like, I just think I both saw entrepreneurship as a possibility because of the conditioning, you know, the energy I was surrounded by. And so I think like, yeah, that time of my life, I was just like, exploring, you know, I was really, I was going to Burning Man, I was just like, really having a very social time in New York, I was making lots of new friends, I was exploring all kinds of new relationship models. I was working for lots of different companies. And like, I was just really, I don't wanna say, like, having fun. Like, I was really just again, it was like, and it's so funny, because it's, you know, I know, we'll get into human design. But in human design, this is like the phase of my life of just gathering, gathering, gathering. So like, I think that I really was like, experimenting in every aspect of my life, and just like really putting myself out of my comfort comfort zone, just to like, see what worked. And honestly, most of the things that I tried, were not for me, but I just wanted to try them. And so like, I think it was a time of just like a lot of exploration and just pushing myself to like totally new levels and every possible way.
Katelyn:
Hmm. Well, you mentioned human design. And before we get into it, the question that just keeps coming up in my mind, as I'm hearing your story is how many times have people commented that you're an old soul? I feel like I'm getting less now that I'm like, older. You know, I'm in my early 30s. But when I was young all the time, yeah. It makes sense. I mean, I'm hearing I act, it's, it's a comment that I get a lot as well, too. And I have since I was like a kid, like eight, six years old, you know, all through elementary and middle school, and it was always so weird. And it made me feel so uncomfortable. So I'm curious what your experience with getting that kind of feedback was, I guess it's from one's old soul to another I can ask you.
Erin:
Okay, I loved it. I think it made me feel really good. And it was but it was I did have a lot of shame around my age. You know, I think like all my, like I said, like my community in New York initially, like they were all like, at least a decade older than me, you know, and it was amazing. But I remember like a friend finding out I was like, I think I was 24. He's like, you're gonna, like find out your biggest secret of. So I didn't know, like, I think back, you know, and like, I was just I think that I felt, yeah, I felt like embarrassed that I was so young. And because it was, it was just like never what people assumed. And so, and now I feel like I'm like a little bit more than my age now. Or it's like a little, I mean, people still actually assume that I'm much older than I am. But, it feels good. I think that I've loved that. And I also love not being embarrassed about my age, you know, and just like sharing more freely. And, you know, age is a thing. It's both a thing that it's not, you know, it's like, it's so I think that like, it's really, yeah, yeah, so I love all to say that, like, I think that that feedback always felt good, for sure.
Katelyn:
So interesting when we talk about body image stories, and, you know, it's so personal, it's so unique, and everyone has their own insecurity in some way. And sometimes it often physical, you know, just in the world that we're living in, but so often it's not. And so it's interesting to hear that perhaps yours was related to age as you're describing it, and just kind of feeling that inferior inferiority, you're perhaps like, how would you describe it? Like, what do you think that insecurity was related to?
Erin:
Yeah, that's a good question. I think that like, there was like, a little bit of a fear of being, like, taken less seriously, because I was so young. But like, I wasn't, and like, and these are people that I was spending so much time with, but like, I think that like, that felt like the thing and also just because, like, because I knew that it wasn't what people assumed. So, yeah, and it was like, but it was, it's weird. It's hard to feel like shameful about a part of yourself, you know, a part of myself. So I think that like, thinking back, it's like, Oh, I hate that, like, that's the thing that I hate, but like, I have compassion for the version of myself that felt embarrassed to share my age, you know, and so, and I love her, you know, and and she's grow big time. But yeah, I think it was just like, a little bit of like, Will I not be taken seriously?
Katelyn:
It makes sense. And I love that you mentioned compassion, that self compassion. Yeah. Process. Oh, god that's been, is and has been. So it's been such a cornerstone in my own just self discovery and healing journey, like, like you're describing those really shameful moments, when we kind of get into the weeds of things, just going back and understanding like, Oh, God, like, it's okay. You know, like it was, you know, it's a belief and that can feel really tricky sometimes. So, yeah. All right. Tell us about human design. Let's just like cut to the chase, because I do have a million questions that are just brimming to ask you. And I'm, I'm very curious how this even came onto your radar, and how you got involved in this world. So tell us what it is first. That way, everybody can have some context if they don't know what it is already. And then we'll get into your story around it.
Erin:
Of course, so human design is a system based on your time, date and place of birth, that reveals your energetic blueprint and how you're kind of uniquely wired to thrive. And so similar to a natal chart in that way, and then it is based on that information. I think what made me fall in love with human design is just how practical and grounded the information is. It offers us like so much juicy knowledge around how we're designed to best make decisions, build businesses, work within teams, cultivate relationships, like all the things, it just gives us, like such tremendous potential, sorry, tremendous permission to just be ourselves.
Katelyn:
So how did you discover this? Do you remember the moment you heard about it?
Erin:
Um, I do. And it was very serendipitous. You know, I was 25. And was living in New York City at the time, and I was in my friend alley, backyard in the Lower East Side. And I had like, invited a stranger there that I'd met the night before. Because we were like really, like, compelled by each other and not in a romantic way. But you know, when you meet somebody, and you're like, we've got a thing to explore. Like, there's like a thing that there's something here and so he didn't even live in New York. So he came over. And he sat next to me and he's like, I'd love to look up your human design. I'd love to do like a little mini reading for you. And this is like in the midst of a gathering. And he did a little mini reading for me and I had never had somebody put my life experience into words. So clearly. And I feel like that initial conversation was equal parts for leaving and confronting or leaving because I was like, oh my god, am I really allowed to do that? You know, is that okay to be that way, and then confronting because I wasn't doing that I wasn't living that way and I was not giving myself permission. Then, at the end of the conversation by saying, I think that you should do this, and I think we should build a business together. And human design is not predictive. It's not like he was like, I'm seeing where you'll be in five years. But I think he really sense potentially my design, but also sends a lot of kind of compatibility. And so I was very kind of directly initiated and invited into human design. And so I took a few months to feel into it. But then I flew to LA, where he lived at the time. And we started our first business together, and our only business together, and he became my first teacher. And that was, like I said, it was in 2015. And we built a business together for two years. And it was wonderful and challenging at the same time, because it was a little bit early design. People were so like, what is that? And so then I walked away from that in 2017, and started my own practice in 2018. And now my husband and my business partner, Katelyn:
oh, my god, that's wild. I had no idea that that you were business partners. Okay. So if you're comfortable sharing this, I'm interested in hearing what you're reading was at that time, like, how were you living your life? Oh, yeah. And what was the actual reading that he gave you that was out of alignment with how you were living? Do you remember?
Erin:
I do very much so and there are so three pieces, human design is endless. The wealth of information it offers us is just truly a rabbit hole. But the most important pieces are your type, your strategy and your authority, which is how you're designed to use your energy, how to create align opportunities, and how to make decisions. And so for those familiar, and I'm sure we can put a link in the show notes, to look up your design, but you can look it up by humandesignblueprint.com. So basically, he said, first Erin, you’re projector, and you are much better suited to be a leader and a guide and a teacher and not a doer, your energy is going to ebb and flow and your gift is not and how hard you work or how much you do it and how powerful you see. And I think that I felt that so deeply, because like even like I told you about the entrepreneurs or thesis, like, my interest was always in people. Like whenever I worked for startups, like I was just so much more interested in like how the people could work better together than I was in like, doing the bizdev, or the marketing or any of that stuff. And so and I think where I was living out of alignment with it is I was trying so hard to be a doer. I was like in this really hostile, intense New York culture and like, loving it, while also like, not really feeling like it was for me, you know. And so I think that like, just to be validated that like, there's actually like a gift and my sensitivity to people and my awareness of people and like, that, in itself could be like, a thing that I could build a career round was like, totally stupefied. I mean, that was the first piece. Is that clear?
Katelyn:
Yeah, it's super clear. What's coming to mind is what was your brain doing when you were receiving that information? Because if you're, I mean, I really get that as well, too. I think so many people will, because we're indoctrinated into a hustle culture that just kind of prides itself on doing to achieve and be worthy, which is complete bullshit. So when you learn this about yourself, that you actually could create a life and have success and, you know, just build a lifestyle that was less about doing did that seem unattainable? Like, was your mind going a million different directions? Or was it super clear to you perhaps, and it felt like, just easy? I don't know. Yeah.
Erin:
I had no idea how I was going to happen. Like, and I think that I was not trying to figure it out. Because like, honestly, nothing magical My life has happened because I figured it out, you know, like in terms of just being like, I'm gonna really like just, like, really, like, know where this is going. I think that I was just like, Oh, that feels really true. Like, I don't really know how that manifests in business or in life. And I look back what was that 31 Now is six, seven years ago, six years ago. And and and you know, I'm like, so much of my life right now is just how to create more and more space you know, like, and how to build a business that really supports that. So like, it's been amazing to watch that manifest, but it hasn't really come from me like forcing it it just been like for me aligning with my design. So one No, I did not get how that could work. But two I wasn't concerned with figuring it out. Like I just like that, knowing that it was a possibility kind of felt sufficient for the moment. And the other piece or two other pieces that he shared that were really a little bit mind blowing with the second piece is and this is true for all projectors, as he said, you know, Erin like, you are not really designed to initiate or chase after things. Like you're really here to be invited in and recognize and the right opportunities for you the right jobs for you are the ones that you feel treasured, seeing, like valued for your perspective and how you see and like you're not really here just like force it. And I think living in New York and living in the culture I was loving it, I was trying so hard to initiate. And like, and also even, like friendship wise, like sometimes be seen by people that like, didn't want to see me, you know. And so I think to like, know that I was to be invited, like really want, I look back on my whole career and that was very much opportunities always emerge that was literally how the human design thing emerge. But it was also like on a more social level, kind of like really releasing the need to be understood by people and just showing up as myself and knowing that like, doing that would allow the right people to see me and like my husband. Now I knew him for, I don't know, four years before we started dating, we were like, I worked for him. We were friends, we're best friends. But like, I had never felt more seen by person than I did by him. Like from day one, you know? And so like, I just think to know, yeah, so it was just it was also I was like, is that really allowed to be invited in and not chase after? So that felt really comforting
Katelyn:
What were some of the things that you struggled with the most just kind of acclimating to this new lifestyle? Because it really I mean, this is your work. This is what you live and breathe. It's a big part of you. And it sounds like almost a new belief system, in a sense. And so did you struggle with anything at all, when you were kind of trying to integrate all of this, other than just what you're what you're mentioning, like some of the thoughts that pop up and just like the the confronting things, but was there anything that you particularly found yourself just kind of getting stuck in or bumping up against that felt uneasy, I guess?
Erin:
Yeah, I mean, I think the whole thing felt like and also the last piece, just quickly is that like, he said, that I wasn't designed to be spontaneous. And like, I had been super spontaneous and very regretful, and he was like, You're meant to sleep on decisions, feeling things. Take your time, I was not doing that at all. So in terms of getting to integrate, yeah, I was like, but I look back, and I was like, I see why those things did not work. I think that like human design offers us a lot of juicy, actionable information. But the point is never to integrate it all at once. And so I think that what I sought more was as an experiment. You don't I mean, I was just like, okay, like, this random weird system says this stuff about me. Like, what happens if I just believe it? Like, what happens if I just try it? Like, what happens if I take more rest of my days and invest my people energy and the friends and the work opportunities where I feel so deeply seen, and I really kind of like sleep on my decisions and take my time? Like, what happens? Why don't I just try it out. And it's been an amazing experiment. And it continues to be you know, and I think that like, a piece that I don't know if he shared that night, but like a really revealing piece of our design is kind of like, all the areas where you can get the most taken off track. And so I think that was actually so useful for me, because I think when I became aware of where it could get taken off track, whenever those things popped up, I was like, so much more quickly able to move out of them, because I just saw it for exactly what it was, say, with my partnership at the time with that first business partner, like, we would have moments of friction or conflict and like, look at our charts are like, Uh huh, see, I see what's like bumping up, you know, like human design reveals so much of the energetics underneath the surface. So I think that like, there was a rocky road. And it was a bumpy road, kind of getting into it. But I think that like, I really, like kept looking back to my design and just trying and experimenting and like, and seeing what worked and what felt right. And I've learned so much now just through really like trying on different pieces of my design and like seeing how it's actually felt when I've just done it.
Katelyn:
I love that. And I also know that everybody's probably listening thinking, okay, what are the other designs you just mentioned, you're a projector. And one of the things that I love so much about listening to you teach this is I feel like you have a different take every time you share this information. So for our community, can you just guide us through each of the, what do you call it? How would you describe each type? Okay, so can you guide us through each even just give an overview?
Erin:
Yes, so high level in human design, there are five different types. And just know that this is just the first piece. It offers us so much important information. And it's just the beginning. If you and your partner or you and your child are both a certain type, it doesn't mean y'all are the same. So just knowing that again, a lot of nuance lies underneath these. So first, we'll start with manifesting generators and generators. And so these are kind of collectively the doers, the builders, the creators, the ones that have such tremendous energy to kind of build and create and make things happen. And the more going to lit up and excited they are by who they're spending time with and what they're spending time on. Like, the more energy they have and the more they kind of uplift everyone around them. And so two big lessons for them is around prioritizing their own excitement and satisfaction every day. And they're working in their life. And seeing that not as a selfish choice, but actually as the thing that kind of allows them to have the most positive impact in the world. And the second big lesson is boundaries. Because they have such natural vitality, people can really want to, like, get in on that and take advantage of it. So just really getting clear, unlike what they're available for a nod and really kind of seeing their energy as a really kind of sacred, vital and precious resource.
Manifesting generators specifically are often quite multi passionate, might like having everyday look different movie their energy in between different passions and excitements not sticking with things forever, but kind of always reinventing themselves evolving, changing, like honoring where their energy wants to go. And they're often quite efficient, like their gift is really finding the quickest way to make something happen, and not necessarily in handling every single step along the way. And then pure generators really kind of bring this beautiful mastery, the steadfast commitment to kind of bringing ideas to life.
But similarly, I would just encourage both of these types to just take inventory often. And ask yourself, what is letting me up and excited me the most I do more of those things? And what are the things that are the most draining and depleting? Can I let those things go? And the last piece that I'd share about both those types is that their strategy, and human design is about letting things come to them. They're very naturally magnetic, and they're not meant to chase after anything. They're meant to wait for things to show up in their world and light up their gut before they go after it. Hmm. Is that clear?
Katelyn:
Yeah, it's super clear. And I think it's, it's so eloquently that you describe it. I'm curious, and I'm going to throw a curveball at you if you're open to it. But as we go through each of these types, can we talk about how this relates to our own personal well being? So in this community, we talk a lot about our relationship with food, our relationships with our bodies, and ourselves from a mental health perspective, and all the things and so what, what would be helpful to know about these two types in relation to just general self care and well being wellness throughout the day?
Erin:
Yeah, well, I guess the two things I would say for both of those types is that what often allows them to sleep well at night is when they fully use up their energy throughout the day. And so if they like haven't used it up in satisfying ways, maybe it's just like, they haven't done much, or maybe it's like, and it's not about like, not like you've got to do a lot, but maybe they just like haven't gotten their energy out, or they've used it up in a way that has felt really depleting, they like might feel pretty restless or depleted at night and find it harder to rest. And so part of what allows these sites to like take really good care of themselves is like, spending their energy each day in ways that bring them so much joy, pleasure and satisfaction, that it like allows them to rest at night. And then I would say just another big self care practice. And this is going to extend to every area of your life, whether it's a form of exercise or, or your work or relationships, just like really, again, doing the things that light you up. And that's probably not going to be 100%. But like prioritizing work that excites you like moving your body in ways that feel fun, you know, spending time with people that leave you uplifted and energized, like really kind of having that filter in every area of your life can really create such kind of bright, beautiful energy within you like when a generator or manifesting generators like lit up I what they're doing and really feel personally satisfied. Like, you just can't help but want to be around them. Like they just radiate joy. They're like, just, can I just be around you gotta be infected by your excitement. So like, when they're showing up in their way that their excitement kind of spills over and lifts everyone up.
Katelyn:
So helpful. I know that you mentioned a few things already. But is there anything that as generators or manifesting generators that you should look out for? Like, how do you know when you're out of alignment with your type, or just common themes that typically pop up that are helpful to just be aware of?
Erin:
Yeah, so we all have signals in our design that reveal whether we're off track or on track, which is super natural for us to go in between the two always. But for generators and manifesting generators to be off track is to feel frustrated. And so it's basically like a sense of resentment or dissatisfaction in your work or in your life. And so like if you if there's a place, whether it's a relationship or an opportunity, where you're getting consistently frustrated and depleted, I would really just kind of take a step back and really ask yourself, like, is this still the right thing for me? You know, like, do I still feel lit up by it? am I trusting my gut, like are my boundaries on or, you know, my energized by this thing, and to be on track is to feel a deep level of satisfaction, in your relationships in your work to kind of drop in a bed that night and be like, God, I just feel like I spent my energy in ways that just felt good. And so I would kind of really consider where in your life you're feeling the most satisfied and kind of let that be a reminder, keep investing your energy there. And it also kind of check back in and see where you're getting the most frustrated consistently and kind of let that be an opportunity. to really check in on whether or not that's still the right thing for you, and whether something needs to shift. And the other piece that I would recommend is that, you know, there is a lot of nuance here underneath these types. But one thing that will be very important to both these types is their connection to their gut feeling, which is a very visceral thing on their belly that will either pull them towards or push them away from something. So whenever a thing shows up in your world, I kind of started drop into your gut and just check in and be like, do I feel expansive? Do I feel like I'm being pulled towards a kind of contraction and like, I've been kind of pulled away. So really kind of dropping into your belly as much as you can kind of start to see what is the visceral response you're having when things are showing up in your life?
Katelyn:
So helpful. Thank you. Let's move forward. Because I feel like there's a million other questions. And I, I know that you don't have three hours to give to us. So yes, so the next type that you want to go into.
Erin:
I shared about projectors briefly. You know, I think what I would add again, these are the teachers leaders, advisors, you know, not gonna do all the doing, you might find that as a projector, your energy naturally ebbs and flows. So I would say building rest and space. And like, ease into your days can be really healthy. Like as the projector like, I know that planning things back to back is not always great. And like even for me, you know, I had like more podcasts scheduled today. And I like canceled a few hours, just like I'm signed up for it, you know. So it's also just like, really, and I don't often do that. But it's really just like, honoring where my energy is and where it's at. And not like expecting myself to be consistent doer. I realized as a projector entrepreneur, having support has been really key and not trying to do it all alone. Know that as a projector, you are so deeply sensitive to others, which can make projectors amazing coaches, therapists, guides teachers, and kind of in positions where they're really kind of guiding and supporting others. And like I said, the strategy for us as projectors is to be invited in and recognized. And so I would really kind of consider where in your life you feel the most invited and recognize. And one thing that I'll just share is that like, I used to feel when I first heard this, in that lower East Side, mini reading, I felt like a little bit disempowered. I was like, How in the world? Would I build a business waiting to be invited? Like, how do people even know? And one big lesson for me has been how can I just put myself out there and make myself visible as a way to kind of magnetize the right invitations. And so like, I make it my job not to pitch people, but to just share like authentically and courageously like what I'm excited about whether it's on Instagram or newsletters, I mean, the way that you found me it was through like Grace's community. So like, I just share, share share as a way to kind of attracted the right invitations. In terms of wellness practices, I think that time alone is gonna be really important for projectors, you're deeply sensitive. And that might look like sleeping alone at times, like just time to kind of recharge and reset and release, what's not yours. I would really build a rest into your days. And I mean, like deliberately unproductive rest. I know as a projector, it was very tempting to be like, yeah, like, I'm gonna just, you know, rest, but also like, listen to podcasts, like, learn this thing. And it's just like, what if I just do nothing? I would, you know, allow yourself to kind of be supported when the time is right. And yeah, just like really nourish yourself and kind of try on this idea that rest is not lazy. It's like the thing that makes you better at what you do. And so really kind of cultivating a really kind of sacred park or relationship to it.
Katelyn:
So my biggest question around everything that you're sharing is how, how does someone know when it's time to take action, even if it is just showing up and sharing versus resting and waiting for the invitation like you're describing as well, too, because it sounds like it's this really beautiful, but delicate dance between effort and ease. So how do you discern that?
Erin:
Yeah, I think it's honestly starting to tune into your body and what you're the energy for, like, I've had projector clients that are like, Oh, I like so much energy, I just gotta just stop. I'm like, Well, if the energy is there, go for it, you know, like, like, leverage it take advantage of it. But like, if you start to notice yourself dwindling, instead of like, pushing yourself beyond your boundaries, and probably having diminishing returns, like what have you just take a pause. So like, I think it's really kind of staying attuned and connected to it. And just like kind of knowing when to pull back. And I know that for me, building breaks into my days, allows me just to like organic opportunity to kind of check in and be like, Do I really have the energy to create something right now? Or is it time to just like, chill, you know, and go for a walk or take a nap or whatever feels right. I'd also say that waiting for an invitation is not a passive thing. Like I think that often while you're waiting for the right thing to come, it can really look like mastering your craft really kind of diving deeply into that when you start to recognize your own value. It makes it others it makes it easy for others to see it in you. And then I also kind of consider ways to just make yourself visible and it could be with your friends with your community online. And again, not doing that all the time in a way that is, you know, overwhelming but I think just like creating space to just put yourself out there in the greatest way.
Katelyn:
Love, that's super clear. Okay, what's the next type?
Erin:
So the next type is a manifestor. Manifestors are the initiators and the innovators, the ones that often have the energy to get things started, not to do all the doing themselves, but often to get the thing off the ground, they tend to really value feeling free feeling autonomy, feeling a sense of control. So it's really good for manifests are just like set the terms of how they do things. And when and feel freedom when they're working in their lives. Their energy similar to projectors, but also different is going to operate in like creative bursts. So they might have like, a couple hours days, I had a client yesterday, say minutes, weeks where they like, can make a lot happen. And then periods, they've got to really kind of pull back be alone. So not expecting kind of consistent doing from themselves. I would say that manifester is like they really like see the future and see things where things are going before others do. And so it's really important for them to just honor that and like trust themselves enough to kind of initiate and be the first and do things differently, and kind of just be naturally disruptive. And their strategy is about initiating. So when they feel an urge to create something just going for it. And the second part of their strategy is around and forming. And it basically means before they just go for it, just keeping the people around them in the loop so they can kind of like, go for it and feel feel also supported by the people around them, I feel like they are on the same team. In terms of wellness practices, like one is I think, again, their energy is going to ebb and flow. And so like for them taking real risks and time alone is so important because it's often the time where a new idea or inspiration will come through. So I think really like honoring when their energy calls for it, not forcing consistency, like letting themselves be a bit more spontaneous and attuned to the moment, their moment, the moment. I also just think freedom. Like I think that they really thrive when they like can freely be in their own flow. And people are not disrupting and are trying to control it. It's a kind of carving at times of the week where they can just so freely be in their own flow. I don't feel kind of controlled or confined by anyone else.
Katelyn:
Hmm. That's so interesting. And I'm also curious how to determine impulse versus intuition with this type? Because it sounds like it can be muddled sometimes. And I'm sure it is just that tuning into your body and becoming more aware of that and whatnot. But is there anything else that you would recommend to really just decipher how and when to take action versus just acting out of impulse, because it's like the first thing that pops into your mind and it's not necessarily the best thing to move forward on?
Erin:
Yeah, so there's an aspect of our design called our inner authority, which is a layer underneath type, and it speaks to how we're designed to best make decisions. And so for example, for manifester is like there's actually a lot of possibilities, like some people are meant to sleep on it. Others are meant to be super spontaneous, others are meant to kind of really tune into their heart. So what I think is actually most useful in this case, is really understanding what your inner authority is and how you're wired to make decisions because that will help you know, what is the right thing to initiate. Because some manifester is who are what we call emotional manifester, is like, they might have an impulse, like an intuitive feeling. But instead of acting in the moment, they're going to sleep on it and check back in the next day. And there's also a lot of other aspects of our design that kind of speak to like, where we might get taken off track. Like, for example, like a manifester, or any type might have a part of their design where they just feel like a lot of urgency. Like, I've got to make this happen right now and feel like a lot of pressure. And so like, you know, I would remind them that like, these decisions aren't meant to be pressurized. So if you feel like I've got to make it happen right now just like get get free from this thing, like that's often not the right instinct to trust. So one, I think inner authority but to I would kind of dive into what we call our open centers to kind of dig into where you can get taken off track just so you're kind of aware when that's the thing that's guiding you rather than kind of your true intuitive knowing.
Katelyn:
Cool. Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. And just to be clear, Each type has an inner authority to pay attention to and how many are there? Do you know any how many different types of inner authorities?
Erin:
Seven total. generators and manifesting generators have two possibilities projectors have five possibilities? Manifesters have three possibilities. And, and reflectors have one.
Katelyn:
Okay. Interesting. Yeah. So obviously, like you've already established there is, this is really clear, and there's a level of nuance and layers to it. not just like, oh, this is your this is your type. And this is exactly what to pay attention to, like, everybody who's hearing this, just know, if you're interested, there are layers and ways to explore this even more, we're just giving a high or Erin’s just giving a high level overview. But it is, it is so interesting, okay. And then we have one more, right?
Erin:
You,.
Katelyn:
Me. And it's really I created the reflector.
Erin:
It's so it's so nice that your reflector because reflectors are 1% of the population. And so like, when you look out globally, like that is millions of people but like, it's really rare. And and I think that a reflector perspective is such a valuable one. And so it's really always such a treat to talk to reflectors. And I think that I'd be so curious if your audience recognizes some of the stuff in us. So, reflectors are kind of kind of our collective mirrors, people that take in so much in their physical space, that are always kind of taking in and magnifying the energy that they're around. And so honestly, the most important thing for you is to be a really ruthless curator of the people, you're spending time with the places you're spending time in, because you will magnify it, you know, in all the ways and so and things can keep changing for you like a community that once felt good might start feeling good. So that's the first piece. The second piece for you as a reflector is that you're very naturally fluid. There might be periods in a month where you feel like you've got this like the capacity of a manifesting generator, there might be periods where you feel like a projector or a manifester. And so your job isn't really to be consistent and show up in the same way every day. But honor whatever feels like you that day. And that could even manifest and like, socially different communities pull out different parts of you, you know. And so it's not about being inauthentic because you are vast and the way that you express yourself, but rather, knowing it's all you it's just like what part of me wants to get pulled out today. We call reflectors evaluators because they just see and sense things that so many people miss. And so it's important for them to kind of be in positions, whether it's a podcast, or working for a company, or coaching or facilitating where they just feel so recognized and treasured for their perspective. I think whenever I have reflect on my life, like I really, always just so curious, like, what do you think about this? And what do you say about this, because I think they just have this like really objective way of seeing things. But there's a lot of openness, a lot of sensitivity in your design. So I'd say a big lesson for you is around, just kind of really like discerning what's yours and what's not. And time alone is so essential as a way to kind of reconnect to what's yours. And the final piece that I would share is that, you know, a core part of being a reflector is around patience, like you are also not meant to be spontaneous. And the recommendation is to kind of take 28 to 30 days before you make a big decision, which I recognize is not always feasible, but I what I what I would remind you of is like, move at your own pace, just like don't make decisions under pressure, and take all the time that you need. And like say you say yes to a client. And then in 30 days, you're like, I don't know about that, you know, like giving yourself permission to kind of pivot when the time comes. And then finally, when it comes to wellness practices, I would say, one time and space alone, to honoring your energy that day, knowing that it's probably going to keep shifting, and then three, you're surrounded, it was just being so intentional about who you surround yourself by and what you surround yourself by knowing that like, your gift is magnifying that energies of choosing energy that you want to amplify and not kind of toxicity that you don't want to pick up.
Katelyn:
So interesting. And I appreciate you sharing that for everybody who wants to become familiar with reflectors, and might be one themselves and also just for me as a reflector hearing that and I, you know, when I, when I found out that I was a reflector, I was so bummed I will just be honest, I felt really left out of just the world, because, and it also was on top of like the beginning of the pandemic and everything but I just remember really exploring and and thinking like, Oh my God, I don't feel like I can relate to anybody like 1% I'm in the 1% Like, how could I possibly like, relate and what is this 20 to 30 day thing like how am I supposed to, like get anything done and like, totally had an identity crisis. And then I, I started to just kind of like, take a step back, look at things a little bit more closely. get real about a lot of things in my life, which are so true. I mean, I have always been super sensitive to environment and, you know, just aesthetics, lighting. Just really attuned to like noise and who I surround myself with. And just, I don't know, I can read a room really well, I can pick up on vibes really well. And I've always kind of been that way. And I haven't really known what to do with it. And so yeah, that it felt really interesting just receiving that I felt really seen after I kind of let it settle for a while. One question that I have that I actually think I asked you in a workshop, and I'm going to ask again, because if anybody else has this question coming up, it might be helpful to know, but I'm also a highly sensitive person. So is this common for HSPs and reflectors to coincide? Or is like, is there any research around that? Do you know anything about the overlap of that? And also, is there anything to kind of just pay attention to in not confusing one or the other?
Erin:
Yeah, it's definitely common. And, you know, I think that like, we all have areas that are designed where we kind of take in energy, where we're the most sensitive gathers, and what makes reflector reflectors that you take in areas and all the areas where it's possible to take in energy, you know, in terms of taking people's emotions and fears and stresses and like, but what also comes with that is like a tremendous wisdom, once the boundaries are built, and the awareness is cultivated, what's yours and what's not. So, definitely, and there's actually such a resilient nature to your design as well. So it really is around just kind of like being really intentional about not taking on other people's stuff as your own and kind of really being more objective about it, which is obviously a journey. So I have seen that in a lot of reflectors. But I've also seen it in a lot of other types. You know, I think that like, because we all have areas that we are sensitive in different ways. And so like, so I haven't really kind of seen a be exclusive to, but it would make a lot of sense that a reflector would be aligned with that.
Katelyn:
One other thing that's coming to mind, as well, too, is with the fluidity around reflectors that you're talking about just I think that's, that's something that was confusing, and still is sometimes confusing, like, Okay, how do I know? Like, if I'm actually operating from a place of just true authenticity and intuition, versus getting caught in the shoulds? Because it is, it is so fluid and to all the other types like you're talking about? And so what, what should reflectors pay attention to, to stay within integrity of whatever kind of type is really showing up the most presently for them?
Erin:
Yeah, I think that like, it's around kind of letting it be playful. Like, I think that when a reflector isn't alignment, we call the signal for alignment, surprise. And it basically is this like, just surrender. And so like, I would say, kind of potential shadowy, challenging area of being reflector is like feeling this pressure, like figure out who you are. It's like, I've got to figure out like the one thing that I am and my purpose and what have you to do, and like, I'm gonna find the perfect thing to do. And, like, so much of the wisdom is actually being like, the question I asked myself is not who am I? The question I asked myself is what feels like me today, you know, and like, every morning, you know, and every afternoon and just like, so I think that like, what I found is the more reflectors just like keep staying attuned to what feels like them in that moment, the freer they feel, the more surprised they feel, the more authentic they feel. And so like, I would just recommend for reflectors, in particular, to kind of not box yourself in in any way, and just be like a little bit more observant and playful, about, like, what part of me wants to come out today. And it's not because like, I'm flaky, and it's not because I don't have an identity, it's because that there's a lot of parts of me that can be expressed. So let me just really dive into what part feels like the most alive for me today. And like, lean into it so fully and also give myself permission to like evolve and change and adapt when the time is right.
Katelyn:
Okay, I love this it's so clear and one of the things that is that I will just be honest about it has really come up for me a lot that I think a lot of people in this community could relate to is just unpacking and healing a lot of people pleasing and perfectionism in my life and just when that comes up in tandem with what you're describing, like just going with the flow and just being like who you are and not apologizing for it and and being you know, leaning into that surprise and the other part of my mind going but people won't expect that and people will be confused and how are you supposed to build consistency in a relationship and all of like this shooting around living my life based on how other people expect me to live it versus just living it the way that I want to live it you know, which has been and is a constant part Practice for me. It's been so freeing, just being able to name that. And also, it's, it's still a challenge. It's definitely something that I work through. Do you find that at all with any of your reflector clients who struggle with some similar things?
Erin:
Totally, you know, and I think that like and beyond are flexors, you know, I think that that happens in a lot of ways. And again, our design can reveal so many specific areas, like one of your biggest lessons is like not trying to prove yourself. Another one is around like really learning how to speak your truth and not sugarcoating things just because you feel so much. So like, there's a lot even more specific ways that can really kind of dive into that. But I think like a big thing for reflectors is because they're so unique and because they've got such a different way of operating, it's such a reminder like the way that they build their businesses or their podcasts or their families or whatever might look really different than the people around them, you know, and like letting that be okay, so kind of really embracing their uniqueness rather than kind of running away from it.
Katelyn:
I love that. Okay, I want to do something fun before we go that just popped up into my mind let's curate all of the types in a fun way. So let's just go through each and I would love to hear your opinion of like an animal that comes to mind or a sound or a celebrity just something that identifies with each of these types for you or perhaps like the first career that you think of but let's just have a little fun and like go through each one so let's start with a generator first.
Erin:
I see like a lion okay, no like it feels like to me there's such a like grounded not that I'm really that familiar with lions but just like a very kind of like grounded powerful energy. And just like so much vitality and so much life force as long as they prioritize their excitement.
Katelyn:
Okay, anybody come to mind when you think of a generator like any public figure or just somebody that people resonate with?
Erin:
Oprah is a generator Will Smith is a generator. Beyonce might be a generator or manifesting generator. Biden the current president as a generator those are some that come to mind.
Katelyn:
What color would you choose?
Erin:
Just like a yellow orange. Okay.
Katelyn:
All right manifesting generator.
Erin:
I'm like really trying to think of an animal that like is aligned but also like pounces between different things. Maybe like a panther. Like I think like that same kind of capacity, but also like a little bit like quick moving you know, just like pivoting shifting like just like really like staying connected or whatever feels like them. I do the color feels like kind of like orangish reddish it is kind of like a really powerful one. I think celebrities Jessica Alba's a manifesting generator Brene Browns and manifesting generator. Britney Spears is a manifesting generator. Harry Styles as a manifesting generator.
Katelyn:
Interesting. Okay, projector.
Erin:
Projector is definitely a bird. Because like they just have this really kind of like overseeing perspective and they just see things in a really different kind of way. And so being able to kind of step back and see is such a natural thing for them. Color feels like a blue but maybe that's just kind of like a sky situation. People that are projectors. There's a lot of controversy over whether Michael Jackson as a projector or reflector. I know. Taylor Swift is a projector. Obama is a projector. Marie Kondo is a projector. A lot of presidents like JFK, Jimmy Carter. can think of like celebrities or people in pop culture. They're not really coming to mind but though that's a good start. Yeah, you know, they're Yeah.
Katelyn:
Manifester
Erin:
manifester is okay. This one feels like a little bit hard okay, like honestly the thing that's coming to mind which my like really doesn't even feel like anything that I can explain is like a fox. Fox I love Yeah. And I'm also we just got dogs and one of them really reminds you of Fox I'm just like really getting that vibe but it is like kind of this really? Yeah, it's like this really kind of powerful energy but also really can bring like so much speed when it's like ready to make things happen but can also like burrow and retreat when it's time to like rest and recuperate the color I don't know maybe like maybe like a green dark green. Yeah. Forgot I was forgetting her name. Adele is a manifester. Maya Angelo is a manifester. And whenever there's somebody that I'm really forgetting and I she just passed away, but it is like I think is such a good example because it is this kind of like really provocative, powerful energy, you know, in a delta, you know, like manifests is really here to have like an impact and you just feel that, you know, there are so often manifests like imposition of leader positions of leadership, Jennifer Aniston as a manifester. Have to remember the other one and then reflectors like I would say, an elephant. Mostly because it feels like there's such an inherent wisdom available and elephants just feel really wise. And the color feels like kind of more probably, you know, it's like kind of similar to blue, but it is just like really this like kind of higher, beautiful awareness when they really tap into it. You know, I wish that we knew more celebrities that were reflectors. They're rare. You know, I think that like I said, there's a question around Michael Jackson. But we definitely know that Sandra Bullock is a reflector. And do you know Alma? No, of us, like a hugging saint. She's like, gone around the world. And she's hugging millions of people. I've like gotten a hug from her like 2am in the morning, you wait for hours. But I think that like it's a really beautiful example of like, somebody just like mirroring you back to them. You know, it really is such a kind of intense, powerful experience. But, and Sandra Bullock is an interesting one, because again, reflectors can try on so many different ways of being so kind of like, being an actor is a really beautiful expression of that. Mm hmm.
Katelyn:
Oh, my God, this is so fun. Thanks for entertaining this little game. And now I have like a million ideas of what I want to do with this content, too. We'll make fun little graphics. Yeah, it's infographics for all of the types. I love it so much. Erin, you're fabulous. I can't thank you enough for just all of your wisdom, everything that you shared today, your truth and your vulnerability around your own story. And I can't wait for everybody to just get to know you even more. So where can everybody get into your community? How can they work with you if they're interested? All of the things?
Erin:
So I am erinclairejones most places. My Instagram a lot there erinclairejones. I would say if you're really curious to dive in, the first piece of place I would recommend is something called the Blueprint, which is a 55 Plus page basically like book to your unique design kind of really exploring all the most important pieces in the most practical and empowering way. And I'm happy to get a discount code for your audience if you'd like to do that is our word that you like to use? And do you want to do that?
Katelyn:
Sure. You can do love katelyn.
Erin:
And then finally, I also offer sessions individual partnership is this and that's all on erinclairejones.com. And the blueprint is on humandesign.blueprint.com
Katelyn:
Ah, love, and I love the word love.
Erin:
Thank you so much for having me. Yes.
Katelyn:
Awesome. I so appreciate it. And we'll link everything in the show notes as well too. But thank you. My pleasure. Thank you