Mini-Test: Are You Apollonian or Dionysian?

Life is wonderful, you just have to learn how to enjoy it!
A. It depends, not always and not for everyone
A more cautious statement that reflects an Apollonian view; it recognizes the complexities of human life and shows, for that reason, a more judicious and thoughtful attitude. Those who take this approach tend to make future-oriented plans, as opposed to Dionysians who live immersed in the present.
D. Absolutely, I try to take full advantage of it
A distinctly Dionysian stance that celebrates the joy of living without reservation, and that drives away from the mind any doubts and skepticism about the complexities of life and the difficulties that come with it. Those who reason in these terms live in the here and now.
Business before pleasure. Are you really sure about this?
A. Of course, there is more to life than just pleasure
This statement highlights an Apollonian view of life, where duties are considered fundamental to a balanced and meaningful life. According to this perspective, living means, first and foremost, making plans and realizing one’s goals. Pleasure is regarded as a secondary factor.
D. No, fun is essential!
A Dionysian response that emphasizes the importance of immediate pleasure and sensory experience as essential elements of life. Planning and concern for the future are put on the back burner and do not serve as reference points at all, as is the case with the Apollonians.
Do you easily get carried away by feelings and emotions?
A. No, except when I do it consciously
This position indicates a conscious control of emotions, typical of the Apollonian approach. The individual recognizes their emotions but chooses not to be carried away by them without some form of rational control.
D. Yes, it happens without my realizing it
A Dionysian aspect emerges here; the individual experiences emotions intensely and spontaneously, without worrying about any repercussions, suggesting a deep connection with the more instinctive side of one’s psyche.
An unexpected economic opportunity arises. How do you react?
A. I want to clearly understand what it is about before I accept it
This response reflects an Apollonian approach. The person shows a preference for rationality and critical thinking before making important decisions. This behavior is characterized by information seeking, risk analysis, and evaluation of consequences.
D. I don’t think twice about it and jump in!
Here we see a Dionysian attitude, where the individual acts impulsively, being guided by emotion of the moment rather than rational evaluation. This can lead to intense experiences but also to unpredictable results.
What kind of relationship do you have with order and discipline?
A. I like to live orderly and give myself rules
Clearly manifested here is an Apollonian orientation toward structure and organization as means to achieve precise and defined goals. The Apollonian personality likes to follow a predetermined routine and struggles to accept change, even when such change might bring positive novelties.
D. Excessive order and discipline make me uncomfortable
This response suggests a preference for freedom of expression typical of the Dionysian approach, where rigid rules can be perceived as limiting and generate frustration. The Dionysian character encounters difficulties in adhering to social norms and following so-called common sense.