In the beloved musical Wicked, the themes of self-discovery, individuality, and the dynamic interplay of connection and isolation are front and center. These themes resonate deeply with the characteristic of Human Design, particularly when we consider the concept of openness in a Human Design chart. Just as the musical’s protagonists grapple with the tension between societal expectations and authentic expression, we too must navigate the boundless potential of openness in our charts, unlocking it through our unique journeys.
Openness as Unlimited Potential
In Human Design, openness refers to the white centers, channels and gates in a chart—areas where we are most sensitive to the energies of the world around us. These undefined chart characteristics can act as mirrors, reflecting the conditioning we absorb from others. But they also represent boundless possibilities, places where we can experience life’s richness in endlessly varied ways. To unlock the potential of openness, we must embrace our authentic selves and engage with the world without losing our sense of individuality.
This idea is beautifully echoed in Wicked’s soaring anthem “Defying Gravity.” When Elphaba sings, “Unlimited, together,” she captures the essence of what it means to rise above societal constraints and lean into the freedom of shared, authentic creation. The line reminds us that by showing up as our true selves, we not only unlock our own potential but also contribute to a greater collective experience. Openness becomes a space of possibility—a fertile ground for transformation and connection—when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and courageous.
The Pitfall of Trying to be Popular
However, openness is a double-edged sword. The undefined centers in our charts are also where we are most prone to losing ourselves in the pursuit of belonging. In these areas, we might unconsciously try to take on the energy of others, striving to conform to societal ideals or meet external expectations. Peer pressure. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or loneliness, as we abandon our unique path in an attempt to be “popular.”
Wicked captures this struggle poignantly in the song “Popular,” where Glinda enthusiastically coaches Elphaba on how to fit in and win the admiration of others. While Glinda’s intentions are well-meaning, the song’s underlying message reveals the hollowness of molding oneself to fit societal norms. Elphaba’s journey shows us that true fulfillment comes not from external validation but from embracing one’s individuality, even when it means standing apart from the crowd.
Finding Balance Through Authenticity
The journey of Wicked’s characters mirrors the process of navigating openness in Human Design. Elphaba and Glinda each struggle with the tension between societal expectations and self-expression. Elphaba ultimately discovers that by “defying gravity”—by rejecting the need to conform—she can step into her power and live authentically. Glinda, too, begins to see that popularity and external approval are not the same as true connection.
Similarly, the wisdom of Human Design teaches us that openness is not something to fear or avoid. Instead, it’s a space for growth and transformation, provided we approach it with awareness. When we resist the pull to imitate others and instead allow our openness to be a playground for exploration, we tap into its unlimited potential. This requires us to “defy gravity” in our own lives, rising above conditioning to live as our unique selves.
“Unlimited, Together”: A Call to Connection
The phrase “Unlimited, together” from Wicked encapsulates the heart of both the musical’s message and the wisdom of Human Design. It speaks to the idea that our fullest potential is unlocked when we embrace our individuality while staying open to connection with others. This balance between self-expression and interaction is where the magic happens, whether on the stage, in our lives, or within the framework of a Human Design chart.
In the end, both Wicked and Human Design remind us that the path to fulfillment lies not in trying to be like everyone else, but in daring to be ourselves. By stepping into our authenticity and engaging with the world from a place of openness, we create lives that are truly, and uniquely, our own.