What Is The Ego? Understanding Its Role And The Truth About Who You Really Are
Introduction: What Is the Ego?
We tend to associate the Ego with arrogance, but it’s actually much more than that. The majority of us make decisions based on what we “think” is right and react according to what our minds deem appropriate. Over the whole span of our lives and especially when we are children, we unconsciously adopt a mix of other people's personality traits, integrating them into our own, by watching and listening. Alongside the effects of life experiences—both positive and negative—we form a personality that we come to believe is authentic.
While there are authentic aspects within our current personalities, including traits inherited through DNA, much of what we identify as "me" is actually programming and trauma responses. Our true self lies buried beneath all of this, and what we present to the world is a character called the Ego—the construct that lives in our minds and believes it is real.
“The ego is the unobserved mind, the voice in the head which pretends to be you,”
Who Am I?
The mind is not you. The programming and belief systems you hold are not your authentic self. When you embark on deep mental and emotional trauma healing, you’re not just resolving uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. You’re also dismantling old belief structures that no longer serve you, which means reevaluating everything you thought defined you.
This level of healing requires a deep dedication to yourself—a commitment that might feel unfamiliar and challenging. However, as you do this work, you’ll uncover hidden aspects of yourself you didn’t even know existed. Traits or skills you thought you lacked may emerge as strengths or gifts. Through this process, you’re reintroduced to your authentic self. Initially, it may feel like meeting a stranger, but over time, you’ll come to know and appreciate the incredible person you truly are.
If Not the Mind, Then Where?
Your true self resides in your heart. When you live entirely in your mind, you disconnect from your heart. Emotional trauma often accumulates in the heart area, making it common to turn away from this part of yourself to avoid pain. However, by doing so, you also turn away from your authentic self, leading to the creation of a personality that exists solely in your mind.
The mind and heart are designed to work in harmony. The heart leads with emotional intuition, guiding your decisions, while the mind follows through with aligned actions and logical support. By restoring this balance, you reconnect with your true self and live more authentically.
Conclusion
For thousands of years, we have been mind-centered beings, but we weren’t always this way. We are entering a time when more people are willing to do the hard inner trauma work necessary to create a heart-centered society, much like we once were long ago. Great change begins with a single person—and that person is you. The greatest adventure you’ll ever undertake is the journey within, and the greatest discovery is finding your true self.
Helpful Affirmation
“I love and accept who I truly am.”
Try This Today
Find a quiet place to sit. Close your eyes and bring your awareness into your heart space.
Visualize, feel or sense the energy of this space in the center of your chest. This can be a picture, message, or however it needs to show itself to you. What does it look like? What does it feel like? What emotions or sensations arise? What message is your heart offering?
Responses might be subtle and could take time to process. Reflect on anything that comes up. If you feel comfortable, share your reflections in the comments below.
Wishing you love & liberation,
Janette
