By Joseph Celis, MS, CSCS, Co-Founder of S.A.G.E.
Ego is part of our psyche. It’s part of us. It’s the part that wants us to be more, to have more, to do more. It’s the part of us that is never satisfied. That is always wanting. It is a part of us that really drives us. That pushes us. Evolutionarily ego was very necessary. When we started In small social groups, it was all about survival, about protection. There was no time to self-actualize physiological needs, emotional needs, needs for love, happiness, security, and confidence. Most of those needs were not being met because it was a constant state of survival. Life expectancy was short and life was hard.
In present day, humans have more recreation, more leisure, and more free time. Some humans can utilize that time to self-actualize. In doing so, the ego has to be minimized.
Understanding and knowing that you are enough Is crucial for self-actualization. When the needs in Maslow’s hierarchy are met, it’s important for one to understand that they are enough. Ego then needs to quiet down. It’s important to understand one’s identity and that one’s worth is not associated with their history.
In this frame of work, it can be important to a certain extent to let go of self importance and our personal history and focus on being in the present. Being in the present moment allows us to let go of ego. One must reduce or minimize the importance of the “I” – meaning “I” can. “I” will. “I” do. You can still have confidence without “I”. To lose ego, it’s important to focus on gratitude; gratitude for being alive , gratitude for having what you have, gratitude for everyone and everything around you. One must understand the interconnectedness of life and that our actions impact others and that our concern and our responsibility for others is paramount in losing ego. One must understand their self worth and other’s worth.
If you are interested in learning more about how you can “drop” ego or “lose” ego and step into a more fully experienced life of joy and self-confidence, consider a discovery call to see if Spiritual Coaching with Joseph Celis, is right for you. We are here to support you and find ways to bring healing into your life.
