Meeting the Shadow
Integrating the Hidden Parts of Self
The Shadow, a concept from Carl Jung, refers to the unconscious parts of our personality that our conscious ego doesn't want to identify with. These aren't necessarily "evil" parts—they are simply disowned parts (e.g., anger, sexuality, vulnerability, creativity).
"Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." — Carl Jung
The shadow is elusive because it hides in the dark. We can spot it through projection (what we hate in others) and triggers (what causes an out-sized emotional reaction).
Think of someone who really irritates you. What specific quality do they have that bothers you the most? (e.g., "They are so selfish," "They are so weak.")
Shadow Inquiry: In what way might I be suppressing this quality in myself? Do I judge myself for being "selfish" or "weak"? Or do I secretly wish I could be a little more selfish?
The shadow also holds our "gold"—positive traits we've disowned because we were told they were "too much" or arrogant.
Think of someone you deeply admire or envy. What quality do they possess that you wish you had?
Shadow Inquiry: This quality exists in you as a potential, or you wouldn't recognize it. How can you reclaim a small piece of this "gold" this week?