Summary

The article reflects on the dual nature of the ego, exploring its role in personal growth and spirituality, and questions the societal standards of success.

Abstract

The author delves into the concept of duality within the ego, acknowledging its ability to both protect and limit individuals through filtering awareness with limiting beliefs. The piece contemplates whether the ego is inherently negative, especially in the context of spirituality, and references a 70's song by Skyhook that challenges this notion. The narrative ponders the true meaning of success and whether it's worth pursuing society's definitions of it. The author is on a journey to discern whether their actions are driven by ego or essence, recognizing the importance of conscious choice in the present moment. The article emphasizes the practice of responding rather than reacting, and the ongoing effort to cultivate habits that align with a place of love and clarity. With patience and continuous learning, the author aims to let life flow naturally, drawing hope from upcoming literature like Vishen Lakhiani's book "The Buddha and the Badass" to illuminate the path forward.

Opinions

The ego has both positive and negative aspects, keeping us safe while also imposing limiting beliefs.
Success as defined by society, such as wealth, possessions, and titles, is questioned as a worthwhile pursuit.
The spiritual path often portrays the ego as a villain, but this perspective is challenged by the author and cultural references like the Skyhook's song.
The author believes in the power of conscious choice and the importance of responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively in challenging situations.
There is an acknowledgment of personal habits that are still "immature and fluid," indicating a work in progress towards personal growth.
The article suggests that there is no absolute judgment on whether having no ego is better than having a healthy one; it's about the individual's path and understanding.
The author expresses hope that reading Vishen Lakhiani's upcoming book will provide further insight and guidance on their spiritual journey.
The piece concludes with gratitude towards a prompt that sparked reflection and a recommendation for an AI service that offers similar capabilities to ChatGPT Plus at a lower cost.

Buddha or Badass*

Is ego a dirty word?

Duality. It is in everything, including the ego.

The ego keeps us safe. The ego filters our awareness with limiting beliefs.

The ego keeps us showing up. The ego wants us to win.

Win what? The race to society’s definition of success?

More money, toys, titles, perceived success than someone else?

Or maybe the “biggest” contribution to the growth of humanity? The biggest dent in history?

I have no idea.

I am still working out if my path is being driven by my ego or essence.

Is ego even a dirty word? On the spiritual path I feel like it is made out to be a villain.

Ego is not a dirty word according to this Skyhook’s song…yep it’s from the 70’s.

Is having no ego and being enlightened better than having a healthy ego?

The judgment is not mine to make.

No good, no bad. Just is.

Consciously choosing how I show up in the present moment is my hope.

Responding vs reacting in the heat of a charged situation.

My energy vibrating from a place of love or above. Vibrations to help others gain their own clarity and consciously choose how they show up.

While I have tools at hand to help me, I don’t always remember to use them.

When my habits are in check, it is easier.

My habits are still immature and fluid.

Working on it.

In the meantime I will keep practicing catching my pesky ego at play. Try not to judge myself when I notice too late it is in control.

I will be patient.

I will keep unfolding.

I will keep reading and learning.

I will let life to flow instead of getting it to flow.

Step by step.

Staying amused as best I can along the way.

* The title of this piece comes from Vishen Lakhiani’s upcoming book.

Due for release 9 June 2020.

While I know there is no secret ingredient, I am hopeful reading this book will expand my understanding and in turn, shine a light on the next step on my path.

The Buddha and the Badass

Forget hustling. This book will disrupt your deeply held beliefs about work, success, and, indeed, life.If you're the…

books.google.com.au

Thanks Diana C. for this week’s prompt. You gifted me an opportunity for reflection.

This week's prompt: 1-7.06

Hello, hello! Apologies for the 1 day delay. Life is slowly returning to "normal" where I live and the adjustment isn't…

link.medium.com