Season 1 with Christina Philburn and Patrick Harris - In order to practice mindfulness, we commonly hear that we need to let go of the ego. But if you’re a student like me, you might struggle with this. Because it’s not always easy to identify when the ego is driving or influencing us.
One thing is clear, though. If we can bring intention and awareness to the observation of the ego, we can begin to implement positive changes in our lives. Partly because we’re acknowledging the ego, seeing it for what it is, recognizing when the ego is driving our car, our lives. And then intentionally saying to the ego, “No thanks. I’ve got this.” And then we consciously, carefully, change our response to one that is more wholesome and helpful in our lives.
Today I learned that the ego is more than just the thinking mind. But I think it’s fair to say that the ego is a primary driver of the thinking mind. For now, let’s just say that the ego and thinking mind are really good friends. And that may not necessarily be a great thing. If we can learn to let go of the ego. We’ll make more room or space to have a better relationship with our thinking mind. And bring more of our decisions and thoughts and actions to our conscious awareness.
Living consciously seems to be the key to mindfulness and mindful living. Perhaps that’s the easiest and most elementary definition of mindful living. It's living consciously, being aware of our thoughts and emotions and not letting them drive us. It’s about not getting lost in thought or just letting US happen in the world. But, instead, to put our hands on the wheel, and make more intentional, conscious decisions. About the lives we’re living, and living the life we want to live.
We’re not done talking about ego. Next week, we’re going to go a little deeper and broach the topic of how we can tame the ego. I’m looking forward to our discussion and I hope you’ll join us.
Show Notes:
Host Lance Vaughn, Co-owner of the Austin Mindfulness Center
Co-host Christina Philburn, LCSW
Co-host Patrick Harris, LPC, PhD Candidate
Co-host Claudio Barrientos, Mindfulness Instructor
If you're interested in mindfulness coaching, you can purchase coaching packages with either Patrick or Claudio on our website.
