Thriving Through Life and Career Transitions: Embracing Self-Concept

Life and career transitions invite us to reflect on our self-concept—the different parts that make us who we are.?

For this newsletter, let's simplify these parts into two intertwined aspects of ourselves: the ego and the soul.

You are free to replace these terms with words that resonate more with you. Like Lena Dunham says “God is simply dog spelt backwards”

The Ego

Our well-meaning ego attempts to:

• Keep us safe by highlighting mental, emotional, and psychological threats.
• Encourage certainty by favouring what is familiar.
• Protect what we have by preventing risk-taking.
• Focus on problems.

The ego often shouts loudly, criticises, and judges.?

The more we lean into change, the louder the ego may become.?

Like a bully sensing fear, it capitalises on our insecurities, using well-established thought and emotional patterns:

• "Who are YOU to do this?"
• "You aren’t smart enough."
• "You aren't lovable enough."
• "Everyone will laugh at you."

The Soul

In contrast, our soul encourages us to:

• Play big for the greater good.
• Take leaps of faith through self-belief.
• Embrace risk without needing to see the entire path.
• Focus on the journey.

The soul whispers gently, quietly encouraging and believing in us. However, the more we listen to our ego, the quieter the soul becomes.?

Like an old friend offering guidance, if ignored for too long, it may withdraw. The soul may suggest fresh, creative perspectives that challenge us:

• "You are enough just as you are."
• "You don’t need to prove anything to anyone."
• "Walk the path, and the bridge will be there."
• "You don’t need to have all the answers right now."

Balancing the Ego and the Soul

We all have an ego, and we all need an ego. It serves a purpose.?

Sometimes, it can be helpful to respond to our ego gently:?

"Hey, thank you for your advice. I know you’re trying to keep me safe, but I’ve got this from here. I know what I’m doing, and we’re going to be just fine. Thank you."

Reflective Questions

1. When faced with a significant life or career transition, which part of you—ego or soul—tends to be louder? Why do you think that is?
2. Think of a recent challenge you faced. How did your ego respond? How did your soul respond?
3. Reflect on a moment when you took a leap of faith. How did it feel to listen to your soul rather than your ego?

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