The Ego: The Monster Within Us
There is a “monster” living in each one of us. That is our ego, our false self.
When I read this book, I just couldn’t believe how often my ego controlled me.
When you feel stressed, it can be your ego.
When you feel sad, it can be your ego.
When you think you are better than someone, it can be your ego.
When you think you are less than someone, it can also be your ego.
The “monster” within you survives through your unconsciousness. The more unconscious you are, the stronger the “monster” becomes.
The ego is afraid of your presence. Its survival depends on how unconscious you are. The moment it notices negativity within you, it sees an opportunity to take over your mind. And the scary part is that you may not even notice it happening.
How to Stop Your Ego From Taking Control
The way to become less controlled by your ego is by being present.
Being present means being fully focused on what is happening right now instead of constantly being attached to your thoughts. You become aware of yourself, your surroundings, and even your breath.
When you are present, you become more aware of the light within you, and this awareness can help you step away from the control of the ego.
Accept the Moment as It Is
Whenever you are in a negative situation, try to accept the moment as it is.
For example, maybe you hate changing the tyre of your car, but this is what you have to do right now. Instead of feeling frustrated and wishing you were doing something more enjoyable, simply focus on fixing the tyre.
If you are constantly fighting against the situation, you create more negativity for yourself.
If you are not in a state of acceptance, enjoyment, or enthusiasm, you may find yourself creating unnecessary suffering for yourself or others.
If you cannot enjoy doing something, you can at least accept that this is what you have to do at this moment.
Being Present With Pain
Here is another example.
If you are having a headache, you might think:
“Oh, I am having a terrible headache. I hate it. I just hate it. I wish I could sleep. I wish I was lying on my bed right now.”
Notice what is happening. You are resisting what you are experiencing in that moment.
Instead, try becoming aware of the pain without immediately judging it or becoming angry about it.
Of course, if you have a headache, you should still take care of yourself and seek medical attention when necessary. Being present does not mean ignoring physical symptoms.
For me, the lesson is about changing my relationship with the experience. Instead of adding fear, frustration, and negative thoughts to the pain, I can simply acknowledge it and be present with what I am feeling.
When You Are Present, You Are More in Control
When you accept what is happening and remain present, you can feel more in control of your response.
When you say things like, “I am having a terrible headache,” and immediately feel like a victim, the “monster” is almost laughing happily because you are no longer aware of the light within you.
You are not being present. You are resisting what is happening, creating more negativity, and adding emotional suffering to an already uncomfortable experience.
So, next time you are experiencing pain or going through a difficult situation, the first thing you can do is become aware.
Acknowledge what is happening. Feel what you are feeling without immediately labelling or judging it. Give yourself a moment to simply be present.
The light within you is more powerful than your ego. Always remember that.
Keep Checking In With Yourself
Constantly check yourself.
Ask yourself:
How am I feeling?
What thoughts am I thinking?
Am I being present?
Am I in alignment with my true self, or has my ego taken over again?
This ego is super smart.
Let’s show this ego that we are smarter. 🙂
Thank you for reading. 🌿
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is A New Earth about?
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle explores consciousness, the ego, presence, and spiritual awakening. The book encourages readers to become more aware of their thoughts and live more fully in the present moment.
2. Who wrote A New Earth?
A New Earth was written by spiritual teacher and author Eckhart Tolle.
3. What is the main message of A New Earth?
One of the main messages is that becoming more aware of the ego and our habitual thoughts can help us experience greater peace and live with more awareness.
4. What does Eckhart Tolle mean by the ego?
The ego is the sense of identity we create through our thoughts, beliefs, possessions, achievements, and how we want others to see us. Tolle encourages readers to become aware of the ego rather than allowing it to control their lives.
5. Why is living in the present moment important?
Being present allows us to experience life as it is happening instead of constantly worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. It can also help us become more aware of our thoughts and emotions.
6. What does A New Earth say about suffering?
The book explores how unconscious thoughts, resistance, and identification with the ego can contribute to suffering. Becoming more aware of these patterns can help us respond to difficult experiences differently.
7. Can A New Earth help with personal growth?
Yes. The ideas in the book can encourage self-awareness, mindfulness, acceptance, and a deeper understanding of our thoughts and emotions.
8. Is A New Earth worth reading?
If you enjoy spirituality, mindfulness, personal growth, and books about consciousness and living in the present moment, A New Earth can be a thought-provoking read.