Hello, I am João Barros, psychoanalyst and writer, and today we will explore a fascinating theme of psychology: the notion of “self” in Carl Gustav Jung. The concept of “self” is central to Jungian theory and can help us better understand who we are and how we can achieve our potential.
Introduction to the concept of “self”
The term “self” refers to a person’s deepest and most authentic essence, covering both conscious and unconscious aspects. It is the totality of the psyche, including thoughts, feelings, experiences and memories.
Jung believed that the self is the center of personality, responsible for integrating the different parts of the psyche, thus promoting individuation, that is, the process of becoming a complete and unique person.
The formation of the self
The formation of the self is a process that occurs throughout life, beginning since childhood. It is influenced by family, cultural and social experiences, shaping our perception of ourselves and the world around us.
According to Jung, the self emerges as a result of the interaction between the ego (the conscious part) and the unconscious, including both the personal and the collective unconscious.
The role of the collective unconscious
Jung introduced the concept of collective unconscious, which refers to a shared repository of archetypal memories and experiences. These archetypes are universal symbols that appear in dreams, myths and stories of different cultures.
The collective unconscious plays a crucial role in the formation of the self, as it provides a common basis for human experience, connecting us to each other and our own deeper nature.
Individuation and self -knowledge
The journey towards self -knowledge and individuation is a challenging but rewarding process. It requires us to face our shadows (negative aspects of ourselves), integrating them into our conscious to achieve greater understanding and acceptance of who we are.
This integration promotes the unification of personality, allowing us to live more authentically and full, aligned with our true purposes and values.
Practical Application in Daily Life
Understanding the concept of self can help us sail the complexities of everyday life. By recognizing and respecting our own essence, we can make decisions more aligned with our goals and values.
Practices such as meditation, personal reflection and creative exploitation can be valuable tools to connect with the self and promote individuation.
In conclusion, the notion of “self” in Jung offers us a deep perspective on human nature and the way to personal fulfillment. By exploring and understanding this central essence better, we can live more significant, authentic and full lives.
