Create an authentic and empowering life by exploring your shadow
Many would like to understand how to work with their shadow, but are not sure where or how to start. Opening a dialogue with your Shadow allows for a deeper understanding that leads to greater creativity, empowerment, authenticity, and your soul’s purpose. The shadow is whatever you have put in a corner and have not allowed yourself to look at. It’s like a splinter in your foot that won’t go away or stop you from doing something you love. Here are questions you can journal with to start a dialogue with your shadow for better understanding.
1. What triggers you? Sally (fictional character) went to work and was very upset when she saw the new woman working the cash register. — When you get angry or even happy just by looking at someone, you are reflecting a dark side of yourself onto the other person.
What is really causing the anger; Why are you really mad?
What memory from your past does this situation feel like?
Who do they remind you of, you or someone else?
What little shred of truth about you is reflected in this person?
2. What thoughts do you drive away? Sally began to worry about her taxes and immediately dismissed the thought. — If there’s something we don’t want to look at and refuse to think about, there’s a good chance it’s a shady look.
What is the first memory you have around responsibility and/or money (or your concern to scare away)?
What did they tell you about money or responsibility?
What belief is not really yours and are you willing to give up?
What is your inner truth about responsibility and money?
3. What prevents you from doing what you want? Sally always wanted to be an actress, but every time she thought about it, she heard a little voice say, “That’s nonsense, acting is pretending and it’s not a serious profession, you can’t make a good living acting!” Or how about, “It’s impossible to (insert yours here) because you’re not smart enough, strong enough, good enough, pretty enough, etc.
Whose voice did you hear say those words when you were younger?
Can you see their insecurities or fears and realize that they are not yours?
What words of love can you replace them with?
Your soul, your higher self wants you to succeed and have your heart’s desire. What message of love would your soul or higher self tell you?
When you have worked through any of these steps in your journal, allow love to flow through you (from your higher source) for the work you did and radiate out to anyone and everyone who may have been involved in the situation.
Forgiveness is an important key to integrating your shadow, both to forgive yourself and to forgive others. Integrating your shadow is very important to living an authentic life.