I have just read the most magnificent book for the umpteenth time, I don’t even actually remember how many times I have read it, but what I know for sure is that every time I read it I learn something new.
To undertake this journey to the power of the present moment, we must leave behind our analytical mind and the false self it has created, the ego. From the beginning of the first chapter, we quickly rise to heights where we can breathe a lighter air of spirituality. However, on this particular occasion, I read it with a clear subject matter in mind: The Ego. In his words
“To make the journey into the “Now” we will need to leave our analytical mind and its false created self, the ego, behind.”
If we are able to be totally in the here and now and take every step in the present moment, if we are also able to truly grasp the realities of our energetic body, letting go, forgiveness and non-manifesto, we will be able to open ourselves to the transformative power of the present moment.
I had noticed that in my own career and of others too, that the ego at work had become an enormous driver in our behaviour. Besides this, the ego can be so powerful it can literally take over the “real you”. This is something, which I have witnessed first hand, as I am sure many of you have too.
Mr Tolle’s philosophy is to think about ego as a protective heavy shield. This protective shell works like armour to cut you off from other people and the outside world. Consequently separated from reality, you become out of touch with the “authentic you.”
“Ego implies unawareness. Awareness and ego cannot coexist.”
Mr Tolle’s tips are not only valuable but life-changing….and here are my favourites.
1.Observe Your Mind
The first foundational step is to become aware of what kind of thoughts you are having.
- Are you discouraged because your idea was not taken on board?
- Are you offended because your thoughts are telling you that you are not valued?
- Do you want to be right? Or do we want to get it right?
Let go of the need to win or the need to be right but concentrate on the facts, the essentials, the reality. Concentrate on the facts and stop being offended. Feeling upset will only lead to more upset and it is imperative to not take decisions personally.
2. Distinguish Between the Voice of Ego and the Actual Situation
Awareness is the beginning of becoming free of the ego because then you realize that your negative thoughts are pointless.
Accept “This is simply what is. There’s nothing I can do about it.”
3. Bring In Your Awareness
When you see the difference between your voice and the reality of the situation, that’s the beginning of awakening. Consider the feelings and look at the facts. Both have meaning and importance.
4. Lay Down Your Weapons
Your challenge will be to become more aligned internally with the present moment. Fighting with your ego will just make it stronger. By declaring war on it, you make an enemy.
The moment you become aware of the ego in you, it is strictly speaking no longer the ego, but just an old, conditioned mind-pattern. Eckhart Tolle
Best wishes and stay safe Sunita xx
Ref: Eckhart Tolle’s superb book “The Power of Now” is a guide to spiritual enlightenment for more information go to www.eckharttolle.com