How to grow with shadow work

Shadow work: what is it? It's the process of discovering your "shadow self," or inner darkness. According to psychologist Carl Jung, the shadow is a component of every individual that resides outside of consciousness. Light would not be possible without darkness. We must face our shadow self in order to grow. Although it may be tough, it is truly the only way to move forward. Face your shadow to overcome the dark and step into the light. Use what you learn to grow and make positive changes.

Ways To Start Shadow Work

• Become aware of shadow archetypes and address them
• Keep a dream journal
• Meditate daily
• Use shadow work journal prompts

"The Cave You Fear To Enter Holds The Treasure You Seek"- Joseph Campbell

How To Recognise Your Shadow Self

• Weak/No Boundaries
• Self sabotage
• Lack of confidence
• Scared to speak up for self
• Saying yes when you want to say no
• Jealousy
• Anxiety
• Comparing yourself to others
• Always putting yourself last
• Not doing what you know is good for you
• Addictions

"If your shadow self is constantly haunting you, you will never truly move forward. You will simply be treading water until your shadow surfaces again." - Unknown

Signs You're Avoiding Your Shadow Self

• You never take responsibility for your mistakes or flaws
• You are always blaming others for things you do wrong
• You get super defensive when criticized
• You pretend you're perfect all the time
• You refuse to address your deep insecurities
• You constantly seek validation from others
• You are obsessed with your image and reputation

"People will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing their own soul" -Carl Jung

Types Of Shadow Archetypes

• The Inner Critic
• The Victim
• The Rebel
• The People-Pleaser
• The Perfectionist
• The Addict
• The Child
• The Aggresser
• The Shadow Feminine/Masculine
• The Enabler
• The Loner
• The Shadow Self Of Pride
• The Shadow Of Guilt Or Shame

"Shadow work is a heart-to-heart with inner yourself. Embrace every shade of your personality, even the hidden ones." - unknown

Benefits Of Shadow Work

• Heals relationships
• Increases creativity
• Allows for forgiveness
• Offers clarity and purpose in life
• Reduces anxiety and stress
• Lightens mood
• Increases positivitiy
• Recognizing toxic patterns so you can alter them
• Heals depression
• Greater courage to confront the unknown
• Releases internal fears
• Breaks unconscious patterns
• Increases confidence
• Releases unhealthy memories
• Heals the body
• Uncovers your authentic self
• Resolves triggers
• Enhances compassion and empathy

"One does not become enlightened by imaginging figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious" - Carl Jung

Shadow Work Journal Prompts

• What is something you've always wanted to do but haven't because you're scared?
• As a child, what was a question you had that was never truly addressed?
• What three acts of self-compassion can you practice today?
• What does your response to criticism reveal about you?
• What self-defeating thoughts do you often have?
• When did your darker side appear out of nowhere?
• What kind of people are drawn to you?
• What can you learn about yourself from your spiritual beliefs?
• What causes you to feel isolated?
• What triggers bring out the worst in you? Why?
• What are your favorite aspects of yourself?
• How have your experiences in life influenced the opinions you hold today?
• What trauma still influences your choices?
• What has happened in the past that you now view differently?
• Which therapeutic techniques could you use in your daily routine?
• What coping mechanisms do you employ when you feel overwhelmed?
• How can you improve your life by letting go of anger?
• How can you get ready for triggers more effectively?

"Your tiggers are your teachers. The deepest shadow work is done in the present moment when you are triggered and become aware of the shadow surfacing." -Unknown

Learn for you shadow self and heal your soul. Look into your triggers and see what you can learn from them. Everything happens for a reason, you can turn the negatives parts of your life into positives if you do the work. Face your shadow so you can step into the light.