Pulling The Thread with Elise Loehnen

On Finding Our Soul's Vocation (James Hollis, PhD)

Sep 12, 2024

James Hollis, a Jungian analyst and author of 19 books, dives deep into the importance of accountability and personal growth. He discusses the concept of the 'shadow' in human psychology, emphasizing how understanding our inner struggles can lead to healing, particularly for men navigating societal expectations. Hollis highlights the emotional disconnection many face, urging listeners to reflect on their true selves and seek fulfillment beyond external pressures. He also explores the complexities of parenting, emotional struggles, and the need for deeper connections in today's world.

01:02:15

Episode guests

James Hollis

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Quick takeaways

Being a grown-up requires accountability for one's actions and the necessity of self-inquiry to understand their origins.

Acknowledging and addressing our personal shadows is crucial for personal growth, as unresolved issues can harm relationships and perpetuate negative behaviors.

The exploration of masculinity reveals how societal expectations often inhibit emotional expression, necessitating a deeper understanding of personal fulfillment and identity.

Deep dives

The Role of Accountability in Adulthood

To be considered a grown-up involves recognizing one's accountability for the impact they have on the world. This necessitates self-inquiry into the origins of one’s thoughts and actions, as failing to do so perpetuates cycles of irresponsibility. The idea emphasizes the importance of having a source of internal guidance that is independent of societal dictates, especially when those external influences become ineffective. This personal responsibility is central to meaningful contributions to society and to one's personal growth.

Embrace Your Journey, Reject Comparison

01:17

Balance the Masculine with the Feminine

01:09

Intro

2min

Exploring Jung's Shadow: Masculinity and Inner Journey

15min

Exploring the Emotional Landscape of Men

5min

Nurturing the Soul's Journey

6min

The Struggles of Adult Growth and Comfort

3min

Navigating Emotional Disconnect

16min

Navigating Parenting Pressures and Choices

3min

The Complexity of Evil and Human Growth

12min

The Emotional Impact of Disconnection and Personal Struggles

4min

James Hollis, PhD is a Jungian analyst who is still in private practice in Washington D.C. Hollis started his career as a professor of humanities before a midlife crisis brought him to his knees—and to the Jung Institute in Zurich. The author of 19 books, Hollis is one of the best interpreters of Carl Jung’s work, making it accessible for all of us who want to understand how complexes, archetypes, synchronicities, and the shadow drive our lives.

Hollis’s books are very meaningful to me—you’ll find a long list in the show notes—and the chance to interview him did not disappoint. In fact, at one point, where he describes what we do to boys as we turn them into men, I actually started to cry. Meanwhile, James Hollis still lectures—you can go to his site to find a way to see him live. The fact that he’s 84 and does not seem inclined to retire—in fact, he told me he has another book coming out next year—is a testament to how a vocation doesn’t feel like work. This is one of my favorite interviews to date. I hope you love it as much as I do.

MORE FROM JAMES HOLLIS, PhD:

Why Good People Do Bad Things: Understanding Our Darker Selves

Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life: How to Finally, Really Grow Up

A Life of Meaning: Relocating Your Center of Spiritual Gravity

The Broken Mirror: Refracted Visions of Ourselves

James Hollis’s Website

RELATED EPISODES:

Connie Zweig, “Embracing the Shadow”

Satya Doyle Byock, “Navigating Quarterlife”

Terry Real, “Healing Male Depression”

Niobe Way, PhD, “The Critical Need for Deep Connection”

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