Understanding Jung's Concept of Shadow

Jung's concept of shadow refers to the parts of our psyche and group affiliations that we find troubling or contradictory to our values when brought to consciousness. It includes traits like jealousy, envy, aggression, and greed that we prefer not to acknowledge. Embracing the shadow means accepting the entirety of human nature within us, including aspects that may not align with societal norms or personal values.

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Episode notes

In this episode, my guest is Dr. James Hollis, Ph.D., a Jungian psychoanalyst, renowned educator and author on finding and pursuing one’s unique purpose. Dr. Hollis is also an expert in the psychology of relationships and healing from trauma. We discuss how early family dynamics and social context create patterns of both adaptive and maladaptive behavior and internal narratives that, when examined, lead to better choices and a deeply fulfilling existence.

We discuss discovering your unique self-identity and purpose through specific practices of reflection, meditation and conversations with others. We also discuss self-perception and the evolution of roles within marriages, parent-child relationships, and work.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Hollis provides both basic knowledge and practical tools to help us assess ourselves and better understand who we are and what we really want in careers, relationships of all kinds, and society.

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