Consciousness is the fundamental essence of an individual, not merely an aspect or part of their being. It is emphasized that consciousness defines the 'real' self, while the body, thoughts, emotions, and personality are merely objects or appearances that manifest within it. The metaphor of a screen illustrates that, similar to how the screen is essential for a movie yet distinct from the movie itself, consciousness serves as the backdrop for all experiences. Thus, acknowledging oneself as consciousness provides a clearer understanding of existence, transcending the notion of being merely a collection of physical and mental attributes.