Integral Wisdom Activist

Whether it’s individuals pushing their lifestyle choices, their ‘art’ their ability to ‘influence’ the gullible, their diet preferences, consumer habits or whatever they think passes for individuality or originality, it’s pretty obvious that it’s loved by the narcissistic and shameless promotors of the false -self the world over.

And that’s before we talk about the curated version of reality it promotes, that can lead to feelings of comparison, inadequacy and a disconnect from all that connects us as human beings.

Every time I think about the idea of the ‘authentic self’ I think about how shamelessly a platform like Instagram can be used to promote its very opposite.

I’m not saying it’s all bad. If it’s providing opportunities for self expression, creativity and community building it can be a good thing. But the very qualities that are needed to address the potential negative effects of it are the very same ones it does nothing to promote! Hence it’s perfectly ‘normal’ to practice as much narcissistic self promotion as you want without feeling any need to temper your self-promotion by cultivating some self awareness, empathy or humility.

In such a culture there’s too great a potential to veer into narcissism when it becomes a vehicle for self -aggrandisement and self promotion rather than a healthy self-expression.

Once again Integral Practice can be very helpful in raising self -awareness and a more authentic way forward.

In terms of self awareness a great place to start might be the study of the Enneagram . When you are connected with the authentic self you move beyond the need for external validation. You will welcome real feedback and not the mutual admiration of ‘likes’ from followers who are equally invested in their own likes to feel secure.

For example, a study of Enneagram type 3 personality type unveils a personality who tends to seek admiration from others . Type 3 characteristics are often focussed on success image and external validation. It may indeed be challenging for such a person to see through Instagram which seems to validate all they hold dear.

But exploring Type 3 on the Enneagram can be a powerful tool for enhancing self awareness. Many type 3s are driven by a core fear of failure and worthlessness and this is what pushes them to constantly seek approval from others. Their self worth is always contingent on others.

Additionally practices that promote self acceptance and authenticity such as journaling and exploring their thoughts and emotions might help uncover unconscious patterns about what drives their need.

Of course if it’s just a dose of humility you need then it’s hard to believe that some people don’t ever seem to have been taught the old adage that ‘self praise is no praise’ If you need to constantly impress on someone how good you or your ‘wears’ are then developing a little humility is a good thing. After all good art doesn’t need to be sold. It speaks for itself and doesn’t need excessive self promotion. Better surely to think about the intrinsic value of what you’re creating and in finding fulfilment in the creative process itself. And leave others to praise it or not as the case may be.