Life can be viewed from two perspectives: the outer ego or the inner self. The inner self can also be called the true-self.
Our ego is the outward, self-created portrait of what we want the world to see. It is a façade. It is constantly searching for approval from others and is always in need of being in control. Our ego’s perspective or reference point is based in fear. Fear of not fitting in or being liked. Fear of what other people think. Fear of losing influence or power yet, it can be easily influenced or broken. Our ego does not know how to forgive or ask for forgiveness. Because it is based in fear, even the expression of love makes it feel weak or vulnerable. Everything our ego does is concerned with outward appearances. Our ego is always longing, thirsting for some form of outward approval. It is a thirst that will never be quenched. Our ego will never be satisfied because superficial gain or success is never satisfying. Because of fear, our ego will not acknowledge its weaknesses, failures, or defects and without that acknowledgment, there is no room for change or growth.
I must admit that our ego is a part of who we are, and at times may be necessary in our social dealings. We gain self-esteem and pride through our ego, but if they remain ego based, they will fade. We should avoid living our lives solely based on our ego’s perspective. It must be kept under control. Our ego is not who we truly are. Therefore, it would be impossible to access and optimize our SPIFE from an ego’s perspective.
Ultimately our goal is to take on a true-self perspective. True-self is the realization that we are all a part of something much larger than ourselves and we are no greater or no less than anyone else. We have no fear of how we may appear to others. We no longer look outwardly to others for approval, instead we look inwardly to ourselves.
Because our true-self does not need outward approval from others, we have no fear of failure, loss, or disappointment. We aren’t afraid to express anything that may give the appearance of being weak or vulnerable. Our true-self recognizes strength in the expression of love and the ability to ask for forgiveness and to forgive. A true-self perspective allows us to be at peace with who we are and to accept who we are in the present moment. We no longer have to prove our point of view or explain who we are to anyone. Self-esteem is intrinsic with this perspective. We develop a desire to be better in our own eyes as opposed to the eyes of others. Self-improvement and personal growth happen naturally because of that reason. Our true-self does not live in fear; therefore, we can experience the love, joy, and inner peace that exist where fear cannot. A true-self perspective makes it easy to access and optimize our SPIFE because we are already in tune with it.
Our true-self is our SPIFE!