INTEGRATED SELF-REALIZATION

Combined Approach

Integrated self-realization is a state of being in which an individual has fully integrated all aspects of their personality into a cohesive whole, a united self. This includes both the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche (or personality), as well as the individual's unique talents, values, and life experiences. Integrated self-realization involves a deep understanding and acceptance of oneself, and a willingness to live in alignment with one's true nature.

In this state of being, an individual is able to navigate life with a sense of purpose and meaning, and is able to express their authentic self in all aspects of their life. Integrated self-realization is often associated with a sense of inner peace, contentment, and fulfillment, as the individual has achieved a deep sense of wholeness and completeness.

The journey towards integrated self-realization often involves exploring and working through unconscious aspects of the psyche, as well as developing a strong sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. This process may involve various forms of therapy, personal development work, spiritual practices, or other methods of self-exploration and growth.

Referring to this process as “Integrated Self-Realization” was chosen due to the approach combining aspects of several other therapeutic practices into one cohesive method I have used effectively in the treatment of co-occurring disorders as a substance abuse program leader. The two main influences in its development were Carl Jung’s Individuation and Richard Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems, but it is also a multifaceted and interdisciplinary approach that draws from various fields of study and practice.

Here are five leading sources that support this approach:

1. Psychoanalytic psychology – Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung developed the concept of individuation, which describes the process of integrating the unconscious and conscious aspects of the psyche. Jung believed that this process leads to the development of a more complete and authentic sense of self.

2. Spiritual or transcendent psychology – promotes integrated self-realization by emphasizing the interconnectedness of all aspects of the self, providing practices for developing greater self-awareness and connection to a higher power or transcendent reality, and promoting the development of positive values and virtues such as compassion, forgiveness, and gratitude.

3. Humanistic psychology – which emerged in the 1950’s and 1960’s, emphasizes the importance of self-actualization and personal growth. The humanistic approach views individuals as capable of achieving their full potential and living a fulfilling life by integrating all aspects of themselves.

4. Positive psychology – which emerged in the 1990’s, focuses on the study of human flourishing and well-being. Positive psychology emphasizes the importance of developing one's strengths and virtues and living a life in alignment with one's values and purpose.

5. Personal development – Many personal development programs and coaches advocate for the importance of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and living authentically. Techniques such as goal setting, visualization, and affirmations are often used to support individuals in achieving integrated self-realization.

Purpose of Integrated Self-Realization

In Jungian psychology, the shadow refers to the unconscious parts of our personality that we repress or deny because they do not align with our conscious self-image or values. The shadow is a natural and necessary part of the personality, but it can also contain aspects that are considered negative, destructive, or "dark."

The dark aspect of the shadow refers to the parts of ourselves that we find unacceptable or shameful, such as our aggressive impulses, sexual desires, envy, greed, or other taboo emotions. These aspects can be seen as negative because they go against our conscious beliefs or societal norms, and we may feel ashamed or guilty for having them. It is the 'monster' we are capable of becoming, but bury these thoughts in the hope of preventing the creation of this beast from happening.

When we repress or deny these dark aspects of our shadow, they can manifest unconsciously in harmful ways, such as through projection, where we see our own negative traits in others, or through destructive behaviors such as addiction, self-harm, or aggression towards others.

To understand the concept of the shadow, it is important to first grasp the idea of persona, or what I refer to as your mask. Persona, or mask, is the version of yourself (as discussed before) that you present to others when you want them to accept and like you. For example, if you go to a party and try to impress the people there, you might go along with their jokes and laugh even if you don't find them funny. Later, you might feel bitter and resentful about being “put down” at the party, leading to aggressive and vengeful thoughts.

The problem here is that you were too much in persona at the party, keeping your “social mask” on and sacrificing your true self to gain acceptance. Later, you refuse to acknowledge the existence of the parts of you that could have protected you from doing so. The bitterness and resentment you feel at home reveal the aggressive shadow part of you that you actually need. If you had successfully integrated that part of yourself into your personality, you would have presented a more assertive and determined face and stance, which would have prevented people from putting you down in the first place.

However, you may have adopted a moral code that emphasizes being likable, avoiding conflict, and never hurting anyone's feelings. This causes you to present yourself as a punching bag, which doesn't lead to the integration of the shadow. Ultimately, being a good person doesn't mean sacrificing yourself or denying parts of yourself. It means integrating all aspects of yourself, including the shadow, into a cohesive whole (united self).

The pathway to completion as a human being is through the embodiment of the monster, the realization of the shadow. Jung did not believe that you could be a good person until you comprehend your capacity for evil. He does not intend for you to act it out in the world, but to understand that it is possible. Then, not only to understand it is possible, but then bring it under your control. In essence, you need to become a “Civilized Monster.” The morality comes when you are a monster, and you can control it; and that is the union encounter with the shadow.

Goals of Integrated Self-Realization

Achieving integrated self-realization typically involves a process of self-exploration and growth. Here are four key steps in the process:

1. Self-awareness: Developing a deep understanding of yourself is a crucial first step towards integrated self-realization. This may involve exploring one's personality traits, values, beliefs, emotions, and life experiences. Self-awareness is achieved through various practices such as journaling, meditation, therapy, or self-reflection.

2. Self-acceptance: Accepting yourself (flaws and all) is a critical step towards integrated self-realization. This involves embracing all aspects of yourself, including the shadow self, and acknowledging that every experience and trait has contributed to your unique identity. Self-acceptance will be accomplished through practices such as self-compassion, forgiveness, and reframing negative self-talk.

3. Integration: Integrating all aspects of yourself, including the unconscious and shadow aspects, is a crucial step towards achieving wholeness and completeness. This may involve working through past traumas, healing emotional wounds, and developing new ways of relating to yourself and others. Integration can be supported through practices such as therapy, shadow work, and spiritual practices.

4. Authentic living: Living in alignment with your true self is a key aspect of integrated self-realization. This involves expressing your unique talents, values, and life purpose in all aspects of life, including work, relationships, and personal pursuits. Authentic living can be fostered through practices such as goal setting, mindfulness, and creative expression.

The process of achieving integrated self-realization is unique to each individual, and may involve a combination of these and other steps. It is an ongoing process that requires commitment, self-compassion, and a willingness to embrace change and growth.