The Idealized Image

In this episode of the Searching Inward Podcast, George Stull, Scott Reall, Anna Bryant and Seth Abram start the new year by talking about the idealized self – an inflated ego that flatters us with unmatched beauty, power, intelligence, fame, etc – which makes us arrogant and addicted to outside affirmations and recognition. They share how a healthy sense of self helps free us from this and why it’s important not to conflate our roles with our identities.

“The idealized self image is actually holding us back from that kind of change that happens within. It’s because we’re just pursuing affirmations on the outside and not really changing inwardly.” -George [04:38]

“My whole self worth is not grounded and rooted in how I perform at this one task in this one relationship. I am so much more than that.” -Anna [09:17]

“It sounds like when you conflate the role and identity together, you don’t have the capacity for making boundaries.” -Seth [11:39]

“For me being really transparent, what has been the most motivational, influential force in my life has been shame.” -Scott [17:08]

TIMESTAMPS

[00:05] Intro

[01:38] A vicious cycle

[04:30] An idealized self image as a mother

[10:44] Role vs identity

[12:51] A healthy sense of self

[16:39] The underbelly of shame

[23:20] The rejection of myself

[26:51] The hands of unconditional love

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