The False Self: Why We Create It and How It Affects Us
When we do not learn to live from our authentic God-Given self we can fall into addictions and other life altering challenges.
Ever wondered why we sometimes feel like we're not being true to ourselves? In this episode of 'Genuine Life Recovery', Jodie Stevens dives into the intriguing concept of the 'false self'. This defense mechanism often forms in childhood to protect us from disapproval and rejection. While it may serve us well initially, it can become a stumbling block in our emotional growth as adults.
Stevens explains how shame is a core symptom of the false self, leading to issues like addiction and codependency. Jodie breaks down how the false self isn't just a mask we wear but a protective shield we develop to meet our attachment needs. This episode explores how we might betray our true selves for the love and approval of caregivers, setting the stage for emotional turmoil later in life.
Anxiety, panic attacks, and addiction are just a few of the challenges that can arise when we're not living authentically. Living from our authentic, God-given self is key to achieving both sobriety and emotional well-being. Stevens also delves into the link between the false self and codependency, highlighting how seeking validation from others can shape our identities in unhealthy ways.
She emphasizes that while many of us have a measure of the false self, the goal is to uncover and live from our true selves. This episode offers a transformative look at how understanding and addressing the false self can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life. Tune in to gain insights that could change how you view yourself and your journey to recovery.