"El ego no es amo en su propia casa."

Let's break down the idea that our ego isn't the boss of us. It might think it's in charge, strutting around like it owns the place, but in reality, there's a lot more going on beneath the surface.

Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, came up with this notion. He suggested that while we like to believe we're fully in control, our unconscious mind actually pulls many of the strings. Our desires, fears, and experiences—most of which we aren't even aware of—play a huge role in how we act and think. The ego, which is the part of us that tries to manage this chaos and present a coherent self to the world, often gets overwhelmed by these hidden forces.

Take the example of someone who is trying to quit smoking. They know it’s bad for them, they’ve read all the research, and they’ve promised their family they’ll stop. The ego sets up a plan, maybe with nicotine patches or a support group. But then, stress hits. Suddenly, there's an almost automatic reach for a cigarette. The conscious mind says no, but the unconscious mind—which associates smoking with relief and comfort—finds a way to override those good intentions. It’s clear that the ego is not the sole ruler; the unconscious mind can hijack the show.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by acknowledging that you’re not always in control. That’s okay. Rather than fighting against your hidden impulses, try to understand them. Take up mindfulness or journaling. These practices help bring unconscious thoughts to light. When you’re aware of what's driving you, it’s easier to manage those impulses in a healthier way.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend who’s always late. It drives you nuts. Your ego tells you it’s because they don’t respect your time. But if you dig deeper, you might uncover something else. Maybe their chronic tardiness triggers feelings of being undervalued that stem from your past experiences. Understanding this deeper layer can help you address the root issue—perhaps by having a heart-to-heart with your friend rather than just getting annoyed.

To put it simply, our ego likes to claim it’s the master of our decisions and actions. But the truth is, there’s a whole lot going on beneath the surface that influences us. By becoming more aware of these hidden forces, we can start to live more authentically and handle our inner conflicts better. It’s like giving our ego a bit of a reality check and reminding it that it's part of a team, not a dictator.

Think about it. Next time you're puzzled by your own behavior or someone else’s, take a step back. Ask yourself what's going on beneath the surface. You might be surprised at what you discover. Remember, awareness is the first step to making meaningful change. So, let’s cut the ego some slack and start exploring what really makes us tick.