The ego is also often misunderstood, just as the shadow can be in the spiritual & personal development realms.... and a client asked me to clarify the difference. 1. **Ego is Synonymous with Selfishness:** Contrary to this belief, the ego encompasses both self-centered and selfless qualities, serving as a mediator and sort of gatekeeper between the conscious and unconscious. 2. **Ego is the Core of Identity:** The ego is just one aspect of the broader self; identity is more complex an[...]