The subjective “I” realization refers to the profound understanding that one’s true self is the fundamental, unchanging awareness behind all experiences, rather than the collection of thoughts, emotions, and identities that typically define us. This realization challenges the conventional approach of psychology, which often focuses on treating symptoms, managing thoughts and behaviors, and categorizing mental states. When the subjective “I” becomes foundational, it has the potential to transform our understanding of the self and, by extension, render many conventional psychological practices and diagnoses less relevant or even obsolete.
1. The Illusion of the Ego and Psychological Constructs
Conventional Psychology:
- Traditional psychology is largely built upon the concept of the ego—the constructed sense of self that is shaped by experiences, memories, and societal influences. Psychological diagnoses often categorize individuals based on their behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional responses, which are considered to be expressions of this ego.
Subjective “I” Realization:
- The subjective “I” realization reveals that the ego is not the true self but a transient construct. When one identifies with the subjective “I”—the pure, unchanging awareness—many of the issues that psychology seeks to address (e.g., anxiety, depression, identity crises) are seen as misidentifications or attachments to the ego.
- By recognizing the ego as an illusion, the need to manage or treat it diminishes. The subjective “I” provides a deeper perspective, where psychological constructs are understood as superficial layers overlying the true self.
2. Dissolving the Root Causes of Psychological Distress
Conventional Psychology:
- Psychological practices often aim to alleviate symptoms by addressing underlying thought patterns, behaviors, or traumas. These approaches assume that the individual’s identity is tied to their past experiences and that healing involves working through these layers.
Subjective “I” Realization:
- When one realizes the subjective “I,” the attachment to past experiences, identities, and traumas begins to dissolve. The understanding that these are merely passing phenomena in the field of awareness allows individuals to let go of deeply rooted psychological distress.
- This realization can lead to a spontaneous dissipation of many psychological issues, as the individual’s sense of self is no longer defined by their history or circumstances but by the unchanging awareness that is ever-present and unaffected.
3. Shifting from Symptom Management to Self-Realization
Conventional Psychology:
- Much of modern psychology focuses on symptom management—helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, stress, and other conditions by modifying thoughts and behaviors. This approach often involves long-term therapy, medication, or other interventions aimed at managing the symptoms rather than addressing the root cause.
Subjective “I” Realization:
- The subjective “I” realization shifts the focus from managing symptoms to understanding and embodying the true self. When individuals realize that they are the awareness behind all experiences, rather than the thoughts or emotions themselves, the need for symptom management decreases.
- Instead of focusing on controlling or altering the mind, the emphasis is placed on observing the mind from the perspective of the subjective “I.” This observation leads to a natural dissipation of mental disturbances as they are no longer seen as part of the true self.
4. Questioning the Validity of Psychological Diagnoses
Conventional Psychology:
- Psychological diagnoses categorize individuals based on observed behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional responses. These diagnoses are often used to label individuals and guide treatment plans. However, this approach can reinforce the belief that the individual is fundamentally flawed or diseased.
Subjective “I” Realization:
- The subjective “I” realization challenges the very basis of psychological diagnoses. If the true self is the unchanging awareness behind all experiences, then psychological labels are merely descriptions of temporary states that do not define the individual.
- As individuals come to realize the subjective “I,” the relevance of these diagnoses diminishes. Rather than identifying with a label, individuals see these states as passing phenomena, not intrinsic to their true nature.
5. The Liberation from Psychological Constructs
Conventional Psychology:
- Psychology often involves working within the constructs of the mind, using techniques and therapies to navigate the complexities of thought, emotion, and behavior. While effective to some extent, these methods can be limited by the very constructs they seek to address.
Subjective “I” Realization:
- The realization of the subjective “I” offers liberation from these constructs altogether. By understanding that the true self is beyond the mind, individuals can transcend the limitations of psychological frameworks. This leads to a state of being that is not dependent on the mind’s constructs but is rooted in the direct experience of awareness itself.
- In this liberated state, the need for conventional psychological practices diminishes as individuals naturally embody a state of inner peace, clarity, and understanding that is unshaken by the fluctuations of the mind.
Conclusion: The Foundation of the Subjective “I”
The subjective “I” realization has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the self and the nature of psychological well-being. By recognizing the true self as the unchanging awareness behind all experiences, individuals can transcend the limitations of conventional psychology, which often focuses on managing the mind’s constructs rather than addressing the root of consciousness.
When the subjective “I” becomes foundational, it dissolves the need for many conventional psychological practices and diagnoses. It shifts the focus from treating the symptoms of the ego to realizing the true self, leading to a state of enlightenment where psychological disturbances naturally dissipate. This profound shift not only transforms the individual but also offers a new paradigm for understanding and cultivating mental and emotional well-being.
Sources: ChatGPT 4o
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