Recently, in a conversation with a wise soul, we spoke about the ego - that universal part of us which influences so much of how we experience life. What struck me most was the idea that what many externalise as “the devil” or an enemy outside of themselves may in fact be the workings of the ego within.
The Ego as an Inner Force
The ego exists in all of us. It is not a stranger, nor a separate being to be fought “out there.” More often, it is an inner voice that thrives on fear, pride, comparison and survival. Left unchecked, it can create self-harm by keeping us small, reactive and trapped in victimhood.
When we externalise the ego as an enemy, we avoid responsibility. But when we recognise it as a part of ourselves, we reclaim the power to manage it - instead of it managing us.
The Invitation of Responsibility
What if, instead of blaming the devil, fate or another person, we accepted that it is within us to harm ourselves and also within us to heal?
This perspective transforms forgiveness, accountability and even motivation. It reminds us that while we cannot control everything that happens in life, we can choose how we respond, how we learn and how we rise.
My Story: From External Blame to Inner Reflection
For a long time, when I experienced external attacks or unfavourable circumstances, my first instinct was to blame what was happening “out there.” But when I reframed the question inward - How did I attract this experience? What perspective or behaviour in me made space for this? - I was empowered.
That shift did not mean I excused harmful behaviour from others, but it did mean I took accountability for my part in the cycle. It allowed me to reflect on how I showed up, what I tolerated and what boundaries I neglected. Most importantly, it helped me avoid repeating the same harm going forward.
This practice became an act of compassion towards my humanness. Because taking responsibility is not about self-punishment - it is about self-liberation. It is about using every experience - even the painful ones - as material for growth.
Ego or Empowerment?
The ego unchecked can lead us to sing the dangerous song of victimhood - blaming others, avoiding growth and rejecting responsibility. But when we take control of the ego, we turn victimhood into empowerment.
Instead of being pulled by resentment, we are guided by responsibility. Instead of projecting outward, we reflect inward. Instead of feeling powerless, we step into our ability to shape destiny.
What Changes When We Do This?
- In our perspective: Life stops being something that happens to us and becomes something we actively co-create.
- In our relationships: We communicate with more humility, less blame and more accountability.
- In our work: We shift from competition to contribution, from proving our worth to embodying it.
- In our purpose: We see life not as punishment or chaos, but as opportunity and meaning.
An Invitation to You
I invite you to reflect: What would your life look like if you stopped externalising your ego and started recognising its voice within? How might your relationships, your work, your peace of mind and your purpose evolve if you embraced responsibility for shaping your destiny?
The ego does not have to be an enemy. It can be an invitation - to take ownership of your power and to live more consciously, more compassionately and more free.