Real Talk #12 - The Shadow Isn’t Evil—It’s Unacknowledged Power

 

When we talk about the "shadow," we’re not just referring to some dark, sinister force lurking within us. Instead, think of the shadow as a collection of parts of ourselves that we’ve pushed away, often because they didn’t fit the story we were told about what’s acceptable or good. These hidden aspects can hold incredible energy and creativity waiting to be acknowledged. By turning toward our shadow, we can uncover strengths and talents that we may have suppressed out of fear or misunderstanding.

Often, the shadow forms as a way to protect us. Behaviors or feelings that were once necessary for survival, like defensiveness or perfectionism, can become barriers when we don’t recognize their roots. What started as a shield can end up limiting our growth and relationships. By becoming aware of these patterns, we create space for change and self-compassion.

Signs that we’re operating from shadow can show up in subtle or dramatic ways. You might notice bursts of reactivity, moments of self-sabotage, or an intense need to always go it alone. Persistent guilt or shame can be clues that old beliefs and stories are running the show behind the scenes. When we pay attention to these signals, we begin to see where we’re still living by outdated survival strategies instead of our current truth.

Shadow work isn’t about making these parts disappear. It’s about inviting them in, listening to their messages, and realizing they often want to keep us safe. The work is to integrate, not eliminate, and to treat all our emotions, even the ones we don’t like, as valuable sources of information. When we get curious about our “ugly” feelings, we learn what they’re trying to protect and what gifts they might hold.

Try asking yourself: What parts of me am I still hiding? Did I learn to label certain qualities as “bad” that now, in hindsight, seem powerful or necessary? How might my shadow still be trying to look out for me, even if its methods are outdated? These journal prompts can lead to deep insights and help you reclaim parts of yourself you’ve lost along the way.

Remember, you’re not broken; you’re complex and multi-layered. The journey of shadow work isn’t about repairing damage; it’s about rediscovering the wholeness that’s always been there. By embracing every part of yourself, you begin to see your shadow for what it truly is: untapped power and wisdom.

Let’s end the drama around shadow work.

Shadow work isn’t exorcism. It’s integration. It’s calling all your parts back from exile and saying, “You don’t have to scream to be heard anymore.”

That’s not evil. That’s healing.