When starting meditation, beginners often confront the ego—the sense of self shaped by thoughts, emotions and external experiences. The ego defines us through labels like, “I am successful” or “I am not good enough”, which can limit our true nature. In meditation, the goal is to recognize the ego’s influence and move beyond it to find deeper inner peace.

The ego keeps us focused on maintaining our identity through stories and beliefs. It thrives on comparison and judgment, which can create attachment and suffering. In meditation, the ego may resist by triggering thoughts or emotions, trying to maintain control. But recognizing these thoughts as ego-driven helps you break free from its hold.

As you meditate, thoughts like, “Am I doing this right?” or “I’m not good at this” might surface. These are expressions of the ego trying to keep its sense of control. Meditation teaches you to observe these thoughts and see beyond the ego’s narratives. The aim isn’t to destroy the ego, but to understand it as a mental construct.

How to work with the ego during meditation

• Observe without judgment; when ego-driven thoughts arise, simply observe them without attaching importance. Acknowledge their presence and gently return to your focus.

• Let go of attachments; the ego clings to thoughts and emotions that define you. Practice letting go of these attachments during meditation, creating space for deeper awareness.

• Cultivate presence; the ego lives in the past and future, but meditation centers you in the present. Staying focused on the now diminishes the ego’s power.

In meditation, moments of pure awareness allow the ego to fade temporarily. Over time, the ego’s grip weakens, leaving you more centered and less reactive. The goal is not to eliminate the ego but to reduce its influence, allowing your true self to emerge.

Understanding the ego is essential for progress in meditation. Rather than battling the ego, observe it with awareness. With practice, the ego’s hold will lessen, leading to greater inner peace and self-awareness as you connect with your true nature.