From the Editor’s Desk
The ego, often misunderstood as self-confidence or self-identity, is a significant obstacle to personal and spiritual growth. Utilizing the Vedic knowledge (i.e., tattva jnana) taught by Shree Swami Mukundananda ji, this issue of JKYog’s E-Journal Samarpan explores the characteristics of the ego, its manifestations in various spheres of life, and its destructive nature. We then provide practical steps to dismantle the ego, offering a comprehensive guide to cultivating humility, self-awareness, and inner peace.
Vedic Wisdom & Application
Challenge of the Month
Dismantling the Ego: Practical Steps for Inner Growth
Reflection Questions
- What Are the Characteristics of the Ego?
- How Does the Ego Manifest Itself?
- How Can the Ego Be Dismantled?
Understanding and eliminating ego is not merely a philosophical exercise – it is the key to inner freedom and an indicator of emotional intelligence and spiritual elevation. The ego is like a shape-shifting entity that survives success, failure, renunciation, and even devotion. However, it cannot survive awareness, humility, and surrender.
The ego is often described as the greatest spiritual and psychological hurdle. It has been explored by saints, sages, scientists, scholars, and personnel management experts across generations. While professionals describe its impact in the workplace, saints offer a profound spiritual breakdown of how the ego manifests and derails humanity.
Shree Swami Mukundananda ji explains that the essence of the ego lies in the false identification of the self. According to the Yog Darshan, the ego is referred to as Asmita – a mistaken identity of the self (i.e., the soul) with the non-self (i.e., the body). This misidentification leads us to believe that we are our thoughts, possessions, the roles we play, or our social status. The acronym that Swamiji uses to make His point is EGO = Edging God Out.”
Famous poets and saints have vividly described the ego:
The ego blinds us to our higher purpose, anchoring us to superficial goals and temporary pleasures. It creates a veil of illusion that keeps us from recognizing our interconnectedness with others and the Divine.
Swamiji has beautifully explained in His talks that the ego has two major components – structure and content.
- Structure: This is formed through identification with something a person values. Because most people identify with the body, they mistakenly take something external (e.g., objects) or internal (e.g., thoughts) as an extension of themselves.
- Content: The variable substance of the ego, including our roles, possessions, achievements, body, thoughts, emotions, or stories we tell ourselves.
An example to illustrate both the structure and content of the ego is how, for a child, the most favorite toy becomes "his," an extension of the child’s identity. As the child grows older, the ego attaches itself to the possessions (e.g., my car), appearance (e.g., branded clothes only), accomplishments (e.g., awards), relationships (e.g., boss), titles (e.g., Director), and thoughts (e.g., my perceptions). Eventually, even one’s beliefs and opinions become tightly fused with self-worth. Einstein called this the "optical illusion of consciousness," i.e., the belief that our thoughts, roles, and judgments are the real "I."
What Are the Characteristics of the Ego?
The characteristics of the ego can be further understood through its behavioral patterns:
- Attachment to Identity: The ego is heavily invested in labels and roles, for example, "I am a manager," "I am successful," or "I am better than others." This attachment fosters rigidity, making it difficult to adapt or accept change.
- Comparison and Competition: The ego thrives on comparing oneself to others, often leading to feelings of superiority or inferiority. It perpetuates a zero-sum mindset where someone else’s success feels like a personal failure.
- Defensiveness: The ego resists feedback, perceiving it as a threat to its self-image. Criticism is often met with justification or denial, rather than reflection.
- Control and Domination: The ego craves control over situations and people, leading to micromanagement, manipulation, and an inability to delegate or trust others.
- Fear and Insecurity: At its core, the ego is fueled by fear, whether it is a fear of failure, rejection, or being "less than what is expected." This fear manifests as arrogance or the constant need for validation.
- Blame and Victimhood: The ego constantly shifts between different states, often flowing seamlessly from one pattern to another. It begins with the craving for recognition, as individuals seek validation through their achievements and external praise. When success is attained, the ego swells with pride, reinforcing a sense of superiority and entitlement. However, when the expected recognition is not received or when setbacks occur, the ego perceives this as an attack on its self-worth. Instead of accepting responsibility or adapting, it turns to defensiveness, rationalizing failures, and blaming external circumstances.
The Constant Expansion of the Ego
Ego, by its nature, is insatiable. Whether it identifies with success or suffering, it seeks to expand without ever resting. One may crave fame, power, or validation. Others may grow their ego through renunciation, taking pride in not having worldly desires. The content of the ego changes, but its structure remains stable.
The ego is also highly adaptive. When achievements fade or suffering arises, it simply takes a new form, such as victimhood. “Why is this happening to me?” becomes its anthem. When fame wanes, the ego does not die; it may shift to identifying with being unfairly treated, ignored, or misunderstood.
From Success to Victimhood: A Slippery Path
Over time, persistent disappointment and unfulfilled expectations can evolve into a deep-seated victim mentality. The ego convinces the individual that they are unfairly treated, fostering resentment and self-pity. This creates a cycle where the individual oscillates between striving for validation and feeling wronged when it is not received.
This emotional instability prevents true growth and detachment, keeping one trapped in an illusion of self-importance and suffering. The ego often externalizes problems, blaming others or circumstances instead of taking responsibility. This mindset fosters drama and impedes growth.
The ego’s craving for recognition can lead to a strong attachment to success, but when recognition is not received as expected, it leads to disappointment. This disappointment can turn into resentment, fostering a victim mentality. Over time, repeated failures to satisfy the ego’s need for validation can make an individual believe they are being wronged or unappreciated, leading them to blame external factors rather than introspect. This transition from pride in success to feeling victimized highlights the ego’s ability to shift between dominance and self-pity, creating a cycle of emotional instability.
How Does the Ego Manifest Itself?
Someone with a strong ego often exhibits behaviors and attitudes that reflect an inflated sense of self-importance and a constant need to be right, admired, or superior. These traits can manifest in various destructive behaviors, some of which are overt, whereas others are subtle. Here are key ways the ego manifests itself:
- Complaining: The ego uses complaints to feel morally superior by making statements like, “I am right, others are wrong.” It thrives on pointing out unfairness to reinforce its belief that “I am OK but others are not.”
- Resentment: When complaints become emotionally charged, the sentiment escalates to resentment. It is here that the story is no longer just about being right, but about being wronged.
- Grievance: Long-held resentments become grievances and energize the ego-stories that nourish identity through pain and injustice.
- Gossiping and Criticism: These offer momentary boosts to those who participate in gossiping about others. Knowing what others do not, or cutting others down, gives the ego a brief “high” that reinforces such behavior.
- Fault-Finding: It projects internal weaknesses outward. As Saint Kabir said, what you hate most in others often resides within oneself.
- Desire for Fame or Attention: The ego thrives on validation. When it does not come through healthy means, it seeks it through negativity, manipulation, or victimhood.
- Victim Mentality: Perhaps the most deceptive of all ego forms, playing the victim allows the ego to claim moral superiority, attention, and sympathy from others. If the basis for ego boosts is physical beauty, prowess, or intellectual superiority, the ego takes on the form of a victim by creating a narrative about one’s poor health or misfortune when any of these diminish.
All these manifestations share one common trait; they reinforce separateness and a sense of self-importance by justifying the existence of these emotions because the ego cannot handle suffering.
Manifestations of the Ego in Different Environments
- Examples At Home: (1) One partner insists on being “right,” needing to win arguments rather than find harmony; (2) parents impose expectations on children as extensions of their identity; and (3) siblings compete for attention or success, not realizing the competition stems from egoic comparison.
- Examples In the Workplace: (1) Employees feel unrecognized and undervalued, leading to passive-aggressive behavior or disengagement; (2) managers over-identify with authority, fearing dissent as a threat to their self-image (see scenarios below); and (3) teams fracture when personal egos overshadow shared goals. Let us review a scenario that illustrates workplace issues.
Scenario: The Meeting Room
At a Monday strategy meeting, the team gathered to discuss a stalled marketing campaign. The room buzzed with nervous energy – everyone knew the results had been underwhelming. Yet, as the discussion began, Raj, the senior manager, leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, wearing a confident smirk.
“We need fresh ideas,” said Mia, a junior associate. “I think our messaging ____.”
Before she could complete her sentence, Raj cut her off. “Mia, I’ve been in this game for 15 years. Trust me, the problem isn’t the message. It’s the platform. We go where I know the audience is.”
Later, when the campaign's flaws were reviewed, Raj turned to the team: “Well, I wasn’t looped in on the execution details. That’s why it flopped.” When someone suggested incorporating user feedback from the failed rollout, Raj waved his hand. “We do not need to chase opinions. We lead the market, not follow it.”
After the meeting, as others returned to work, Raj lingered behind, emailing upper management: “Quick note: I voiced concerns about this campaign early on. I’ll prepare a new strategy—think we need stronger leadership here.”
In the above scenario, Raj shows classic signs of ego-driven behavior, including dismissing others (especially junior voices), deflecting blame while claiming prior insight, prioritizing appearing right over collaboration, and seeking individual recognition even amid team failure. This kind of ego may look like confidence, but it is a brittle mask – often protecting insecurity and stifling growth.
- Examples In Spiritual Organizations: (1) The pride of spiritual accomplishments emerges, for example, “My devotional sentiments are deeper than yours,” “I am more committed in seva than you,” or “I have renounced the world but you are still trapped in the daily humdrum of life.” In such cases, seva or service becomes a performance rather than an expression of true devotion. Frequently, humility is worn as a badge, ironically reinforcing the very ego it seeks to destroy.
How Can the Ego Be Dismantled?
Eliminating the ego requires conscious effort, blending worldly practices with spiritual wisdom. Here are actionable steps to dismantle the ego.
- Cultivate Self-Awareness: Regular self-reflection helps identify ego-driven behaviors. Journaling and mindfulness practices reveal patterns of thought and behavior fueled by the ego. We can be a witness to the mind by realizing that we are not our thoughts and grow in spiritual maturity. The ego feeds on identification with thoughts. Observing them dismantles that power. So, before complaining, pause. Ask: Is this coming from my ego or my higher self?
- Practice Humility: Admit mistakes and embrace feedback. As Chaitanya Mahaprabhu taught, “Trinad api sunichena taror api sahishnuna, Amanina manadena kirtaniya sada harih.” Consider yourself more insignificant than grass, more tolerant than a tree, expect no respect, and give respect to all.
- Roop Dhyan (i.e., Visualization): As taught by Swamiji, visualize yourself in the presence of the Divine, surrendering your ego at the feet of God. This practice deepens humility and aligns your identity with your spiritual essence.
- Chanting and Prayer: Chanting God’s name with devotion purifies the heart, weakening the ego’s grip. Prayers like "O Lord, dissolve my ego and fill me with Your grace" reinforce surrender. Constant remembrance of the Divine weakens the ego’s grip and aligns identity with the divine rather than the material.
- Embrace the Scriptures and the Lives of Saints: Learning from saints who transcended the ego, such as Eknath, Kabirdas, Ravidas, etc., inspires detachment and devotion.
- Seva (i.e., Selfless Service): Engaging in acts of service without expecting recognition cultivates humility and dissolves egoic tendencies. Serving without expectation erodes the need for recognition and affirms interconnectedness.
- Gratitude Practice: Gratitude shifts the focus of the ego from lack to abundance, weakening its narrative of deficiency. Also, empathize with those experiencing challenges and feel grateful for the opportunity to help.
- Accept Feedback Without Defensiveness: Accept constructive criticism. Observe yourself displaying resistance to criticism – that is the ego flaring up.
- Forgiveness: Let go of grievances. Understand that holding on only strengthens the ego and poisons the heart.
Scenario Revisited: The Same Meeting Room with a Humble Manager
It was Monday again. The marketing campaign results had come in – and they weren’t great. Elena, the senior manager, arrived early, greeting each team member with a quiet smile. She’d reviewed the data over the weekend and had a knot in her stomach – not because of blame, but because she knew her team had worked hard.
Once everyone had gathered, she opened the meeting: “Let’s unpack this together. I have a few thoughts, but I want to hear yours first.”
Mia hesitated, then spoke up. “I think the message might not have resonated with our audience. Maybe we assumed too much about what they wanted.”
Elena nodded. “I wondered the same. What made you think that?”
Mia pulled up some social media comments. Elena listened intently, jotting notes.
When someone mentioned a mistake in the rollout plan that had been approved under her watch, Elena responded, “You’re right. That one’s on me. I missed it. Thank you for catching it now.”
Later, when her manager emailed asking what went wrong, Elena wrote back, “We made some bold choices that didn’t land. I’ll take the lead in guiding the team through a pivot, and we’ve already identified key lessons.” After the meeting, she stopped by Mia’s desk. She said, “Thanks for speaking up today. Keep bringing that insight—your voice matters here.”
Elena modeled humility by inviting input before offering her own ideas, listening deeply and encouraging others to think aloud, taking responsibility without defensiveness, and sharing credit and giving others space to grow. Where Raj protected his ego, Elena protected trust. And trust, unlike ego, builds resilient teams.
The ego, though pervasive, can be dismantled through the above practices. By incorporating wisdom from saints, individuals can transcend the ego, unlocking profound peace and spiritual growth. Begin your journey today to rediscover your true, divine self.
Tools for Your Personal Growth
To what extent is your ego blocking your progress? Use this self-assessment tool to assess yourself. A downloadable tracking sheet is available for you to use.
If you need to speak with anyone about this topic or your practice, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]. Please also give us some time to respond. Thank you.
Gems of Wisdom from Swamiji
Here are a few YouTube video titles with related links and books where Swamiji has described the concept of the ego and ways to dismantle it.
- Break Your Ego, Break Your Karma – Shree Krishna’s Hidden Law of Karma
- God vs Ego – Who's Really Controlling you? Breaking Free from Karma and Pride
- Eye-Opening Truth - How Pride and Ego Blind Us to Reality l Shri Krishna
- Mukundananda, S. (2025). Ishavasya Upanishad. Rupa Publications Pvt Ltd: New Delhi, India.
- Mukundananda, S. (2024). Nourish Your Soul: Inspirations from and Lives of Great Saints. Rupa Publications Pvt Ltd: New Delhi, India.
- Mukundananda, S. (2022). The Power of Thoughts, Penguin Random House: Gurugram, India.
Hold Your Breath! Check out Upcoming Events
We are thrilled to share the event that can transform your life!
JKYog Dallas Spiritual Retreat 2025
Step away from the hustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the sublime vibrations of the JKYog Dallas Spiritual Retreat 2025 — a sacred opportunity to rejuvenate your soul in Swamiji’s divine association.
Continuing the captivating discourse on Narad Bhakti Darshan, Swamiji will illuminate the path of devotion through his profound lectures, enlivened by heartfelt kirtans and interactive Q&A sessions. The retreat is thoughtfully designed to nourish your body, mind, and soul with a blend of spiritual depth and joyous celebrations.
And this year, the retreat holds a special gem — the radiant celebration of Radhashtami, the appearance day of Shree Radha Rani, the embodiment of pure love and devotion. Celebrating this auspicious occasion at the exquisitely beautiful Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas in the presence of Swamiji and fellow seekers will be an unforgettable experience etched in the heart.
Additional highlights include daily Yoga and Pranayam sessions with Swamiji, a delightful Parikrama and Picnic brimming with fun, and an enchanting Cultural Program.
- Venue: 5101 N President George Bush Hwy, Garland, TX 75040
- Dates: August 30 to September 1, 2025
- Details: jkyog.org/txretreat
JKYog Transforming Communities
Here, we typically share evidence of amazing activities and news about the programs and initiatives of JKYog and its various U.S. centers. This month, get a tiny glimpse of how JKYog, as an organization, is making a difference in the lives of people worldwide.
JKYog: Transforming Lives, Uplifting Communities
JKYog (Jagadguru Kripaluji Yog) is a global non-profit organization founded by Shree Swami Mukundananda ji, committed to holistic life transformation and community upliftment through Vedic wisdom and selfless service.
Through its multifaceted initiatives, JKYog promotes:
- Holistic Well-being: Yoga, pranayam, meditation, and dietary science for physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.
- Life Transformation Programs: Free lecture series across numerous cities in the U.S., offering practical tools for inner growth and resilience.
- Education for All: Innumerable educational and character-building programs like Bal Mukund, Youth Club, Toastmasters Clubs, and the development of Jagadguru Kripalu University for the benefit of rural youth in India.
- Charitable Healthcare: Free and subsidized medical services, including hospitals and clinics for underprivileged people in India.
- Community Service: Outreach through food drives, educational aid, and community-based initiatives as a way to give back to our respective communities.
- Cultural Preservation: Celebrations, performances, and youth involvement in Indian arts through its various centers, including the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas.
- Spiritual Empowerment: Transformative teachings by Swamiji help individuals apply scriptural wisdom to modern life, cultivating peace, devotion, and meaning.
JKYog bridges spiritual growth with physical and mental care to build healthier, more compassionate communities around the world.
