Shadow Projection: Finding Ourselves in Others

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call (https://www.innerworkcommunity.org/) today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee (http://buymeacoffee.com/innerworkcommunity)! In this video, Dr. Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection through a Jungian lens, discussing how our energetic reactions to others can reflect our shadowed traits, qualities, and limiting beliefs. He delves into how our shadow shows up in others, how other's shadow may be lodged in us, and the different types of projection. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these projections in our relationships and offers practical steps for integrating our shadow to achieve greater self-awareness and authenticity. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Projection: An Introduction 03:50 The Metaphor of Projection 06:33 The Shadow and Its Role in Projection 09:38 Receiving Projections: Projective Identification 12:07 The Impact of Projections in Relationships 14:48 Types of Projection: Personal and Transference 20:50 The Role of Projections in Conflict 26:16 Practical Steps for Working with Projections 34:01 Outro Audio_music-voice.mp3 Takeaways Projection is a metaphor for our unconscious reactions to others. The shadow self contains parts of ourselves we reject or deny. Recognizing projections can lead to personal growth and self-awareness. High-energy relationships often reveal our projections. Cringe reactions can indicate areas of projection. We can absorb others' projections, impacting our self-perception. Understanding projection helps navigate interpersonal conflicts. Personal and transference projections shape our interactions. Integrating the shadow leads to a more authentic self. Shadow work can transform how we engage in relationships.