SEVEN LAWS FOR FINDING YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSE


By CARL JUNG 


Embracing your shadow and studying ideas that will make you immune to depression.


Jung believed we all have a "shadow" – the parts of ourselves we reject or hide.

But here's the kicker: Your shadow holds the key to your growth.


1.) Identify traits you dislike in others.

Instead of suppressing them, ask: What can these "negative" aspects teach you about yourself?


2.) Follow Your Bliss

Jung once said: "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are."

Notice when you lose track of time and what topics excite you?

Pursue these interests — even if impractical.

Your purpose often lies where your passions meet the world's needs.


3.) Integrate Your Persona and Your Soul

Jung believed we all wear a "persona" – our public face.

But true fulfillment comes from integrating this with our inner self, or "soul."

List traits of your public vs. private self.

Gradually bring more of your authentic self into daily life.


4.) Engage with Your Dreams

For Jung, dreams were messages from our unconscious, guiding us toward wholeness.

He said: "The dream is a little hidden door in the innermost and most secret recesses of the soul."

How to use your dreams:

• Keep a dream journal by your bed

• Look for recurring themes or symbols

• Don't interpret literally – focus on emotions and intuitions

Your dreams might be showing you aspects of yourself you've neglected.


5.) Embrace the Journey of Individuation

View setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Regularly reflect on how you've changed and remember, your purpose evolves as you do.

Jung saw life as a journey towards "individuation" – becoming your true, whole self.


6.) Explore Your Archetypes

Jung identified universal patterns in the human psyche, which he called archetypes.

Understanding your dominant archetypes can reveal your innate strengths and purpose.

How to work with archetypes:

• Read about common archetypes (e.g., Hero, Caregiver, Explorer)

• Identify which resonates most with you

• Lean into the positive aspects of these archetypes in your life

Your archetypal patterns can guide you toward fulfilling roles and experiences.


7.) Listen to Your Synchronicities

Notice meaningful coincidences in your life?

Jung coined the term "synchronicity" for them.

He believed these were signs from the universe, guiding us on our path.


How to use synchronicity:

Pay attention to recurring themes or "coincidences" in your life.

Don't force meaning, but stay open to possibilities. Act on intuitions that arise from these experiences.

Sometimes, your purpose reveals itself through these subtle nudges from the universe.


Implementing these Jungian principles isn't always easy.


It requires courage to face your shadow, follow your authentic path, and trust the process.

But the reward? A life of meaning, purpose, and true self-realization.

As Jung said: "Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart."