Thread by @LORWEN108

Why high achievers are trapped in Jung’s Shadow—
and how it's KILLING their creativity.

Here are 5 steps to see if you're stuck in the Shadow...
[And how to reverse it]. 🧵

The Shadow is your exiled part of you.

It's your:

• Anger
• Desires
• Fears of failure

As a high achiever, you can't escape it without guidance.

You start with understanding your...

#1: Emotional Triggers

You overreact (anger, shame, defensiveness) when others call out traits you secretly disown in yourself.

→ The shadow hides in the intensity of your reaction.

Then, you go deeper and identify your...

#2: Projection Loops

You constantly see in others what you can’t admit about yourself—calling others selfish, lazy, controlling, etc., while avoiding those same qualities in you.

→ Projection is the shadow’s favorite mask.

Then, you recognize your...

#3: Persona Overload

You wear “masks” to be liked or approved—professional mask, spiritual mask, nice-person mask.

→ If you feel exhausted keeping up appearances, the shadow is running the show.

Next, you learn about your...

#4: Repetitive Struggles

You keep attracting the same conflicts, toxic relationships, or failures, even when you try to change.

→ That’s the shadow seeking recognition.

Finally, you discover your...

#5: Disowned Gold

You envy people for qualities you “wish you had”—creativity, boldness, sensuality, power.

→ The shadow doesn’t only hold darkness, it also hides your unlived potential.

Here are my secret steps to work through your Shadow:

1. Notice Your Triggers – Ask: “What does this reaction say about me?”

2. Track Your Projections – Flip your judgments: “Where is this true in my own life?”

3. Name the Mask – Identify the role you play to survive (perfectionist, caretaker, intellectual).

4. Dialog With It – Journal or draw the shadow as a character, then let it “speak.”

5. Integrate the Gold – Ask: “What gift is hidden in this shadow quality?”

Anxiety isn't random.

It’s your Shadow trying to break free.

It’s your soul saying:

“Stop performing. Start listening....and drawing."

I work with CEOs, artists, and doctors to break free of their shadow.

I offer them the rare opportunity to face their Shadow and permanently break free.

Hi, I'm Lorwen Nagle.

I've spent 40 years as a Harvard-trained psychologist, studying consciousness with the Dalai Lama, and helping thousands untangle their minds.

If this thread resonated with you, I explore psychology, philosophy, and personal transformation in my work.

Follow
@Lorwen108
for more insights on the journey to authenticity.

Repost if this helped you. 🙏

As a Ph.D. psychology grad from
@UTAustin a Postdoc from @Harvard
I can help you unlock your mind for greater success.

So, if you feel lost, anxious, or stressed out with your current life, schedule a free discovery call and we'll decode it:
calendly.com/lorwen_consult…