Conventional wisdom often advocates for perpetual positivity by encouraging us to eliminate our “dark side.” When we gain additional wisdom in our personal growth, however, we realize that it is often advantageous to learn to embrace the parts of ourselves that many might categorize as negative or destructive. We all have a shadow side that may actually serve as a path toward true self-improvement and deeper personal growth. This is not about embracing evil or harmful behaviors; it is about gaining a greater understanding by acknowledging that seemingly negative traits such as envy, fear, guilt, and rage, can provide us with the wisdom required for complete self-actualization.

When we dare to face our less-than-desirable traits free of judgment and shame and accept the totality of our humanity, magical things begin to unfold. Anger, for example, when accepted and creatively explored, can be transformed into passion, making us more relentless in the pursuit of our goals. Guilt may be utilized to build greater empathy, making us more compassionate as individuals. Fear may inspire greater caution and discernment in decision-making, preventing us from making irrational decisions. Taking the time to discover a changing dynamic by using all that we are is not only liberating; it is powerful.

When we engage our dark side, we are provided with the opportunity to develop a deeper level of self-awareness and maturity by learning how to balance the light and the dark for greater harmony. We learn to completely accept and embrace all of our characteristics and inclinations and face life’s challenges as whole human beings, using that yin-yang as a superpower instead of an obstacle.

Success or sabotage? If we wish to create greater harmony in the world, we must begin with ourselves.

Is this going to be an incredible day? If we are able to find the good during bad or uncomfortable circumstances, we are unstoppable.