Chapter 1: The Unconscious Self
CHOOSING PRESENCE P. 9
Provide strategies for shifting from unconscious to conscious living.
Summary
This last part of the chapter lays out simple, practical steps to help you shift from being controlled by your ego and unconscious thoughts to actually living in the present moment. It highlights the practice of presence as the key to finding real peace, freedom, and a deeper connection with God. You’ll find guidance on how to bring presence into your daily life, making it a natural part of how you experience yourself and the world in a whole new way.
The solution to stopping our egos from controlling our lives only comes through a shift in awareness, from our unconscious mind to our conscious mind. Presence opens that door for us. When we practice with the right intention, we free ourselves from ego by reconnecting with the present moment.
— Choosing Presence, p. 9
A Moment for Reflection
Pause for a moment and reflect on the following three questions:
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Reflect on the recurring thoughts, worries, or distractions that keep you stuck in the past or future rather than fully experiencing now.
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Consider a time when you were fully present. What did it feel like? How did it affect your emotions, decisions, or connection with God?
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Think about a simple, practical action—such as pausing for three deep breaths, noticing your surroundings, or bringing awareness to a routine activity—that can help you cultivate presence in your daily life.
Deepening the Practice: Journal Prompt
Shifting from unconscious, ego-driven thinking to conscious presence requires awareness, intention, and practice. Often, we don’t realize how much of our day is spent lost in repetitive thoughts, worries, or distractions. Choosing Presence reminds us that true peace comes when we step out of this mental cycle and fully engage with the present moment. This shift isn’t just about mindfulness—it’s about deepening our connection with God, experiencing God’s presence in the now, and allowing that awareness to transform how we live.
Think about a recent moment when you felt overwhelmed, anxious, or lost in thought. What was pulling your attention away from the present? Now, imagine approaching that same situation with full presence—grounded, aware, and open to God’s peace. How might your thoughts, emotions, or reactions have been different? What practical steps can you take to make this shift more consistently in your daily life?