The Unconscious Self: Awakening to Presence
Practice of Presence Teaching by Brian Mueller
In Choosing Presence, Chapter 1, “The Unconscious Self,” Jim Heaney shows how much of our stress and anxiety come from living unconsciously. We often drift into thoughts of the past or future, replaying old stories or anticipating what might come next. Our ego thrives by feeding on comparison, achievement, and status. In doing so, it pulls us away from our true identity. This way of living creates a false self and disconnects us from the only place God’s Spirit is ever accessible: the present moment.
The first step toward freedom from repetitive thought is self-awareness. Awareness reveals that most of our fears, worries, and inner conflicts appear when we are distracted and preoccupied. Fear, especially the fear of loss or death, cannot survive in the present moment. Even in periods of pain and suffering, peace is possible when we know we are not alone but held by the divine mystery. By recognizing the voice of our ego and choosing presence over unconscious reaction, we open the door to peace, stability, and groundedness.
The Practice of Presence is how we make this shift in daily life. It begins with slowing the inner dialogue, focusing on our breath, and asking ourselves three simple questions: Am I present now? How do I feel inside? Do I have a sense of peace within? These questions interrupt unconscious patterns and bring us towards stillness. This stillness is where we encounter God’s Spirit and experience a peace independent of our external circumstances.
With consistent practice, presence becomes a lived reality. We stop measuring our worth by achievements and begin to rest within our true self. In presence, the false self loses its hold, and our sense of identity is no longer tied to comparison or control. Instead, we live from a foundation of peace and sacred awareness.
Take the Next Steps in Presence
Ready to go deeper? These journaling questions will help you reflect on Chapter 1 of Choosing Presence and guide you into greater awareness and stillness.
Stop drifting through life on autopilot. Enroll in Awakening to Presence and learn to live fully awake, grounded, and free.
Brian Mueller – Poet, Community Organizer, and Spiritual Guide
Brian Mueller is a poet and community organizer based in Dayton, Ohio. He serves as Director of Engagement & Outreach for ChoosingPresence.org and is an active member of the Ohio Chapter of Illuman, where he co-leads writing retreats that support men’s spiritual journeys. As a writer, Brian is known for his candid, accessible poetry, with works including Cock‑A‑Doodle‑Doo: 100 Morning Haiku, the Poem of the Day series, and the Bull Series. Inspired by poets like Rumi and Mary Oliver, he believes everyone carries the voice of a poet within.
