In yesterday’s post, I introduced the topic of how we develop and wear masks to hide our authentic self. I discussed how our masks are developed over time and how we often use them to deflect pain. Today, I want to go even deeper and examine why our masks sometimes serve an important purpose. I also want to discuss why we need to be aware of when our masks are disrupting or preventing us from stepping into our higher self.
First, the masks we develop and wear serve to protect us in sometimes hostile environments. As an empath, I’m highly sensitive to the energy of other people. While my first instinct is to leave these situations, it’s not always possible. Take for example a meeting at work. Your boss or a peer may be incredibly difficult and demeaning to work with. It’s often not possible to simply get up from a meeting and leave the room, especially if it’s a boss or someone senior to you who is the source of the criticism. In those cases, our masks can help and guide us through a very painful encounter.
In those situations, perhaps it’s your mask of the subservient servant or the victim that comes into play. You end up taking the blame or fall for someone else’s poor performance. You may become the silent sufferer who sits quietly in the corner taking the brunt of the attack. Your mask in that case may serve to protect your feelings from the assault. You may tell yourself that it’s simply part of the game or corporate politics at play. You leave that encounter bruised but not entirely beaten. To reveal your feelings in that moment would likely open you to further and deeper wounding. So in some cases our masks enable us to function in the ‘real world’ without being mortally wounded.
It’s when we resort to using a mask frequently where we face the perils of denying your true self. There comes a time and place where you have to stand up for yourself and expose the abuse for what it is. When you face a situation where your authentic self is under assault, it’s time to speak up. You can tell someone they are being unfair or unprofessional. You can point out where the behavior of others is at fault or where they have taken a position that lacks balance and clarity. In those moments, it’s best to work toward common ground and find a way to move forward in a positive direction but without the attacks.
My father always counseled me to pick my battles wisely. When it has been my integrity or heart that has been at risk, I’ve learned that those are the moments when action is called for. While taking responsibility for mistakes is a demonstration of courage and accountability, we are not called upon to be doormats or a rubbish pile for those who simply need a target to pick on.
Wearing a mask in these kinds of settings may be a reasonable response. But in relationships that matter, it’s more important to have clarity and mutual respect. Often when someone is being a bully, they too are wearing a mask (the bully mask) in order to hide themselves from a deeper truth. Recognizing when others are in costume is as important as seeing it in yourself.
I believe in the transformative power of human connection to elevate joy, restore balance, and support inner healing as you seek your highest purpose. My purpose in life is to be a guide, to share the wisdom of the Universe I’ve been gifted with, and to see others succeed. Nothing brings me greater joy than to see others step into their purpose in a vibrant and highly energetic way.
Searching for deeper insight into your highest life purpose? Trying to find your true path and discover how to step into your gifts and be aligned with your own truth? I offer a range of services focused on offering you insight and support on your life’s path. Check out www.connect2action.com for more insight and services.