
About this episode
In this podcast Eckhart talks about the pitfalls of the ego and the need to feel superior. He explains we seek an identity through external distinction like wealth, fame, even our nationality, to dispel the anxiety that we’re not enough. He says the focus on image creates a false sense of self. He shares examples from his own life. Growing up Eckhart’s family struggled financially, which left him with low self-esteem. He asked why bad things always seemed to happen to him. To bolster his feelings of inadequacy, Eckhart says he pursued intellectual achievements which came easily. But his sense of superiority soon vanished in the wake of his negative thinking. Eckhart says for a time, he sought refuge in complaining and victimhood. But after he experienced an awakening, the old patterns gave way to something greater, and his self-hate evaporated. He explains he finally understood the meaning of Buddha’s teachings about suffering and the end of suffering and how liberation emerges when we release the ego’s grip.
Want more podcasts from OWN? Visit https://bit.ly/OWNPods
You can also watch Oprah’s Super Soul, The Oprah Winfrey Show and more of your favorite OWN shows on your TV! Visit https://bit.ly/find_OWN
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Get every episode summarized
Each time Eckhart Tolle: Essential Teachings publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Eckhart Tolle: Essential Teachings

Essential Teachings Special: The End of Suffering
Eckhart Tolle: Essential Teachings

Essential Teachings Special: Healing Trauma Through Presence
Eckhart Tolle: Essential Teachings

Essential Teachings Special: Learning To Outgrow Emotional Reactivity
Eckhart Tolle: Essential Teachings

Essential Teachings Special: Empathy And the Suffering of Others
Eckhart Tolle: Essential Teachings