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Ego Wants More, Soul Needs Less: A Guide to Self-Discovery

Ego Wants More, Soul Needs Less: A Guide to Self-Discovery

Irina Zhuravleva
by 
Irina Zhuravleva, 
 Soulmatcher
8 minutes read
Psychology
08 August, 2025

In a world obsessed with growth, achievement, and material possessions, it’s easy to feel like you’re in a constant race to get more, be more, and have more. This relentless pursuit is often driven by the ego wants more soul needs less dynamic, where the loud demands of the ego overshadow the quiet wisdom of the soul. The ego constantly seeks validation and external rewards, pushing you towards a life of endless consumption and comparison. The soul, however, yearns for simplicity, connection, and a deep sense of purpose. It doesn’t need to be seen or heard; it simply wants to be. Learning to distinguish between these two voices is the first step toward a more fulfilling and intentional life.

The journey from a life focused on the ego to one centered on the soul is a process of self-discovery and reinvention. This article will serve as your guide to understanding this fundamental principle and implementing real change. We will explore the key differences between the ego and the

wise self, and provide a functional toolkit for self-transformation. Through these practices, you can learn to quiet the ego and listen to your true

soul desires.

Understanding the Ego and the Soul

The ego is the part of us that is concerned with self—it is our identity, our perception of who we are in relation to the world. It is an essential part of our psyche, and it helps us navigate social structures and protect ourselves. However, when the ego takes over, it becomes a

less ego version of ourselves, one that is driven by a constant need for external validation. When the ego is in control, it often

wants things that do not bring lasting joy or fulfillment, like wealth, status, or power. It wants to be right, to win, and to always have more.

In contrast, the soul is our truest essence, our authentic self that is connected to a larger purpose. It does not need to be validated or to compete. The soul needs less to feel complete. It is the part of us that knows what we truly need to be happy. This inner wise voice understands that true fulfillment comes from a place of authenticity, kindness, and connection, not from external achievements. Therefore, a life guided by the

soul is one of intentionality. It is focused on what brings us joy, peace, and a sense of purpose. The

soul often speaks in a whisper, while the ego shouts.

Recognizing the Signs of an Overactive Ego

Recognizing when your ego is in the driver’s seat is the first step toward reclaiming your inner wise self. An overactive ego often manifests as a constant need for control and a fear of being wrong. You might find yourself always needing to be right, even in small conversations. You may also find it difficult to accept criticism or to apologize. A wise self knows that it is not about being right, but about understanding and connecting.

Another sign of an overactive ego is a constant need for validation from others. You might find yourself seeking praise for your accomplishments or constantly comparing yourself to others. This behavior comes from a place of insecurity, not from a true sense of self-worth. The wise self, on the other hand, finds its value innerly. It is confident in its own worth and does not need external approval to feel good. Therefore, a less ego approach is always a good thing.

The ego also often presents a different model for approaching life. This model is focused on scarcity and competition, making you believe that you must fight for everything you want. This belief system can cause a lot of unnecessary stress and anxiety. The

soul believes in abundance and collaboration, knowing that there is enough for everyone. When you are guided by your soul, you will find that you are more relaxed and at peace.

Practices for Listening to Your Soul

The journey from the ego to the soul is a practice. It requires you to consciously quiet the voice of the ego and tune into the wisdom of your wise self. These practices are like writing a personal manifesto and a great way to get started on your self-transformation.

One of the most powerful tools is mindfulness and meditation. Taking even a few minutes each day to sit in silence and focus on your breath can help calm the mind and quiet the ego. This practice allows you to create a space between your thoughts and your actions, giving you the time to respond with intention rather than react out of fear or habit. This is an important way to get in touch with your soul.

Another powerful tool is journaling. Writing about your thoughts and feelings can help you identify patterns of behavior and belief systems that are rooted in the ego. By writing down what you truly want and what you truly need, you can clarify your intentions and align your actions with your soul‘s desires. A personal manifesto is a powerful tool for this. This autobiography with practical advice can give you a roadmap for your life.

The wisdom of the

inner wise woman is a powerful resource that Janet Ioli explores in her new book. She offers a guide for

women to connect with their true self. In the book,

Janet presents a different model for approaching life. This model is focused on intentionality and self-care. It’s a great way to

get in touch with your soul.

The Power of a Less Ego Approach

Living with less ego can profoundly change your life. It allows you to let go of the need for external validation and find true fulfillment from within. This approach to life is focused on self-transformation and personal growth. A person who lives with less ego is also more likely to be kind and compassionate toward others. They know that we are all on a journey, and that we all have a wise self inside of us.

When you live with less ego, you will find that you have a greater capacity for joy and happiness. You will also find that you are more present in your life. You will be able to appreciate the small moments and find beauty in the everyday. This is because you are not constantly chasing the next big thing. Instead, you are focused on what is right in front of you. A life with a less ego is one of peace, contentment, and joy. This is a great way to live.

The wise self knows that true happiness comes from inner peace, not from external achievements. The soul understands that a life of service and connection is far more rewarding than a life of competition and greed. By embracing this wisdom, you can build a life that is truly authentic and fulfilling.

Practical Steps to a Soul-Centered Life

Transitioning to a soul-centered life is a journey, not a destination. It involves consistent effort and a commitment to your personal growth. Here are some practical steps you can take to start living more from your soul.

First, practice gratitude. Taking time each day to write down what you are grateful for can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. This simple practice can quiet the ego’s desire for more and help you appreciate the richness of your life. This is a great way to get a wise self.

Second, set boundaries. Learning to say no to things that do not align with your soul‘s needs is an act of self-care. This can be difficult at first, especially if you are used to people-pleasing. But setting boundaries is an important way to protect your energy and prioritize your well-being. This will get you on the path to a less ego life.

Finally, a soul -centered life is not a life of isolation. It is a life of connection. By building meaningful relationships and serving others, you will find that your soul‘s needs are met. This is a great way to build a life full of purpose. A personal manifesto is an excellent tool for this. It is a guide for women to discover what they truly need to feel happy. Janet explores this in her new book.

Conclusion: Finding Balance and Purpose

The philosophy that ego wants more soul needs less is a powerful framework for understanding ourselves and our place in the world. It reminds us that true fulfillment does not come from a relentless pursuit of external success, but from an inner wise connection to our authentic self. By learning to recognize the voice of the ego and consciously choosing to listen to the wisdom of the soul, we can build a life of purpose and peace.

The journey of self-transformation is a personal one. It requires courage, patience, and a commitment to your own growth. The life you want to live is one that is full of meaning, joy, and connection. You can find this life by choosing to live from your soul, not your ego.

Janet Ioli‘s modern reinvention guide is a great resource for anyone who feels stuck and wants to make

real change in their life. It is an

autobiography with practical advice that offers a model for approaching life. The

book offers a functional toolkit for implementing real change.

What do you think?