Shadow work, a term coined by psychologist Carl Jung, refers to the process of exploring and integrating the darker, hidden aspects of our psyche. It’s a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance that can lead to profound personal transformation. As you delve into your shadow, you may begin to notice certain signs that indicate you’ve made significant progress in your inner work. Here are nine signs to look out for:

1. You can laugh at yourself: One of the key indicators of having done shadow work is the ability to laugh at yourself. You’ve embraced your imperfections and quirks, and you no longer take yourself too seriously. Instead of feeling threatened by criticism or embarrassment, you can find humor in your mistakes and shortcomings.
2. You’re not easily offended/triggered: When you’ve done shadow work, you develop a greater sense of emotional resilience. You’re less likely to be triggered by others’ words or actions because you’ve confronted and processed your own wounds and insecurities. Instead of reacting defensively, you can respond calmly and thoughtfully in challenging situations.
3. You can see & appreciate multiple perspectives: Shadow work involves exploring the different facets of your personality, including those you may have previously denied or ignored. As a result, you become more open-minded and empathetic, able to understand and appreciate diverse viewpoints without judgment.
4. You’re aware of your negative traits without being ashamed of them: Through shadow work, you’ve gained insight into your shadow aspects—the parts of yourself that you may have suppressed or disowned. Rather than feeling ashamed or guilty about these traits, you accept them as integral aspects of your identity and strive to integrate them in a healthy way.
5. You’re aware of your negative emotions without being ashamed of them: Similarly, you’ve learned to embrace your negative emotions without judgment or self-criticism. You recognize that all emotions, even the uncomfortable ones like anger or sadness, serve a purpose and offer valuable insights into your inner world.
6. You’re assertive without being rude: As you become more in tune with your authentic self through shadow work, you develop a healthy sense of assertiveness. You can communicate your needs and boundaries assertively without resorting to aggression or rudeness. You respect yourself and others enough to express yourself honestly and respectfully.
7. You’re assertive without being passive-aggressive: In addition to assertiveness, you’ve also learned to avoid passive-aggressive behavior, which often stems from unresolved conflicts or unexpressed emotions. Instead of harboring resentment or playing mind games, you address issues directly and openly, fostering healthier relationships.
8. You confront adversity and setbacks with courage & poise: Shadow work equips you with the inner strength and resilience to face life’s challenges with courage and grace. Rather than being overwhelmed or defeated by adversity, you see it as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. You trust in your ability to navigate difficult situations with resilience and poise.
9. You recognize a bit of yourself in everyone: Finally, having done shadow work, you develop a deeper understanding of human nature and the interconnectedness of all beings. You recognize that we all share common struggles and vulnerabilities, and you approach others with compassion and empathy. You see reflections of yourself in others, fostering a sense of kinship and unity.

In conclusion, shadow work is a profound journey of self-exploration and growth, and these nine signs serve as markers of your progress along the path. By embracing your shadow and integrating its lessons into your life, you can cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and compassion, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and authentic existence.