From "Me" to "MWe"!

Final thoughts from the book Brainstorm: A vital journey in adolescence is a transition from “Me” (with a capital M) to “Me and We.” In other words, MWe! J The term MWe moves beyond the boundaries of “our individualized, bodily defined self and [links] all of us together as members of a larger whole, a we-defined self” (p. 301).

In other words, adolescence is a time when we naturally put our needs first, but as we grow into adulthood, we begin to emphathize more, realizing that others’ needs are just as real as our own. We seek to balance others’ needs with our own. The end goal is not independence but rather interdependence--satisfying relationships.

The author outlines three stages: reflection, empathy, and integration. All involve pondering and meditation. I encourage you to take a few minutes to ponder these ideas, which can help you find peace and greater connection with others. 

• First is to reflect on your own Sensations, Images, Feelings, and Thoughts (SIFT). Writing these thoughts down can be helpful.
• Then try an empathy exercise. This exercise begins with visualizing people first as objects without feelings. Visualize them moving around you. Then gradually begin to imagine their thoughts and feelings. This exercise develops our ability to empathize with others' emotions.
• The final stage is integration, where we balance our own wants and needs with the wants and needs of others around us. We grow more connected with others as we focus on relationships, which are vital to our happiness.

 I hope these ideas help you in your life journey.