Shadow Values

“One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious. The latter procedure, however, is disagreeable and therefore not popular.”

Carl Jung

Shadow Values in Individuals

According to Carl Jung’s perspective, shadow values refer to the unconscious aspects of a person’s personality that they have repressed or denied. These are the parts of ourselves that we deem unacceptable or unworthy, and therefore we try to hide or suppress them.

Jung believed that the shadow is an essential part of the psyche, and it contains both positive and negative qualities. The positive qualities of the shadow are the qualities that we admire in others but have trouble acknowledging in ourselves. The negative qualities are the qualities that we consider unacceptable in ourselves and try to hide from others.

The shadow values can manifest themselves in a variety of ways, including dreams, fantasies, and projections onto others. They can also lead to feelings of discomfort or even shame when they are brought to the surface.

Jung believed that the process of individuation, or the integration of the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche, requires the acknowledgment and integration of the shadow values. By doing so, individuals can achieve a greater sense of wholeness and authenticity.

Therefore, according to Jung’s perspective, it is essential for individuals to explore and embrace their shadow values to become more self-aware and integrated.

Shadow Values in Organizations

Shadow values refer to the hidden or implicit costs and benefits associated with a decision or action. These costs and benefits are often not accounted for or recognized in the traditional financial analysis and can include factors such as environmental impact, social responsibility, and ethical considerations.

For example, a company may decide to outsource production to a developing country in order to reduce labour costs. While this decision may appear financially beneficial in the short term, it may result in negative social and environmental consequences, such as exploitative working conditions and increased carbon emissions from transportation. These costs are not reflected in the financial analysis and are considered shadow values.

Recognizing shadow values is important because it allows decision-makers to make more informed and responsible choices that take into account the broader impacts of their decisions. Incorporating shadow values into decision-making can lead to more sustainable and socially responsible outcomes.

Know Yourself and whats really driving you

We offer Shadow Values clarity in a number of our coaching packages

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