Projections

Although Freud derived the concept of "projection," the contemporary use of the term is well-described in this Wikipedia entry.  The article notes it has “issues” and is in “need of an attention from an expert" (perhaps an apt description of articles and the human condition).

In any case, a simple definition I’ve derived over the years that seems to be of use for this hugely powerful ability of the human mind and spirit is this: 

Projection is what is within, seen without.

If I’m conscious that I am superimposing my own inner thoughts, feelings, beliefs and ideas onto a place, person, or thing outside of me, and not really seeing the place, person, or thing as it is, I can use projection as an opportunity for insight and informed choice.

If I’m not conscious that, to paraphrase a quote attributed to Anaïs Nin, I’m seeing things as I am, not as they really are, the feelings, thoughts and actions I have in reaction to people, places and things are based on a false perception of reality.  The basis of my choices will be faulty, or, at best, wobbly, because that basis is not grounded in reality.

Projection is normal and powerful.  If we go with the definition of projection as “what is within, seen without,” what is within can be both light and dark.  Lack of consciousness of projections, whether light or dark, can make them problematic.

In my own life, I do have within me unshakeable belief in the ability of people to transform their lives.  When I have worked with people with challenges, I naturally project my vision of the possibilities I see for them onto them and work with them from my projected perception of their reality. 

We want optimistic people working with those who have problems, and we certainly don’t want them to possess the world view, “Got problems? No chance for you, bub.”  After all, projection can prove inspiring.  Others may see in us traits we don’t, and that can lead us to cultivate them in ourselves. 

On the other hand, projecting a vision onto others that they don’t have for themselves can prove disheartening and demoralizing to the "projectee."  They don’t feel seen as themselves.  And they’re not. 

Unconscious of my hopeful projections, I have been fortunate to be considered inspiring.  I have also been humbled by the brave words, “You don’t see me as I really am.  You don’t value me as I am.”  I have over-extended my effort, straining myself, others, and my relationships, believing my projection was the truth, not seeing the reality that my skills were not a match for the other person’s needs.

If I am conscious of my hope-filled projection, I can see my projection, I can see the person, and I can choose, based on my best judgment - never the objective truth, always limited by my sharing of the human condition - what I believe will be best for all.

Lack of consciousness robs me of judgment.  Consciousness gives me a chance to choose.

"It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities."
- Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Chamber Of Secrets