Understanding the Conversation Between Our Mind and Essence: What we Really are is Listening?

Every day, all day, conversations unfold inside our heads. We hear thoughts, doubts, plans, and reflections, as if two voices are speaking: one is the thinker, the mind, and the other is the listener. But are we truly aware of this inner dialogue? More importantly, do we understand what is listening and who is speaking? This post explores the nature of this internal conversation, what it means to listen within ourselves, and why recognizing this dynamic is key to understanding our identity and making meaningful changes in our lives.

Inner reflection in a quiet natural setting

The Inner Conversation We Often Overlook

When preparing for something important, like a presentation, our mind generates a stream of thoughts: “What if I forget my lines?” “Will they like my ideas?” “Will they like me?” These are not just random worries; they are part of a conversation. One part—the mind—offers possibilities, fears, and predictions. The other part—the being—listens and decides how to respond.

This inner voice is familiar, but many people do not realize that listening to this voice requires a separate presence inside us. It is not the mind itself that listens; rather, something else within us observes and notices. This distinction is crucial because it means we are not just our thoughts. We are the awareness behind them.

What Is Listening to Our Mind?

Listening inside our heads is different from hearing sounds outside. It involves awareness, attention, and a sense of being that is separate from the flow of thoughts. When you notice your mind saying, “If I say something, people might disagree,” you are not the voice that says it. You are the one who hears it and considers it.

This awareness is like a silent observer. It watches the mind’s chatter without judgment. It notices the fears, doubts, and hopes that arise. This observer is what many traditions call the “Being/energy/soul” or “consciousness.” It is the part of you that experiences your thoughts and is controlled by them.

Why the Mind/Brain Cannot Change Its Own Programs

Think of your mind as a computer running software. The mind generates thoughts based on patterns, habits, and past experiences. However, just like a computer cannot rewrite its own code without an external input, the mind cannot change its own programming by itself.

This means that if your mind is stuck in negative thinking or limiting beliefs, it cannot simply decide to stop. Something else must intervene to change these patterns. That something is the essence you are—the listener who can bring awareness of these thoughts and choose new responses.

For example, if your mind says, “You’re going to make a fool of yourself,” the soul can recognize this as a programmed fear, not an absolute truth. By noticing this, the being can decide to respond differently.

Examples of the Inner Dialogue

Here are some common examples that illustrate this conversation:

• Before speaking up in a meeting:

The mind offers, “If I share my opinion, people might disagree,” or “If I stay silent, I won’t contribute.” The being listens and weighs these options before making a choice.

• Facing a challenge:

The mind might say, “This is too hard,” or “I might fail.” The essence hears these doubts and can decide to try anyway or seek support.

• Making a decision:

The mind presents possible outcomes, “If I do this, then that might happen.” The energy listens and selects the path to take.

In each case, what we are is the listener and decision-maker, while the mind is the tool offering information and possibilities.

How to Strengthen the Listener Within

Recognizing the difference between the mind and what we are is the first step. To strengthen the listener, try these practices:

• Mindful observation: Spend a few minutes each day simply noticing your thoughts without reacting. Watch the information as it happens. This is meditation!

  
  

• Journaling: Write down your inner dialogue. Seeing your thoughts on paper helps you identify patterns and separate from them.

  
  

• Question your thoughts: When a negative or limiting thought arises, ask yourself, “Is this true? Who is saying this?” This creates distance between you and the thought.

  
  

• Pause before reacting: When faced with a strong emotion or impulse, pause and listen to the being before responding.

  
  

These practices help you become more aware of the listener inside and give you greater control over your mind’s programming.

Why Knowing Your Identity Matters

Understanding that you are the listener, not just the thinker, changes how you see yourself. You are not defined by your thoughts or fears. You are the awareness that can notice them. This realization empowers you to:

• Change limiting beliefs

• Make conscious choices

• Respond calmly to stressful thinking

• Build resilience

  
  

Knowing your identity as the listener helps you take control of your mental and emotional life. It also opens the door to personal growth, transformation and more options.

Thank you and enjoy your new practice.

Daniel James Wilson

Author of; The best kept secret is you, a journey into the rabbit hole with Autism and Love