In the past, I researched the phenomenon of multilingualism and discovered that multilinguals develop multiple belief systems and a more complex identity with layered sub-identities. This realization led me to explore broader concepts like authenticity, the formation of identity, and the nature of the self.
Scientists and philosophers such as Evan Thompson, Thomas Metzinger, and Ruben Laukkonen have deeply investigated these topics, offering overlapping perspectives. Thompson, for example, asserts that the self is not a static entity but a dynamic process arising from continuous interactions between the mind, body, and environment. Daniel Siegel’s definition of the mind as “a process that regulates the flow of energy and information” complements this view, emphasizing the mind’s dynamic and integrative functions. Mindfulness practices, in turn, make this regulatory process more conscious and effective.
Laukkonen identifies three forms of self: the narrative self, which constructs a cohesive story of our lives; the experiencing self, which lives in the present moment and directly engages with experiences; and the witnessing self, which observes thoughts and sensations with detachment. He suggests that during contemplative practices, individuals may experience a dissolution of the conventional self (the narrative self), leading to a shift in perception and cognition. This aligns with Donald Hoffman’s idea of the brain as a pattern recognition organ that builds models to interpret sensory input and predict the future. Such contemplative states allow for constructing and integrating new interpretative models of the world and oneself.
Metzinger offers a complementary perspective by arguing that the self is an internal representation—a “Phenomenal Self-Model”—crafted by the brain to organize experiences from a first-person perspective. While this self appears coherent and real, it is, in essence, an illusion that serves practical purposes.
In light of these perspectives, we can conclude that the sense of self arises from the dynamic interplay of experiences, shaped by both unconscious conditioning and conscious moments of awareness. Lithuanian neuroscientist Kęstutis Skauminas underscores the importance of attention, suggesting that the brain registers and prioritizes what we focus on. Through mindfulness, we can consciously direct our attention toward the influences we wish to shape us, enabling intentional transformation and growth.
Coaching is one of these approaches, providing a structured space for mindfulness and deep reflection. Through thoughtful, intentional conversations, coaching invites individuals to pause, explore, and connect with their inner experiences. These moments of reflection often generate new first-person experiences, allowing clients to engage with and consciously reshape their constructed sense of self. The ICF definition of coaching captures this beautifully: “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” This highlights that coaching is much more than just a goal-oriented process; it is a profound conversational journey where individuals shape their identity, self, personality, and character, undergoing lasting transformation and growth.