Is the self the internal monologue, the identity it observes, the mind seen of the eyes in the mirror? Is it the perspectives of those outside, a combination of views that piece together like the greatest jigsaw to fulfil a vibrant identity? Is it something greater, something indescribable, such that we mere humans may never understand what the self is?

Maybe it’s a combination. Maybe it’s conflicting.

I had a conversation with my colleague Louis a few weeks ago, one where I admitted that I believe you need atleast two internal selves: one purely internal, where the ego runs wild and believes it deserves all that is possible, believes that it is better than most; and the other much more external, reasonable, humble, that holds an incredible level of empathy and appreciation for all others.
I believe these selves must self-govern, but that each one should be channeled when needed. That without the egotistical self-absorbed believer, it would not be possible to achieve greatness for the whole self would not reach for it - yet without the sensible appreciator, the whole self would become an insufferable asshole, nothing would be enjoyable, no relationship sustained.

I’m unsure what exactly my self is, what combination of internal and external selves compose it, but the deeper I look, the more ever-carefully balanced parts I see.