In metaphysics, ego is not referring to "an inflated feeling of pride in your superiority to others". It is usually referring to your sense of an individual self. The ego is a voice of those levels of consciousness that still hold on to the illusion of a separate self. The ego is a necessary part of our existence on Earth as it determines our unique personality. A main concern of ego is with the individual's safety and survival. Without it, we would not be able to function on the physical realm.

However, many teachers have taught that the ego, also commonly referred to as the lower self, can be a stumbling block if we over-identify ourselves with it. To quote Aaron (channeled by Barbara Brodsky):