The 8 C’s of Self Energy in Internal Family Systems (IFS)
In Internal Family Systems, developed by Richard Schwartz, healing doesn’t come from eliminating parts of ourselves- it comes from building a relationship with them.
At the center of this work is something called Self Energy.
When we are blended with our wounded parts or protective parts, our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can feel intense, reactive, or overwhelming. But when we are able to gently step back and unblend, we gain access to a deeper, steadier state within us- the Self.
From this place, a set of natural qualities emerges, known as the 8 C’s of Self Energy.
What Are the 8 C’s?
When you are in Self Energy, you may notice the following qualities arise naturally:
Confidence
A grounded sense that you can handle what comes your way. It’s not forceful or performative- it’s steady and internal.
Curiosity
An openness to understand your inner world without judgment. Instead of reacting, you become interested: “What is this part trying to show me?”
Clarity
The ability to see situations with objectivity and perspective. Things feel less clouded, and more anchored in truth.
Creativity
A natural flow of expression and possibility. You may feel more flexible, imaginative, and open to new ways of being.
Courage
The strength to stay present, even in the face of discomfort or fear. Courage in IFS is gentle, not forceful.
Compassion
An open-hearted presence toward yourself and others- without needing to fix, change, or push anything away.
Connectedness
A sense of belonging and connection- to yourself, to others, and to something larger. Defenses soften, allowing for deeper relational presence.
Calmness
A regulated, steady state where triggers feel less overwhelming and reactions become less automatic.
Self Energy as a Healing State
Self is not something you have to build- it’s something you already have.
It’s a state from which all of these qualities naturally emerge.
When you are in Self Energy:
- Your protective parts don’t have to work as hard
- Your system feels safer to open
- Your wounded parts (often called exiles) can begin to share their stories
From this place, protectors can soften and trust, and parts can begin to release the burdens they’ve been carrying- at their own pace, and in their own time.
A Gentle Invitation
The next time you feel activated, you might pause and ask:
- Am I in Self Energy right now?
- Which of the 8 C’s feels accessible?
- What might shift if I approached this with curiosity or compassion?
Even small moments of Self Energy can begin to transform your relationship with yourself.
If you’re interested in exploring this work more deeply, trauma-informed approaches like IFS, EMDR, and parts work can support you in accessing and strengthening your Self.
Learn more at:
www.PasadenaTraumaTherapy.com
