[[The mind is not the enemy]], despite the many spiritual teachings that frame it to be. [[The mind is a collection of parts]], each with unique personalities, beliefs, wounds, roles, abilities, and fears who just want to feel safe. Treating parts like an enemy doesn't make them feel safe. It makes some parts rebel and other parts cower. Neither give us what we really want: [[You are what you seek]]. And we can't get rid of parts: [[The goal of IFS isn't to get rid of parts]]. We wouldn't want to even if we could: [[Parts are valuable]]. But if we befriend the mind and its [parts](Parts), and they begin to feel that it's safe to release their burdens and roles, we will gain clearer access to [[Self]]: [[The constraints held by burdened parts prevent us from living an awakened life]]. And [[IFS helps us release burdens and constraints]].