Synchronicity

“Synchronicity is the coming together of inner and outer events in a way that cannot be explained by cause and effect and that is meaningful to the observer.” - Carl Jung

Synchronicity is a term coined by psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, Carl Jung. He first introduced this concept in the 1920s, however, it wasn’t until a lecture in 1951 that he gave a full statement of his theory. Over the years Jung has defined synchronicity in many different ways but what it essentially boils down to is, synchronicity defines meaningful coincidences.

Synchronicity is everywhere if you open your mind to it. When you encounter a synchronistic event you will not only see it but you will feel it. It may even bring on an “aha” moment that resonates so deeply within you that you simply cannot ignore it. Examples of synchronicity would be; thinking of an old friend you haven’t seen in years, then suddenly receiving a message from them; or dreaming of a particular song then hearing it on the radio later that day.

Of course, it will come as no surprise when I say that the scientific community cannot support synchronicity as a valid theory at this point in time. Science will say that synchronicity is the effect of our brains selectively interpreting or favouring information in a biased way that supports our preexisting beliefs. This is especially true when facing emotionally charged issues. This well-known phenomenon is called confirmation bias.

Synchronicity is a subjective experience, therefore I can only speak of it in regard to my own personal opinions and experiences. Synchronicity plays an important role in my life. In fact, I put a lot of my faith in signs and symbols from the universe, much like I do with my dreams. I know that when I am meant to hear or see something, synchronicity will be there to show me the way. Paying attention to synchronicities has gotten me out of my mind and into my body. It has helped me to explore my emotions on a deeper level. But best of all, synchronicity has opened many new doors in my life that I would have otherwise been too scared to pursue.

The human brain is unbelievably elaborate and I am certainly not suggesting otherwise. In fact, I love science and the complexities of the human mind! However, if it brings you peace and happiness to find spiritual guidance in the coincidences you encounter, then so be it!

Do you find meaning in the coincidences you encounter? If so, please share your synchronistic stories with me in the comments below.

Want to hear about mine? Click here to find out how synchronicity led me to the country.