Buddhist psychology has long pointed to an idea that unsettles as much as it liberates: the self we take so seriously may not be exactly who—or what—we think it is. In that spirit, and with tongue planted firmly in cheek, here are a few playful reflections on the teaching of no-self, offered more as wordplay than as doctrine.
There is no self to esteem.
Even if there were a self to esteem, who would be the one esteeming the self?
Self-clearing is superior to esteem cleaning.
To know the self is to no the self.
If you see the self in a mirror, it is likely a reflection, and surely Windex is needed.
Positive self-talk is overrated. Practice non-self-talk, which equates to just talking—or thinking—without any added stories, analysis, or ingredients, although the presence of dark chocolate is always acceptable.
Forget taking selfies. Take non-selfies instead; they don’t require a camera or a smartphone, nor do they result in your forehead appearing to be larger than a bowling ball.
Be cautious about identifying with the non-self. That can be another side of the same coin, and the currency still equates to heads and tales.
© 2026 Larry Cammarata, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist and Mindfulness Educator
Mindfulness Travels provides continuing education retreats in beautiful, inspiring places throughout the world with leaders in the fields of mindfulness-based psychology, process-based therapy, and mindful movement