Your inner self is always there. It doesn’t really need finding. It isn’t lost.
It’s just that the conscious mind is so engrossed in its own meanderings that it can seem that way.
The way to “put this right” in the sense of the question, is to remove the distractions and meanderings of the conscious mind.
How to do that?
In silence. In peace. In meditation or contemplation.
By regularly taking time away from the distractions.
Create a space away from the distractions of day to day life where you can be on your own.
Perhaps a room or a space in a room. Even just a place to sit where you can be comfortable and close your eyes.
You’ll need to have your spine straight.
Sitting is usually best although lying down on your back can work too. The difficulty with lying down is the tendency to fall asleep.
So sit or lie down and do it regularly, for a few minutes or more at a time. Make it a daily practice.
Allow your mind to be still.
And don’t worry if it won’t be.
Don’t try and force it.
Notice whether you’re breathing or not.
Focus on your breath.
Watch it going in and out.
Keep bringing your attention back to the breath.
The most important point is to keep at it. Keep turning up each day. Whatever thoughts come up. No matter how much it might seem like a waste of time. Or that it’s not working. Don’t stop.
There are lots of other practices that can help, and I’ll get to them in other writings, but in the end it comes down to the simple practice that is outlined here.
Given time and commitment you will start to notice a difference and to find your inner self.
Perseverance furthers.