The beginner starts by choosing this object and that object. If you choose the object, the idea of self is already there.

When the mind naturally knows an object, the mind has already chosen the object – so, this object does not belong to you and there is no idea of self.

For example, if you choose to be aware of your breath and the mind then knows the pain, which one is yours? Breath is your choice and pain is not your choice. Breath is personal and the idea of self is there. Pain is not personal; naturally, the mind knows it. You didn’t choose it, so, it is more obvious that it is not personal.