How is the Conscious mind often described in terms of visibility?

The conscious mind is often described as the tip of the iceberg because this metaphor illustrates that what we are aware of at any given time is just a small part of our overall mental processes. The visible tip represents thoughts, feelings, and perceptions that we actively engage with and can articulate. In contrast, the vast majority of our mental activity, which includes memories, beliefs, and subconscious processes, lies beneath the surface and is not directly accessible. This imagery emphasizes that our conscious awareness is limited compared to the larger, often hidden aspects of the mind that influence our behavior and thoughts without our direct awareness. This understanding highlights the complexity of human cognition, where much of our mental life is governed by factors outside of conscious awareness.