There are seven stages of Nafs :-
1. The nafs in its lowest stage of development is called an-nafs al-ammara. This nafs (which in this case might be translated by "ego") incites you towards evil. This nafs already mentioned in Qur'an 12:53 is the starting point of the journey towards inner purification. Characteristics of an-nafs al-ammara are amongst others: greed, frivolity, pride, the wish to be famous, jealousy and the lack of any higher consciousness. Khwaja Mo'inuddin Chishti is said to have taught about it this nafs comes from fire.
2. The nafs in the second stage of development is an-nafs al-lawwama. This nafs manifest the voice of consciousness and blames itself. See Qur'an 75:2. Its characteristics are amongst others: disapproval, reflection, contraction and self- appraisal.
3. The nafs in its third stage of development is called an-nafs al-molhama (the inspired soul or self). See Qur'an 91:7. Characteristics of this inspired soul or self are detachment, satisfaction (qana'at), knowledge, humility, repentance, patience and perseverance. This nafs comes from water according to Khwaja Mo'inuddin Chishti.
4. The nafs in its fourth stage of development is called an-nafs al-motma'inna (the quiescent soul or self). See Qur'an 89:27. Its characteristics are amongst others: generosity, trust in God, wisdom, devotion, gratitude and contentment (rida). According to Khwaja Mo'inuddin Chishti this nafs comes from earth.
5. The nafs in its fifth stage of development is called an-nafs ar-radiyya (the contented soul or self). See Qur'an 89:28. Its characteristics are amongst others: asceticism, sincerity, scrupulousness, the letting go of everything which is not of your concern and loyalty.
6. The nafs in its sixth stage of development is called an-nafs al-mardiyya (the soul or self experiencing the pleasure of God). See Qur'an 89:22. Its characteristics are a noble character, the letting go of everything but God, subtlety and service towards other creatures, to be in the nearness of God, meditation upon the divine power and the acceptation of everything as decided by God.
7. The nafs in its seventh stage of development is called an-nafs al-kamila (the perfect soul or self). This soul/self which has realized perfection manifests all the positive qualities as mentioned above. And more than that.