So many things are included in what we call our identity. Two people who appear very similar on the outside can have very different concepts of who they are, because we tend to place things in varying levels of priority. Someone who is very smart and a great problem solver may not see themselves that way because of who they are surrounded by. We tend to evaluate or interpret ourselves in context of what we know and see around us.
Who do you identify with and against? Who do you see that is like and unlike yourself? What don’t you see in yourself because it’s so common around you? How have you been told to identify vs. how you identify? It’s much more nuanced that that. It is the subtle things that make the biggest difference, even the smallest crack of light can light up the dark.
Will you pick a new action, even if that new action challenges your current notion of your personal identity?
Regardless of how you have identified yourself in the past, choose how you will going forward. Get yourself a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage and find a quiet corner in your house, neighborhood park, or inspirational location. Write a paragraph that describes how you will be identified going forward. This means roughly 75-150 words, but don’t get hung up on the word count. This may seem like a lot or little, but either way it will probably offer you a challenge. Many people find it hard to write about themselves, and this exercise will help you actively visualize and choose your next identity going forward.
This blog is part of a series from the book Discover Your Best Life by Mike Hintz. His personal, professional, and spiritual growth tools are also featured in Northlink Retreats. If this topic resonates with you consider reading the book or attending one of the upcoming retreats.