Identity
John C. Maxwell once said, "To grow yourself, you must know yourself." A seemingly simple statement, yet one that holds a world of depth and complexity. The phrase "know yourself" might carry a hint of humor, considering you've been with yourself since birth. But therein lies the crux of the matter—how well do you truly know yourself?
Think about it. Year after year, you've been living your life, navigating experiences that have left their mark on your identity. People and situations have woven into and around your core essence, potential at times distorting it like clothes sitting too long in a dryer. The result? Autonomous self might occasionally get crumpled or lost within the fabric of existence.
Perhaps you've felt the discomfort of understanding your strengths and weaknesses during a performance review or interview. That practice helps you to identify yourself a little better. Your identity comprises talents, skills, aptitudes, and interests. It's one driving force behind the “why” you choose what you do.
Each choice you make, from the smallest to the grandest, is intertwined with your sense of self. It's the internal vocabulary that shapes how you converse with others and yourself. These self-identifiers, sometimes hovering in the background of your consciousness, can lead to a sense of sleepwalking through life. Knowing your identities is akin to waking up, being fully present in each situation.
Here’s one daily practice to approach cultivating identity awareness: pose the question—am I helping myself become more of who I want to be? Understand this practice isn’t about labeling actions as "good" or "bad," but about understanding if they align with your aspirations.
Identity isn't a single label; it's a multi-faceted gem. It encompasses traits that shine brightly in both positive and challenging situations. It's about recognizing your super-you traits and superpowers. Observe how people describe you, tap into the common threads woven through your daily tasks, routines, and relationships. Self-discovery or to know yourself isn't a static destination; it's an evolving exploration toward personal growth and authenticity.
Questions for further exploration.
What are three ways you describe yourself?
How do these descriptors affect your performance? Your health?
Is what you’re helping yourself become more of who you want to be?