Identity: Who Are You?

What does it mean to be who you are? Identity relates to our basic values that dictate the choices we make. Few of choose our identities. And we can have more than one identity.

But a lack of a coherent sense of identity will lead to uncertainty about that we want to do in life.

Often, without being aware of it, we internalise the values of a parent or a lifestyle (eg the pursuit of wealth and power, for example). These values may not sit uncomfortably with our authentic self. So we can feel uneasy. Conflicted. Uncomfortable.

If there is a feeling of discomfort, our life may seem unfulfilled.

People who are fulfilled are able to live a life true to their own values and pursue meaningful goals. These people do not live the life of another person. That is to give our identity away.

So - what is the true self? We need to develop and nurture our choice if we are to live at peace with ourselves.

Firstly - we need to discover our potential. This is about discovering where our strengths lie and play to them. We need to test things out as the development of skills and talents requires time, effort and willingness to tolerate frustration.

Then we need to chose what our purpose is in life. Our aims need to be compatible with our talents and skills - which are our authentic - or real - self.

Finally, we need to find opportunities for the implementation of our potential and purpose and put it into practice. This is often expressed through the work we do and the way we live our lives.