What we believe our identity is, is based on many different layers and details, but is usually the defining of characteristics used to explain ourselves or others. What we need to consider is, identity is not necessarily fixed and is quite often made up of all sorts of things from the past and characteristics imposed on us by others.
I’m not going to give you a definition of identity, I think it is a good idea to do a google search and have a think about what identity is to you.
Thinking about identity now in relation to change which is an imminent part of our lives at present it might seem a little clearer or not, why many people find it hard to participate in change whether it is chosen or imposed on them. How do we look through the defining lens of the past that got us to this point and use that to move forward, if, in fact, something needs to change?
This is why change is difficult. This is why taking a step back and asking yourself what you need about yourself or your group, or others, or your organisation to move forward (even if the path is not clear) and what can you leave behind. Sometimes ‘Not Knowing’ is the secret because then you can choose in any given moment what you use or do not use. But what change does do, is give us an opportunity to review, review who we are and what is and is not important to us and as this happens whether we like it or not our identity changes, mostly not significantly, but over time, it shapes and forms and reforms. Identity is not and does not remain fixed, it is something that is fluid in a lifetime.
Enjoy your week.
