Finding your identity

This is a topic that would readily resonate amongst many folks around the world today. It may not have occurred to you that every individual grew up (or should grow up) with an "identity". One which would ultimately shape the psychological architecture of any individual, from birth through to adulthood.

Some of these encompasses (although, not limited to) his or her;

• Mannerism.
• Confidence in tackling issues. 
• Integrity.
• Behavioral tendencies.
• Personality traits. 
• Life choices.
• Susceptibilities.
• Career options.
• Social interactional capabilities.
• Manner of associates and relationships.
• Level of ambition. 
• Adaptability.
• Emotiveness and affection.
• Successful indulgences an endeavors.
• Social and economic status.

As a child, growing up in a developing country in west Africa, where age-old traditions and cultural demands overshadows the preservation of certain pivotal and unalienable rights, our parents/guardians often hide behind the delusion of keeping to the tenets of such rigid and archaic system of nurturing their younger generation. 

Nonetheless, besides the impact of tradition and culture on an individual's upbringing, the environment in which this occurs is also paramount. This reverts to the issue of establishing an identity, because the environment in which you were nurtured would inadvertently play a decisive role in the advance stages of life. 

Now, what is an identity and how do you identify yours?

 

This is a question that often baffles me and I have had to ponder on it many times, since I lost my father during my childhood and has since lost a mental picture of who he was. Perhaps not all, some of the memories I still recall are of a man who exuded greatness, embraced unconditional love, fidelity, steadfastness, resilience and hard work without faltering. 

To me, my father was my identity, defined as a groups of characteristics which makes you an individual and sets you apart from others. In other words, your identity defines you and brings out some distinctive qualities which can only be attributed to you. An identity can be adopted from different areas of life, and makes you who you are. 

 

Many youths and adults of the present day are disenfranchised and directionless because they lack an "identity". Maybe you the reader or someone close to you may also lack the same and your actions reflects this. Don't frightt, find a good role model and start learning to develop your identity, because your ultimate identity is within you. 

"I found my identity in me, have you?"

Happy reading..... 

Dr Dickson Aleroh (Motivate Me)    

  

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