Understanding Identity

David Benner, a psychologist and author of "The Gift of Being Yourself," describes identity as "who we experience ourselves to be - the 'I' each of us carries within." Identity is a mix of our memories, experiences, relationships, and values that contribute to our sense of self. Especially for young adults, identity is continuously evolving. It encompasses our roles in relationships, like being a friend or partner, and characteristics we can't change, such as our height and race. Crucially, identity also includes our political opinions, moral attitudes, and spiritual beliefs, all of which guide our daily choices.
Society often pushes us to define ourselves by external measures such as our job, achievements, appearance, or social status. To simplify, we might adopt popular, yet superficial, cultural images like being glamorous or edgy. However, these images lack depth and don't offer a reliable moral compass for life's big decisions.
Our identity can feel unsteady in the face of failures, losses, or stressors, leading us to seek external validation. This lack of internal stability prevents us from having a consistent sense of self. But what if we chose to base our identity on our inner, spiritual selves instead of external factors?

Defining Your Spiritual Identity

Spirituality plays a crucial role in being your authentic self. For some, this comes from following a specific religion. For others, it might mean feeling connected to the earth or the universe, or simply sensing that you're part of something larger than yourself. Embracing your spirituality can bring life meaning and help you feel more grounded. Without a spiritual foundation, life can sometimes feel empty, and people may struggle with a sense of identity.
Imagine you highly value feeling accepted and belonging. You might achieve this through material possessions, joining clubs, or having a big friend group. However, this sense of belonging can be disrupted if you move to a new place and lose touch with your friends. In a new environment, you might question whether something is wrong with you. But if you rely on your spiritual identity, you could shift your focus to an internal sense of belonging, realizing that you matter just because you are you. Outside influences would not easily shake you, allowing you to face changes with confidence.
People uncertain of their identity often react to their emotions and external circumstances rather than making thoughtful choices. Our feelings aren't always logical, but a strong spiritual foundation can provide guidance. With a well-established spiritual self, you can navigate life's ups and downs without doubting who you are. This foundation remains consistent, regardless of changing situations that might otherwise disrupt your emotions.

Finding Your Spiritual Path

You might not be sure which spiritual path to follow, and that's okay. The journey itself helps you gain a clearer sense of who you are. By defining your core values and acting on them with each decision, you'll uncover what truly matters to you. Instead of focusing on what others think or say, look inward to discover your true self.
Choosing a spiritual path can involve various practices like meditation, prayer, or spending time in nature. These activities create moments of reflection where you can connect with your inner self and understand your deeper values and desires. Engaging in spiritual practices can lead to a more genuine and stable identity, anchored in inner wisdom rather than external validation.

Conclusion

In a world where external achievements and appearances often define us, grounding your identity in spirituality can offer a lasting sense of self. Whether through religion, a connection to the universe, or an understanding of your role in something greater, spirituality can provide a stable foundation for making decisions and facing life's challenges. Embrace your spiritual journey to uncover the true 'you,' and let your inner values guide you through the ever-changing landscape of life.

Other Related Articles:

Discover Your True Self, Your Spiritual Core
Having an Identity Crisis? Here's How to Navigate It
The Importance of Authenticity

Other Related Exercises:

Be Truly Alive
First Person, Second Person
Giving Is Receiving