Have you ever looked at yourself and wondered, "Who am I now?" Maybe you've noticed you're not the same person you once were, and this realization brings a sense of unease. You may ask yourself if you’ve changed too much or if you’ve lost sight of who you used to be. This self-doubt, the feeling of not recognizing yourself, can be unsettling. But what if change isn’t something to fear? What if it’s a natural part of your journey? Our identity is not meant to stay the same forever. In fact, it should change as we grow, evolve, and encounter new stages in life.
Identity is the way we see ourselves and our role in the world. It’s built on our values, beliefs, experiences, and relationships. But it isn’t a fixed thing. Just as we go through different phases—childhood, adolescence, adulthood—our identity also shifts with time. You don’t have to be the same person you were at 18, 30, or 50. Your priorities, experiences, and even your values can change, and that’s not only okay, it’s necessary for personal growth. Holding on to an outdated version of yourself can limit your potential and prevent you from embracing who you are now.
In reality, identity crises often arise when we cling too tightly to who we used to be. Maybe you've outgrown certain roles or beliefs that once defined you. Maybe your career, relationships, or even your passions have shifted. It’s common to feel lost during these periods of transition, but this is exactly when we should lean into the change, not resist it. By reflecting on who we are today, rather than who we used to be, we allow ourselves to grow and align our identity with our current stage of life.
Of course, navigating this shift is easier said than done. The gap between who you were and who you are now can create discomfort and self-doubt. You might wonder if you’re betraying your past self or if you’ve strayed too far from who you used to be. But instead of viewing change as losing yourself, think of it as evolving. Every phase of life adds layers to your identity, bringing you closer to a fuller understanding of who you truly are.
If you find yourself struggling to figure out your identity, or feeling stuck between your past self and your present, don’t hesitate to seek help. A psychologist or counselor can guide you through this process of self-discovery. They can help you explore your evolving identity, understand where the self-doubt is coming from, and give you tools to align your current self with your life’s purpose.
At the heart of it, identity is not a single, unchanging concept. It is fluid, shaped by the stages of life, the people we meet, and the experiences we have. Embrace the journey from who you were to who you are today, knowing that change is not something to fear but something to grow into.
Komel Chadha
Psychotherapist
9811941192
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