Self Concept

Too often, we define ourselves by our jobs in this world: "I work at X," "I'm so and so's mother, ____'s wife." But when those relationships have expired, matured or evaporated, what's left?

Parents sometimes ask their children this question when they're acting up or arguing. It's not a sincere question, but rather a way in which parents try to assert control, to put their children "in their place." Sometimes, though, we find ourselves asking this question of ourselves as adults.

You see, what we are telling ourselves, the command to succeed and be someone, is just a story; it's a story based on expectations. It's temporal and finite. It is not who you really are.

You are what you do. It's a case of mistaken identity that is hazardous to your health, life, and even the work you do. In a 24/7 world where we're always on work mode, there's little escape from the identity that's not you.

It is likely that what we take for granted as a "self" does not exist. And since your brand is intertwined with other people's perception, there is no one perception that defines you.

If you look beyond the present moment, you might be able to not only see new opportunities for connection, the person you disagree with might shift his or her perspective as well.