So, who are you?
When someone asks you, “Who are you?” How do you answer?
For me, I typically answer with my name and what I do for a living. But is that really who I am?
Your name and occupation are certainly important aspects of your identity, but they're just a part of the broader picture of who you are. Who you are encompasses your passions, values, experiences, relationships, and aspirations.
It's about what makes you unique and what brings you joy and fulfillment. Think about the things you love, the causes you care about, the people you cherish, and the moments that have shaped you. All of these elements contribute to your identity.
For example, beyond your name and job, you might also define yourself by:
Your hobbies and interests (e.g., a book lover, a fitness enthusiast, a traveler).
Your values and beliefs (e.g., someone who values honesty, a person committed to ethical business practices).
Your relationships (e.g., a parent, a friend, a mentor).
Your experiences (e.g., someone who has overcome challenges, a person who has lived in different countries).
It's a multifaceted and dynamic concept, and it can evolve over time as you grow and change. So, next time you're asked, "Who are you?" you might consider sharing a bit more about these aspects that make you, well, you.
How do you feel about defining yourself beyond your name and job? For me, it’s about building a trusting relationship first.
It’s true—opening up and sharing more than just your name and occupation can feel vulnerable. It takes a certain level of trust to reveal deeper aspects of who you are.
But those additional layers are often what create meaningful connections and understanding between people. When you share your interests, passions, values, and experiences, it allows others to see the whole you and relate to you on a more personal level.
Think about those moments when you’ve formed a genuine connection with someone. Chances are, it happened because you both shared something beyond the surface level. Maybe you discovered a shared hobby, a similar life experience, or aligned values.
Of course, it’s important to share at a pace and to an extent that feels comfortable for you. Building trust takes time, and it’s perfectly okay to reveal more of yourself gradually as you get to know someone better.
If you’re willing, you could start with something small and meaningful, like a hobby you’re passionate about or a personal value that’s important to you. Over time, as trust grows, you may find it easier to share even more about who you are.
Love to hear what you’ve done to build trusting relationships.
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