A person’s identity is a set of conditions, qualities, and beliefs that provide the make-up of an individual. Identities revolve around who you are and who you think you are. I had people tell me they could never see me as anything but a carpenter. This after I developed what felt like a change with my identity. There are several stages to identity development, but psychologists have identified four.
In the beginning stages, a person has no sense of self or identity. They might be learning values and characteristics from their parents. Conditions also influence development. Stage two means going with the flow in a way that is passive. During this stage, you are likely a people-pleaser, doing your best to fit into a social mold.
The third stage involves an identity in crisis. You might experience a sudden realization that you’ve been faking it your entire life. I’ve certainly experienced this stage. (tee hee) I began to question my very existence, and the search for truth began. This period of my life was what some call the ‘dark night of the soul’. I could have easily gotten stuck there, but I moved into stage four. This is where an awakening occurs, and there is no returning to the old life.
In this stage, you continue to search. The difference is you now have a foundation that holds a clear sense of direction. Independence and autonomy mark the end of the identity crisis. You might be experiencing a new level of creative expression. Speaking of creative expression, let’s hear from a spirit who whispers above the silence:
Some have developed a strong sense of self, while others are still working on their identity. The influences that mold beliefs and character are wide and varied. The Earth offers many forms of stimulation that awaken the senses to higher levels. Perception heightens to a point where conscious awareness is elevated.
People evolve from experiences in this life and others. The succession of events is part of the development of self-consciousness and divine connection. A foundation is established through practical living that brings security. Purpose is then realized at a higher conscious level. Inner conflict lessens with the development of identity. This allows a person to live at a slower pace, to develop greater awareness of the present moment.
Certain characteristics are passed down through the generations. Some have been influenced by traumas in the family lineage that have shifted human biology. But DNA is not destiny. People have the potential for reaching higher levels of spiritual evolution. Lifting the burdens of the past creates expansion of energy. Simply put, that means more light introduced into the system. The darkness of the past is absorbed into the light, and a new aspect of identity develops.
The process of identity development can be measured by emotions, beliefs, thoughts, and perspective. Self-awareness leads to greater alignment with core values and virtues. Finding things for which to be grateful honors your path. You have an opportunity to embrace victory as a climax to the cycle of growth. You are the builder of an identity that can coexist in harmony with the soul.
Bring joy, ease suffering and create beauty, then dance like you mean it!
Blessings, Russell
“It’s like everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always. All the time. That story makes you what you are. We build ourselves out of that story.” Patrick Rothfus
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