How to Know Who I Am

All people, old and young, must answer the question “Who am I” to have a sense of fulfillment. Discovering who you are is a life-long journey of learning that can take time, patience, and self-reflection. Here are some steps that can help you along the way:

Start with Self-Reflection

Set aside time to reflect on your values, beliefs, strengths, weaknesses, and passions. Note your thoughts and feelings in a journal or talk with a trusted friend or mentor. reflecting on personal values can increase well-being and reduce stress. You will soon discover the things in your life that are precious and you are thankful for.

Identify your Core Values

Pen down the values pertinent to you, such as truth, integrity, compassion, or creativity. Understanding your core values can help you make choices that align with your genuine self. Explore your Interests

List activities or topics that you find interesting or engaging. Explore new fields and see what resonates with you. Take personality tests: Consider taking personality tests like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or the Enneagram to gain insight into your personality traits, preferences, and tendencies. These tests support your understanding and how you interact with the world. Research shows that personality traits such as well-being and career success can predict life outcomes.

Get Feedback

Ask people who know you well about your strengths and weaknesses. The feedback can help you identify areas of growth and places where you excel. Ask yourself what you're good at and what areas to work on. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses can help you set realistic goals and focus on your strengths. A growth mindset and focusing on strengths can increase happiness and life satisfaction.

Be Open to Change

As you learn more about yourself, be open to changing your beliefs, values, and goals. Your identity is not constant, and you have the power to shape your own identity over time. With a growth mindset, you can change habits and improve yourself based on your values and goals.

Practice Routine Self-Care

Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. When prioritizing your well-being, you can better connect with your authentic self. Remember, discovering who you are is a lifelong journey, and it's okay not to have all the answers immediately. Exercise patience and kindness to yourself along the way.

Identify your Passions

Think about what you're passionate about and what gives you a sense of purpose. The ability to identify your key interest can help you align your career and life goals with your authentic self. A sense of purpose and passion can increase job satisfaction and career success.

Examine your Childhood Experience

Think about how your childhood experiences have shaped you. Consider how your family dynamics, cultural background, and life experiences have influenced your values, beliefs, and personality. Studies show that childhood experiences can influence personality development and well-being. 

Face your Fears!

Identify your fears and insecurities and work on facing them; stop denying them. Acknowledge your fears. Facing your fears can help you overcome limiting beliefs and live more authentically. Facing your fears can increase self-efficacy and well-being. Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensation; doing this can help you tune into your authentic self and connect with the present moment. Mindfulness can increase well-being and reduce stress.

Explore your Spirituality!

Explore your spiritual beliefs and practices. We, humans, have a spirit through which we can connect with the creator through worship and communication. Engaging in these practices helps to find true meaning and purpose. Humans generally seek the greater one. Spirituality can increase well-being and reduce stress.