Many times, people define themselves and others based on looks, beliefs, abilities, family, financial status or relationships. While each of these can impact how you see yourself and how you relate to the world around you, it’s important to remember that there is not just one thing that defines who you are. Who you are is a collection of all the above.
Each of us are special and unique individuals. No matter how close you are with others, no one will ever look, think, feel, or act just like you. As a result, not everyone will always understand or agree with your beliefs or points of view. If this happens, take a moment to reflect without reacting, then consider if it is something that you must agree on to continue the relationship or if it can just be one of the differences you have with each other. If this is the case, then turn your focus to the things that you have in common.
Your personal beliefs will become a road map for your life.
You may start out in one direction and change paths as you move through your life. Don’t feel that you have to make concrete decisions now about your life’s direction, or feel pressure to align your beliefs with what is currently popular.
Do the best that you can with the information you have right now. If you learn something new, take this into consideration and decide how it might affect how you see yourself. Give yourself time to evaluate your thoughts and feelings. Know that your viewpoints may stay the same --or they may change as you discover new information, are presented with different perspectives, or as you go through various life experiences.
Struggling with these issues can make you feel insecure and anxious. The more you evaluate yourself and your feelings over time, the more answers you will start to find. Find someone trustworthy that you can talk to; someone who will be supportive and will allow you to come up with your own conclusions about what kind of person you will be.
Don’t put pressure on yourself to be what others want you to be or to determine today what you will be in the future. Take things step by step and be proud of yourself for asking questions and exploring who you are.
