Week 7 - Identity
In the exploration of our mindset and personal growth, the concept of identity holds profound significance. It's during times of transformation that we're prompted to reflect on who we are and who we aspire to become. This week, we'll embark on a journey to craft a vision for our future selves—one rooted in authenticity, purpose, and fulfilment.
If you're feeling uncertain about the direction of your journey or the person you want to be, know that this is a natural part of growth. Our identities are dynamic, ever-evolving entities, offering us the opportunity for continuous exploration and self-definition.
To kickstart this process of self-discovery, I encourage you to immerse yourself in sources of inspiration. Explore images, words, and quotes that resonate deeply with your values, passions, and aspirations. Whether you find inspiration in nature, art, literature, or personal experiences, allow yourself to be guided by what speaks to your soul.
If you don’t know who you want to be and what you want, how will you know when you get there?
Don’t worry - this vision for yourself can keep evolving and changing as time goes by.
It’s about moving forwards - you have to start somewhere.
I invite you to find images, words and quotes that you are drawn to.
They should spark inspiration and motivation, reminding you of your values, goals, or dreams.
Buy magazines, flick through the pages, or browse using Pinterest, and keep the images that inspire you or leave you feeling happy.
Choose a medium that resonates with you—whether it's crafting a physical collage, designing a digital vision board, or journaling your thoughts and aspirations. The goal is to create a tangible representation of your dreams, serving as a beacon of motivation and guidance on your journey.
As you curate your vision board, consider incorporating tools and practices that support your growth and self-discovery:
Journaling: Dedicate time each day to journaling your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. Use prompts or free writing to explore your inner landscape and gain clarity on your values and goals.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or body scanning to cultivate self-awareness and presence in the moment. Mindfulness can help you connect with your innermost desires and intentions.
Visualization: Engage in visualization exercises to imagine yourself embodying your ideal identity and living out your dreams. Picture yourself thriving in various aspects of your life, and allow yourself to feel the emotions associated with success and fulfillment.
Goal Setting: Set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals that align with your vision for the future. Break down larger aspirations into smaller, actionable steps to keep yourself motivated and accountable.
Affirmations: Create affirmations that affirm your worth, capabilities, and potential. Repeat these affirmations regularly to rewire your mindset and reinforce positive self-beliefs.
Self-Reflection: Set aside time for self-reflection and introspection. Consider what brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose, and use these insights to inform your vision for the future.
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery and identity shaping, remember that growth takes time and patience. Embrace the process with curiosity and openness, allowing yourself to explore new possibilities and avenues for personal expression.
By actively shaping your identity and aligning it with your values and aspirations, you empower yourself to live a life of authenticity, purpose, and fulfillment. So, dare to dream boldly and envision the person you aspire to be. Your journey of self-discovery begins now.
You can use scissors and glue and stick it to card, use a pinboard, stick it to the back of your bedroom door or in a scrapbook just for you, or if you are a tech whizz, you can use your favourite online editing tool and update your desktop screensaver.
I don’t mind how you do it; we just want to remind ourselves what we are aiming towards and then put it somewhere that you will see regularly. Whatever works for you.
You can do this process as many times as you like over time. You can do it for all areas of your life. This may even become a new ritual that you plan in the diary.
It could be something you do once a year, once a month - as regularly as you like!
Maybe invite a friend around and do it with them, or if you have a partner or kids you could get them involved too.
What has this bought up for you? Are there any images or words that you have used? Use the IDENTITY page in your Sober Journal to note what has come up and think about how you will make these dreams happen.
What steps would you need to take to move forward?
How much time would these steps take?
Break everything down into bite-sized chunks and start planning this into your Sober Journal and calendar - some things may take years to accomplish, but others may be more immediate, start taking positive steps forward today.
I created my latest one using the Canva app.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” - Abraham Lincoln
Start building a life of purpose, the life of your dreams, and you won’t want to escape or numb your life with a drink.
Your board should symbolise a life you aspire to; you can always add to it afterwards!