What is it about a new year that makes us contemplate our identities?
Personal identity… professional identity… is there a difference?
I used to believe I could have everything I wanted; that I could be fully present in my work and fully present at home and for many years I considered myself very successful at it.
But, as my kids grew older and became teenagers, my responsibilities to them increased. Simultaneously, the success I had at my job grew into a leadership role and new exciting responsibilities. For a while, I had everything I wanted.
Until, my health took a turn and it became rapidly obvious that something needed to change. For a couple of years I practiced balance and boundaries and it definitely kicked the can down the road for a while. Reality was catching up to me quickly… it wasn’t sustainable.
Even when the writing was on the wall, it took me a solid year to let go of my other “baby” – my job. I had to let go of this identity that I truly loved, so I could begin forge a more integrated life.
“Every act of creation is first an act of destruction.”
Pablo Picasso
It’s interesting how the loss of identity feels like a death, even when you’ve made it a conscious choice. But the beautiful thing is, with your identity, you will always reincarnate, and with a little work, your next version will be even better.
If you’re in the process of creating your next identity and you’re looking for a trusted advisor and coach to support you as you take your first steps down this new path, send us a message. We’d love to help.
With love,
Erin
