Essays — 2018 · 2 min read · Translated from German
The power of our identity
How we can change for good.
Our identity is formed through observation. We see and reflect on ourselves. Every one of our actions and every one of our thoughts feeds into this process. In addition, the people around us reflect us back. This gives us information that, taken together, forms our identity.
Identity as an anchor
This mechanism can be a blessing and a curse at the same time. Bad habits become part of our identity, too, which makes them much harder to break. A smoker knows they are a smoker. Being a non-smoker feels “wrong” until it becomes part of the new identity. Fortunately, the same applies to good qualities.
Using identity to create change
Our identity plays a big role when it comes to change and getting things done. Often we don’t see ourselves as the kind of person who can reach a certain goal. To change this, we can make changes to our self-image – through conscious action. Our mind observes our actions, and so they flow into our thinking and our identity.
We have to behave like the person we want to become. That is how we start a cycle of change.
The AIA cycle
Action: We act bravely → we consider ourselves brave.
Identification (identity): We consider ourselves brave → we think bravely.
Affirmation: We think bravely → we act bravely.
So our actions shape our identity, which in turn affects the way we think. Thoughts become actions. Once we set this cycle in motion, we can change our identity for good. This exercise can be supported by additional affirmation and visualisation.
Exercise: For 30 days, consciously act the way you always want to act in the future. In addition, use affirmations to anchor your new identity more deeply.
