What defines us
⏬ Often, we assume that what defines us is linked to our possessions, degrees, job titles, and all external “appearances.” We’re regarded as successful and respected if we make it through life. And if we’re less exuberant or visible in our achievements, we may feel a like a failure or a “just enough person” as we don’t go around on fanfare about our deeds and virtues.
None of those will define you as a person — unless you let it — none of those are or should be, measures of the definition of your character. And none of those are deemed to be permanent. Sometimes you lose them; sometimes, they’re taken away from you, and sometimes you drop them yourself.
Who we are, is forged by a set of internal and external conditions that will bond and compound themselves depending on how we cherish them. They may not reach equal levels, but to forge an unshakable best version of yourself, you’ll need a good portion of each.
“This is who I am, and I have always been like this” is one of the most flawed premises of character. You’re not a hostage of yourself — unless you succumb to taking ownership of your life and prefer to delegate it to “old habits” and lame excuses. You have the power to decide when and why you’ll behave differently.
Sometimes we may think, “life outside is hard; that’s why I behave in such a way.” Well, let me tell you, external conditions don’t define a person’s character; they reveal it.
✅ It’s the world that gravitates in our immediate circle or vicinity that will ultimately define us. So carefully check your surroundings; they will somehow shape you.
✅ Who we are is how we treat ourselves in our intimacy and people regardless of their ranking or potential allies’ to boost our agenda.
✅ You are not your words. Often, I hear people saying, “I’m so this and that…..”. We are not our words or intentions; we are our actions, behaviors, and how we deal with people or whatever life sends us. I tend to be careful with anyone who repeatedly says he’s very honest.
⏩ Stop saying, “I am a perfectionist.” You are not; you have a habit of seeking perfectionism, and you are not a procrastinator; you have a habit of procrastinating. But it can and should be changed. And that capacity to change habits can be at the core of defining a person’s character.
