The thing about having an identity crisis is sometimes we don't even know that we are going through it when we are. We may think it's normal for us to base our identity on our looks, our influence, what people think about us or what we have been told about ourselves. But what if I told you that your true identity is not found in any of the areas and that it is actually way deeper than we think?
Before we get into understanding whether or not you are having an identity crisis, we first have to break down what an “Identity Crisis” actually is. So, the word “identity” according to Google means, “the fact of being who or what a person or thing is” And to be in a crisis means to be in “a time of intense difficulty, trouble, or danger.” When we put both of those definitions together, an identity crisis is when you are in a place of your life where your lack of understanding of who you are puts you in situations of danger, trouble and difficulty.
As a therapist, one of the things that I always tell my clients is that the first step to recovery and transformation is awareness. If you are not aware that you are in a crisis, then you won't be motivated to make a change to bring you out of it. So here are some signs that you are dealing with an identity crisis and don't even know it:
Your Identity is Based on Other People's Opinions of You
When you live life and identify yourself based on the opinions of other people, you are constantly swayed back and forth by the approval and disapproval of those people. One day a lot of people may like you and the very next day they may change their minds about how they view you. Because humans change their minds all the time, basing your identity on what they say or think about you is a sure way to put yourself in an identity crisis.
You Lack Confidence or Have a Low-Esteem
If you look in the mirror and you can find countless things that you don’t like about yourself, then you may be facing an identity crisis. If you like the confidence to follow your dreams and to put yourself out there, it shows that you don’t really understand your identity and your worth as a person.
You Often Settle for Less and Accept the Bare Minimum
This is one of the main ways to tell that you are having an identity crisis. If you settle for less in your relationships, your friendships, your career, your dreams and aspirations. It shows that you don’t have a good understanding of what you are worth, and who you are. A person who understands how valuable they are does not accept just anything or anyone into their space. However, if you do, it shows that you may be having an identity crisis.
You Let People Walk Over You
Another sign that you are having an identity crisis is if you tend to be a people pleaser, and every aspect of your life. If you find that you are constantly in relationships, where the other person is physically, verbally, emotionally, spiritually, and or mentally miss treating you, this is a huge sign that you haven’t come to a full understanding of exactly who you are.
You Feel Like You Are Not Really Living Up To Your Full Potential
If you find yourself in a constant state of discontentment in your life, this may be a sign that you haven’t reached a full understanding of who you are. If you know who you are meant to be in this world, and you were convinced that you were made for a particular purpose, then you will live a life where you are constantly pushing yourself to make your dreams a reality.
If you relate to any of these points, then the truth of the matter is that you are facing some form of an identity crisis. Now, sis don’t stress yourself out. There is still hope, as I mentioned before, the first step to recovery and transformation is awareness and I will do all that I can to help you not only be aware that you are facing an identity crisis but to also give you some tools and tips of how you can overcome it. Stay tuned for our next blog, where I will be going into further detail of just how you can overcome your identity crisis. Until then, remember you are loved you are chosen and you are gloriously treasured by God.
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