I often find it interesting how people describe themselves. As part of my job, I travel the country and engage in conversations with complete strangers, be it on an airplane, at a restaurant, or in the workplace. You might be amazed at the number of individuals who can't wait to tell their story to a willing ear.
More often than not, I hear all about people's careers first. Those stories usually boil down to two scenarios: they either love their job and can't imagine doing anything different or they hate their job but stand convinced it's all they'll ever do.
Family is a close second in topics for conversation. I love seeing proud mommas pulling out the iPhone and sharing pictures of little Suzie or proud daddies talking about little Jack's winning football game last Saturday. Occasionally I'll even hear a stellar love story that could be sold to Hollywood; those are always a welcomed surprise.
Finally, I all too frequently hear about people's assumed and actual failures. What they wish they would have done differently, or what they could have done better given an more conducive opportunity. Some individuals can't move past the mess ups. It's as if the failure is a cloud that constantly follows them, clothing them in shame. Others let the failure fuel them, be it positively or negatively; either way, they just can't let it go.
"What does all this have to do with personal description," you might ask. Well, in two years of steady traveling, I very rarely hear about others ambitions, hobbies, dreams, goals, or silly quirks. I can't help but wonder if modern day America has lost sight of personal identity.
While a job or family may contribute or influence your thoughts, behaviors, or mannerisms, I'm not convinced they should comprise your complete identity. If we allow failure (or fear of failure) to define us, we'll never win. But what about those shelved dreams? Hidden talents? Favorite hobbies? Personal commitments? What place do we allow those things in our lives?
Who are you today and what things have you adopted as your identity? I think it's a question worth thinking about.
