As it is, we are not ever, really, but a singular identity.  We are an identity of identities.  And, by default, we are attached to each one of them.

That doesn’t mean however that there is a minimum number of identities that make up our “complete” identity.  Nor is it impossible that we get particularly attached to a particular one or a subset of ones that the rest are rendered nearly superfluous.

All attachments are pathways towards misery and all manner of deleterious ways of being and acting.  But the intensity of our attachments can vary, and the stronger the attachment, the more greased the pathway becomes.

So it is that if we only adopt a few identities to form our full identity-self, or if we become so overwhelmingly attached to only a few, then those identities, and those attachments, become incredibly strong indeed.  And that is where our pitfalls open up mightily.

The reminder here, then, is this:

Diversify Your Identity/Identities

It is a prod to avoid wrapping ourselves up in a single flag and instead spread ourselves broadly, creating a rich and networked set of identities that supports and empowers us and those around us.  If one is challenged, then our auto-defense-weaponry isn’t as likely to explode with full force, for it isn’t the end of us – we’ve got other identities that will live on.  The attachment is less and our freedom is greater.

And if that identity gets challenged, and we see that it isn’t, in actuality, working for us and those around us?  How fascinating!  We can complete it, set it aside, and create anew.

 

(Also, it pays to remember this earlier reminder as well:  Avoid basing your identity on beliefs or things and instead base it on values or intentions.)