You Are More Than Your Cause

I know from my own experiences and from hearing others’ experiences, it is so easy to caught up in whatever it is that you’re doing. Whatever it is that you’re good at. 

Part of my identity in college was being a good student. I was a very good student. I (for the most part) read the assigned reading for class, took notes, showed up to class and focused. I took a lot of pride in being a good student. But when my identity as a student was challenged when I was in my master’s program, my world came crashing down. If I wasn’t a good student, if I was a poor therapist, than what am I?

I am not the only person to have had this experience: some people base it on the relationships they’re in or their position at work. There is nothing wrong in taking pride in these types of things, but the water gets muddy when self-worth is tied directly to these details. You are more than your cause, your position, your relationship status. 

How can you reconnect to the other parts of you?

Look at all the parts of yourself with appreciation

Do you take the time to appreciate all the things that you’re able to do? I’m not talking about this in a way that is rooted in capitalism. It’s not about how productive you are. It’s about looking all the things you’re able to do with your mind and body and relationships. 

Give yourself permission to disconnect from your job, cause, identity

If you’re a parent and find yourself only being a parent, can you give yourself permission to give yourself space to be you. Yes, you are a parent, and no, that is not your sole identity. If you’re a student, give yourself permission to do other things that is fulfilling for you. If you are an advocate fighting the fight that needs to happen for social justice, how can you give yourself a break to take care of your basic needs unapologetically? You’ll be able to be more present when ALL of you are being take care of.

You are worth more than productivity.

If you are located in California and wanting to work with me individual, I am accepting new clients. Please contact me to get more information.