The art of becoming
Most people can describe themselves with words that describe their jobs, skills or achievements. However, these words can become personal limitations rather than starting points for continued growth.
The key to growth is not to abandon what you have achieved and your identity, but to wear it as a layer, not your whole skin.
Instead of saying “I am a designer”, say “I am currently designing”. “I am accomplishing” instead of “I am accomplished.” “I love to sail” instead of “I am a sailor.”
The first version is an end zone. The second is an action step.
The most adaptable people can be entrepreneurs who think like artists, experts who think like beginners, leaders who think like students. They haven't lost their identity—they've learned to use it as a lens for learning, an impetus to take risks, and experiences to build upon.
Every achievement provides tools to use to explore what’s next.
The question isn't "Who am I?" It's "Who am I becoming?"