Ep.143 – Christina Gossayn – Embracing Identity and Prioritizing Yourself in Parenthood
Have you ever taken the time to think about who you are? We all have multiple identities, but how do the different people we represent come together to form who we are?
Christina Gossayn, a behavioral scientist and Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior candidate, has focused her research on how identities evolve over time, especially under the mantle of responsibility that comes with age. Our self-reflection can take a backseat as we juggle various roles, from professionals to parents.
For many, particularly working parents, the struggle to make time for reflection is real. Christina and I discuss practical ways for individuals to prioritize and define their purpose amidst the hustle of daily life.
Here are three key takeaways:
Understanding the value of taking time to contemplate one's purpose and objectives even amidst daily responsibilities.
Acknowledging that our identity is not static but constantly shaped by experiences and reflections opening doorways to authentic growth and leadership.
Challenging the notion that our careers solely define us and recognizing the importance of empathy, relationships, and personal joys.
So, as we prepare to embark on this journey into self, I invite you all to take a step back, reflect, and maybe discover something new about the ever-changing landscape of your own identity.
Please enjoy my conversation with Christina Gossayn.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES YOU MAY LIKE
1 Big Idea to Think About
Identity is a fluid and reflexive process that evolves over time, influenced by experiences, responsibilities, and reflections. Prioritizing self-reflection and understanding one's multiple identities is crucial for personal development and well-being.
1 Way You Can Apply This
Commit to regular self-reflection practices, such as journaling or taking moments of solitude, to delve into your values, choices, and evolving identities. Consider how different life experiences shape your understanding of self and prioritize nurturing your personal identity alongside other responsibilities.
1 Question to Ask
How can I prioritize self-reflection and understanding my evolving identities amidst the daily rush of responsibilities and expectations?
Key Moments From the Show
00:03:07: Identity evolves over time, becoming more reflexive as responsibilities increase, but time for self-reflection often diminishes amidst life's demands.
00:08:09: Prioritizing time for reflection is essential for aligning personal purpose and objectives, but how can individuals best make this time amidst busy schedules?
00:23:04: How do different societal contexts influence the prioritization of various identities, such as work identity versus personal identity?
00:36:30: People tend to overestimate how much they've changed when looking back and underestimate potential future change, highlighting the importance of maintaining a growth mindset towards identity development.
Resources Featured in This Episode:
Brian Portnoy - Funded Contentment: Am I Going to Be Okay?
Dr. Christina Gravert – Reducing Friction to Change Behaviors