Exploring Identity Beyond Professional Roles: Who Are You, Truly?

The question 'Who are you?' can be daunting, especially when faced with the follow-up, 'What do you do?' Often, a person's professional identity overshadows their true self. However, as we delve deeper, we uncover layers of our being that define us beyond our work. This article aims to help individuals, particularly those identifying as Enneagram type 3 (The Achiever), navigate this conundrum and provide a comprehensive answer to the age-old question: 'Who are you?'

Introduction to Professional Identity and Its Challenges

Many of us have been in situations where we are asked, 'Who are you?' and the expected follow-up is, 'What do you do?' This forced transition from 'who' to 'what' can be particularly challenging for those who identify as Enneagram 3, often referred to as The Achiever. Despite the common wisdom that 'who' should come before 'what,' we are more often than not expected to answer in the reverse order. For Enneagram 3s, our identity is deeply tied to our professional achievements and the roles we play. To truly answer 'who you are' means to peel back the layers of our 'professional self' and reveal our true, unconditioned identity.

Deeper Understanding: I'm a Person Who...

It is crucial to strike a balance between honesty and humility when answering the question 'Who are you?' One effective approach is to introduce yourself with phrases like, 'I am a person who loves to learn new approaches to everyday problems. What excites me most about the Internet of Things and programming solutions is...'. This approach fosters a sense of authenticity and mindfulness. By incorporating your passions, values, and your impact on the world, you provide a more holistic picture of who you are. Refraining from overly self-promoting or brutally honest assessments, you aim for a blend of both refined and true honesty.

The Role of the Weekly Sabbath

One of the best things that has ever happened to me is the decision to religiously observe a weekly Sabbath. For many, it's a day of rest where we disconnect from our daily routines and reconnect with ourselves. Observing a Sabbath is not just about taking a break; it's about ceasing to be the doer and embracing the observer within. 'One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do is to stop doing things once a week for a full day and just rest in the being.' In these moments, I am able to place myself in the context of the bigger picture. When I can cease doing and embrace being, I am able to step out of the self-centeredness and realize that I am merely one of billions, a finite human in a vast, interconnected web of life. These moments of rest allow me to appreciate the beauty in life that is not contingent on my efforts.

The Four Components of True Self

Ultimately, 'What you do' is a part of your identity, but it’s not the whole story. To fully answer the question 'Who are you?' it is imperative to consider four key components:

Your purpose or raison d'etre(Reason for existence) Your passion Your mission Your vocation

Your purpose encompasses the reason you exist, your reasons for being alive beyond your work. Your passion is the driving force that motivates you. Your mission is the impact you aim to make on the world. And your vocation is how you contribute to society. These components are created by the overlapping attributes of what you love, what your world needs, what you are paid for, and what you are great at. By integrating these elements, you can present a more nuanced and authentic answer to the question 'Who are you?'

Conclusion

In conclusion, responding to 'Who are you?' without referencing your profession requires a deep dive into yourself. Reflect on your passions, your mission, and your purpose, and share them in a balanced and honest manner. By doing so, you not only answer the question but also bring a deeper level of authenticity to your identity. As we navigate our professional and personal lives, let us strive to remain true to our true self, beyond the roles we play.