Throughout our lifetimes, we go through different stages. We change, we grow, we go off course… and sometimes we wonder if we are staying true to our authentic selves.

The world around us influences our thoughts, decisions, and patterns to the point where we struggle with remembering who we are.  But our core values and core beliefs often remain the same.

How to Remember Who You Were Before

Do you remember who you were before? Reflect back to the times when you were a child. What stays with you? How much did you change?

I remember when I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher when I grew up. I wanted to work in a high school and help teenagers get into good colleges and plan for their future. But as I got older, those plans changed. I never became that high school teacher.

It’s important to note, that it’s natural to change and make different decisions. But sometimes society and the opinion of others leads us down a path that is different from who we were before. It’s always good to reflect and remember who we were, as it could lead us to where we need to be in life.

Take a moment to dig into the dreams and hopes you had when you were in different stages of your life. How important were these to you? Could you revisit them and make them work for the future? 

How Do You Remember Yourself in the Present?

Our authentic selves often get lost in life’s ever-changing circumstances. We often live in the midst of confusion.

Perhaps you’ve been living one way for so long, that you forgot to stay true to yourself.  In moments of vulnerability, we are able to get a glimpse of clarity and revisit the “real” us.

“I want you to remember who you are, despite the bad things that are happening to you. Because those bad things aren’t you. They are just things that happen to you. You need to accept that who you are and the things that happen you, are not one and the same.” ~ Colleen Hoover

Clarity serves a true purpose in our lives, as it opens up the door to the truth. To really remember who you are, you have to dig deep within your soul. Discover how below:

7 Steps to Remembering Who You Are 

1. Know Your Truth 

We can try to hide from others, but we can’t hide from ourselves. Knowing your truth and what you stand for, allows us to be honest with ourselves. We must try to accept all our perfections and imperfections, likes and dislikes, hopes and dreams.

By having an honest relationship with yourself, you’re able to be honest with others. Your truth will endure all the difficulties around you.

2. Identify Your Core Beliefs

Our core beliefs are based on how we feel, how we react, and our inner dialogue. To identify your core beliefs, pay attention to your thoughts and how you speak to yourself. You can write these thoughts down on a piece of paper, and review them when you have time.

Next, become aware of your emotional reactions towards yourself and others. What triggers you? Try closing your eyes and identify your feelings. Accept these beliefs as they are or work towards changing them if they cause you pain and discomfort.

3. Identify Your Core Values

Identifying what matters to us allows us to stay in touch with our authentic selves. When we stay true to our core values, we are proud of ourselves and feel a sense of gratitude.

How do you identify your core values? It takes a bit of reflection and patience. You can start by writing down a list of what is most important to you and why. It can look something like this:

• Family: Because they are my rock and place where love is shared

• Respect For Myself and Others: Because respect forms healthy relationships where opinions and thoughts are accepted and nourished.

• Continuous Growth: Because growth forces me to become a better and improved version of myself. I can learn and excel in life through growth.

4. Ask Yourself Questions

It imperative throughout your life journey to continue asking questions. Otherwise, it could become easy to get caught up in confusion and despair. The truth is, life is full of different options that we can take, but some take us away from our authentic selves. Some options have the power to distract us from our core being.

Here are some example questions you can continue asking yourself throughout this thing called life:

1. Is the life I’m leading in alignment with my beliefs and values?

2. Am I living the life I’ve always desired to live?

3. Am I staying true to myself in this very moment?

By asking yourself deep and honest questions, you can remember who you really are and where you want to go.

5. Believe in Yourself 

Believing in yourself means that you support your ideas, thoughts, goals, and identity. You know that no matter what, you are someone who is important to yourself and others.

Remembering who you are aligns with the belief in yourself. Your voice and opinion matter, and can reign over all the outside noise. You won’t be heavily influenced by those around you.

6. Write Down What Makes You Unique

Write down everything that makes you different from others. Maybe you love to cook, or you’re a world traveler, or maybe you’re obsessed with fashion. Whatever it is, write it down. In addition, think about what makes you unique as an individual.

For example, if you’re a writer, then you might want to list your favorite books and authors. Or perhaps you’re a musician, so you could list your favorite songs and bands.

7. Make Time For Yourself

Take time for yourself. Take a walk, meditate, call a friend, take a nap, get a massage, etc. Find ways to relax and unwind. Spend time with yourself and get back to basics. Remember what makes you feel good and what makes you happy.

Final Thoughts

It’s okay to feel lost at times, confused, and to not remember who you are and where you are going. Our paths in life are all different and take different turns.

We can practice self-reflection, ask ourselves honest questions, and dig deep within ourselves to rediscover who we really are. It just takes a bit of practice and determination, but we will get there and live our lives as authentically as possible.