Choices Signal Identity

What brand of toothpaste do you use? Crest? Arm & Hammer? Something completely different?

The choices we make reflect who we are. Our reflection is visible throughout every area of our lives. From the clothes we wear to our social circle, even down to the brand of toothpaste we buy, you can identify some trace of ourselves.

Why must some people own a $2,000 stereo while others are content owning one that costs $15? How are some individuals only satisfied when they have millions in their bank account while others are comfortable barely getting by every month? And why do some people have to own the very first iPhone while others are just fine ‘getting one later?’

It comes down to choice. And our choices are a reflection of who we are. The person that we are is a collection of our views, beliefs, and perspectives. Each of us forms our paradigm — and continues to form it throughout our lives — based on the feedback we get from ourselves, our close relationships, and society.

“In the end, we are our choices.” -Jeff Bezos

Our choices signal our identity. Whether we do something fast or slow, detailed or messy, loud or quiet. Your choices signal to the entire world who you are all the time.

Identity is something that is created through our thoughts, behaviors, and the feedback we receive. Each of us forms our identity over time.

The foundation of our identity is thought. We are what we think we are. If you want to make better choices, then it starts by improving your thoughts. Similarly, if you want to build a better version of yourself, then it starts by having a better self-dialogue.

“We are what we think we are.” -James Allen

While choices reflect who we are, they are only a short glimpse into our lives. Choices are limited to our environment, feelings, emotions, mindset, and other factors at that moment. However, building up our identity over time allows us to make the right decisions in any situation.

Increasing your awareness around the choices you make and why you make them can provide you with a better glimpse into your own life and the lives of other people. Your identity is changeable and you’re in control. Start making the necessary choices that align with the desired version of yourself. Cultivate the right thinking patterns that allow you to build a solid identity. Stay consistent in building your habits today so that you can make better choices tomorrow.

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