It is no secret the world around you and people in it are always looking to label. These labels can be powerful. Over time, if not resilient, you can find your identity trapped in a box of who others say you are.
It does not happen all at once though, it builds and grows in increments over time. A remark from a loved one, a light dig from a friend, or a backhanded compliment from an acquaintance.
– Your parents labeled you shy so you end up in the shy box.
– Your friend labeled you bossy so you end up in the bossy box.
– Your coach said you lack focus so you end up in the unfocused box.
Now it is your job to punch your way out of the boxes you find yourself in. It may be uncomfortable at first. You will get more comfortable the more you do it becoming stronger in the process.
Start now. The next time someone labels you something you are not, stop them in their tracks and correct them. The next time someone misrepresents you, stop them in their tracks and correct them.
Regardless of their reaction, it is about you staking your claim for who you are. Don’t allow yourself to be labeled in a way that doesn’t fit. You must not leave who you are up to anyone else.
