Identity refers to the different aspects of a person that creates an image to be remembered by. The very idea of recognition and differentiation of one being from another relies on the concept of identity, making it one of the most important aspects to human existence.
Identity can be categorised into two separate branches:
- Social identity
- Personal identity
The exploration of human identity is a complex and fascinating topic, developing throughout time and social evolution. In this article we will touch on the definition of identity, especially on a personal scale to help you discover your own identity.
Social Identity
The most straightforward branch of identity is the social identity. This refers to the aspects of a person that can be observed outwardly and objectively. Legal Identification (ID) such as passport, birth certificate, nationality and date of birth are examples of this. It can also consist of physical attributes which someone can describe you with (eye colour, height, skin tone). Whilst these things can be changed through cosmetic or legal routes, once changed they are indisputable from a social standpoint, often written on legal documentation as mentioned above.
Personal Identity
The way you see yourself in your truest, most authentic state refers to personal identity. It refers to all the things you resonate with once you strip away the social influence – all the memories, experiences and decisions that formed the current version of yourself.
To give an absolute definition to personal identity would be to input social influence onto something that is in nature individualised. Personal identity differs from person to person. The aspects that are most important in your life will naturally manifest themselves into your identity.
The way you identify yourself may be shown through physical appearance. Something as simple as dress style or a tattoo can show what is important to you. But identity can be manifested in so many other forms:
- Occupation
- Choice in friends or partners
- Hobbies
- Religious beliefs
- Lifestyle choices
- Values
The way you live your life and manifest yourself rely on the things that shape your identity. This may include:
- Place of birth
- Locations lived in
- Gender
- Sexuality
- Memories
- Experiences
- Close relations – familial, romantic, or otherwise
The concept of identity is vast, fluid and everchanging. To pinpoint one’s own identity absolutely will take a lifetime of self reflection and introspection. In the meantime, it is always good to focus on how you want to shape your identity, making conscious decisions to build the person you want to be remembered by.
Forty Nights 
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