finding your identity essay

How to Identify Yourself in an Essay: Exploring Self-Identity in Writing

by Brandon Thompson
October 18, 2023

Writing an essay about oneself can be a daunting task. How do you capture the essence of who you are in just a few words or pages? How do you define yourself in a way that is both authentic and engaging? In this blog post, we will dive into the art of self-identification in essay writing, providing you with tips, insights, and examples to help you craft a compelling narrative about your own identity.

Whether you’re facing the challenge of answering questions like “How do you define yourself?” or “What makes up your identity?” or struggling with how to discuss yourself without using the first-person pronoun, we’ll guide you through the process step by step. We will explore various techniques for writing a self-identity essay, such as using reflection, describing your social identity, and introducing yourself in a creative way.

So grab a pen and paper, or open up that blank document, as we journey together to discover how to effectively identify yourself in an essay – a reflection of who you are in this ever-evolving world of 2023.

How to Identify Yourself in an Essay: Let Your Words Shine!

When it comes to writing an essay, one of the most important aspects is identifying yourself and expressing your unique voice. After all, no one wants to read a dull and lifeless piece of writing! So, how can you make sure your essay stands out? Let’s dive in and explore some tips on how you can identify yourself effectively in your writing.

Find Your Writing Persona

Just like superheroes have alter egos, writers too have their own personas. Embrace your inner writer and let your personality shine through your words! Whether you’re witty, introspective, or even a bit sarcastic, infusing your essay with your authentic voice will make it engaging and relatable. Don’t be afraid to show some personality – after all, who said essays have to be boring?

Inject Some Humor

Who says essays can’t be entertaining? Injecting humor into your writing can captivate your readers and make your essay stand out from the crowd. Of course, don’t force it or try too hard to be funny; instead, lightheartedly sprinkle in some jokes or clever anecdotes that relate to your topic. A humorous tone can make your essay more enjoyable to read while still conveying your thoughts effectively.

Reflect Your Unique Perspectives

We all have our own perspectives and experiences that shape the way we view the world. Use your essay as an opportunity to showcase your unique point of view. Whether you’re tackling a philosophical question or exploring a personal experience, don’t be afraid to express your thoughts and feelings authentically. Remember, your perspective is what sets your essay apart.

Play with Structure

While essays typically have a formal structure, that doesn’t mean you can’t play around with it a little. Use subheadings, bullet points, or even numbered lists to organize your thoughts and make the reading experience more enjoyable. Breaking up your content into smaller, digestible sections makes it easier for your readers to follow along and keeps them engaged from start to finish.

Dare to Be Different

Everyone loves a fresh perspective, so dare to be different in your writing. Challenge conventional ideas or take a unique stance on a topic. By offering a fresh take or a creative spin, you’ll leave a lasting impression on your readers. Remember, the goal is not to conform but to stand out and be memorable.

Embrace Your Quirkiness

We all have our quirks, so don’t be afraid to let them shine in your essay. Whether it’s an unusual hobby, a unique talent, or a peculiar fascination, incorporating your quirks into your writing can make it more interesting and authentic. By embracing your individuality, you’ll create a personal connection with your readers and leave a lasting impact.

In conclusion, when it comes to identifying yourself in an essay, the key is to be genuine, entertaining, and captivating. Let your writing persona shine, inject some humor, reflect your unique perspectives, play with structure, dare to be different, and embrace your quirkiness. By following these tips, you’ll not only create an essay that stands out but also enjoy the process of writing and expressing yourself. So, grab your pen and let your words do the talking!

FAQ: How do you identify yourself in an essay?

How do you answer what defines you.

In an essay, when asked what defines you, it’s important to delve deep into your values, beliefs, experiences, and passions. Reflecting on your unique qualities and characteristics will help you provide an authentic and meaningful response. Remember, you are more than just a list of accomplishments or titles – you are the sum of your values and experiences.

How do you write a self-identity essay

Writing a self-identity essay can be both challenging and liberating. Start by introspecting and reflecting on your identity – the cultural, social, and personal influences that shape you. Then, craft a compelling narrative that showcases your journey of self-discovery. Share anecdotes, milestones, and experiences that have contributed to your growth and sense of self.

How can I define myself

Defining oneself is like peeling an onion – layer by layer, you discover who you truly are. Embrace introspection and explore your passions, values, strengths, and weaknesses. Look beyond external expectations and societal norms. Remember, it’s a lifelong process, and it often takes time and self-reflection to truly understand and define yourself.

What is an identity example

Identity is as unique as a fingerprint, and each person’s identity is formed by a combination of factors. For example, an identity can be shaped by cultural heritage, such as being a proud Latina or a devoted fan of Korean pop music. It can also be influenced by personal traits, such as being an adventurous thrill-seeker or a compassionate and empathetic friend. Ultimately, identity is the intricate tapestry that makes each person who they are.

What makes up a person’s identity essay

A person’s identity essay encompasses various aspects that contribute to their sense of self. These include cultural background , beliefs, values, interests, experiences, and relationships. It is the fusion of these elements that shapes a person’s unique identity and makes them the individual they are.

How do you write an identity statement

Crafting an identity statement is like capturing the essence of who you are in a concise and powerful sentence. Start by reflecting on the core values, passions, and qualities that define you. Then, articulate these elements into a clear and compelling statement that encapsulates your identity. Be authentic, genuine, and unafraid to showcase what makes you extraordinary.

How do you make a new identity for yourself

Making a new identity for yourself can be both exciting and challenging. Start by identifying the changes you want to make, whether it’s adopting new habits, exploring new interests, or reassessing your values. Embrace personal growth, surround yourself with supportive individuals, and be open to new experiences. Remember, creating a new identity is a journey, and it takes time, effort, and self-reflection.

How do you write a few lines about yourself

When writing a few lines about yourself, it’s important to strike a balance between showcasing your unique qualities and maintaining brevity. Highlight your key accomplishments, interests, and passions. Inject a touch of humor, if appropriate, to engage your readers. Remember, the goal is to leave a lasting impression and pique curiosity about the person behind those few lines.

How do you define yourself reflection

Defining yourself through reflection involves introspection and analyzing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Take the time to understand your values, strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. Explore how your past experiences have shaped you and consider how you want to grow in the future. Through reflection, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and thereby define your identity.

How would you describe your social identity

Describing social identity involves considering how you relate to different social groups and communities. It encompasses aspects such as race, ethnicity, gender, religion, and socioeconomic background. When describing your social identity, you may discuss the intersectionality of these various facets and how they influence your perspective, experiences, and interactions within society.

What makes up your identity

Your identity is an intricate tapestry woven from various threads that make you unique. It comprises elements such as your cultural background, personal values, experiences, relationships, and aspirations. It is the combination of these factors that gives you a distinct identity, shaping your beliefs, actions, and overall sense of self.

How do you talk about yourself in an essay without using “I”

Crafting an essay about yourself without relying heavily on the pronoun “I” requires creativity and alternative perspectives. Instead of constantly using “I,” focus on sharing specific experiences, achievements, or insights. Use descriptive language to engage your readers and help them visualize your narrative. By varying sentence structures and utilizing storytelling techniques, you can effectively convey your unique story without relying solely on “I.”

How would you describe yourself in one sentence

In one sentence, I am a curious wanderer, forever seeking adventures, embracing new experiences, and finding joy in the simple moments of life.

What is meant by self-identity

Self-identity refers to the recognition, understanding, and acceptance of one’s own unique characteristics, values, and beliefs. It is a journey of self-discovery that involves introspection, reflection, and a deep connection with one’s true self. Self-identity allows individuals to define who they are and navigate their lives authentically.

How would you describe yourself in a college essay

Describing oneself in a college essay requires striking a delicate balance between showcasing personal qualities and demonstrating suitability for academic pursuits . Be authentic and genuine, highlighting your unique traits, experiences, and ambitions. Emphasize your academic achievements, extracurricular involvements, and personal growth. However, remember to let your personality shine through your writing, engaging the readers with your unique voice.

How do I identify myself example

An example of identifying oneself could be acknowledging oneself as an adventurous explorer who finds solace in nature, a compassionate listener who provides comfort to others, or an analytical thinker who thrives in problem-solving. Identifying oneself involves understanding and embracing personal traits and qualities that make each person unique.

How do you introduce yourself in a class essay

When introducing yourself in a class essay, start with a captivating anecdote or a thought-provoking question related to the topic. Provide a brief overview of your background, emphasizing experiences or interests relevant to the class. Establish credibility while showcasing enthusiasm and curiosity for the subject matter. Engage the reader from the start to set the tone for an engaging essay.

What are 5 important parts of your identity

Five important parts of one’s identity may include cultural background, personal values, aspirations, relationships, and experiences. These elements shape who we are, influence our decision-making, and provide a lens through which we view the world. Each individual’s identity is unique, comprising an intricate web of multifaceted components.

How do you introduce yourself in academic writing

In academic writing, introducing yourself should be done succinctly and professionally. Start with your full name, followed by your current academic affiliation, such as the university or institution you attend. If applicable, mention your area of study or research interests in a concise manner. Avoid unnecessary personal details and maintain a confident and polished tone throughout your introduction.

What is your identity as a student

As a student, your identity extends beyond being a mere participant in academic pursuits. It encompasses your intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and dedication to personal growth. Your identity as a student is shaped by how you navigate challenges, collaborate with peers, and actively engage in the pursuit of knowledge. Embrace this multifaceted identity as a student, allowing it to empower and guide you on your academic journey.

How do you identify yourself meaning

Identifying yourself is about recognizing and defining your unique qualities, values, beliefs, and experiences. It involves understanding how these elements shape your perspective, actions, and life choices. By acknowledging and embracing your identity, you gain a sense of self-awareness, enabling personal growth and an authentic connection with others.

How do you introduce yourself in writing examples

Hello, fellow readers! I’m Jane, a passionate storyteller with a penchant for adventure. Whether lost in the pages of a book or exploring the great outdoors, I find solace in embracing new worlds and acquiring fresh perspectives.

Greetings, everyone! I’m John, a coffee-fueled wordsmith on a perpetual quest for knowledge. When I’m not decoding complex theories at my laptop, you can find me immersing myself in the creative realms of photography or scouring the city for the perfect cup of joe.

How do you introduce yourself in a creative essay

In a creative essay, the introduction is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Craft an opening that hooks the reader and sets the tone for your creative exploration. Utilize vivid descriptions, figurative language, or an intriguing anecdote that illuminates your unique perspective. Take the reader on a journey, introducing yourself as a protagonist in your own story, ready to embark on an adventure of self-expression.

How do you introduce yourself as a student

As a student, introducing yourself is an opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm for learning and to connect with your peers. Share your name, grade or year level, and a personal interest or hobby that reflects your individuality. Consider mentioning your academic goals and aspirations, highlighting your determination to excel. Be approachable, friendly, and open to forging new connections in the student community.

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self-identity essay
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Brandon Thompson

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When you’re a teenager, you’re probably too busy to sit down and think about your own identity. No one exactly assigns you “introspection time” as homework (though, if you’re my student, this has very likely happened). So when you start working on your college essays, it might be the first time you truly start thinking about how you can express who you are in a way that will help a group of strangers understand something about you. Let’s be honest—it feels like a lot of pressure to sum up your identity in 250 words or less. But we’re here to help.

There are many different types of application essays you’ll need to write, as my colleague Annie so perfectly laid out here . But we’re going to talk about one type in particular: the essays about identity and diversity. These are powerful college essays that give admissions officers an opportunity to glimpse into your daily life and understand your unique experiences. For some students, though, these essays can be daunting to think about and write.

Ever wonder why colleges are asking these questions? Well, the simple answer is that they want to get to know you more. Aside from your academic interests, your activities, and your accomplishments in the classroom, there really isn’t that much space to talk about things like your ethnic background, religion, gender identity, or local community. And these are things colleges want to know about you, too!

How Do You Write a Good Identity and Diversity Essay?

Before you start writing, let’s define a few terms you might run into while drafting your college essays about identity and diversity.

Who are you? I know what you’re thinking—it’s way too early in the morning to get this existential. I hear you. But let’s break this down. Identity is made up of many qualities: personality, culture, ethnic or racial background, sexual orientation, gender, physical ability, and linguistic background, among others. Maybe you identify really strongly with the religion on Mom’s side of the family, but not Dad’s. Maybe you speak a language not typical of folks from your culture. Maybe you have recently come into your gender identity and finally feel like yourself. Why is that identity important to the way you define who you are? Think of it like this: If you’ve met someone new, and your goal is to help them get to know you in the shortest amount of time possible, how would you be able to accomplish this? What’s your tagline? That’s how you’ll want to tackle this type of college essay.

Diversity

One individual person can’t be diverse. But when a college is referring to diversity, they’re usually looking to their student body and asking how you, as an individual with your own identity, can add to their diversity. What experiences have you had in your life that might help you make the student body more diverse? Have you dealt with dyslexia and come to terms with how best to learn, keeping your abilities in mind? If so, how can you contribute to other students who might learn differently? Did you grow up as the oldest of 10 siblings and have to take care of them on a daily basis? What kind of responsibilities did you have and how did that influence you? These don’t need to be visible qualities. The goal of the diversity college essay is to understand how these identifying factors can help you contribute to a school in a way they haven’t seen before.

Let’s define community. You may associate it with the city or neighborhood you live in. But a community doesn’t have to be geographical. It doesn’t even have to be formal. Community can come from that sense of connection you have with like-minded people. It can be built with people you’ve shared experiences with. So, when we think of community in this sense, we could be thinking about the community that exists within your apartment complex. We could be thinking about the youth group at your mosque. We could be thinking about your little group of artists within your science and tech magnet school. Think about what communities you are a part of, and be prepared to talk about your place within them.

You might think that these questions are only being asked by small liberal arts schools—but that’s not true. Bigger schools and colleges also want to get to know all of the thousands of students they’re bringing to campus as part of their class.

Big Name Colleges that Care About Diversity

To give you a glimpse of the variety, here are a few examples of college essays where these identity and diversity may come into play:

University of Michigan

“Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.”

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

“Expand on an aspect of your identity (for example, your religion, culture, race, sexual or gender identity, affinity group, etc.). How has this aspect of your identity shaped your life experiences thus far?”

Pomona College

“Tell us about an experience when you dealt with disagreement or conflict around different perspectives within a community.”

Sarah Lawrence College

“Sarah Lawrence College's community places strong value in inclusion and diversity. In 250-500 words, tell us about what you value in a community and how your perspective, lived experiences, or beliefs might contribute to your College community.”

Remember what these colleges are trying to understand: who you are and what has influenced you to become the person you are today (identity), where you come from (community), and how you might be able to add to the diversity of their college campus. Once you really get to the core and understand the intent of these types of college essays, you’ll absolutely be able to write in an earnest and genuine way. We say this frequently at Collegewise, but it’s worth repeating here, especially when it comes to essays about identity and diversity. Just be yourself.

About Us: With more than twenty years of experience, Collegewise counselors and tutors are at the forefront of the ever-evolving admissions landscape. Our work has always centered on you: the student. And just like we’ve always done, we look for ways for you to be your best self - whether it’s in the classroom, in your applications or in the right-fit college environment. Our range of tools include counseling , test prep , academic tutoring , and essay management, all with the support of our proprietary platform , leading to a 4x higher than average admissions rates.

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woman with map walking down country path illustrating trying to find yourself

To be lost is as legitimate a part of your process as being found. – Alex Ebert

If you feel a little lost right now, you’re not alone.

Many people experience this at some point in their lives.

The way out is to find yourself.

Only you can do this. You cannot wait for someone else to find you and tell you who you are.

Where do you begin looking?

That’s what we’ll hope to answer in this article.

Speak to an accredited and experienced therapist to help you find your true identity. You may want to try speaking to one via BetterHelp.com for quality care at its most convenient.

What Does It Feel Like To Be Lost?

If any of the following sounds familiar to you, it’s a sign that you feel lost right now.

You don’t have a strong sense of identity.
You don’t know your place in the world.
You struggle to envision a future that looks any different to your present.
You feel discontent with parts of your life.
You feel like there’s more to life than you’re currently engaged with.
You feel a certain distance between you and the people in your life.
You no longer feel comfortable with the person you are.

Why Might You Be Struggling With Your Identity?

Identity is not something that people feel the moment they are able to recognize themselves in the mirror.

It is something you discover piece by piece as you journey through life.

Yet, it can be easy to confuse what is actually you and what you think is you.

For one, you are not an isolated being. You are part of an elaborate interwoven system of people, groups, beliefs, ideals, and other entities.

This society that you grew up in can put ideas in your head about the type of person you ought to be.

Or perhaps you have been weighed down by the expectations of your parents, or of other important people in your life.

They may have their own ideas of who you should be, what you should value, and where your path should lead in life.

And identity is not a fixed thing. It is constantly changing and being molded by your experiences.

Sometimes this process is slow and gradual. Other times certain events can shift things dramatically.

If you have recently gone through something that has made you question how you are living your life, it can leave you feeling at odds with the person you currently see when you look in the mirror.

And as you move through the different stages of life, you might feel the need to renew your identity so that it better reflects where you are and who you want to be at this point in time.

This is where the classic mid-life crisis comes into play, and the somewhat new quarter-life crisis that many young adults seem to have these days.

What Are You Looking For?

In this process, it can help to identify whether you want to:

a) find your true self for the first time

b) find your new self

c) find yourself again

If you feel as though you have never really known who you truly are, it comes down to forming an identity from scratch.

This requires the most soul searching and work to really hone in on your unique combination of traits, beliefs, and desires.

Have you gone through a shift in your mindset or worldview – perhaps due to a single event or because you’ve reached a new stage of your life?

If so, the process is different. It involves deciding which things you’d like to change about your life . What do you want to drop from your life and what do you want to add to it?

Or do you feel like you have lost touch with who you are? Did you once have a good understanding of what really mattered to you?

If this is the case, the goal is to identify the ways that you may have drifted from the person you are so that you can find your way back to that point.

While the advice that follows is applicable to all of these situations, the way that you choose to prioritize the steps may differ depending on your circumstances.

What Does It Mean To Find Yourself?

The very idea of finding yourself is quite abstract.

What does it actually mean?

Well, a good way to define it is to look back at the bullet points above that describe what it feels like to be lost.

The process of finding yourself is one that should hopefully reverse each of those statements.

So you should end up with a strong sense of identity, know your place in the world, be able to imagine a different future, and feel content with your life in general .

You should feel engaged with life, as though you are choosing your path rather than letting it choose you.

You should feel connected with the people in your life. Perhaps even with the wider community.

You should feel comfortable with the person that you are and the ways you think and act and treat others.

Essentially, it means to reach a point where you are able to move through life with confidence….

…where you can stop doubting yourself at every turn.

…where you are guided by your intuition.

…where you embrace who you are rather than trying to deny it.

Does that sound like something you’d want?

11 Steps To Finding Yourself

It is a good idea to seek professional help from one of the therapists at BetterHelp.com as professional therapy can be highly effective in helping you to discover your true self.

Let’s now jump into some of the ways that you can discover your true identity.

Many of the points below require effort on your part. You will need to remain committed to the process if you are to succeed.

And whilst some steps are arguably more important than others, they all deserve at least some time and attention.

1. Identify Your Personality Type

Knowing who you are begins with understanding your personality.

We all have a unique personality, but it is possible to categorize the various things that make up who we are.

The theory and practice of personality science is fairly well established, and there are many different ways to assess and categorize your personality type.

Three of the most popular are the Big Five personality traits, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator®, and the Enneagram Type Indicator.

Without going into detail here, these models of personality aim to help you identify how you think, act, and interact with the world.

They cover a range of different traits and it is useful to work out where you fall into each of these three models.

To do this, we recommend taking these tests:

The Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator – currently $12
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Assessment – currently $49.95 (or take this free assessment with the option to upgrade to a full report for $29)
The Big Five personality traits assessment – free basic report with the option to upgrade for $29

Taking these tests will open up a huge window into the type of person you are.

2. Observe Your Feelings

As we negotiate each day, we are faced with a variety of situations.

Identifying how you react emotionally to these experiences can teach you more about what you do and do not like as a person.

And it can help you to spot aspects of your life that might need some adjustment.

Say, for example, that you are tasked with finding a restaurant for you and your friends to visit.

Only, you simply hate the whole process. You spend hours reading through reviews to ensure you make the right choice.

What’s beneath that need to find the ideal place to eat?

Is it that you fear your friends will criticize you if the food is bad?

Will you feel like a failure if you don’t get it right?

Are you concerned with pleasing every single one of your friends instead of picking something that pleases the majority?

This single, tiny experience can tell you a lot about yourself in a wider context.

Maybe you seek to avoid taking responsibility for things and prefer to be a follower rather than a leader.

Maybe you are a perfectionist.

Maybe you get anxious when making decisions.

For every situation you face, try to identify any feelings you might have and ask what the root causes are of those feelings.

And this applies to positive feelings too.

If you can figure out what you like doing and what you don’t like doing, it can give you a better idea of your strengths and weaknesses.

You can use this knowledge to work on your weaknesses and maximize your strengths.

3. Ask Who You Can Relate To And Who You Look Up To

It’s often easier to see yourself in someone else before you realize that that’s who you are too.

These can be real people, but it is just as common to identify with a fictional character from a book, movie, or TV series.

If you just seem to ‘get’ this person on an intuitive level, they can offer a glimpse into your own true identity.

The same can be said of those people you look up to as role models or figures of inspiration.

They can show you the types of traits and behaviors that you would like to embody, or possibly already do embody.

If it’s a real person rather than a work of fiction, it might be worth seeing if there are any documentaries or interviews that you could watch, or whether they have ever written an autobiography you could read.

You may be able to identify with their experiences and relate to the ways they dealt with them.

This can help you to get closer to the person and, in the process, closer to your true self.

4. Ask Others What They Think About You

While the people we spend our lives with can’t ever know everything we think or feel, they can often see things that may not be instantly apparent to us.

So it can be worth asking those who are close to you and who you trust what they think of when they think of you.

They may be able to identify aspects of your personality that have eluded you and they may know the types of things that make you happy or stressed.

Oftentimes, finding yourself is as much about uncovering what is already there as it is about learning what you want to be there.

And asking trusted companions is a good way to discover who you are in the here and now.

5. Consider What Your Core Values Are

A big part of finding yourself is to figure out those things that really, truly matter most of all to you.

These basic values are what will dictate your thoughts and actions about almost everything else.

Perhaps fairness, integrity , and dependability are three things that are important to you.

Or do you hold tolerance, curiosity, and security above all else?

Try browsing this list of 500 values and jotting down a small handful (no more than 10) that really resonate with you.

Use these as guides in the wider process of finding out who you are.

6. Reflect On Your Past

Your life up until now contains many lessons about who you are as a person.

Something as simple as recalling what you most enjoyed doing as a child can give you insights into the type of person you are now, underneath it all.

Did you enjoy playing a musical instrument; one that you no longer play? What was it that you liked about it?

Was it the learning process and mastering the technique?

Was it the creativity involved in improvising a tune?

Did it help you to forget your troubles and lose yourself in the moment?

Another approach you can take is to look at those things you are most proud of in your life so far.

And then, once again, ask yourself what was it about that achievement that made you so proud?

One final way that your past can shine a spotlight on the person you are (or wish to be) is by analyzing your regrets.

What have you done that you really wish you hadn’t? What can this teach you about your core values? How would you act if faced with a similar situation today?

This step is particularly useful for those who are looking to find themselves again after losing touch with what matters.

7. Look To The Future

Part of knowing who you are is having a clear vision of how you’d like your future to look.

Daydreaming about a more peaceful and relaxing future or longing for a life travelling the world reveals what your priorities are going forward.

This, in turn, says something about the person you are now.

So ask yourself what you’d like to be doing as you move into the next stage of your life.

What are the underlying reasons that you wish for these things? How does this translate into your current beliefs, values, and behaviors?

This step is especially useful for people who want to discover their new self after going through a period of change or a sudden life-altering experience.

8. Try New Things

Perhaps you feel a little lost because you have yet to identify something that really fills you with joy and passion.

If this is the case, the answer is to try out new things and expose yourself to different types of experiences.

Sometimes, our true self is waiting for us beyond our comfort zones .

By doing things that you wouldn’t normally do, you have the opportunity to discover pastimes, dreams, and even ways of living that really speak to you.

Maybe you learn the thrill of white water rafting. You might find that a minimalist lifestyle resonates with you. Perhaps you realize that you want to start your own business.

Go to talks on things you know little about. Visit expos that you think might interest you. Mingle with art lovers at a gallery opening.

While the majority of things won’t really be for you, there will be some that have the potential to be a big presence in your life going forward.

These things will form a part of the identity you are trying so hard to uncover.

9. Write Everything Down

The process of figuring out who you are is a long one. So it really helps to keep track of everything you have done and discovered so far.

You can either write in a daily journal if this appeals to you, or you could create a dedicated self-discovery document to house all of your thoughts and feelings related to finding yourself.

You could choose to list out things such as your likes/dislikes, values, goals, things that are important to you, etc.

Or you may like to make it more visual with a mind-map style diagram of all the important elements that make up the person behind the name and face.

However you choose to record things, refer back to it regularly to remind yourself of what you have discovered.

10. Meditate

Sitting quietly as you embrace the present moment can be a wonderfully relaxing experience.

But meditation is also a tool for self-discovery.

While you may wish to clear your mind of all thoughts, meditation is actually a time when thoughts will naturally pop into your head.

These thoughts can be quite random at times, or they may be about the things going on in your life.

One thing they have in common is honesty. They are a truer reflection of your inner self than the thoughts you might have at other times.

This is because you are not actively trying to think of things. They are simply entering your mind from your unconscious .

Your rational mind might think one thing about a person or event, but a more uncomfortable feeling might arise during a meditation that reveals something altogether different.

Let’s say that your friend said something hurtful the last time you met up. Your rational mind gave her the benefit of the doubt because she was also hurting at the time.

But during a meditation, you realize that you actually feel the comment was intentional and designed to wound.

You can then consider this in more depth after you finish meditating.

11. Accept What You Find Without Judgment

On a journey of self-discovery, you might come across things that are initially surprising.

You may find something that goes against who you thought you were and what you thought you stood for.

Whatever the case, don’t judge what you find.

You are merely uncovering the true nature of your unique self and even if it’s not what you expected, it’s still you.

What’s more, don’t allow the judgments or expectations of other people to influence what you accept as part of yourself.

It may be hard to feel like you are disappointing someone, but the real issue lies with them and not you if they are unable to accept you as you now are.

If you really have found yourself, it will soon feel as natural as breathing in and out.

If you haven’t found yourself, you’ll also know soon enough and can return to your search.

When You Have Found Yourself, Live As Yourself

Finding out who you are is only helpful if you then live by the morals, values, and beliefs of that person.

After all, you are not merely what you think and feel on the inside; you are what you say and do on the outside.

When you have gone through a process of finding yourself, don’t think that that is the end.

Don’t fool yourself into believing that you’ve reached your destination.

Your journey has only just begun.

The true reason to find yourself is to be yourself.

Otherwise, it’s just a waste of your time and energy.

And many of the strategies above are things you can continue to do on a regular basis to refine what it means to be you.

Remember, to find yourself is to be able to move through life with confidence in who you are and what you stand for.

If, at any time, you no longer feel this way, simply return to what you’ve written down and remind yourself of all the lessons you learned along the way.

And then redouble your efforts to live by those lessons.

Still not sure how to figure out who you are? Talking to someone can really help you to address and fix this issue. It’s a great way to get your thoughts and your worries out of your head so you can work through them.

A therapist is often the best person you can talk to. Why? Because they are trained to help people in situations like yours. They can guide you and help you to unconver the truest and most authentic aspects of yourself – the REAL you.

BetterHelp.com is a website where you can connect with a therapist via phone, video, or instant message.

While you may try to work through this yourself, it may be a bigger issue than self-help can address. And if it is affecting your mental well-being, relationships, or life in general, it is a significant thing that needs to be resolved.

Too many people try to muddle through and do their best to overcome issues that they never really get to grips with. If it’s at all possible in your circumstances, therapy is 100% the best way forward.

Online therapy is actually a good option for many people. It’s more convenient than in-person therapy and is more affordable in a lot of cases. And you get access to the same level of qualified and experienced professional.

Here’s that link again if you’d like to learn more about the service BetterHelp.com provide and the process of getting started.

You’ve already taken the first step just by searching for and reading this article. The worst thing you can do right now is nothing. The best thing is to speak to a therapist. The next best thing is to implement everything you’ve learned in this article by yourself. The choice is yours.

About The Author

Steve Phillips-Waller is the founder and editor of A Conscious Rethink. He has written extensively on the topics of life, relationships, and mental health for more than 8 years.

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Why Identity Matters and How It Shapes Us

Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Dr. Sabrina Romanoff, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and a professor at Yeshiva University’s clinical psychology doctoral program.

Verywell / Zoe Hansen

Defining Identity

What Makes Up a Person's Identity?

Identity Development Across the Lifespan

The importance of identity, tips for reflecting on your identity.

Your identity is a set of physical, mental, emotional, social, and interpersonal characteristics that are unique to you.

It encapsulates your core personal values and your beliefs about the world, says Asfia Qaadir , DO, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at PrairieCare.

In this article, we explore the concept of identity, its importance, factors that contribute to its development , and some strategies that can help you reflect upon your identity.

Your identity gives you your sense of self. It is a set of traits that distinguishes you from other people, because while you might have some things in common with others, no one else has the exact same combination of traits as you.

Your identity also gives you a sense of continuity, i.e. the feeling that you are the same person you were two years ago and you will be the same person two days from now.

Asfia Qaadir, DO, Psychiatrist

Your identity plays an important role in how you treat others and how you carry yourself in the world.

What Makes Up a Person's Identity?

These are some of the factors that can contribute to your identity:

Physical appearance
Physical sensations
Emotional traits
Life experiences
Genetics
Health conditions
Nationality
Race
Social community
Peer group
Political environment
Spirituality
Sexuality
Personality
Beliefs
Finances

We all have layers and dimensions that contribute to who we are and how we express our identity.

All of these factors interact together and influence you in unique and complex ways, shaping who you are. Identity formation is a subjective and deeply personal experience.

Identity development is a lifelong process that begins in childhood, starts to solidify in adolescence, and continues through adulthood.

Childhood is when we first start to develop a self-concept and form an identity.

As children, we are highly dependent on our families for our physical and emotional needs. Our early interactions with family members play a critical role in the formation of our identities.

During this stage, we learn about our families and communities, and what values are important to them, says Dr. Qaadir.

The information and values we absorb in childhood are like little seeds that are planted years before we can really intentionally reflect upon them as adults, says Dr. Qaadir.

Traumatic or abusive experiences during childhood can disrupt identity formation and have lasting effects on the psyche.

Adolescence

Adolescence is a critical period of identity formation.

As teenagers, we start to intentionally develop a sense of self based on how the values we’re learning show up in our relationships with ourselves, our friends, family members, and in different scenarios that challenge us, Dr. Qaadir explains.

Adolescence is a time of discovering ourselves, learning to express ourselves, figuring out where we fit in socially (and where we don’t), developing relationships, and pursuing interests, says Dr. Qaadir.

This is the period where we start to become independent and form life goals. It can also be a period of storm and stress , as we experience mood disruptions, challenge authority figures, and take risks as we try to work out who we are.

As adults, we begin building our public or professional identities and deepen our personal relationships, says Dr. Qaadir.

These stages are not set in stone, rather they are fluid, and we get the rest of our lives to continue experiencing life and evolving our identities, says Dr. Qaadir.

Having a strong sense of identity is important because it:

Creates self-awareness: A strong sense of identity can give you a deep sense of awareness of who you are as a person. It can help you understand your likes, dislikes, actions, motivations, and relationships.
Provides direction and motivation: Having a strong sense of identity can give you a clear understanding of your values and interests, which can help provide clarity, direction, and motivation when it comes to setting goals and working toward them.
Enables healthy relationships: When you know and accept yourself, you can form meaningful connections with people who appreciate and respect you for who you are. A strong sense of identity also helps you communicate effectively, establish healthy boundaries, and engage in authentic and fulfilling interactions.
Keeps you grounded: Our identities give us roots when things around us feel chaotic or uncertain, says Dr. Qaadir. “Our roots keep us grounded and help us remember what truly matters at the end of the day.”
Improves decision-making: Understanding yourself well can help you make choices that are consistent with your values, beliefs, and long-term goals. This clarity reduces confusion, indecision, and the tendency to conform to others' expectations, which may lead to poor decision-making .
Fosters community participation: Identity is often shaped by cultural, social, political, spiritual, and historical contexts. Having a strong sense of identity allows you to understand, appreciate, and take pride in your cultural heritage. This can empower you to participate actively in society, express your unique perspective, and contribute to positive societal change.

On the other hand, a weak sense of identity can make it more difficult to ground yourself emotionally in times of stress and more confusing when you’re trying to navigate major life decisions, says Dr. Qaadir.

Dr. Qaadir suggests some strategies that can help you reflect on your identity:

Art: Art is an incredible medium that can help you process and reflect on your identity. It can help you express yourself in creative and unique ways.
Reading: Reading peoples’ stories through narrative is an excellent way to broaden your horizons, determine how you feel about the world around you, and reflect on your place in it.
Journaling: Journaling can also be very useful for self-reflection . It can help you understand your feelings and motivations better.
Conversation: Conversations with people can expose you to diverse perspectives, and help you form and represent your own.
Nature: Being in nature can give you a chance to reflect undisturbed. Spending time in nature often has a way of putting things in perspective.
Relationships: You can especially strengthen your sense of identity through the relationships around you. It is valuable to surround yourself with people who reflect your core values but may be different from you in other aspects of identity such as personality styles, cultural backgrounds, passions, professions, or spiritual paths because that provides perspective and learning from others.

American Psychological Association. Identity .

Pfeifer JH, Berkman ET. The development of self and identity in adolescence: neural evidence and implications for a value-based choice perspective on motivated behavior . Child Dev Perspect . 2018;12(3):158-164. doi:10.1111/cdep.12279

Hasanah U, Susanti H, Panjaitan RU. Family experience in facilitating adolescents during self-identity development . BMC Nurs . 2019;18(Suppl 1):35. doi:10.1186/s12912-019-0358-7

Dereboy Ç, Şahin Demirkapı E, et al. The relationship between childhood traumas, identity development, difficulties in emotion regulation and psychopathology . Turk Psikiyatri Derg . 2018;29(4):269-278.

Branje S, de Moor EL, Spitzer J, Becht AI. Dynamics of identity development in adolescence: a decade in review . J Res Adolesc . 2021;31(4):908-927. doi:10.1111/jora.12678

Stirrups R. The storm and stress in the adolescent brain . The Lancet Neurology . 2018;17(5):404. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(18)30112-1

Fitzgerald A. Professional identity: A concept analysis . Nurs Forum . 2020;55(3):447-472. doi:10.1111/nuf.12450

National Institute of Standards and Technology. Identity .

By Sanjana Gupta Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

How to Write an Essay about Your Identity

If you’re looking for a simple way to write an essay about your identity, then you’ve found the perfect tutorial!

Writing an essay about your identity can be a great way to highlight who you are as a person and explore your values, experiences, and characteristics. So, in this tutorial, I will show you how to write such an essay in five simple steps effectively. We’ll also work on a sample essay so you can see how to put these steps into practice.

Let’s get started!

Step 1. Plan the word count for your essay’s paragraphs.

Doing this first step is important if you want to make things simpler for you while writing an essay. You’ll get to know exactly how many words each paragraph will have, which makes the process quicker.

Note that essays have three parts you must include:

The introductory paragraph
Three body paragraphs
The concluding paragraph

For example, suppose you need a 300-word paragraph. How would you distribute 300 words across five paragraphs? Here’s a simple way to do that:

That’s all you need for your essay — short introductory and concluding paragraphs and three concise body paragraphs.

Step 2. Select your main idea and supporting points.

You need to come up with a central idea that will give you a frame of reference for the rest of your essay. To do this, you can first consider what your identity is. Then, determine what shapes this identity.

For example, are you an artist? Maybe you’re imaginative and creative! Do you have a unique perspective on things? Do you like expressing yourself visually?

Or maybe, you’re a doctor? Do you have extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of medicine? Do you possess strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills?

Whatever they are, you will use them as your basis — your essay’s thesis .

For our sample essay, we can use this as our main idea: “My identity as an educator has been shaped by my faith, parenthood, and my inborn creativity.”

Next, we will use the Power of Three to divide this main idea into three supporting points.

The Power of Three is a three-part structure that helps you produce your body paragraphs.

Let’s see how it works for our sample essay. In this case, we will use three things that could shape someone’s identity as an educator:

My faith is an integral part of my identity.
Parenthood has had a significant impact on my identity.
Creativity has been a part of my identity for as long as I can remember.

Now we have what we need to start writing our essay. Let’s go to the next step!

Step 3. Write the introductory paragraph.

To write an introductory paragraph , you can follow the diagram below:

First, you need an introduction — an opening sentence that briefly sets the essay’s context. Next, you will include your thesis and three supporting points.

Here’s an example:

Introductory Paragraph

“Different factors, including beliefs, experiences, and innate qualities, shape our identities. For me, my identity as an educator has been shaped by my faith, parenthood, and my inborn creativity. My faith guides my values and principles in teaching. My experiences as a parent have also helped me develop empathy and understanding toward my students. And my inborn creativity allows me to come up with innovative ways to present lessons, engage my students, and foster a positive learning environment.”

As you can tell, the introductory paragraph proceeds from general to specific , starting from the introduction, followed by the thesis and three supporting points.

Step 4. Write the body paragraphs.

Our essay will contain three body paragraphs that expound our supporting points. Here’s how to structure a body paragraph in any essay:

Body paragraphs start with a topic sentence that briefly summarizes the entire paragraph. Next, you will explain and illustrate your point using example/s .

Paragraph 1

“My faith is an integral part of my identity. My faith guides me in creating a safe and positive learning environment for my students. I strive to make my classroom a safe space where my students feel welcomed and valued. I model kindness and compassion, which I hope inspires and encourages my students to treat each other with the same level of respect and understanding.”

Note that the topic sentence gives context to the entire body paragraph. The following sentences explain the supporting point, and the rest illustrates it with an example.

Paragraph 2

“Parenthood has had a significant impact on my identity as an educator. It has taught me to approach teaching with compassion and empathy. As a parent, I learned that everyone has unique needs and struggles that require understanding and, if possible, a personalized approach to teaching. I apply this principle in my classroom by taking the time to get to know my students and understand their personal learning styles and circumstances. I schedule one-on-one meetings with students and offer them encouragement and resources to help those struggling to catch up.”

Paragraph 3

“Creativity has always been a part of my identity, especially as an educator. It is essential in creating engaging learning experiences for my students. I constantly look for fun and innovative ways to present lessons that will help them foster a love for learning. I incorporate hands-on activities and projects in my lessons to challenge my students creatively and critically about the material. For example, when I taught animal classification last academic year, I organized a field trip to a local zoo where the students observed and learned firsthand about the animals and ecosystems they were studying.”

Like paragraph 1, body paragraphs 2 and 3 follow the exact same structure outlined in the diagram above. It proceeds from the topic sentence to the explanation and example.

Excellent! Now we’re ready for the final step.

Step 5. Write the concluding paragraph.

The most time-proven way to write a concluding paragraph for any essay is to simply paraphrase all the points you’ve already mentioned in the introductory paragraph. Don’t copy and paste it! Instead, you can check your introductory paragraph and write the concluding paragraph based on it.

Let’s try this method to write the concluding paragraph in our sample essay:

“A combination of our beliefs, experiences, and characteristics shape our identities. As an educator, my identity has been shaped by my faith, parenthood, and creativity. My faith guides me in modeling important values in my classroom. Parenthood has taught me to approach teaching with empathy. And my creativity enables me to present material in innovative and engaging ways, which helps foster a love for learning in my students.”

We only restated the points in the introductory paragraph but used different words. Doing so makes writing the concluding paragraph pretty quick and simple.

And now we’re done! I hope you find this tutorial helpful.

Now it’s time for you to write your essay about your identity!

Tutor Phil is an e-learning professional who helps adult learners finish their degrees by teaching them academic writing skills.

Essays about Culture and Identity: 9 Examples And Prompts

Writing essays about culture and identity will help you explore your understanding of it. Here are examples that will give you inspiration for your next essay.

Culture can refer to customs, traditions, beliefs, lifestyles, laws, artistic expressions, and other elements that cultivate the collective identity. Different cultures are established across nations, regions, communities, and social groups. They are passed on from generation to generation while others evolve or are abolished to give way to modern beliefs and systems.

While our cultural identity begins at home, it changes as we involve ourselves with other groups (friends, educational institutions, social media communities, political groups, etc.) Culture is a very relatable subject as every person is part of a culture or at least can identify with one. Because it spans broad coverage, there are several interesting cultural subjects to write about.

Our culture and identity are dynamic. This is why you may find it challenging to write about it. To spark your inspiration, check out our picks of the best culture essays.

1. Sweetness and Light by Matthew Arnolds

2. how auto-tune revolutionized the sound of popular music by simon reynolds, 3. how immigration changes language by john mcwhorter, 4. the comfort zone: growing up with charlie brown by jonathan franzen, 5. culture and identity definition by sandra graham, 6. how culture and surroundings influence identity by jeanette lucas, 7. how the food we eat reflects our culture and identity by sophia stephens, 8. identity and culture: my identity, culture, and identity by april casas, 9. how america hinders the cultural identity of their own citizens by seth luna, 1. answer the question, “who am i”, 2. causes of culture shock, 3. your thoughts on dystopia and utopia, 4. gender inequality from a global perspective, 5. the most interesting things you learned from other cultures, 6. the relationship between cultural identity and clothes, 7. describe your culture, 8. what is the importance of honoring your roots , 9. how can a person adapt to a new culture, 10. what artistic works best express your country’s culture, 11. how has social media influenced human interaction, 12. how do you protect the cultures of indigenous peoples, 13. are k-pop and k-drama sensations effectively promoting korea’s culture , 14. what is the importance of cultural diversity.

“… [A]nd when every man may say what he likes, our aspirations ought to be satisfied. But the aspirations of culture, which is the study of perfection, are not satisfied, unless what men say, when they may say what they like, is worth saying,—has good in it, and more good than bad.”

Arnolds compels a re-examination of values at a time when England is leading global industrialization and beginning to believe that greatness is founded on material progress.

The author elaborates why culture, the strive for a standard of perfection, is not merely driven by scientific passions and, more so, by materialistic affluence. As he esteems religion as “that voice of the deepest human experience” to harmonize men in establishing that ideal society, Arnolds stresses that culture is the effort to “make reason and the will of God prevail” while humanizing gained knowledge to be society’s source of “sweetness and light.”

“Few innovations in sound production have been simultaneously so reviled and so revolutionary. Epoch-defining or epoch-defacing, Auto-Tune is indisputably the sound of the 21st century so far.”

Reynolds shows how Auto-Tune has shaped a pop music genre that has cut across cultures. The article maps out the music landscape Auto-Tune created and examines its impact on the culture of song productions and the modern taste for music. While the author debunks accusations that Auto-Tune destroyed the “natural” process of creating music, he also points out that the technology earned its reverence with big thanks to society’s current custom of using technology to hide blemishes and other imperfections.

Looking for more? Check out these essays about culture shock .

“… [T]he heavy immigration that countries like Italy are experiencing will almost certainly birth new kinds of Italian that are rich with slang, somewhat less elaborate than the standard, and… widely considered signs of linguistic deterioration, heralding a future where the “original” standard language no longer exists.”

American linguist McWhorter pacifies fears over the death of “standard” languages amid the wave of immigration to Europe. On the contrary, language is a vital expression of a culture, and for some, preserving is tantamount to upholding a cultural standard.

However, instead of seeing the rise of new “multiethnolects” such as the Black English in America and Kiezdeutsch in Germany as threats to language and culture, McWhorter sees them as a new way to communicate and better understand the social groups that forayed these new languages.

“I wonder why “cartoonish” remains such a pejorative. It took me half my life to achieve seeing my parents as cartoons. And to become more perfectly a cartoon myself: what a victory that would be.”

This essay begins with a huge fight between Franzen’s brother and father to show how the cultural generation gap sweeping the 60s has hit closer to home. This generation gap, where young adults were rejecting the elders’ old ways in pursuit of a new and better culture, will also be the reason why his family ends up drifting apart. Throughout the essay, Franzen treads this difficult phase in his youth while narrating fondly how Peanuts, a pop culture icon at the time, was his source of escape.

“…Culture is… your background… and Identity is formed where you belong to… Leopold Sedar Senghor and Shirley Geok-Lin Lim both talks about how culture and identity can impact… society…”

In this essay, Graham uses “To New York” by Senghor and “Learning To Love America” by Lim as two pieces of literature that effectively describe the role of culture and identity to traveling individuals.

The author refers to Sengho’s reminder that people can adapt but must not forget their culture even if they go to a different place or country. On the other hand, Lim discusses immigrants’ struggle to have double identities.

“Culture is something that surrounds all of us and progress to shape our lives every day… Identity is illustrated as the state of mind in which someone or something distinguishes their own character traits that lead to determining who they really are, what they represent.”

Lucas is keen on giving examples of how his culture and surroundings influence an individual’s identity. She refers to Kothari’s “If you are what you eat, then what am I?” which discusses Kothari’s search for her identity depending on what food she eats. Food defines a person’s culture and identity, so Kothari believes that eating food from different countries will change his identity.

Lucas also refers to “Down These Mean Streets” by Piri Thomas, which argues how different cultural and environmental factors affect us. Because of what we encounter, there is a possibility that we will become someone who we are not.

“What we grow is who we are. What we buy is who we are. What we eat is who we are.”

Stephens’ essay teaches its readers that the food we grow and eat defines us as a person. She explains that growing a crop and harvesting it takes a lot of effort, dedication, and patience, which mirrors our identity.

Another metaphor she used is planting rice: it takes skills and knowledge to make it grow. Cooking rice is more accessible than cultivating it – you can quickly cook rice by boiling it in water. This reflects people rich in culture and tradition but who lives simpler life.

“Every single one has their own unique identity and culture. Culture plays a big role in shaping your identity. Culture is what made me the person I am today and determines who or what I choose to associate myself with.”

Casas starts her piece by questioning who she is. In trying to learn and define who she is, she writes down and describes herself and her personality throughout the essay. Finally, she concludes that her culture is a big part of her identity, and she must understand it to understand herself.

“When it comes to these stereotypes we place on each other, a lot of the time, we succumb to the stereotypes given to us. And our cultural identity is shaped by these expectations and labels others give us. That is why negative stereotypes sometimes become true for a whole group or community.”

In this essay, Luna talks about how negative stereotyping in the United States led to moral distortion. For example, Americans are assumed to be ignorant of other countries’ cultures, making it difficult to understand other people’s cultures and lifestyles.

She believes that stereotyping can significantly affect an individual or group’s identity. She suggests Americans should improve their intellectual competence by being sensitive to other people’s cultures.

14 Prompts on Essays about Culture and Identity

You can discuss many things on the subject of culture and identity. To give you a starting point, here are some prompts to help you write an exciting essay about culture.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips and our round-up of the best essay checkers .

Understanding your personality is vital since continuous interaction with others can affect your personality. Write about your culture and identity; what is your personality? How do you define yourself? Everyone is unique, so by writing an essay about who you are, you’ll be able to understand why you act a certain way and connect with readers who have the same values.

Here’s a guide on writing a descriptive essay to effectively relay your experience to your readers.

Sometimes, people need to get out of their comfort zone and interact with other individuals with different cultures, beliefs, or traditions. This is to broaden one’s perspective about the world. Aside from discussing what you’ve learned in that journey, you can also focus on the bits that shocked you.

You can talk about a tradition or value that you found so bizarre because it differs from your culture. Then add how you processed it and finally adapted to it.

Essays about Culture and Identity: Your Thoughts on Dystopia and Utopia

Dystopia and Utopia are both imagined worlds. Dystopia is a world where people live in the worst or most unfavorable conditions, while Utopia is the opposite.

You can write an essay about what you think a Dystopian or Utopian world may look like, how these societies will affect their citizens, etc. Then, consider what personality citizens of each world may have to depend on the two worlds’ cultures.

Today, more and more people are fighting for others to accept or at least respect the LGBTQ+ community. However, countries, territories, and religions still question their rights.

In your essay, you can talk about why these institutions react the way they do and how culture dictates someone’s identity in the wrong way. Before creating your own, feel free to read other essays and articles to learn more about the global gender inequality issue.

The world has diverse cultures, traditions, and values. When you travel to a new place, learning and writing about your firsthand experiences with unique cultures and rituals will always be an interesting read.

In this prompt, you’ll research other cultures and how they shaped their group’s identity. Then, write about the most exciting aspects you’ve learned, why you found them fascinating, and how they differ from your culture.

Those proud of their culture will wear clothes inspired by them. Some wear the same clothes even if they aren’t from the same culture. The debate over cultural appropriation and culture appreciation is still a hot topic.

In this essay, you may start with the traditions of your community or observances your family celebrates and gathers for. Then, elaborate on their origins and describe how your community or family is preserving these practices.

Learning about your roots, ancestors, and family cultures can help strengthen your understanding of your identity and foster respect for other cultures. Explore this topic and offer examples of what others have learned. Has the journey always been a positive experience? Delve into this question for an engaging and interesting essay.

When a person moves country, it can be challenging to adapt to a new culture. If there are new people at work or school, you can interview them and ask how they are coping with their new environment. How different is this from what they have been used to, and what unique traditions do they find interesting?

Focus on an art piece that is a source of pride and identity to your country’s culture, much like the Tinikling of the Philippines or the Matryoshka dolls of Russia. Explore its origins and evolution up to its current manifestation and highlight efforts that are striving to protect and promote these artistic works.

The older generation did not have computers in their teen years. Ask about how they dated in their younger years and how they made friends. Contrast how the younger generation is building their social networks today. Write what culture of socialization works better for you and explain why.

Take in-depth navigation of existing policies that protect indigenous peoples. Are they sufficient to serve these communities needs, and are they being implemented effectively? There is also the challenge of balancing the protection of these traditions against the need to protect the environment, as some indigenous practices add to the carbon footprint. How is your government dealing with this challenge?

A large population is now riding the Hallyu or the Korean pop culture, with many falling in love with the artists and Korea’s food, language, and traditional events. Research how certain Korean films, TV series, or music have effectively attracted fans to experience Korea’s culture. Write about what countries can learn from Korea in promoting their own cultures.

Environments that embrace cultural diversity are productive and innovative. To start your essay, assess how diverse your workplace or school is. Then, write your personal experiences where working with co-workers or classmates from different cultures led to new and innovative ideas and projects. Combine this with the personal experiences of your boss or the principal to see how your environment benefits from hosting a melting pot of cultures.

If you aim for your article to effectively change readers’ perspectives and align with your opinion, read our guide to achieving persuasive writing .

Aisling is an Irish journalist and content creator with a BA in Journalism & New Media. She has bylines in OK! Magazine, Metro, The Inquistr, and the Irish Examiner. She loves to read horror and YA. Find Aisling on LinkedIn .

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how to incorporate my identity background in my college essay.

I've been working on my college essay, and I want to showcase my unique identity background. However, I'm not sure how to share my experiences without coming across as cliché. Any advice on how to express my background in a compelling way?

One of the key aspects of writing a strong college essay is to ensure that you're sharing an authentic, personal story rather than a cliché that admissions officers have read countless times. To effectively incorporate your identity background, consider the following tips:

1. Reflect on your experiences: Take some time to think deeply about your background and how it has shaped who you are today. Write down your thoughts, memories, and anecdotes from various stages of your life, as these can serve as the foundation for your essay.

2. Find a unique angle: Instead of focusing on generic aspects of your background, dig deeper to uncover the less-obvious experiences that have influenced you. For example, if you come from an immigrant family, instead of writing about how you learned English or adjusted to a new culture, consider discussing a specific event, tradition, or family member who has made a significant impact on your journey.

3. Focus on specific experiences: Using a few specific anecdotes can help make your essay feel more authentic and engaging. By sharing concrete experiences, you'll provide the reader with a clearer sense of your identity and the various factors that have shaped you.

4. Show growth and development: A great personal story often emphasizes the personal growth or self-awareness that you gained along the way. By demonstrating how you've evolved throughout your experiences, you can portray yourself as a resilient and adaptable individual who's ready to face new challenges at college.

5. Be genuine: Write in your own voice and use your natural style. Trying too hard to impress or writing what you think the admissions officers want to hear will likely come across as insincere. Remember, your goal is to present a true reflection of yourself.

6. Get feedback: Share your essay with someone who knows you well and can provide an honest opinion. They can offer insights on whether your essay feels genuine and meaningful, and if it adequately captures your unique story. Don't be afraid to revise and rework your essay based on the feedback you receive.

Also check out this CollegeVine article for more tips on writing about identity: https://blog.collegevine.com/4-tips-for-writing-a-diversity-college-essay

Incorporating your identity background in a compelling way involves self-reflection, finding a unique angle, and focusing on specific experiences. By showcasing your personal growth and showcasing your authentic self, you'll create a memorable essay that leaves an impression on the admissions officers.

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Self-Image, Self-Concept

Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

Identity encompasses the memories, experiences, relationships, and values that create one’s sense of self. This amalgamation creates a steady sense of who one is over time, even as new facets are developed and incorporated into one's identity.

What Is Identity?
How to Be Authentic
Theories of Identity

Everyone struggles with existential questions such as, “Who am I?” and “Who do I want my future self to be?” One reason why may be that the answer is so complex.

Identity includes the many relationships people cultivate, such as their identity as a child, friend, partner, and parent. It involves external characteristics over which a person has little or no control, such as height, race, or socioeconomic class. Identity also encompasses political opinions, moral attitudes, and religious beliefs, all of which guide the choices one makes on a daily basis.

People who are overly concerned with the impression they make, or who feel a core aspect of themselves, such as gender or sexuality , is not being expressed, can struggle acutely with their identity. Reflecting on the discrepancy between who one is and who one wants to be can be a powerful catalyst for change.

Identity encompasses the values people hold, which dictate the choices they make. An identity contains multiple roles—such as a mother, teacher, and U.S. citizen—and each role holds meaning and expectations that are internalized into one’s identity. Identity continues to evolve over the course of an individual’s life.

Identity formation involves three key tasks: Discovering and developing one’s potential, choosing one’s purpose in life, and finding opportunities to exercise that potential and purpose. Identity is also influenced by parents and peers during childhood and experimentation in adolescence .

Every individual has a goal of nurturing values and making choices that are consistent with their true self. Some internalize the values of their families or culture, even though they don’t align with their authentic self. This conflict can drive dissatisfaction and uncertainty. Reflecting on one’s values can spark change and a more fulfilling life.

The idea of an identity crisis emerged from psychologist Erik Erikson, who delineated eight stages of crises and development, a concept later expanded upon by others. Although not a clinical term, an identity crisis refers to facing a challenge to one’s sense of self, which may center around politics , religion, career choices, or gender roles.

Adolescence is a time in which children develop an authentic sense of self, distinct from their parents, in order to become an independent adult. Experimentation is an important part of the process: As teens try on different identities—in terms of friends, hobbies, appearance, gender, and sexuality—they come to understand who they are and who they want to be.

Features of identity can highlight similarities or differences between people—through race, gender, or profession—which can function to either unite or divide. People who view themselves as members of a larger overarching group tend to have stronger kinship with other people, animals, and nature.

A hunger for authenticity guides us in every age and aspect of life. It drives our explorations of work, relationships, play, and prayer. Teens and twentysomethings try out friends, fashions, hobbies, jobs, lovers, locations, and living arrangements to see what fits and what's "just not me." Midlifers deepen commitments to career, community, faith, and family that match their self-images, or feel trapped in existences that seem not their own. Elders regard life choices with regret or satisfaction based largely on whether they were "true" to themselves.

Authenticity is also a cornerstone of mental health. It’s correlated with many aspects of psychological well-being, including vitality, self-esteem , and coping skills. Acting in accordance with one's core self—a trait called self-determination—is ranked by some experts as one of three basic psychological needs, along with competence and a sense of relatedness.

Everyone subconsciously internalizes conventions and expectations that dictate how they believe they should think or behave. The decision to examine or challenge those assumptions, even though it’s difficult, is the first step to living more authentically. This set of 20 steps can guide you through that process.

There can be tension between being wholly yourself and operating successfully in your relationships and career. No one should be completely deceitful or completely forthright; a guiding principle to achieve a balance is that as long as you’re not forced to act in opposition to your values or personality , a little self-monitoring can be warranted.

Relationships can come under threat when there’s a disconnect between expressing yourself freely and taking your partner’s feelings into account. The Authenticity in Relationships scale —which measures this construct through statements such as “I am fully aware of when to insist on myself and when to compromise”—can initiate discussion and help couples cultivate a healthy balance.

As so much of the world has shifted online, discrepancies have emerged between one’s virtual self and real self. People may cultivate their online avatar more and more carefully over time, and the virtual self can influence the perception of the real self. Therefore, it can be valuable to reflect on whether the virtual self is really authentic .

One of the most enduring theories of development was proposed by psychologist Erik Erikson. Erikson divided the lifecycle into eight stages that each contained a conflict, with the resolution of those conflicts leading to the development of personality. The conflict that occurs during adolescence, Erikson believed, is “identity versus role confusion.”

Adolescents grapple with so many different aspects of identity, from choosing a career path to cultivating moral and political beliefs to becoming a friend or partner. Role confusion pertains to the inability to commit to one path. Adolescents then go through a period of experimentation before committing, reconciling the pieces of their identity, and emerging into adulthood.

Identity formation is most acute during adolescence, but the process doesn’t stop after the teen years. Taking on a new role, such as becoming a parent, can make self-definition a lifelong process.

As a person grows older, the overall trend is toward identity achievement. But major life upheavals, such as divorce , retirement , or the death of a loved one, often lead people to explore and redefine their identities.

According to Freud’s psychoanalytic framework, the mind was composed of the id, driven by instinct and desire, the superego, driven by morality and values, and the ego which moderates the two and creates one’s identity. Many features contribute to ego functioning, including insight, agency, empathy, and purpose.

Erik Erikson’s proposed a theory of development based on different stages of life. He also coined the term “ego identity,” which he conceived as an enduring and continuous sense of who a person is. The ego identity helps to merge all the different versions of oneself (the parent self, the career self, the sexual self) into one cohesive whole, so that if disaster strikes, there's a stable sense of self.

Social psychologist Henri Tajfel conducted pioneering research on prejudice , revealing that people favor those in their own groups, even when those groups are designated randomly, such as by people’s preferences for artwork. This research was the basis for Social Identity Theory—that self-esteem is in part derived from group membership, which provides pride and social identity.

Six kinds of self-knowledge influence each other and combine to create different versions of the self, sometimes in surprising ways.

When students don't feel like a part of their school community, learning suffers. Better architecture leads to better outcomes.

Can "drill and kill" give way to play in handwriting instruction?

Our instincts often steer us toward polarization and division, but it's possible to resist these instincts in favor of cultivating a new instinct that leads to positive change.

Personal Perspective: Emerging adults are navigating problems like housing shortages and fewer opportunities, with parents feeling pressure to help.

Reached a big goal recently but not sure how to integrate that accomplishment into your identity? You're not alone. Read on for tips to embrace this new version of yourself.

Humans have been engaging in tribalistic "us versus them" behavior for millennia. These dynamics are responsible for a great deal of human suffering. How do we move past them?

A Personal Perspective: Focusing on wellness during our career years can help counter the trepidation and emotional turmoil felt by many at the time of their retirement.

These days, it isn't easy to find a balance between focusing on ourselves and focusing on others. Yet, working through this dialectic is key to healthy relationships.

Existing along the LGBTQIA+ spectrum is not a symptom of trauma. However, the homophobia, transphobia, and prejudice around us can cause trauma. Here are some words that may help.

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My Identity, Essay Example

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Both process unity and object unity are definitions, describing a living being from two different sides. While process unity comprises every event of our life, it is not our memories, but we are, created by situations and our emotions, thoughts and therefore actions, experience and conclusions. One can imagine a person as tabula rasa. We start moving according to our initial position and background here and there and change ourselves through our lifetime, where every event is a chain link in our personality.

This path is long and complicated, it has several stages, some of them we simply do not realize (especially in early childhood), some we can rule in order to change ourselves – and our lifeline. While getting experience we pattern ourselves on parents, environment. After the birth emotions are simple and selfish, children do not know any complicated reactions and possess any skills, but they learn to interact, to copy friends’ and parents’ behavior patterns. And still it does not mean that they become a copy of people they know, but a unique living being because of his or her special position and a compilation of genetic and acquired traits. Environment provides a person, tabula rasa, with necessary examples and tools of world and self- study. That is why we won’t be able to exist as thinking being without society. We are being created and developed by it; a person is like a branch of a big tree, it belongs to it and resembles other branches but still it is the only one.

Our own experience has a great importance to our following life as it influences our future, and our future events compose our process unity. Previous experience plays a role of a prophet as it drops a hint how to communicate, what to do and what is to come if you do. Rich experience helps to eliminate possible conflicts, lack of experience leads us to unknown situations where we are to decide, to chose, to get new emotions and thoughts for shaping our personality more thoroughly. And so we are tracing our path.

Communication with other people plays the leading role in this shaping. For example, school simply teaches facts and values. While schooling a person learns to interact by sharing and borrowing points of view, hobbies and habits. It does not only make you remember values you must know, but get wise to and appreciate them due to situations you come across. Communication teaches to compare ourselves with others, therefore analyze different characters.

We don’t only look at people to judge them, but are always asking questions whether we want to be like them or not. Being adopted, I know little of my genetic makeup or the objects that shaped my physical characteristics. Viewing object unity as Rose defines it, the one physical characteristic I can point to is being much shorter than the rest of my family. But I can relate far more to process unity, as the relationships in my life have had a far greater impact on making me who I am. My interaction with my mother helped to teach me creativity and patience. My interaction with my father helped to teach me to work hard and not accept being as good as anyone else. He taught me to always be better. We develop this or that way depending on people we meet and experience we get.

No communication at all means no changes in our personality while good communication provides us with examples of good and bad, of what we desire to be, what we desire to have, what we never want to happen on. Such an experience makes us not only to move in a certain direction (if we speak about company, friends and material things), but change our characters. We must have sources and examples of different human behavior, personality and values in order to identify ourselves. One’s personality is often interpreted by those we interact with, the person has their own vision of their personality, called self concept, which may or may not be the same has how others view us (Consumer Buying Behavior).

According to this, it is possible to assert that our mind becomes a unique organism with its rules of perceptions and reactions.

This statement leaves no doubt that two living beings could be similar. But at the same time object unity means that all the people have something common not only because of their physical affinity but because being humans and possessing similar ways of their reactions – perceiving, thinking, remembering, imagining. They do not depend on experience or personality. Object unity is a kind of a link that helps us to understand each other, no matter how different we are in our identity, it’s just because our brain has some properties that are common for all the people.

According to the definition of object unity, we can count on a universal system of well-known for a certain society symbols and interactions one can use. (It is a pity that in our consumer society this perception is greatly contracted, for instance, to simple logical chains “he has a car – he is rich”, “he drinks – he is unhappy” or “she is beautiful – she wants to marry a rich man”. We forget to keep in mind process unity that means that a person is much more than simply an image).

These two definitions may seem to contradict each other, because the first one proves an absolute originality of a person and the other insists on some identical methods of thinking. Linking each of two these definitions with mass culture one can draw two extremely different conclusions. Either different people can be affected in the same way, because they have the same perception by default, or they cannot, because the methods of perceptions range from personality.

I guess we definitely can draw a line between two definitions. We know about colors influence us. Red energizes and can be used in advertisement to attract our attention. That is object unity. But using red doesn’t guarantee success. People are different, some like this color, some tired of it, so, no matter what the influence is, the reaction will be different. That is process unity. One person may be able to focus very strongly on a certain advertisement and be able to retain the information after being exposed only one time while another person may need to be exposed to the same advertisement many times before he/she even recognizes what it is (Consumer Buying Behavior).

Surely, we can be divided into several groups according to our tastes, and consumer society did it. It has two sides. On the one hand, it helps to satisfy every our need. On the other, it simplifies human perception by developing a universal symbol system and doesn’t look at individuality; it produces goods for an average person and identity turns out to be replaced by these symbols.

Yet our society has certain advantages, for instance, external similarity makes an illusionary impression of understanding other people and being understood, no matter that thinking processes may be different. But if we concentrate only on external side soon we will realize that we are miserable and unhappy, because we have nothing inside us and aren’t able to interact with people on higher levels. Consumer society encourages financial aspiration and enslaves weak people who want to be fashionable. It requires being rich and beautiful and children grow up thinking that to be happy means to have status symbols and keep up appearances. They are rarely interested in skills and values they should have. It doesn’t mean that we mustn’t care about our appearance; it should be connected with our true personality.

Nowadays we seldom look at a complicated pattern of identity. Moreover, we try to judge people by their appearance and it seems to be productive, because we have enough knowledge about this symbol system. We can say something about taste, fashion, self-confidence, prosperity, work and even hobbies or character. It’s convenient while we won’t be able to take each other for unique in everyday communication. But looking only at an image we shouldn’t forget that personality can be shown quite poorly because of business suit.

When I shop, I buy very expensive clothes. When looking for a car, I could simply have bought a Hyundai and saved a lot of money. Instead, I chose to buy a Mercedes. I am single and have no need for a 3000 square foot home. But when people visit, I want them to be impressed. All of these material items were purchased based on the reaction I would receive from society.

But, I would like to think I am more than just materialistic. My self-identity comes from people that have had positive effects on me. Had I not been influenced by my father, I wouldn’t possess the work ethic I have today. Had my mother not taught music to me, I would lack creativity. So, my identity isn’t simply what I wear. Nor is it what I possess on the inside. Combined, though, they make me who I am.

That is the idea one should constantly keep in mind. We should be judged on our things as well as on our actings. As it is impossible to follow a person everywhere or to read his or her thoughts in order to find out that we are really different, one can simply remember that the people we meet are not only typical images in our consumer society. They are the same unique as we are in the way of feeling and thinking.

Works Cited

Consumer Buying Behavior . 20 Nov. 2008. 7 Apr. 2009. <http://www.knowthis.com/tutorials/principles-of-marketing/consumer-buying-behavior.htm>

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Speak Your Truth: Sharing Your Identity in College Essays

Written by Sara Calvert-Kubrom on September 21st, 2023

college applications ,
race-neutral admissions ,
writing college essays ,
Most college essays, including the main Common Application essay and University of California Personal Insight Questions, invite broad reflection on experiences which can be linked to student identity.
Some colleges invite students to share more through supplemental essays specific to their applications. Many colleges changed these essays this year to signal their institutional values and assess student readiness to engage with difference in college. Inside Higher Ed has a helpful article with examples of these prompts.
Many applications have an additional information section where students can share any important context about their experiences. Although I encourage students to be concise (this isn’t an extra essay!), and to avoid being redundant with information provided elsewhere, this can be a fantastic area to utilize if a student wants to share important elements of who they are without having to use the main essay for this purpose.
Activities lists might feature identity-based clubs, organizations, and initiatives.

Find out what you can expect from our partnership and view our variety of flexible services .

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Follow these pre-application steps to help your student stay on track for admissions success., related resources.

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Who… are…you? How to write the identity supplement.

In Alice in Wonderland , when the Caterpillar persists in asking “Who… Are…. You?,” Alice stumbles and cannot reply. It’s a good thing that Alice isn’t applying to college, because some form of an essay asking about you (and your identity and/or perspective) is an ever-more-popular supplement question. These are hard! It is important to tackle these identity questions with honesty and authenticity, and without prejudice, stereotype, or cliche. Sometimes these questions will simply ask about your identity, sometimes they will ask instead of how you have responded to a situation where your perspective was different than someone else’s. Either way, it is important to have a sense of yourself – and who you are – in order to discuss how you have interacted in situations marked by differences in perspective. It’s a tall order!

Note: these supplements range in length but tend to be fairly “mid-sized” in the 150-250 word limits.

Example Identity Questions :

Penn: At Penn, learning and growth happens outside of the classroom, too. How will you explore the community at Penn? Consider how this community will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape this community.
Georgetown: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you.
Princeton: At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future?
Brown: Brown’s culture fosters a community in which students challenge the ideas of others and have their ideas challenged in return, promoting a deeper and clearer understanding of the complex issues confronting society. This active engagement in dialogue is as present outside the classroom as it is in academic spaces. Tell us about a time you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond?

LET'S BREAK DOWN THE ESSENTIAL POINTS YOU NEED TO HIT WHEN RESPONDING TO THIS SUPPLEMENT:

While always important, in these essays it is absolutely essential to speak honestly and with integrity and authenticity. If you feel yourself slipping into any type of stereotype, judgment, or cliche, stop writing and ask a friend to help you talk this through before you write any further.

College celebrates the open mind! If you are discussing a situation where your ideas were challenged by someone who held a different perspective, it is essential that you don’t “win” the whole of this argument. Select a moment where you can illustrate your own growth as a human and a thinker. Celebrate your open mind. You don’t have to fully capitulate to the other perspective, but please select a situation where you came to see the value of the other side – where you recognize humanity in the opposite perspective. No college wants to admit a student who actively celebrates their own closed mindedness.

This is an essay where it is helpful to consider examples and stories where you can emphasize showing something over simply telling something. Make the reader see the situation you are presenting through details and examples. Don’t just stick to vague statements (like “I support everyone in expressing their true inner selves”) because these don’t really mean anything and your readers don’t learn anything new about you.

THINGS TO AVOID:

As with all supplements, avoid cliches and platitudes. Avoid sounding patronizing to your peers (in the story you tell) or to the admissions reader.

Furthermore, if you talk about religion, politics, or money, do so in a way that does not alienate a reader whose views you do not know.

ADDITIONAL TIPS AND TRICKS:

Struggling to think of a story about the difference of perspectives? Think about a moment from a class at school. Have you ever had a respectful, and honest, disagreement with a classmate about an academic topic or issue? Use that story here.

Do not recycle one identity essay into the next. These questions are specific (and different) and there are rarely openings to take one essay and use it for multiple schools.

Do not try to write dialogue. Instead, summarize what you are trying to show.

Elise holds a BA in Political Philosophy from Williams College and an MEd in Administration & Social Policy from Harvard. She has spent the past twenty years working in top-tier independent schools.

Cultural Identity Essay

27 August, 2020

12 minutes read

Author: Elizabeth Brown

No matter where you study, composing essays of any type and complexity is a critical component in any studying program. Most likely, you have already been assigned the task to write a cultural identity essay, which is an essay that has to do a lot with your personality and cultural background. In essence, writing a cultural identity essay is fundamental for providing the reader with an understanding of who you are and which outlook you have. This may include the topics of religion, traditions, ethnicity, race, and so on. So, what shall you do to compose a winning cultural identity essay?

Cultural Identity Paper: Definitions, Goals & Topics

Before starting off with a cultural identity essay, it is fundamental to uncover what is particular about this type of paper. First and foremost, it will be rather logical to begin with giving a general and straightforward definition of a cultural identity essay. In essence, cultural identity essay implies outlining the role of the culture in defining your outlook, shaping your personality, points of view regarding a multitude of matters, and forming your qualities and beliefs. Given a simpler definition, a cultural identity essay requires you to write about how culture has influenced your personality and yourself in general. So in this kind of essay you as a narrator need to give an understanding of who you are, which strengths you have, and what your solid life position is.

Yet, the goal of a cultural identity essay is not strictly limited to describing who you are and merely outlining your biography. Instead, this type of essay pursues specific objectives, achieving which is a perfect indicator of how high-quality your essay is. Initially, the primary goal implies outlining your cultural focus and why it makes you peculiar. For instance, if you are a french adolescent living in Canada, you may describe what is so special about it: traditions of the community, beliefs, opinions, approaches. Basically, you may talk about the principles of the society as well as its beliefs that made you become the person you are today.

So far, cultural identity is a rather broad topic, so you will likely have a multitude of fascinating ideas for your paper. For instance, some of the most attention-grabbing topics for a personal cultural identity essay are:

Memorable traditions of your community
A cultural event that has influenced your personality
Influential people in your community
Locations and places that tell a lot about your culture and identity

Cultural Identity Essay Structure

As you might have already guessed, composing an essay on cultural identity might turn out to be fascinating but somewhat challenging. Even though the spectrum of topics is rather broad, the question of how to create the most appropriate and appealing structure remains open.

Like any other kind of an academic essay, a cultural identity essay must compose of three parts: introduction, body, and concluding remarks. Let’s take a more detailed look at each of the components:

Introduction

Starting to write an essay is most likely one of the most time-consuming and mind-challenging procedures. Therefore, you can postpone writing your introduction and approach it right after you finish body paragraphs. Nevertheless, you should think of a suitable topic as well as come up with an explicit thesis. At the beginning of the introduction section, give some hints regarding the matter you are going to discuss. You have to mention your thesis statement after you have briefly guided the reader through the topic. You can also think of indicating some vital information about yourself, which is, of course, relevant to the topic you selected.

Your main body should reveal your ideas and arguments. Most likely, it will consist of 3-5 paragraphs that are more or less equal in size. What you have to keep in mind to compose a sound ‘my cultural identity essay’ is the argumentation. In particular, always remember to reveal an argument and back it up with evidence in each body paragraph. And, of course, try to stick to the topic and make sure that you answer the overall question that you stated in your topic. Besides, always keep your thesis statement in mind: make sure that none of its components is left without your attention and argumentation.

Conclusion

Finally, after you are all finished with body paragraphs and introduction, briefly summarize all the points in your final remarks section. Paraphrase what you have already revealed in the main body, and make sure you logically lead the reader to the overall argument. Indicate your cultural identity once again and draw a bottom line regarding how your culture has influenced your personality.

Best Tips For Writing Cultural Identity Essay

Writing a ‘cultural identity essay about myself’ might be somewhat challenging at first. However, you will no longer struggle if you take a couple of plain tips into consideration. Following the tips below will give you some sound and reasonable cultural identity essay ideas as well as make the writing process much more pleasant:

Start off by creating an outline. The reason why most students struggle with creating a cultural identity essay lies behind a weak structure. The best way to organize your ideas and let them flow logically is to come up with a helpful outline. Having a reference to build on is incredibly useful, and it allows your essay to look polished.
Remember to write about yourself. The task of a cultural identity essay implies not focusing on your culture per se, but to talk about how it shaped your personality. So, switch your focus to describing who you are and what your attitudes and positions are.
Think of the most fundamental cultural aspects. Needless to say, you first need to come up with a couple of ideas to be based upon in your paper. So, brainstorm all the possible ideas and try to decide which of them deserve the most attention. In essence, try to determine which of the aspects affected your personality the most.
Edit and proofread before submitting your paper. Of course, the content and the coherence of your essay’s structure play a crucial role. But the grammatical correctness matters a lot too. Even if you are a native speaker, you may still make accidental errors in the text. To avoid the situation when unintentional mistakes spoil the impression from your essay, always double check your cultural identity essay.

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What is your identity essay sample, example.

Identity, in itself, is difficult to define—let alone ourselves as a persona. It seems that identity is what we and others say we are. In this case, identity is flexible and fluid. It can change at a moment’s notice, as who we are is a story we and others tell ourselves. Identity is not a solid, carved-into-stone statement. Moment to moment, our identities are shaping and reshaping themselves.

Yet, if I was to try to define my identity concretely within a worldly view, I would say I am primarily a person focused on creativity and spirituality. Every day, I write poetry, play percussion, and sing. I regularly submit my poetry to journals, and perform in concerts as a percussionist. I enjoy singing sometimes in concerts, but mostly I sing for my own enjoyment at home and while on walks. In terms of spirituality, I meditate each morning and night, and listen to spiritual music during the day. I also enjoy pondering about spiritual philosophies from Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and many other religions and traditions. I try to remain in a meditative state throughout the day.

I can get more mundane and say that I am a 33-year-old Caucasian male, American, who was born in Seattle, Washington, and currently live there. I have a wife, no children, and a pug. I work as a content coordinator and editor. My favorite food is either Mexican cuisine or Italian cuisine. I am both an introvert and extrovert. I took an IQ test and got a near-genius score. I have had five surgeries. I have won awards for my writing. I like to occasionally play chess, and was crazy about this game in high school. My personality is a mix of bubbliness and introspectiveness. There is so much to list off, but I do not know how interesting it would be for readers to trudge through.

Examining my identity, I realized that yes, I am this surface identity that anyone can fill out in a personality test. However, underneath this layer of identity, I believe there is a more universal identity. Through meditation, I have experienced moments and spans of time when all my thoughts, physical sensations, and emotions were so far away from being perceived directly that I felt detached from them. The discovery that my identity could simply be consciousness was startling. In addition to being surprised, I realized that this state is available for all of us—that pure consciousness could be our universal identity.

What does that mean for identity itself? Well, I believe we might fooling ourselves that we are, say, a 33-year-old Caucasian male from Seattle who writes poetry every day and loves taking walks with his pug. This is only a superficial layer of identity that is constantly adapting and changing according to the environment, circumstances, and happenings. The universal identity of pure consciousness is always the same, and can be said to be the most secure form of identity. Also, if we view people as pure consciousness, then it is difficult to have prejudice or ill will for them. This body and all of its components are only a container for this pure consciousness. Do not ask me how and why this pure consciousness is there, though. I do not have enough knowledge to answer this question properly.

This is one example of a reflective essay. As you may have noticed, it’s a concise but comprehensive analysis of the chosen topic. If it’s your first time writing something like this, don’t be afraid to ask for help from the best assignment writers . It’s not an easy task and searching for guidance is a natural thing to be doing.

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Self Identity — Finding Your Own Identity to Become a Leader

Finding Your Own Identity to Become a Leader

Categories: Personal Identity Self Identity

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Words: 1323 |

Published: Aug 14, 2023

Words: 1323 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

The Importance of Finding Your Own Identity

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Related Essays on Self Identity

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My Culture, Identity, and Cultural Identity

This essay about cultural identity explores how culture deeply influences personal identity through traditions, language, art, and cuisine. It examines the integral role culture plays in shaping individual perspectives and how it evolves over time through interactions within a global community. The narrative highlights the importance of cultural heritage in connecting with one’s roots and the broader human experience, emphasizing culture as a dynamic, enriching force in the modern interconnected world.

How it works

Within the vast mosaic of human existence, culture emerges as a profound element, serving as a lens through which we view the world, mold our identities, and integrate into the wider societal matrix. My cultural identity is not simply a collection of customs and traditions; it represents the core of my existence, seamlessly integrated into my personal narrative.

From my early days, I was enveloped in a diverse array of cultural influences. The values, beliefs, and traditions of my family laid the foundation of my personal identity.

The inviting scents from my grandmother’s cooking, the sounds of folk music during celebrations—each experience was imbued with the essence of my cultural heritage.

Language has been a vital component in shaping who I am. The rhythms and nuances of my native language resonate within me, linking me to my forebears and anchoring me to my cultural roots. Through language, I keep alive the wisdom and tales handed down over generations.

Culture is more than language; it includes numerous elements that inform our perspectives and shape how we perceive the world. From social norms to the meaning behind gestures, each component of my culture provides insight into the collective psyche of my community.

Artistic expression is a significant reflection of cultural identity, whether through the vibrant colors of traditional art, the pulsating rhythms of native drums, or the rich stories in classic literature. As an artist, I draw comfort and motivation from the myriad of artistic forms that are part of my cultural background.

Cuisine also acts as a portal into the essence of a culture, offering a taste experience that goes beyond words. The aroma of spices, the sounds of cooking, and the explosion of flavors recall communal and familial celebrations, each meal narrating the culinary skill and cultural amalgamation that characterize my gastronomic legacy.

However, I acknowledge that cultural identity is fluid and ever-evolving, influenced by time and interaction with the world. As a member of the global community, I am keen to engage with different cultures, learning and enriching my own through these interactions.

In our globally connected society, cultural identity serves both as a point of pride and a bridge for mutual understanding. It is a collage of various influences, each adding to the unique fabric of my being. As I traverse the complexities of contemporary life, I carry the legacy of my ancestors, the customs of my culture, and the endless opportunities for cultural interaction.

In essence, my culture is more than a reflection of history; it is a beacon for the future, guiding my path of self-exploration, fostering connections, and celebrating the richness of diversity. It reminds us that, despite our varied backgrounds, we are all woven into the same complex human tapestry, united by our collective experience of what it means to be human.

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My Culture, Identity, And Cultural Identity. (2024, Apr 29). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/my-culture-identity-and-cultural-identity/

"My Culture, Identity, And Cultural Identity." PapersOwl.com , 29 Apr 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/my-culture-identity-and-cultural-identity/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). My Culture, Identity, And Cultural Identity . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/my-culture-identity-and-cultural-identity/ [Accessed: 5 May. 2024]

"My Culture, Identity, And Cultural Identity." PapersOwl.com, Apr 29, 2024. Accessed May 5, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/my-culture-identity-and-cultural-identity/

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Growing Up and Finding Your Identity

In our time: growing up and finding your identity.

If life was like the plot of a book, growing up would be the rising action. Growing up involves searching for identity. Growing up and finding your identity makes up who you are as a person. These ideas are a consistent theme in “The Bear”, In Our Time, and A River Runs Through It. Growing up involves understanding the mystery of life. One must realize where they came from and where they are headed.

That they were born and one day will die. As In the Indian Camp by Ernest Hemingway, Nick Adams at a young age witnessed both birth and death in a short period of time for the first time.

Though he id not quite understand death, he was exposed to it and that aided In the process of growing up. However, as life went on and he continued to grow up, he was sent off to war and experienced death in a greater aspect.

Nick returned more familiar with tragedies. He also returned with a sense of masculinity. This masculinity Is also part of Nick’s search for identity as he grows up. As someone enters their state of manhood, they gain the quality of traditional adult manly qualities or male maturity. Manhood and womanhood are stages in growing up that create who you as an individual.

While Growing Up Essay

Finding your identity is to know your likes and dislikes. You’re not afraid to be who you are around others.

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As in the movie A River Runs Through It, Paul found his identity as a risk taker who wasn’t afraid to stand for what he believes In. After Norman returned from college. He saw his younger brother Paul In a new light. Paul grew up. When Norman and Paul went to the river to fly fish, Norman describes Paul as finding his own rhythm in fly fishing. He wasn’t afraid to try his own thing. He broke free from what his father taught him long ago about fly fishing and became his own fisherman.

This resulted in Paul finding his identity and becoming an amazing lay fisherman. Paul also stood for the rights of Native Americans when people would talk against them. Paul was self dependent. After Paul and his brother Norman got kicked out of an Illegal gambling, drinking, and brothel establishment, Paul insists on returning to gamble but Norman tries convincing him to just leave and reminds him of all his debt. Yet Paul says, “Norm, it’s my debt. K. It’s my debt. ” Paul was self- reliant. When one is self-reliant, they rely on their own resources and powers. Unlike a child, they are independent and able to accomplish things on their own.

That mindset of being independent Is crucial In growing up and folding your Identity. In ‘The Bear” by William Faulkner, Eke searched for his Identity as a hunter. The story started out with Eke as a child who was pro killing this monstrous and powerful bear, Old Ben. Yet, as Eke matured, he decided instead to not kill the bear. He and the bear where foes but shared a respect for one another. They didn’t want their so called “fight” to end. And for that case, they both did not attack when they had the chance to harm one another. This represented Kike’s process of growing up. During the setting of A River Runs Through It, Norman and Paul were forced to grow up at an early age . Because AT ten clearances Trot world war l, men were taken from businesses to go fight in the war. So at the age of 16, Norman worked at the United States Forestry Service.

At that same time, Paul obtained a Job as a life guard. They were pressured to mature into the work force. Growing up and finding your identity is very different now in today’s society than it was back before and around World War l. As for today, it is not compulsory for youth to grow up at such an early age. Adolescents have become lackadaisical. They lack a sense of responsibility. They’re not ambitious in finding their identity and In summation, growing up and finding your identity make up who you are as a person. They play a significant role in the outcome of your future. These things are crucial in the circle we call life.

Works Cited

A River Runs Through It. Director Robert Redford. Performances by: Craig Shaffer, Brad Pit, Tom Skirt, Brenda Blether and Emily Lloyd. Columbia Pictures, 1993.
Faulkner, William. “The Bear. ” Go Down, Moses. Vintage International. New York, 1940. Hemingway, Ernest. In our Time. Simon & Schuster. New York, 1925.

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Growing Up and Finding Your Identity. (2019, Dec 05). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/paper-on-in-our-time-growing-up-and-finding-your-identity/

"Growing Up and Finding Your Identity." PaperAp.com , 5 Dec 2019, https://paperap.com/paper-on-in-our-time-growing-up-and-finding-your-identity/

PaperAp.com. (2019). Growing Up and Finding Your Identity . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-in-our-time-growing-up-and-finding-your-identity/ [Accessed: 5 May. 2024]

"Growing Up and Finding Your Identity." PaperAp.com, Dec 05, 2019. Accessed May 5, 2024. https://paperap.com/paper-on-in-our-time-growing-up-and-finding-your-identity/

"Growing Up and Finding Your Identity," PaperAp.com , 05-Dec-2019. [Online]. Available: https://paperap.com/paper-on-in-our-time-growing-up-and-finding-your-identity/. [Accessed: 5-May-2024]

PaperAp.com. (2019). Growing Up and Finding Your Identity . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-in-our-time-growing-up-and-finding-your-identity/ [Accessed: 5-May-2024]

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Growing Up and Finding Your Identity Free Essay Example
Growing up involves searching for identity. Growing up and finding your identity makes up who you are as a person. These ideas are a consistent theme in "The Bear", In Our Time, and A River Runs Through It. Growing up involves understanding the mystery of life. One must realize where they came from and where they are headed.

How to Identify Yourself in an Essay: Exploring Self-Identity in Writing

How to Identify Yourself in an Essay: Let Your Words Shine!

Find Your Writing Persona

Inject Some Humor

Reflect Your Unique Perspectives

Play with Structure

Dare to Be Different

Embrace Your Quirkiness

FAQ: How do you identify yourself in an essay?

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11 Steps To Finding Yourself

1. Identify Your Personality Type

2. Observe Your Feelings

3. Ask Who You Can Relate To And Who You Look Up To

4. Ask Others What They Think About You

5. Consider What Your Core Values Are

6. Reflect On Your Past

7. Look To The Future

8. Try New Things

9. Write Everything Down

10. Meditate

11. Accept What You Find Without Judgment

When You Have Found Yourself, Live As Yourself

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How to Write an Essay about Your Identity

Step 1. Plan the word count for your essay’s paragraphs.

Step 2. Select your main idea and supporting points.

Step 3. Write the introductory paragraph.

Introductory Paragraph

Step 4. Write the body paragraphs.