navigating to authenticity with identity shifting

what is identity shifting?

An identity shift is the process of transmuting ones perceived identity; to consciously change the beliefs you have about yourself and your place in the world. I used to accept an identity I had where I needed to become a software engineer because of my computer science degree. This identity caused a lot of anxiety for me and made me feel small because my inherent strengths and gifts felt limited to use in the workplace. While enduring this for five years, I consciously decided to become grateful and aware of that identity, then respectfully allowing it to dissipate. From then on, I’ve shifted (still am) my identity in a way that felt more relaxing to my nervous system while illuminating my soul. This lead me to the pursuit of a career that I am truly passionate about where I can be my most creative self.

Hell yea :)

Identity shifting can happen in one or more areas in our lives:

how do we get to authenticity with identity shifting?

To be authentic is to be true to your own personality, values, and spirit in any given circumstances. As we evolve, our identity consequently shifts from time to time. Shifting your identity may seem like a scary process because it can be unfamiliar so it’s understandable to have that initial discomfort. Human beings can still evolve without compromising their true selves. Evolving comes with change and it is meant to be uncomfortable because it’s physically changing your nervous system. You are disintegrating the layers of you that no longer serve your highest self. To be in your highest self means to just ‘be’ from an enlightened frequency. It’s becoming who you are from a non-reactive conscious state without any external validation or some kind of reliance on an external outcome. It’s to show up for yourself and others with compassion.

Before identity shifting, it is imperative to understand what your authenticity means to you. Here are some questions I like to reflect on that helps me check in with my authenticity:

• Is this (situation, decision, way of being) bringing me inner harmony? Does it make my nervous system feel relaxed or will it get it to a relaxed point?
• Do I feel at peace with my current life choices?
• Am I challenged, inspired, and excited with where I’m at now and for what’s to come?

After consciously evaluating this, implement a visualization practice. Visualization is the practice of envisioning a mental image of an authentic outcome / identity that you align with. Through visualization, the neural pathways in your brain are being activated as if it’s being experienced in real life. This process enhances attention, perception, and learning while alleviating any stressors / anxieties. Think of it as intentional daydreaming. I like to practice visualization with my eyes closed during or after a breath work practice… even better when I’m out in nature while listening to music that brings alchemy my soul. During visualization, the brain is becoming more malleable and building new neural pathways. How freakin awesome is that?! However, the purpose of visualization is to not become attached to the mental image you’ve envisioned, but to develop an enlightened awareness with yourself and the current situation so that you can naturally evolve energetically. From this point on, you can then consciously decide how you want your identity to shift.