From: hubermanlab
Identity is a central theme in human psychology, reflecting how we see ourselves and how that perception influences our goals and actions. In a recent discussion on the Huberman Lab Podcast, Dr. Andrew Huberman and Dr. Maya Shankar explored the nuances of identity, revealing insights on how we form, perceive, and transform our identities over time. This article delves into the key aspects of their discussion, offering a roadmap to understanding and navigating identity change.
Early Identity Formation
Identity formation begins early in life, influenced significantly by observation and external labels from those around us. Dr. Shankar emphasized that much of our early identity is shaped by what society deems successful and recognizes as privileged roles. She introduced the concept of “identity foreclosure,” where individuals adopt identities imposed by their surroundings, often limiting their perceived potential and aspirations. This early identity structure can lead to a narrower mindset and requires active steps to be reshaped in adulthood [00:06:10].
The Role of Essentialism
The psychological view known as “essentialism” plays a crucial role in how individuals perceive fixed attributes about themselves, believing in immutable core qualities. Dr. Shankar noted that this perspective can lead to feelings of shame when one’s actions don’t align with these perceived innate traits. This viewpoint often hinders personal growth by locking individuals into rigid self-narratives, counterproductive to adaptive identity change coping with change and adversity [00:15:15].
Identity Crisis and Recovery
Dr. Shankar’s personal transformation from a concert violinist to a cognitive scientist serves as a profound case study in identity change. After a career-ending injury, she faced “identity paralysis,” a state where one’s sense of self is destabilized by significant life changes. Overcoming this involved a fundamental shift in defining her identity not by what she did, but by why she pursued her passions—in this case, a deep-seated desire for human connection role of empathy in communication [00:09:01].
The Science of Awe and Delight
Experiences of awe and delight can be transformative, acting as gateways to new identities. Dr. Huberman and Dr. Shankar discussed how awe-inspiring experiences not only reshape our mental models but also invigorate our pursuit of identity through “delight,” a profound, energizing sense of engagement with the world practices to cultivate gratitude and delight [00:19:00]. This delight makes relatable experiences more profound, giving individuals a sense of place and engagement within these realms.
The Malleability of Identity
Contrary to the notion of fixed identities, both discussants highlighted that identity is dynamic. Neuroplasticity and psychological adaptability support the idea that the self is a collection of behaviors and thoughts, constantly evolving rather than remaining stagnant neuroplasticity and adaptive learning. This adaptability is crucial for resilience in the face of change [00:16:04].
Overcoming the Fear of Change
One of the challenges highlighted is the human tendency to fear change due to uncertainty and cognitive closure. To navigate transformations effectively, Dr. Shankar emphasized curiosity—not just about the external world, but about oneself. Recognizing how personal changes affect other areas of life can enhance one’s ability to adapt and redefine identity iteratively psychological and physical journey of self-transformation [01:20:23].
Conclusion
Identity is not a static entity but a fluid, evolving construct. Through understanding the formations and transformations of identity, individuals can better navigate life changes, align their goals with their deep-seated values, and cultivate a sense of self that’s both resilient and responsive to new experiences self-awareness and personal growth. As Dr. Shankar’s story exemplifies, reframing one’s narrative and leveraging emotions like awe can open new, unimagined paths, establishing rich, fulfilling identities across the lifespan.