How do you introduce yourself?

If we are meeting for the first time how would you introduce yourself? In my case, I can think of a few ways:

· I am Maritza, Human Resources expert, coach and author
· I am Maritza, devoted to help people discover their purpose so that they can become a better version of themselves
· I am a woman who loves dancing, learning and exploring cultures

How we introduce ourselves reveals in many ways how we perceive ourselves… Today I want to reference the brilliant explanation and comparison that Jay Shetty shared about the difference of what we do vs. who we are.

First, take a moment to think how you go about introducing yourself… got it… OUR IDENTITY is shaped by how we perceive ourselves…

Then, before we continue and we all can be on the same page:
· What is identity? The qualities, beliefs, personality traits, appearance and/or expressions that make us unique.

· And why it is important? Self-identity strengthens our character, defines know who we are, and increases our self-confidence

Then, if our introductions ideally will reflect our identity, which description paints the best picture of truly who I am?

My job titles? HR expert, coach and author…. It is understandable that many of us default to them, considering how much time we spend at work: Hi I am Maritza HR Manager and Coach!

However, we are a complex blend of passion, beliefs, character, values, experiences and many other dimensions that make who we are.

What would happen if we describe our work using verbs instead or nouns? Meaning I create, guide, shape strategies that accelerate human development

For many people, work may not be in full alignment with their values and beliefs. Then, if you tie your identity too closely to your work (and something beyond your control changes), instead of what is important to you, you may lose sight of your uniqueness… You may be giving your identity and self-worth to work…

This subtle shift allows us to detach our identity from our job: It becomes what we do. Giving ourselves a wider definition helps us better navigate the many aspects of our life, as work is only one of them.

After all, separating work from the core of who we are… and knowing who we are outside of work, allow us to bring our full self to work.

A TEST:
· Think of someone you love – how would you introduce them to someone else? How would you describe them?
· How would they describe you?
In any case work was most probably not in the equation…? Interesting ha…

Then, I chose to introduce myself aligned with my purpose, I am Maritza, the purpose driven leader, who helps people become more self-aware so that they can become a better version of themselves. This statement shows what drives me in my personal and professional life.

To conclude, if “How you introduce yourself shapes your identity?” What would you like to change to reflect more of who you are?
Remember there is a clear difference between who you are and what you do….