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Ellen: Wide Eyed and Ready

What's Your Why?

Do you know who you are? What do you think of yourself and how would you describe that self to others? I recently heard a NPR broadcast suggesting listeners state who they believe themselves to be in a concise sentence that starts with, “I am from . . . and   I can . . . “ 

       It was a formidable challenge, but decided to give it a try.

          “ I am from compassion, moxie, independence,  and love, and I

           can dream, can do and can be.” 

  Once I put my thoughts to paper I became intrigued with the process of describing myself succinctly. Business coaches advise that it’s important to be able to identify your skills in brief during in a job interview, at networking events, or when developing a Linkedin profile. A way to beging is to identify who are you, state for whom you do what you do, and finally mention how the party you are speaking to will benefit.

      “I am an executive and lay minister who helps museums, small businesses, and families become empowered through education, resources and information in order to improve careers and personal situations?”

 I was on a roll. Deciding not to describe myself in the Hausa Language, I  took the plunge and tried a one-sentence definition to get me elected to political office.

      “ I’m a mother of five, a fighter who loves our city and cares about leaving a healthier, vibrant, more compassionate community for the next generation.”  Was that wishy-washy enough? Who can be against that sentiment? Perhaps I need to add “plus I’ll find a job for everyone.”

      James Blanchard Cisneros, author of "A Journey of self Awareness,"  says, “Enlightenment isn’t a change into something better or more but simply an expression of knowing who you are.

     How in the world can that be accomplished? A way to begin is by exploring your priorities, values, and interests. What makes you happy? What type of people do you like to be around? Describe your character, your style, and your overall emotional state? What are your boundaries? Does the exercise sound difficult to execute in one sentence? No problem. . . break the rule and try two.  

      “I am a happy, engaged woman who is curious, studious, and adventurous within limits set by my physical abilities and (most) societal norms. I like those who inspire me to reach outside my comfort zone, enjoy friends who make me laugh at life’s foibles and have such a bad memory that I forgive all who aggrieve me.”   

  Well now, that’s a that’s enough about  me.  What about you?  Who are you?  Take the challenge and share a sentence (or two) on my blog at [email protected]/blog. 

A few images to get you started.  

Art is always for sale. Contact me at [email protected]

Ellen: Wide Eyed and Ready / 20” by 16” / acrylic on canvas / $399

References:

  LaCivita, A. (2019) How to describe Yourself in One Sentence: Elavorty PitchYouTube

  Cisneros,J, (2015) A Journey of Self Awareness,.  You Have Chosen to Remember Series ( A Journey of Self-Awareness, Peace of Mind and Joy) Chosen to Remember Books, Coconut Grove, Florida. Available in paperback and on Kindle on Amazon.

  James,M Ph.D. ( 2012) Who are You? Psychology today. retrieved from  https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/focus-forgiveness/201212/who-are-you