I am not one thing, but many…
There is a tendency in life to seek simple definitions, to categorise people and label them as one thing or another. But I am not one thing…
I am many.
My identity is a mix of experiences, passions, and roles. Each piece contributing to the ever evolving picture of who I am today. Am I an artist?
I am.
But, that word doesn’t seem to capture the essence of my true identity. I am a creator. Constantly shaping and reshaping my world, even if only through the lense of my mind. My craft is an expression of my inner self, and it manifests in various forms. Whether through drawing, painting, speaking or simply existing, each medium offers a different way to capture the beauty and complexity of what I am feeling.
I’m drawn to philosophy and scientific ideas, forever curious about the world around me. Eager to explore the mysteries of life in search of meaning. Writing, too, is a passion. It allows me to express my thoughts and emotions in a way that brings clarity and connection. But my creative pursuits are just one part of who I am.
I recall a time when my mind was overflowing. Each idea fighting for attention, making it hard to focus on anything at all. It is difficult for creativity to find a place in a world that often values conformity, over the complex and fluid nature of inspired thought or our inner worlds.
Our thoughts and ideas flow freely, sometimes chaotically, fuelled by the intuitive and sensitive sides of our brains. This struggle is part of what makes our journey unique. This abundance of creativity can be overwhelming, making it hard to fit into predefined roles or boxes. But it is also a gift, offering endless possibilities for self-expression and growth, even if the path to finding our true place is winding and unclear.
Professionally, I wear various hats and am required to utilise a completely different set of skills. In my lifetime I have taken on many roles. Each one a learning experience and step toward improving myself and bettering my life.
In the workplace, I might be a strategist, a problem-solver, or a leader. These are roles that I might not naturally fall into, but they challenge me and push me to learn and grow. Yet, even these roles are only a snippet of the person I am.
I am a giver, driven by a deep sense of compassion and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. There are days when I reach out, offering help and support, but there are also moments when I retreat into solitude, seeking the quiet and peace that allows me to reflect and recharge. Sometimes I need to be left alone.
I get told I’m a smiler, spreading joy and warmth wherever I go. Yet, even this simple description is just one aspect of me. The things I am don’t define me entirely because I am forever constantly evolving. Every day brings a new discovery, a new facet of myself that emerges as I grow and change.
Speaking different languages, each one opens a door to a new way of thinking and being. I have an interest in the lingua latina which speaks to my love of spirituality and tradition, while Português, Español, Italiano, and Français connect me to the rich cultures of the world. I want to learn 한국어. My roots are in Madeira, a place that grounds me, yet I am also English, carrying with me the influences of both worlds.
Just like DNA or the cells of my body, my identity is composed of countless layers and parts, each one contributing to the whole. Body, mind and spirit. I am many things, not one – and every facet of my being adds to the richness of my experience. Blending together, creating a rich and complex portrait of my life. While I am constantly evolving, I am also deeply rooted in who I am – a complex, multi-dimensional person who is always discovering new aspects of myself.
In my family, I play many roles; daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunty. Each of these roles brings with it its own responsibilities, challenges, and joys, adding depth to the person I am. But beyond these roles, I am genuine, kind, and compassionate. I love deeply, with all my heart. And yet, I also know the feeling of sadness, dissapointment. There are times when I question my worth, when I don’t feel good enough. I am imperfect, but in my imperfections, there is a certain kind of perfection.
I love many things, not just one.
My passions and interests are diverse, just as my identity is multifaceted. I am many things, not one. And even if I don’t fully know or understand all of who I am yet, I am confident that I am, and always will be, much more than I can ever define.
And so are you.
You, too, are not limited by a single label or role. You are many things, and you have the power to choose who you want to be, no matter where you are in your life. Embrace your complexity, honour your journey, and remember that you are constantly evolving. There is always more to discover, and more to become.
You are many things, not one.
And that is your true strength.
