Identity-based change for 2023


Earlier this year, I added one word to my business cards. That single word caused a total mindset shift: writer.

I decided when making business cards for my life coaching practice that my writing was just as important to highlight. I've written stories since I was very young and through my twenties, I wrote thirteen novels, four novellas, and a variety of short stories, poems, essays, and blog posts.

After declaring myself a life coach AND a writer, I started telling more people about my writing. On networking platforms, I mentioned my books. I was struck by how easy it was to talk about my passion for writing.

I started a new book at the end of August, and a couple days ago, I wrote the last sentences in the last chapter. The last time I finished a book was more than seven years ago. I've started and abandoned two since then. So, this is super exciting for me! I can't wait to share the book with you all when it's ready.

I'm reading Atomic Habits by James Clear, and this quote about identity-based change resonated with me:

"Many people begin the process of changing their habits by focusing on what they want to achieve. This leads us to outcome-based habits. The alternative is to build identity-based habits. With this approach, we start by focusing on who we wish to become.... There are a set of beliefs and assumptions that shape the system, an identity behind the habits. Behavior that is incongruent with the self will not last."

My decision to regard myself as a writer once again inspired me to write a novel in four months. I'm curious about the way you see yourself. Take a moment to consider which qualitites, labels, and identities you have for yourself right now. Are they serving and supporting you?

Many of us are thinking about the upcoming year and what we want to change. You might have a New Years Resolution in mind, or a new habit you'd like to start, or a goal you want to achieve. Do you have a list of those things yet? I encourage you to write down a list, whether it's three things or twenty. Then consider what type of a person would do those things.

For example, if you want to start a regular reading habit or finish a certain number of books in 2023, you can work on embodying the identity of a reader. Each time you read a page, you are a reader.

"Your identity emerges out of your habits. You are not born with preset beliefs. Every belief, including those about yourself, is learned and conditioned through experience. More precisely, your habits are how you embody your identity. When you make your bed each day, you embody the identity of an organized person. When you write each day, you embody the identity of a creative person. When you train each day, you embody the identity of an athletic person." -James Clear, Atomic Habits

Would you like support on your journey? Here are the different ways I can help:

  • Coaching: I offer weekly one-on-one coaching for six months. During our time together, I will help you get clear on your goals and create an action plan. Then I'll offer accountability and support along the way. You can bring any kind of goal to me: writing a book, developing a mindfulness practice, feeling more confident, or moving across the country. The life coaching skills I have will apply to a variety of goals and lifestyles. You can schedule a free consultation call to figure out if we're a good fit to work together.
  • Reflect, Rest, and Dream Guide for 2023: This PDF guide will lead you through a process of reflecting on the past year, taking time to rest during the winter period, and dreaming for 2023. I'm offering a free 30-minute action planning session to anyone who contacts me before the end of January. Download the guide here.
  • Follow me on Instagram or join my Facebook group, where I share helpful content and periodically host live calls.

Emily Loveall, Life Coach

Website | Instagram | Facebook Group | Book a Call

One last note: I want to recommend the documentary The Century of the Self. In this 4-part documentary, you can learn about how corporations and the American government have used our desire to be unique individuals to exploit us. Although I'm a proponent of identity-based change, it's important to see and understand its origins and how it can be used against us.

Emily Loveall

I'm Emily Loveall, a mindful life coach. Sign up for my newsletter to receive my writings on mindfulness, self-reflection, and transformation. I will show you how to create the life you want while enjoying the one you have right now.

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