This is the second post in a series designed to help you get reacquainted with your core identity. For the first post on this subject, see Expat Skill: How Well Do You Know Yourself?

Many of the challenges of expatriation revolve around the notion of identity.

For those accompanying partners who had to give up their career, this may translate as a loss of identity. For TCKs who wonder where their roots truly are, it may be a case of hybrid or confused identity. Finally, pretty much all expats experience a significant shift in their self-image and identity as they are exposed to a different culture.

In short, expat life forces you to ask yourself who you really are.
In the midst of all these changes and all these new experiences, what truly remains constant about you is your core values- what you deeply believe in.

How can you identify your values?

If you are not sure what your core values are, here are a few questions to help you:

- What truly matters to you in life?
- What are you willing to take a stand for?
- Think back to one of the best times of your life. What was particularly fulfilling about it?
- Imagine that you are living the most rewarding life possible. What are the main characteristics that make it so wonderful?
- What do you want more of in your life?

Answering these questions may take some time and effort. Some of the themes that emerge might surprise you at first. Be candid and only list what is truly important to you and you alone.

You will know you have uncovered one of your core values when the thought of it gives you a jolt of energy, motivation and clarity.
Different values will have a different feel. Some will fire you up, while others will leave you feeling deeply serene and centered. Enjoy the many flavours they come in and let us know in the comments what you are learning about yourself.

Emmanuelle

PS: Merry Christmas to all those celebrating!
I am taking the day off and I hope to make it as meaningful yet low-key as possible. Oh, and I will be playing in the pretty snow… Vancouver has seen unusually heavy snowfalls over the past few days and I fully intend to enjoy the winter wonderland while it lasts!

Related posts: Expat Skill: How Well Do You Know Yourself? and Define Yourself From The Inside Out