Finding True Freedom Beyond Identity
Who are you? This question might seem simple, yet it can take a lifetime to answer. Many people live their entire lives trying to find out who they are, hoping that by pinning down an identity, they can find a sense of stability. In our modern world, we often base our identity on our jobs, relationships, hobbies, or other external roles. But there is something deeper—a truth about who we really are—that goes beyond these temporary labels.
In this post, we’ll explore the essence of our true self, a journey that moves beyond concepts and labels, and into a deeper experience of existence. It’s not about adding more definitions to yourself, but rather stripping them away to discover the unchanging reality that lies at the core of your being.
You Are What You Are
At the deepest level, the answer to “Who am I?” isn’t about what you do or how others see you. The answer is simply that you are. This awareness that you exist—without adding any further descriptions—is what ultimately reveals your true nature. Instead of clinging to temporary identities, can you rest in the pure awareness that you exist?
When you interact with others, it’s easy to get lost in the roles you play or in your own thoughts. You might find yourself constantly monitoring what you say and worrying about how others perceive you. But when you release those fears, you begin to experience a deeper freedom. You realize that your essence is not defined by your thoughts or actions. It’s the awareness behind them.
Imagine speaking to someone without the burden of trying to prove anything. You can simply allow the conversation to flow, trusting in an underlying intelligence that naturally arises. This state—where you aren’t controlling or calculating every word—is an expression of your true self. It’s liberating because it means you no longer need to hide behind layers of ego and fear.
Releasing Fear and Finding Freedom
So, how do you release these fears that keep you trapped? The key is to continuously remember what you are. Not what you do, not the labels you wear, but the simple fact that you exist. It might sound too easy, but it’s the fastest way to free yourself from the illusions that keep you feeling small and separate.
When you recognize that you are more than your fears, these fears lose their power over you. You become free to simply be, without having to control everything. With practice, maintaining awareness of your true self becomes easier, and your fears naturally dissolve. The knots in your mind begin to untangle, and what remains is a sense of openness and love—the very essence of who you are.
A Simple Practice for Awareness
Here’s a simple exercise you can try: Find a person to practice with, whether it’s a friend or even a stranger. Look them in the eye, and instead of focusing on what you’re going to say or worrying about their reaction, simply remain aware of the fact that you exist. As you maintain awareness of your being, speak the words “I am” followed by your name. Repeat it a few times, but stay focused on the awareness that you are.
You’ll notice that this awareness brings a sense of ease and comfort. Your identity doesn’t have to be tied to the name you say or the role you play. It’s an awareness that underlies everything—one that doesn’t need definitions to exist.
The Light of Your True Self
The more you practice maintaining awareness, the stronger it becomes. It starts to outshine the illusion of separate identities. You may begin to feel less like an individual navigating a challenging world, and more like a light illuminating everything around you. You recognize that the people, experiences, and things in your life are expressions of that same light.
You no longer feel bound by the constraints of individuality. Instead, you feel yourself to be a part of something much larger—a universal consciousness. In this state, there is no need to prove yourself or control others. You are simply a vessel for love and intelligence, effortlessly allowing life to unfold.
As you keep returning to this simple awareness that you exist, you’ll find a deeper freedom beyond anything you thought possible. The world may still be filled with challenges, but you face them with an open heart, no longer caught in the trap of trying to define yourself. Instead, you are free to live as the loving awareness that you truly are.
Summary Points:
- You are not your thoughts, emotions, or experiences. These are temporary and ever-changing.
- Your true self is the awareness that experiences all of this. It’s the unchanging observer, the silent witness.
- You can experience your true self by turning your attention inward. This means becoming aware of the awareness itself.
- Realizing your true self can be liberating. It can free you from fear, anxiety, and the illusion of separation.
- This realization can lead to a deeper sense of peace, joy, and love. It allows you to connect with the divine essence within you.
Actions:
- Practice mindful awareness. Bring your attention to the present moment in all activities. Notice the sensations, sounds, and thoughts without getting carried away by them.
- Observe your breath. Sit quietly and notice the sensation of the breath entering and leaving your body. Let thoughts come and go without engaging with them.
- Look for the unchanging awareness behind every experience. Just like the sky is always there behind the clouds, your true self is always present behind the changing thoughts and emotions.
- Reflect on the quote by Oprah Winfrey: “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” How can you shift your attitude to align with your true self?
- Contemplate the Bible verse: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) Find moments of stillness to connect with the divine within.
- Practice self-inquiry. Ask yourself “Who am I?” and explore the answer beyond the usual labels and roles.