So how do you create a sense of self that isn’t completely tied to your career? Start by exploring your favorite things to do outside of work. Things like hobbies, relationships, personal goals all contribute to who you are as a person. Investing in friendships, spending time on activities that matter to you and being present in your personal life allows your identity to remain intact no matter what happens in your career.
It also helps to redefine success. Instead of measuring yourself solely by professional achievements, consider success in broader terms. Are you growing as a person? Are you making meaningful connections? Are you contributing to something that matters to you? These things count just as much as a job title.
Finally, give yourself permission to evolve. You are not the same person at 25 as you are or will be at 40. Your interests, priorities and even career path may change. And that’s okay. When you see yourself as more than your job, you give yourself the freedom to grow without feeling like your identity is at stake.