Some days etch themselves into our memory, leaving behind lessons that resonate through time. Today, I revisit a pivotal moment, a turning point witnessed through the lens of my son, Izee.
Four years ago, at the age of 17, Izee faced a challenging day— he failed his driving test for the second time and then had to deliver an EPQ presentation. Little did I know that his response would become a mantra that echoes the power of identity in our habits.
Izee’s words, ‘No mum, I’m going to do my EPQ because I am the kind of person that does what I say I’m going to do,’ encapsulate a philosophy elucidated by James Clear in his book ‘Atomic Habits.’ Clear posits that every action serves as a vote for the person we aspire to be. It’s a profound idea that Izee, unbeknownst to us, instinctively understood.
Examining Izee’s commitment provides a tangible example of Clear’s philosophy. His decision to deliver the EPQ, despite its limited impact on his university plans, showcased a commitment to his word, resilience, and consistency. These seemingly small choices became powerful votes for the person Izee aspired to become, shaping his identity in the process.
Izee’s commitment to the EPQ wasn’t merely a singular act; it became a stepping stone. Each choice, like this one, contributed to the formation of habits aligned with his aspirations. The cumulative effect of these choices is a subtle but transformative journey that’s moulding Izee’s identity. Every small change, a vote for the person he aspires to be.
As we navigate life, let’s reflect on the kind of person we aspire to be. Are our daily choices aligning with this vision? Izee’s story reminds us that in the simplicity of our daily decisions lies the power to shape our identity. So, let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, recognising that change often thrives in the smallest of our choices.
What kind of person are you? Who do you aspire to be? And what steps, actions or decisions are you taking that align with your vision?
Yoga Pathways 
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