It is of utmost importance to carefully choose the people we associate with, as we are greatly influenced by our own peer group because they can assist in developing a strong individual identity. We usually feel more secure when we know that we have others around us who share our goals and care about our progress. Being part of a peer group fosters the idea that we are accepted and loved for who we are. This is why change is often difficult for certain individuals because suddenly, you are cut off from your regular group, who you have become so familiar with. We sometimes seem wired to adopt the goals of the people around us, particularly when we develop a close relationship with them.
“Belonging is when people accept you for who you are” Our identity determines who we are and where we belong, and it undergoes a continual change as we are exposed to different kinds of environments and people. Belonging means to feel a sense of welcome and acceptance to someone or something. It is indeed true that belonging is when people accept you for who you are, isolation and depression often ensues when one fails to find a sense of belonging. Our sense of belonging could be affected by the change of our experiences overtime, and how easily we are influenced by our family and friends, or even media. As it may be difficult to discover our true identity, it jeopardises our ability to find a sense of belonging, because we are weary from our previous unpleasant experiences.
Time management is very important in all aspects of life. If you do not have positive in this area, you will fail to accomplish specific goals, and benchmarks. Again, you must hold yourself accountable to be disciplined enough to manage your time wisely. The consideration and respect you show others is a big aspect of this area. People typically demand respect before giving it.
The journey that a person takes in life similar to Santiago’s in The Alchemist clearly illustrates the factors that contribute towards one’s identity. The relationships established during this journey also play a part in establishing a person’s identity. The positive and negative experiences in life along with the friendships established also plays a key role in making a person’s identity. Determination has a huge impact on our identity. Determination is focusing on our goal and putting all the effort in our power to achieve it.
‘Belonging is as much about choices as it is about circumstances that an individual cannot control’ To what extent is this view of belonging communicated in your prescribed text and ONE other text of your own choosing? Belonging is a part of human nature and is a crucial emotion that allows individuals to gain a sense of identity and connection. Historical, social and cultural influences may contribute in forming an individual’s sense of belonging to a certain person, place or community. However despite its inclusive nature, a failure to belong can limit an individual’s sense of belonging as well as cause psychological damage to them. These notions of belonging are exemplified through Peter Skrzynecki’s Immigrant Chronicle poem’s Felix
“Our identity is shaped by our experiences” Many things shape our identity throughout our life which is a forever evolving entity. Our identity is made up of characteristics that make us the live being we are. It is a sense of ones self which is influenced by our physical environment, family, social groups and even our upbringing. Through ones identity, a sense of belonging is gained, which is seen as a sense of enlightenment felt when an individual gains an understanding of themselves, in relation to others and the wider world. Belonging is a way of having acceptance, security and fulfilment whether it’s belonging to a group of friends, family, race and culture.
Every person is unique and is individual so in order to promote equality it is important to treat everyone fairly. Each person has their own needs, wishes and preferences so it is imperative that these are respected. “Diversity” is another way of explaining “differences” and it’s important for us to realise that although often people may have many things in common with each other, they can also at the same time be very different and unique in many ways. We need to understand and recognize those differences, moreso than just simply tolerate them, so that we can embrace and value those people which will in itself produce a more conducive environment for all. The result of this should lead to “inclusion” which is about creating a sense of belonging, feeling included, feeling respected and valued, even though it may be that that person lacks some advantages.
Anxiety can play a major affect here as the individual dives into social relationships, engages in risky behavior, and has a strong drive to be accepted as a contributing member of society, in other words, what they have to say or do is important … so notice! Peers form a safe port at this stage, and being accepted and feeling like they belong can take precedence over family. Physical attributes become every so pronounced and important, emotional advancement (intimate relationships), and mastering autonomy the daily goal (Erford, 2010). Though they strive for independence, often times they will cave into wishes of peers for acceptance, which can lead to additional confusion and anxiety. As they reach this formal operational stage, when deductive logic becomes important, it is easy to a picture gymnast trying out the balance beam for the first time.
Belonging increases the self-image, self-esteem and confidence of the human race. We strive to belong with family, friends, at work and school. Our lives revolve around belonging. However, belonging often comes at a cost. It can require you to forfeit your identity, pay money, lose our friends, or even our family.
“Our relationships with others help us to determine who we are.” The way we interact with others whether they be a stranger or a friend helps to define who we are and our identity. In life, we make many very different relationships. As humans, the need of social relationships with others is very necessary. To find our identity and to fit into a group we force ourselves to be more like them. When we are surrounded by people who are more like us we tend to share and understand more.