When Was the Last Time You Uncovered the Real You?

Recently, I had a deep conversation with a client—a senior executive who had taken a courageous step into the unknown, leaving behind a successful corporate career. The quest for more meaning had set in.

Having found himself in this new situation, he faced an unexpected challenge: without the familiar title and role, he asked himself, "Who am I now?"

He is not alone. A McKinsey study found that 31% of employees would quit due to a lack of meaningful work.

The void of identity

Many of us can relate to this experience. We spend nearly half of our waking hours at work, and for those climbing the corporate ladder, those hours often extend even further. This leaves little time to explore personal interests, hobbies, or passions outside of our professional lives.

So, when we step away from our roles, questions like "What makes me unique?" and "What else can I offer the world?" become overwhelming.

Finding clarity in transition? It is a daunting task.

Yet, this clarity is essential; it is the compass to guide our future and path.

I, too, have walked a similar path, navigating the twists and turns of the GEMBA programme while taking a year off for a sabbatical and making a significant career change. This was a time of deep reflection, where I sought answers to some of life's most profound questions.

INSEAD became more than just an academic experience—it was a sanctuary to explore, connect, and challenge my long-held beliefs about success, fulfilment, and the impact I wanted to make in the world.

The Leadership Development Programme (LDP) was a pivotal moment. Through the guidance of our coaches, who became role models, and the introspective journey of asking more profound questions, I immersed myself in the world of coaching and leadership development.

What began as curiosity evolved into a passion that led me to where I am today, leading a leadership development company driven by the insights and growth from my GEMBA journey.

Having navigated my transition and studying career changes and identity shifts for the past three years, I've found three practical reflections that I now use in my work and could help you explore your identity beyond your job.

#1. Engage in narrative practice: Reflect on your life stories

Take time to write down memorable stories from different decades of your life (e.g., 0-10, 11-20). What patterns or themes emerge? This exercise can offer valuable insights into who you are beyond your job title.

#2. Identify your role models

Think about the people you admire and why. What qualities or achievements resonate with you? Your role models often reflect deeper desires and aspirations that may take time to be noticeable.

#3. Reconnect with your early interests

Reflect on your childhood or school years. What were you naturally drawn to that wasn't tied to a specific skill set? These reflections can uncover hidden talents and passions your career might have sidelined.

Seeing recent shifts in the number of professionals leaving their careers behind to engage in more meaningful and fulfilling work, the question arises: Are we experiencing a shift of thinking towards a journey of rediscovery?

I believe many of us are. By reflecting on who we are beyond our careers, we can avoid the hard landings that often come with such transitions.