Identity is a multifaceted and dynamic concept that evolves throughout life. For doctors, it can be especially challenging to maintain a balanced self-concept amid the demands of the profession. Identity encompasses personal traits, experiences, and roles, like being a doctor, parent, partner, friend, or artist. Recognising and adjusting the balance among these elements can lead to more fulfilling career and life choices.

Steps for an identity audit

1. Identify your current roles and self-concepts

   • List out roles you identify with today, such as 'doctor', 'partner', 'parent', 'friend', 'gardener', 'musician', 'athlete', 'yogi', etc.
      
   • Include all facets of your life, both personal and professional, even if you feel disconnected from some of these roles.
      
2. Quantify the impact of each identity component
    
   • Next to each role, estimate the percentage of your identity it currently occupies. Be honest about the influence each role has on your life.
      
   • This exercise can clarify which parts of your identity dominate and which may need more attention.
      
3. Evaluate without judgement
    
   • Review the percentages and circle in red the roles that consume a large portion of your time or energy but that you wish to reduce.
      
   • Circle in green those aspects you’d like to invest in or increase, helping you recognise areas you may want to nurture.
      
4. Consider missing elements
    
   • Reflect on any roles or interests that are missing from your current life. What aspects of your identity do you want to develop in the next 3-5 years?
      
   • Set intentions or goals for incorporating these into your identity, whether that involves resuming a hobby, connecting with a community, or exploring a new area.
      
5. Develop a personal plan
    
   • Craft a realistic plan to adjust your time and energy distribution in line with your identity goals. This may involve setting boundaries in work, scheduling time for personal pursuits, or reassessing commitments.
      
   • Enlisting the help of a coach can be beneficial here, as changing deeply ingrained identity patterns can be challenging.

Why identity matters

Reevaluating your identity can bring greater balance, align career decisions with personal values, and support mental well-being. Regularly auditing your identity provides clarity, allowing you to let go of roles that no longer serve you and embrace those that do.