Fluid identity: Why it’s important and how to change it

Just go with the flow, right? Sadly, it isn’t always that simple, neither in life nor in business. There are a lot of factors that determine identity, and they’re usually deep-rooted. Having a rigid identity, as a person or as a business, can cause issues, though.

Howard Yu has written an article stating fluid identity is both personally and professionally meaningful – although one question remains.

What Is “fluid” Identity?

Identity explains who people are and why they behave in a certain way. So, changing it can be challenging. It demands mental flexibility. Identity shapes not only us but also the overall logic of our business.

Being unwavering has its benefits. However, a rigid identity causes problems if it’s inflexible. Strong can often mean stubborn. Below is explained why it’s important to occupy the middle ground. Taking a more “fluid” approach to life and business can help with finding solutions.

1.   A range of possible selves

Having a wide range of possible selves is vital on a personal level. Research has shown that during career transition, managers tap into many role models. Try to create a collage from the best seen in other people. Remember, one offshoot of a brand might be building product X for customer X but product Y for customer Y.

2.   Read

Bill Gates has said that he reads 50 books a year. Warren Buffet has said that he reads 500 pages. There is perhaps no other exercise like reading to be challenged and open the mind. Stop being too rigid by listening to different voices and ideas – even if you disagree.

3.   Check your politics

Voting can often be where the worst stubbornness is displayed. People vote for the same party year in, year out, no matter who’s in charge. Voting, along with things like age, gender and race, is also one of the most significant factors in identity. so, check your politics at the door in order to embrace a more fluid mindset.

4.   You and your brand

Remember, it’s not enough to just practice fluidity in personal life. Your business and brand need to embrace it, too. How many brands changed their advertising to embrace Pride month? Take risks and change with the times, at home and at work. Just make sure that it’s genuine.

5.   Adapt

It’d be pretty crazy not to implement change when faced with facts, right? However, this is something that is often hard to do. People get stuck in their ways, believing their own way of thinking is the right way. “Let the winds of evidence blow you about as though you are a leaf.” – Eliezer Yudkowsky

Embracing a fluid approach to work will offer the chance to wear many hats. Interact effectively with both your audience and with the people in your personal life. A fluid mindset is one that doesn’t just embrace change for the sake of it but for what it can offer.

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