You Are: MORE THAN A TITLE.
What Defines You?
For as long as I can remember, being an athlete was my entire identity. From the ages of 4 to 21, I was a soccer player. Period. That’s who I was, plain and simple. Can anyone else relate to this?
Even if you’re not an “athlete,” think about how you define yourself. Is it your job title? Your relationship status? A single role or activity? Many of us tether our identity to one defining label, and while that can feel comforting, it can also be risky.
For me, this realization came during a series of identity crises in my formative years. At the ages of 10 and 15, I had to step away from soccer due to injuries and multipe surgeries. Suddenly, I couldn’t play the sport I loved. I couldn’t be the person I thought I was. This rocked me to my core.
Who was I if not a soccer player?
Navigating this uncharted territory was isolating and confusing, especially as a young person. No one in my life had experienced something similar, and I didn’t have the tools or perspective to see beyond my injury at the time.
Years later, when my soccer career officially ended during my senior year of college, I found myself facing a similar challenge—but this time, I felt more prepared. I had walked this road before. Those earlier struggles had taught me something invaluable: My identity is not confined to the things I do or the roles I play. Deep down, I realized that my values, my character, and my purpose define who I am. My career, hobbies, and achievements are pieces of my story, but they are not the whole.
Today, I look back on my soccer career with nothing but gratitude and pride. I cherish the memories, the lessons, and the resilience it gave me. And while I can no longer play soccer or run like I used to, I focus on the things I can do: yoga, hiking, rollerblading, and so much more. Each day I am grateful for the movements I am able to make.
These experiences taught me the importance of seeing myself as more than one thing. I was a soccer player, and I am so much more. I am a physical therapist, and I am so much more.
So, let me ask you: What defines you?
If you’ve been feeling stuck or uncertain about who you are, I want to help you explore that. Let’s dive into what makes you you—beyond the titles and labels. If you’re ready to take that next step, reach out via email or my direct booking page.
Remember: You are your own greatest source of power. Let’s uncover it together.
