I believe in authenticity. It’s a great gift to the world to be yourself.
I also think that sometimes a persona is helpful.
The dictionary defines a persona:
2. The characters in a dramatic or literary work.
3. The role that one assumes or displays in public or society; one’s public image or personality, as distinguished from the inner self.
I like to think it as a little play acting, a game of pretend to move yourself to action.
I was talking with some friends about the upcoming trial and someone suggested I be Jackie O while I am there. This made me feel calmer about the trial.
Sometimes I’ll think of myself as my bubbly sister when I feel extra shy.
Often we have a one dimensional view of ourselves. "I’m not really a nature gal." "I don’t do roller coasters." "I’m just not the active type."
Let’s say you have this great work opportunity that will help your career and help people. All you have to do is give a speech. If you are stuck in the thought, "I always get stage fright and I am bad at public speaking," you may miss on this opportunity. But, picture yourself as Tony Robbins giving a speech. Pretending can give you that confidence.
Or maybe you have a bunch of research. You think you are really bad at research and don’t like it at all. Think what would your favorite writer do? Or perhaps Sherlock Holmes?
I like to bring up my happy homemaker persona to clean with, because I tend to not like to clean. When I see cleaning from her point of view – to show love to the household – I can clean more joyfully.
Can you think of someplace you are stuck? What persona could help you move forward?
Will be praying for you, Beth. Be Jackie O!
About your thoughts on Persona. Right on target! Thank you for the reminder – things are easier when we “Act as if . . .”
About the trial – I will be praying that God gives you the strength and courage you need to face the days ahead – just as He has given to you, the days since . . .
Beth, I congratulate you on fixing on Jackie O as your persona for the ordeal of the trial. Fabulous choice: calm, self-possessed, dignified, “above” the emotional chaos.
I send you my prayers for continued strength.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this application. I do this myself to get my self motivated to do something that I myself would not do, and think to myself, ok now, how would _____ handle this. Works great, and helps me get it going.
I am so glad to hear someone else does this.
And you will be in my prayers for the upcoming trial. You are strong, look how much you have overcome already!!
Beth, Your strength and ingenuity inspire me. I love this “persona” technique.