Dr. Maya Shankar: How to Shape Your Identity & Goals

How to Shape Your Identity & Goals with Dr. Maya Shankar

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Maya Shankar delves into the complexities of identity formation and goal setting. Dr. Shankar, a cognitive scientist and host of the podcast "A Slight Change of Plans," offers profound insights into understanding and shaping one's identity through life's inevitable changes.

Core Concepts and Philosophies

Dr. Shankar emphasizes the concept of a "through line," which involves identifying the core elements of activities that bring joy and fulfillment and finding ways to express those elements in new contexts when changes occur. This approach helps maintain a stable sense of self despite external changes19:019:3.

Practical Strategies and Advice

• Identify Your Through Line: Reflect on past activities that you loved and pinpoint the underlying features that made them enjoyable. Seek new ways to incorporate these elements into your current life19:0.
• Avoid Identity Foreclosure: Be cautious of adopting identities imposed by others, such as parents or society. Actively explore and decide who you want to be based on your values and interests19:619:8.
• Anchor Identity to Why, Not What: Focus on the reasons behind your actions rather than the actions themselves. This creates a more resilient and adaptable self-concept19:12.

Supporting Evidence

Dr. Shankar references neuroscience research highlighting significant brain changes during adolescence, which drive the quest for independence and identity exploration. This supports the idea that identity is fluid and shaped by both internal and external influences19:219:10.

Personal Application

Dr. Shankar shares her personal journey of losing her identity as a violinist due to a tendon injury. She illustrates how she rediscovered her core passion for human connection through various roles, including cognitive science and public policy, ultimately leading to her current work as a podcast host19:919:3.

Recommendations for Tools and Techniques

• Self-Reflection Exercises: Regularly engage in self-reflection to identify your through lines and core passions. Tools like journaling or discussions with trusted friends can aid this process.
• Flexible Goal Setting: Set goals that align with your core values and be open to adjusting them as you grow and change.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help maintain a focus on the why behind your actions and support mental resilience through changes.