Roles and identities
We naturally and unthinkingly adopt a role in all of our relationships, both in the family and at work. And what our roles are is often deeply influenced by our most significant relationships (which are those with strong emotional ties).
It is not the people we are dealing with but the role we assume that influences our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. The roles we adopt in our significant relationships are often unconsciously transferred to other similar relationships – be they at the workplace or on a personal level.
In the previous article, we saw how, without her being aware of it, Lucy somehow confused her boss with her sister and her earlier experiences continued. The relationships were similar and so was her feeling of emptiness.
Becoming aware of this parallel was the first step, according to an article on the website of the INSEAD business school. This first step is an important one since it liberates you from a position in which you have no choice.
Once you have discovered the connection, you can choose to respond like an independently minded person. Or you can choose to react as the young, subordinated child. Once you see the wider picture, you will finally have the opportunity to decide how you want to react and what outcomes you would like to see in your relationships.
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