When people ask, "Who Are You?" we often respond with our government-registered name, the name our parents or grandparents gave us, or a name we picked for ourselves. But is that truly who we are?

In some places, like Nigeria, where I come from, the question "Who Are You?" can carry an undertone of challenge. It can imply, "Who do you think you are? What influence do you think you have? Who are your parents? Or even, How Dare You?"

But beyond societal perceptions, when was the last time you genuinely asked yourself, "Who Am I?" But really, who are you? How do you see yourself? Who do you say you are to yourself?

A Lesson from Muhammad Ali

Growing up, I remember watching an interview with Muhammad Ali where he boldly declared, "I am the Greatest." That line stuck with me, and it sparked a fire in my soul. Inspired by Ali, I took a sheet of paper and wrote these words:

I am the greatest student this school has ever had.

I am the greatest staff a company will ever have.

I am the greatest manager a company will ever have.

I am the greatest CEO a company will ever have.

I am the greatest husband a woman will ever have.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, "I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying." 

What does this mean in the context of identity? Nelson Mandela's words remind us that we don’t have to be perfect to stay true to ourselves. 

For example, when I wrote those words about myself, at that time, I wasn't the best student academically, I wasn't employed, I didn't own a company, and I wasn't married. But I knew who I wanted to become. And every day, I kept moving closer to that vision, using those words as a constant reminder of the person I was becoming. Every morning, I would wake up, look at those words, and declare them aloud. It wasn’t just about repeating affirmations—it was about reminding myself of who I am and who I am destined to become.

And every day, I kept moving closer to that vision, using those words as a constant reminder of the person I was becoming. Until today, I am still striving to be that person—the one I am destined to become. I never forget who I am, and because I always remember, there are things I simply do not engage in. The person I am and the person I am becoming cannot do such things. 

But this is not about me, it is about you. So again, I ask you, who are you? Who are you destined to be? Who are you trying to become?

Why You Must Never Forget Who You Are

Mandela’s words encourage us to keep striving despite our shortcomings. The moment we forget who we are, we begin to accept just anything. We lower our standards, compromise our values, and settle for less than we deserve.

A true king would never be seen drinking and vomiting in public. Why? Because he is aware of his identity and the responsibilities that come with it. So, why do we sometimes forget our own royal status and accept less than we deserve?

The moment you forget who you are, you start to accept anything, any job, any treatment, any definition of yourself. You allow circumstances to dictate your worth and identity. You begin to settle, to compromise, and to live far below your true potential.

Words of Encouragement

You are more than your government name. You are more than your titles. You are more than what you do. You are more than what you have achieved. You are more than what others say you are. Never lose sight of who you are amidst the chaos of life. Keep declaring who you are, no matter how far off course you may feel. The world may try to define you, but only you can truly decide who you are.

So, today, ask yourself again: "Who Am I?" And when you answer, let it be with boldness and certainty.