Growth is Intentional

We live in a world that often tells us who we are supposed to be—what to wear, how to act, which goals are “acceptable.” And if we’re not careful, we can spend years living out someone else’s script without ever pausing to ask: Who am I, really?

The first pillar of the RISE framework is Reclaiming Your Identity. It’s the foundation of everything else, because until you know who you are and choose to grow intentionally into that person, you’ll always be swayed by outside voices. Growth doesn’t just happen by accident. It takes intention, commitment, and courage.

Growth Is Not Automatic

One of the biggest misconceptions we carry is that with age comes growth. But the truth is, age only adds years—it doesn’t automatically add wisdom or identity. You can be older and still feel stuck in the same cycles of fear, doubt, or confusion you had ten years ago.

Growth is intentional. It happens when you decide to invest in yourself—through reflection, prayer, learning, and action. It’s when you choose to unlearn old narratives, embrace your God-given identity, and step into the person you were always meant to be.

“Growth doesn’t happen by chance—it happens by choice. Every intentional step you take shapes who you become.”

Why Identity Matters for Growth

When you don’t know who you are, it’s easy to drift. You’ll measure yourself against other people’s milestones, chase goals that don’t align with your purpose, or stay small because you’re afraid of being seen.

But when you reclaim your identity, growth begins to feel purposeful. You start to ask the right questions:

• What are my strengths and values?

• What brings me joy and fulfillment?

• What limiting beliefs am I ready to let go of?

• What is God calling me to do in this season?

The answers to these questions form the bedrock of your identity—and once you’re anchored in them, your growth becomes intentional.

Growth for the Sake of Impact

Here’s the truth: growth isn’t just for you. If you don’t grow, you can’t impact others. Your confidence, resilience, and identity are not meant to stay bottled up. They’re meant to inspire, influence, and empower those around you.

Think about it—every mentor, leader, or encourager who has impacted your life only did so because they chose to grow intentionally. Their journey lit a fire in you. And in the same way, your growth has the power to light a fire in someone else.

So when you decide to reclaim your identity and pursue growth, you’re not just changing your own life—you’re sowing seeds for others too.

How to Grow Intentionally in Identity

Here are three small but powerful steps you can start with this week:

1. Pause for Reflection – Take 10 minutes each day to journal or pray about who you are beyond your roles and responsibilities.

2. Set Growth Goals – Choose one area of your life where you want to see growth (confidence, communication, self-awareness, resilience) and commit to small daily actions.

3. Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded People – The company you keep influences your identity. Stay connected to people who challenge you to grow, not stay stuck.

   
   

Reflection

Where in your life are you living on autopilot instead of being intentional about growth? What’s one step you can take this week to reclaim your identity and grow on purpose?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for creating me with intentionality and purpose. Help me to see myself as You see me, and to grow into the fullness of who You’ve called me to be. Give me the courage to let go of old identities that no longer serve me and the strength to walk boldly in my true identity. Amen.

Confidence Mantra

“I grow with intention, I walk in my true identity, and my life inspires others.”

Call to Action

If you’re ready to reclaim your identity and take intentional steps toward your growth, I’d love to walk alongside you. Through my RISE coaching framework, I help women and young adults uncover their true identity, ignite their purpose, and build confidence to live authentically. Visit iarisenshine.com to learn more and take your first step toward growth today.