Are You Defined by Your Thoughts and Intentions or Your Actions?

Imagine a world where your essence is not merely your actions or thoughts, but something more profound and eternal. In this reality, we are not defined by the transient elements of our existence, but by our soul. This piece delves into the nuanced understanding of self, exploring how our thoughts, intentions, and actions contribute to our identity.

The Role of Intention and Thoughts

When considering the question of whether it is our thoughts or actions that define us, the answer is both. However, I personally prioritize the intention behind our actions. Intending well is the foundation of making choices that align with your core values and shape the way we perceive and engage with the world, and they often dictate the actions we take.

God, in my understanding, evaluates us based on every detail of our lives. We are not omniscient, and we cannot prove everything. So, it is unwise to judge people based solely on limited knowledge. Actions and intentions can appear very different when the true reasons behind them are known. Understanding and acknowledging the intentions behind actions can provide a fuller picture of a person's character.

The True Essence of Self

However, it is crucial to understand that we are not defined by our thoughts, beliefs, or behaviors. The true essence of who we are is our soul — a permanent and eternal part of us, temporarily embodied in the human form. Our souls choose and practice specific patterns of thinking and behaving (PTBs) from a young age, often before the age of 13. These patterns become deeply ingrained in our neural pathways, shaping our personality and how we interact with the world.

Origins of Our Patterns of Thinking and Behaving (PTBs)

By the age of 13, each of us has developed and practiced specific patterns of thinking and behaving (PTBs), which we have selected and chosen, influenced by factors such as our parents, culture, peers, and other external factors. These patterns are not preprogrammed but are the result of deliberate choices and practice.

From age 14 to 20, there is an involuntary, hormone-driven process that reinforces and prunes these neural pathways, locking in the preferred patterns. This process makes us increasingly reliant on these patterns, which become integral parts of our identity. Prior to this period, key experiences such as transcendent love or a lack thereof can significantly influence our development of self-discipline and the way we manage our innate fears and desires.

Evolution of Self from Age 13

To summarize, by age 13, we have largely formed our initial PTBs, which play a significant role in shaping our personality and behavior. These patterns continue to influence us throughout our lives, making us who we are. Changing these patterns later in life is possible but requires significant effort, often resulting from dramatic or traumatic life experiences.

Conclusion: We are more than just our thoughts and actions. Our core essence, our soul, is the permanent and eternal part of us. Thoughts and actions do play a role in defining us, but they are reflections of a deeper, more enduring truth about who we are on the inside. Understanding and cultivating good intentions can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life, ultimately contributing to a better self and a better world.