“What you are will show in what you do,” so said Thomas Edison. In Samuel Johnson’s words, “The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.”
These insights highlight the enduring truth that intrinsic character and actions outweigh external labels and that professional, social, political or academic titles are merely temporary identifiers, organizational markers that place us within a system, rarely capturing the full essence of our contribution or worth. Today, let’s reflect on how we can intentionally detach our self-identity from the transient pedestals of titles and embrace the boundless potential inherent in our true selves.
Do you know that the greatest impediment to authentic growth is the self-imposed prison of a label? When we allow “CEO,” “Manager,” “Professor,” “Senator,” “Pastor,” “Honourable,” etc to become the defining syntax of our identity, we implicitly limit our behaviour, curiosity, and willingness to pivot, often fostering stagnation by encouraging us to rest on laurels rather than seek challenging, unfamiliar paths that might not align with the prescribed duties of that position. Conversely, an unassuming or low-status title can become a debilitating barrier, causing individuals to underestimate their capabilities or shy away from opportunities for fear of not being “qualified” enough, even if their inherent skills far exceed the job or position description.
The inherent problem is that titles are often inherited or bestowed by external systems – a corporation, an institution, a society – and thus, they reflect that system’s valuation, not the innate human value we possess, leading to a dangerous misalignment between external perception and internal reality. True fulfillment comes not from receiving an accolade but from the process of dedicated effort, the mastery of a skill, and the integrity displayed during challenges, none of which require a specific prefix or suffix; reclaiming your identity means recognizing the difference between your functional and transactional role and your essential and infinite being. It is about ensuring that the value you generate is judged by its impact and quality, rather than the hierarchy of the position from which it originated, a cognitive reframing that allows for unparalleled flexibility and resilience in a world where career, social or political trajectories are increasingly fluid and non-linear.
So, enhance your capacity to define success purely using internal metrics that prioritize learning, resilience, and ethical conduct over hierarchy and status, because these are the only true measures of self-mastery. While titles may be attached to your name, never allow it get into your head. Actively seek out experiences that lie outside the perceived scope of your current title, whether it’s volunteering to mentor in an unrelated field, developing a hobby that requires a completely new skillset, or confidently speaking up with an innovative idea, regardless of the titles of those in the room. Cultivate “title-blindness” and treat every person with the same baseline respect and attention, whether they hold a corner office title or a service position, recognizing that profound insight can emerge from any level or background. Know that the most valuable and future-proof professional is one who is fundamentally adaptable, whose contribution remains essential and transferable even if their organizational or political chart box disappears or changes colour. To achieve this, constantly invest in core, enduring skills such as critical thinking, empathy, clear communication, and complex problem-solving as they are universally valuable and cannot be revoked by a layoff or a demotion. This personal development portfolio, built on genuine competency and character, becomes the unshakeable foundation of self-worth, securing your identity against the emotional volatility of external validation and the unpredictable whims of institutional and political changes.
As you step out each day, remember that the most meaningful identity you possess is not written on a complementary card, but reflected in your actions and the genuine connections you forge. Allow your inherent purpose and passion to guide your decisions, ensuring your contributions are driven by deep personal commitment rather than the expectation of status. Never forget that the legacy you ultimately build will not be a collection of titles achieved, but the lasting positive impact of the genuine person you consistently chose to be.
- Esitikot is a professor of occupational health and safety, a COREN-registered chemical engineer, public affairs analyst, UN Ambassador for Peace, certified management consultant, World Safety Organization Ambassador, recognized Environmental Ambassador, marriage counsellor, youth mentor, reviewer for international research journals and volunteer lecturer at the Institute of Health, Safety, Security and Environment, University of Uyo. He is a manager in the oil and gas industry and was recognized by Highstone Global University, USA as the occupational health and safety personality of 2024. He can be contacted via 08035103559 (Whatsapp only) or email (esitikot@gmail.com).
