Chinese or French? Dreamer or Doer?
Elio Osejo and Sarah Ellen Roberts had us thinking about labels that others impose on us, but what about the labels we have for ourselves?
I usually visit the local bakery in the morning to buy non-fresh bread (because they don’t make bread until the afternoons – what’s up with that?)
“Chino o francés?” the plump store lady asks me. Chinese or French?
“Oh, I’m Chinese,” I say.
She was talking about the type of bread I wanted.
Besides feeling ashamed that I was so full of myself, the incident had me thinking about our instant reactions to labels and how we identify ourselves.
- Dreamer or doer?
- Thinker or feeler?
- Answerer or questioner?
- Encourager or energizer?
- Influencer or supporter?
- Nurturer or enabler?
- Hoarder or chucker?
What are some labels you may unconsciously and automatically identify with? Are you hearing only what you want to hear? Are these labels hindering your growth or empowering you?
Tags: bread in huancayo, huancayo bakery, labels, pan chino, pan francés, panadería huancayo, self-limiting beliefs
R A Ackerman PhD EA
Actually, Samantha, we need to go deeper. We are SO used to hearing what we want to hear, that we don't really listen. We hear a buzzword- and react. We see who's speaking, our mind has categorized them as "such and such", and we just react to that mindset, blurring the words in our minds.
So, tell me, again.. French or Chinese!
My recent post No excuses will do!
Samantha Bangayan
That's so true and, of course, exactly what happened to me. =P That question really adds to what I was trying to say and I'll add it to my post right now: "Are you hearing only what you want to hear?" =) Thanks so much for adding to this, Roy!
Samantha Bangayan
HAHA! =) Omigosh, Hajra! Thank you *so* much for sharing your story. It's so hilarious to think of this situation happening to someone. I literally laughed my head off for weeks after that incident, remembering how silly I was. =P
I know what you mean about how confusing it can be to explain your background. Explaining the Chinese-Filipino deal with my Filipino background, but Chinese blood, is always a story in itself. =) I often don't know how to identify myself either! =P
RobertaBudvietas
Interesting how when we are out of our comfort zone we can see something different. Great blog
Samantha Bangayan
Thanks so much for your feedback, Roberta. =) I sure have discovered tons about myself living here in the Andes — I almost feel more conscious about how I'm the same or different.
maureen wielansky
Wow Samantha! Growing up as a catholic girl, we all identified by our nationalities (1/2 Irish 1/2 Lebanese). Anything that my mom did (either positive or negative) had to do with being Irish.
Then I married someone Jewish and they don't talk about nationalities they are all Jewish.
Now I just think of myself as a woman; much simpler that way.
Thanks for always getting me thinking! Great Post!
My recent post TRUE CONFESSIONS- INVESTING IN ME
Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Maureen! This is amazing! I love the idea about how being Jewish surpasses all nationalities. I never thought about it in that way.
What was even more beautiful was how you moved on to deciding to think of yourself as a woman. =) Simple yet powerful! =)
Thank you so much for sharing your take on this, Maureen! =)
JennyStamos
This is great! So glad I've discovered a new blogger! 🙂
My recent post Modern Cameo – a gorgeous giveaway!
Samantha Bangayan
Jenny, I'm *so* ecstatic to finally be in touch! =) As I already mentioned, I've heard tons about you through comments you left on Janine's posts in the past and I can't wait for you to start posting in the TLC again!
Thanks for your feedback on this post! =) Did I see you mention something about needing support for a contest? Don't ever hesitate to let me know how I can help me out through the Interweb! =) Looking forward to staying in touch! =)
Martha Giffen
This is such a fantastic discussion that I am tempted to send a reply to each one! Labels are such interesting things. We have the ones in our heads, the ones others put on us, and the ones society puts on us. And in each category, one can find negative and positive labels abound.
Jeanine, ESFJ here. LOL I like your comment about "forgetting" our labels. For example, I am an adopted child but I forget unless someone starts a conversation about the subject.
Actually, the whole subject of labels is deep and wide. Thanks for a great topic for my dinner table tonight!
My recent post The Morning After
Jeanine Byers Hoag
Martha, we don't have anything in common but the "F," LOL! But what you said about forgetting is exactly what I mean. Unless the subject comes up, there are some labels I don't remember. They aren't part of my daily consciousness.
My recent post Three in Thirty- What Encouraged You this Week
Samantha Bangayan
I know what you mean, Martha! I'm so surprised at how much everyone has had to share! I've really learned a lot from you in terms of being effective in my blog posts — I'm surprised that short posts can be really powerful too. =)
I love how you made the distinction between different types of labels, Martha. I also loved learning more about you through your Myers-Briggs type! At least we have the F and J in common. =) I'm an INFJ!
Isn't it so interesting how Jeanine brought up the idea of "forgetting labels"? =) Thanks, Jeanine!
And thanks, Martha, for your thoughts on the subject! I imagine you had a super interesting dinner discussion on this! =)
Janette Fuller
I enjoyed this post, Samantha. I think we all have labels that we instantly react to. I agree with Roy ~ We attach labels to people and it is very hard to change our thought patterns.
Samantha Bangayan
Exactly, Janette. The automatic reactions can make it hard for us to break out of negative labels, I imagine.
Thanks so much for sharing your insight, Janette! =)
Juan Arellano
Great reflextions… but.. what is chino bread in Huancayo? I've never tried it. When I'm in "La incontrastable" and need to buy bread I look for "bollito" bread 🙂
My recent post Josefina Townsend de Canal N protesta en vivo por No transmitir juramentacion de Ollanta
Samantha Bangayan
Haha! Good question, Juan! Pan chino is just bread that's made out of flour from the Sierra. The bread is pointed at the ends, which makes it look like two Chinese eyes. =P I should get a good picture up.
Bollito bread is actually really similar to pan chino — it's just flatter. =)
Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving your thoughts, Juan! I'm so glad we're in touch and that your blog is finally up! =)
jyoti mishra
I've read about Peru in newspapers only !!
looking forward to know more from your blog.
My recent post Story of a girl !!
Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Jyoti! =) I was so excited to see you here. Thank you so much stopping by to leave your thoughts. I promise to head over to your blog very soon. I'm just heading to Lima (around 8 hours away by bus) for a day to visit my aunt and uncle, but I'll stop by your blog as soon as I come back! =)
Nyxzie
Can answer "all of the above"? I hate labels. Here's my most accurate label though . . . . I'm a walking contradiction. I blame it on being a Leo-Virgo cusp baby. I have never claimed normalcy, or sanity for that matter.
Ok, I have written 3 responses to this and I keep deleting them because I'm going off on tangents! So I'm going to leave this as is!
My recent post Don’t Forget Your Rape Insurance
Samantha Bangayan
Dayle, that is *such* a great answer! As I thought of those different comparison labels, I also thought of how I could be one or the other depending on the time and situation. I love the label you've decided on for yourself — "a walking contradiction." May I borrow that at times? =)
Haha! =) You are hilarious! I wish you had left your ramblings. I *so* love your natural stream of thought. =) Will head over to your blog very soon, Dayle! I'm just heading to Lima for a day trip and will see you when I get back. =)
Justin | Mazzastick
Yes, I do get caught up in myself, sometimes too much. That little incident was a "wake-up' call even though it was funny.
I do my best to detach from labels even though this is not always possible. The problem with labels are that they stick to you even if they are not true.
My recent post You Are Not Your Body
Samantha Bangayan
Aw thanks so much for relating to me, Justin. I thought twice about sharing the story and you're the first person who has related to my accidental arrogance. =P
I love your thoughts on this Justin. It's so true that labels can be sticky. One of the hardest parts for me is when I have a label for myself, but evolve from that label. It's hard to adjust to the new label and have everyone else around me adjust to it too!
Thanks so much for stopping by, Justin! I promise to get to your blog as soon as I get back from a day-trip to Lima! =)
Nisheeth
Hiii Samantha, NIce blog.i am following you now.please follow me back..thanks
Samantha Bangayan
Hi Nisheeth! Thanks so much for leaving a comment and for your feedback on my blog. I'm so glad we've connected in so many places. I've followed you in both places and look forward to staying in touch! =)
I'll also be sure to head over to leave some love on your blog as soon as I get back from my day-trip to Lima! =) Talk soon!
Vinny T
Extremely thought provoking! Unfortunately, many of the labels that we walk around with throughout our lives have been assigned to us by others, and create great obstacles for our own self -development. We are often forced to rebel against such labels and follow our own instincts to find out who we really are and to develop our potential to the fullest.
I like to see my self as a seeker and an explorer, continually searching for ways to improve myself and to overcome life's limitless challenges.
Samantha Bangayan
Vinny, thanks so much for stopping by! Sorry for being so busy this past week. Tomorrow, I'm taking a trip to Lima too, but I promise to try and get back on track this coming week!
I wholeheartedly agree that many labels are external. In fact, it can be so difficult to distinguish the true labels we have decided for ourselves v. those that we have adopted, but have been influenced by others.
I love how you mention following our own instincts as you know that I hugely believe in this! I hope tons of people read your comment and are inspired by it. Maybe we can write a blog post on it together. =)
I also wholeheartedly agree with the labels you've chosen for yourself and I hope that I have a tinge of those labels (seeker and explorer) in myself as well. =)
Talk very soon!
Vinny T.
Hi! Of course I'd be interested in a collaborative post sometime. Have a safe trip to Lima and back to Huancayo. I had an enjoyable dinner last night with a Huancaina living nearby. Ate causa with chicken and green rice. Quite delicious. Looking forward to hearing from you soon
Best regards
Vinny T
Samantha Bangayan
Wow! Great to hear, Vinny! =) I had no idea that there'd be a Huancaína near where you live. =)
I finally have your book now!! Loved your picture! I feel even closer to you through it! And now to get my life back on track, so I can respond to your kind email and read your book!! Abrazos!
Abe Palmer
Classic example of a Joharry window. It is true that most of the time we only hear what we think we are hearing and think of ourselves as the person we think we are. The key and successful practice for situational leadership or even just buying something at a Bakery is being the person that other people see. This can be a confusing action to master. Non of us want to appear fake or wishy washy but we do want to pertray ourself accuratlly for the situation we are faced with.
Samantha Bangayan
I hadn't thought about the Johari window in so long, Abe! Thanks for bringing that theory up. It reminds me of my university days. =P
I really like your thoughts on this, Abe. There are moments where we definitely need to adapt to the situation. It's not about changing ourselves, but about acting appropriately.
Abe Palmer
An example at my work place is; We have a store manager that believes that her role as the manager and pertraial of the store manager is to remain in her office 9 out of her 10 hour day with minimal inneraction with the employees. On her side of the window she percieves herself as the leader of our store and the person with her finger on the pulse of the employees. BUT the view from the employees side of the window is she lacks the knowlege to efficantlly manage and that she is unapprochable.
Although she is young in appointment she is still developing and honing her skills to manage. She struggles to Neurture when she is still being Neurtured. But the day will come when she will be able to Neurture some while offering Support to others. Confusing but called Situational Leadership. (thank you Dr. Joharry)
Thanks Samantha, you continue to amaze me.
Samantha Bangayan
Wow! This is a perfect example and a really beautiful observation, Abe. I imagine that you've shared this with her and that you're acting as a mentor for her! =)
That's so interesting about the disconnect between her own view and the employee's view, but I love how you accept her humanness and have faith that she'll grow and hone her skills.
Thank you for your faith in me as well, Abe, and for being so supportive with my blog! Hugs!
Tambre Leighn
Ah…the land of explaining ourselves…at my dance competition in March, I dared finally to go and ask one of the professional hustle dancers from Europe for a dance…I explained to him up front that I was a beginner (relative to his expertise) but that I was being bold and asking some of the really great dancers to dance and would he be so kind as to…he put out his hand, took me to the dance floor and we had the MOST amazing dance. After, when I tried to learn a little more about his background he looked at me and said, "no speak English"…he hadn't understood a word of my disclaimer…I realized all those words were my insecurity talking. I stopped having that conversation and spent the rest of the night dancing with no apologies.
My recent post Out of Grief & Into Meaning
Samantha Bangayan
HAHA! Omigosh, this is such a heartwarming story, Tambre. =) I know it must have felt silly at the time, but I loved your very last line about how you "spent the rest of the night dancing with no apologies." You never needed the disclaimer at all! =) How beautiful! =)
Melissa A.
What a great post. I have been labeled as an enabler and at times dependent. I think that, until recently, I let those labels hinder me. I was also alway labeled "the fat one" and that definately defined me for the longest time.
Now, though, I tend to not think about the "labels" so much any more.
My recent post Somethings Aren’t Always As They Seem
Samantha Bangayan
What a beautiful development, Mel! Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on this. I love how you talk about labels being hindering, but how you now leave them be.
I'm interested in the label of dependency. It kind of reminds me of the label, "follower." It can be something so positive. Being a good follower is a stellar skill! I love reframing labels and I totally see you as an "enabler" as well, in the most positive way possible! =)
Continue to take good care of yourself, Mel, and talk soon! =)
Rob
Hey Sam,
I definitely look at labels for myself in an empowering way. Even to the point of associating what I've heard about someone else to myself. Example: That person is smart, etc. I just think, "That makes two of us". Some may think this is delusional or vain. I'm neither. Too often we will hold fast to negative labels and dismiss positive ones. Why? Why do we receive someone saying, "You're not good enough. You're lazy. You're ugly."? And then, not somthing wonderful about ourselves?
By the way Sam, I think you're great!
1) You are a risk taker.
2) You are a thoughtful writer.
3) You are an encourager to others.
4) You use your intelligence and yet are willing to grow even more.
Those are my labels for you.
Live it LOUD!
My recent post Does Natural Talent Matter
Samantha Bangayan
WOW! This is a very new concept to me, Rob, and I kind of like it! =) It doesn't have to be about arrogance if it's about empowerment. What this makes me think is that I can actually be any label in the world, so I don't have to feel limited by them (i.e., I am X and therefore not Y). It's more like, I can be all the letter in the alphabet (if you get what I mean =P)!
Thank you so much for sharing your valuable insights, Rob! And I can't thank you enough for your compliments. I am so ecstatic that I give off such a positive impression in the little time we've known each other and I'm so excited about our growing friendship.
Rob, I totally promise to head over and share some love on your blog as soon as I get back from Lima. I'm just heading there in a couple hours (8-hour bus ride), but will be back on Tuesday! Talk very soon! =) And continue living it loud too! =)
Derek
Hey Samantha,
First time here from Rob's tweet and posts about labeling – I dig:)
It's interesting to see somebody talk about labels. Labels are really beliefs about ourselves and they can be either empowering or disempowering.
Awareness in thinking is necessary to periodically evaluate our self-labeling process.
Posts like yours remind us to evaluate NOW!
Good to hang out here,
Derek
My recent post Disease In Personal Development Blogs
Samantha Bangayan
Derek, I'm so excited to meet you! Thank you so much for taking the time to visit my blog! =)
I absolutely love how you associate labels with beliefs. They almost seem less sticky that way, as if we can take more charge of them! =) And it's so true that we need to continually self-assess to make sure that we're empowering and not disempowering ourselves and others.
Thanks so much for your kind thoughts, Derek! I can't wait to head over to your blog, share some love and connect with you more! I'm just heading to Lima (around 8 hours away by bus) in a couple hours, but I promise to be in touch when I get back on Tuesday! =) Talk very soon and thanks so much again for reaching out! =)
Janet Callaway
Sam, aloha. Roy was so right when we said that we react automatically to "labels" and buzzwords. While no doubt some "labels" do linger longer than others, I make it a habit whenever I realize I am putting a label on someone else or myself, to dissolve it.
Labels are an easy way to categorize and to box people or situations. If we compartmentalize for convenience sake, we miss out on aspects of life and the opportunity to get to know the "real" person who is not a label. Because when we label someone, in order for us to see something more than the label, we have to dissolve or at the very least peel back the label which requires us to change our thinking.
Besides, Sam, couldn't all of the above "labels" fit each of us in different situations?
best wishes for a terrific weekend, my friend. Take good care. Aloha. Janet
My recent post 3 Bite Size Book Reviews by Janet Callaway The Natural Networker
Samantha Bangayan
Janet, I love how you mention consciousness and I would like to follow your lead in making it a habit to be aware of when I'm using labels. I think I would be surprised with how often they come into play in my life!
It's so true that compartmentalizing restricts our opportunity to not only get to know another person, but also our ability to realize our own full potential. As you point out, we need to come to the realization that we can fit any or all of those labels at any point in time! =) This can feel so freeing! =)
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts, Janet. I knew you'd share some fabulous insights! =)
Yen_C
lol
I got some similar experience.
Something's like " How are you ? v.s " How old are you ?
When I was non-stopping reply, there were questions marks fully on their face.
Anyways, it's easy to reaction from our own labels. :p
Samantha Bangayan
Haha! What a funny story, Yen! =) That's a tough question! When I was teaching English in Japan, those were questions that were often confused too. =) So, don't feel like you're alone! =P
Thanks so much for sharing your story too, Yen! =)
@LearnIt2EarnIt
I always feel that there is one simple way we as today's society could make a change … that is, not to put labels on anyone. I know, that is a dream. But really, why can't we start instilling this in our children and their children, etc. Maybe it is because we have become so comfortable, too comfortable, to allow others to label and express themselves that way and we don't do anything about it.
When I talk to you or anyone, I don't ask you what origin or what religion or what anything. Maybe I am getting off track here – as you can see Samantha, you have inspired a thoughtful discussion with this topic.
BTW … that bakery looks really good!
My recent post Has Your Business Hit a Home Run- Or you Still in the Dug out
Samantha Bangayan
Yes! Wouldn't it be amazing if we could start passing this down? We make the change and generations after will no longer be restricted by labels! =) What an amazing thought! =)
I love where you've taken this conversation, Lynn. It's funny how we are often polite enough, not to bring up labels in conversations, but we use them so powerfully in our minds! This has definitely been an interesting discussion!
It's such a yummy bakery, Lynn! They have the best chocolate cake too! =) Hehe!
Thanks so much for adding to the discussion!! =)
Marcus Baker
Hi Sam,
I have to say I am not very pro labels when these become identifiers. Our sense of self then is entirely or largely derived from these, which in my opinion takes us away from ever being concious to who we really are, which is far greater than any limited label we can apply to ourselves.
On the other hand contextual labels is how we collectively agree to give meaning to our place in the world. If others require these to understand their relationship with me then so-be-it but I am inclined personally to just "be".
Another great thought provoking post Sam!
~Marcus
My recent post The law of Attraction Gives you Whatever you Believe
Samantha Bangayan
So true, Marcus! I love how you put it — "labels as identifiers" become limiting (e.g., if we feel that we can only be X and not Y). Imagine how much more we could be if labels did not exist or if we embraced the idea of the limitless number of positive labels we could use for ourselves! =)
Wow! What a great distinction between identifying labels and contextual labels. I see what you mean about some people feeling more comfortable using labels to understand relationships and connections in the world. You have definitely made my post more thought-provoking than I ever intended it to be, Marcus! Thank you!! =)
Samantha Bangayan
Marcus, I just realized that you had left a comment even though we weren't in a campaign together! You have TOTALLY made my WEEK!! =) I promise to head over to your blog as soon as I get back from Lima — I'm leaving in a couple hours, but I'll just be there for a day-trip. Thank you so much for being so duber kind, supportive and encouraging! Hugs! =)
Leanne Chesser
This makes me think back to a few years ago when I read A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. He wrote about labels and how they don't define who we truly are. I wrote this as I processed one of his chapters:
We Call it Bird
We call it "bird."
But it's essence. It's life.
It's an expression or creation of Life.
It's life in a particular form.
We call that form "bird."
With "bird" we associate things like wings, flight, chirping, flying into windows, stupid, dirty, feathers, beaks, poop, worms, trees, nests.
This becomes its identity.
Yet, the beingness or essence that is the "bird" is rarely known.
Our connection with that essence is rarely experienced.
So we don't "see" it and love it and treasure it and be with it.
It's the same with our fellow human beings.
We call it "human."
But it's essence. It's life.
It's an expression or creation of Life.
It's life in a particular form.
We call that form "human."
More specifically, we may call that form "woman," "wife," "mother," "friend," "sister," "Julie." We may associate brown hair, pretty, calm, stubborn, the house down the street, Ukrainian, Canadian, Buddhist, cancer-survivor, teacher, narrow-minded, intelligent . . . or any other characteristic . . . with "Julie."
This becomes who "Julie" is.
Yet, the beingness or essence that truly is "Julie" is rarely known. Our connection with that essence is rarely experienced. So we don't "see" it or love it or treasure it or be with the "is-ness" that is "Julie."
We judge.
We like or dislike.
We associate or dismiss.
We mistreat.
We ignore.
We go about our own business, unaware of "Julie's" beingness . . . and unaware of our own.
We're:
striving . . . to earn, to learn, to be right, to get through the day, to achieve, to be seen, to escape, to find "more"
busy doing
constantly accumulating
We're rarely just being. Rarely just being with God/Source/Spirit, creation, others, ourselves. Rarely just being who we really are . . .
. . . loving
. . . at peace
. . . in each moment
Copyright Leanne Chesser
My recent post Are Your Slide Videos Ugly & Illegal
Samantha Bangayan
I absolutely loved "The New Earth" and wish that I had brought my copy with me here to Peru! =) But more importantly… WOW!! I'm yelling a "WOW!" so powerfully and deeply in my mind because I am *so* impressed with your poem. You really capture the nature of labels.
The most intense lines for me was when you repeated: "Our connection with that essence is rarely experienced. So we don't "see" it and love it and treasure it and be with it." This awareness is the very first step and from it we can start really *being* with each other, being with "Julie's beingness" and also our own.
I also completely identify with your last three lines — they are *exactly* what I cherish about my life here in Peru and I hope that you're "being" so thoroughly more and more each day!
I feel so honored that you chose to share your poem here in a comment, Leanne — So, SO honored. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reminding me why I'm here and how I want to be living.
Kristen Robinson
The first label that comes to me is African-American, then someone who's younger than 30. Those labels tend to go against me when meeting clients for the first time and the skeptical looks used to haunt me. Now, I'm proud of it. I feel that to be young African-American becoming successful is great and is inspiring to others. Now, I keep walking with my head held high because being young and African-American are just labels. They don't define who I am.
My recent post Nothing is Stumping Me Now!
Samantha Bangayan
Same here, Kristen! As you can probably tell from my story, I'm even more conscious about my culture and nationality here in Peru. =P
You are an inspiration indeed! Young entrepreneurs are often the most driven, energetic and socially powerful. I just know that new clients see this in you when they meet you! =)
And I also loved the last line of your comment. "They don't define who you are." =) And my labels won't define me either! *Clink!* Cheers! =)
gjsuap
Labed or labeled? I think a lot of people are used to label another people, ideas or circumstances, and then do that a pre-judice (in spanish, a previous opinion, pre-juicio) forever, and never move it… Other are so comfortable with labels that they become what's said about them…. I think it's necessary to reinvent yourself with frecuency, or maybe you will become what other people labeled you…
Saludos
My recent post Economía sin Dolor- 19 de mayo
Samantha Bangayan
Gonzalo, I absolutely *love* how you mention "reinvention!" That's what makes life amazing — not just comfortable, but amazing! =)
You really bring up some good points — people often get stuck with labels (even if they don't want to be stuck) or they get comfortable with labels that they embrace them as their own, whether or not it's limiting to them.
I know that you continually "reinvent" yourself to prevent this from happening; I hope to follow your example and continually "reinvent" myself as well. =) So glad we're friends! =)
Gonzalo, I promise to spread some love on your blog as soon as I get back from Lima! I'm just heading there for a day-trip! See you very soon! =)
Nanette
Good day, Samantha-
I love this post.
Interesting isn't it, how we can be inspired to think a little differently by a simple exchange in the bakery.
I'm so glad we've connected.
Wishing you well-
Nanette
Samantha Bangayan
It really was just a short blip in time and I even hesitated in posting it, but then I remembered the essence of my blog — reflecting on the little things in life — and realized that the tidbit was perfect! =)
I'm also equally glad that we're connected. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Nanette! =)
Adrienne
Wow, I never really thought of it to be honest with you. So let's see, what label would I use to describe myself. How about encourager! Wouldn't you agree Samantha!
Enjoyed this one, you made me think today! Okay, I can't start making that a habit now can I! 🙂
My recent post Give Me 7 Minutes And I’ll Show You How To Get More Likes On Your Facebook Fan Page
Samantha Bangayan
Ooh!! That's a good one, Adrienne! =) You are definitely an "encourager" and that's why your blog is thriving! =) People are drawn to encouragers! =)
Thanks so much for stopping by, Adrienne! =) I can't wait to see what's new over on your blog, with all the exciting developments! I promise to head over there as soon as I get back from Lima — just taking a day-trip over! See you soon!
Samantha Bangayan
Jeanine, that's true! I often like having labels too! =) I'm an INFJ, by the way. =P
Interesting idea about completely forgetting some labels. I'll always remember the story of the Hoyts and how Rick Hoyt told his father that he didn't feel like he had a disability when they did triathlons and ran marathons together.
You really bring up a good point about how important it is to have the *right* label for ourselves. I love the idea of becoming a news-watcher and how you came up with progressive Christian. This is making me think of my Twitter profile and how it's filled with labels that I want to make more powerful and unique. I'm not "just" a writer… I'm more and I want to express that!
Thank you so much for having me think, Jeanine! =)
Dr. Bob Clarke
This is an interesting discussion, Sam.
Working in a hospital, we automatically respond to titles like doctor, nurse, embryologist, and patient. Each label brings a different set of ideas and thoughts associated with them. Definitely a "class system", if you know what I mean.
Sometimes it's hard to break out of these labels and think more about the person behind the title. It's something I should do more.
Thanks for making us think, Samantha!
My recent post 5 Surefire Ways to Alienate Your Blog Readers
Samantha Bangayan
Hey, this a really interesting take on it, Bob! I completely forgot about profession-related labels and all their connotations! I imagine it can be tough to break out of the hierarchy that's set for you, but it's beautiful how you still embrace your title as "doctor" in your online business as well. =)
Thanks for also reminding me to see the people behind labels. =) Loved your thoughts, Bob! Thank you!
Samantha Bangayan
Absolutely, Bob! I completely forgot about the professional labels and their connotations! It can be really difficult to break out of a hierarchy.
Thanks so much for sharing your take on this, Bob! =) Awareness is the first step! =)
Jen Puckett
Love homemade bread yummy, lol! We like labels when they appeal to us and don't like when they don't. A label that is appealing to someone may not be so appealing to someone else. You always get me to thinking girl!!! So….I say just stay in the positive zone!
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Samantha Bangayan
Yes, Jen! =) That's a good goal. Rather than make life complicated, let's just focus on whatever's positive — positive labels and positive interpretations! =)
Thanks so much for sharing your insights and sharing my love for homemade bread, Jen! =)
Hector Avellaneda
Ha That was funny!
What is up with the bakery's not making fresh bread early in the mornings? That's when it is the best!! (YUM!)
You made a very interesting point Samantha!
I think that sometimes the labels we put on ourselves definitely arise from our unconscious mind. You're story was an excellent point!
The lady asked "Chinese or French?" and kind of caught you off-guard (a state in which the unconscious mind is more accessible) and when you responded you said you were Chinese, even though the question had nothing to do with you.
Nothing to be ashamed about, Samantha! Thats just how your brain works sometimes! 🙂
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Samantha Bangayan
Aw thanks so much for understanding, Hector. I think you're the first who has attributed my mistake to my very human, fallible brain. =P
That's exactly what I was trying to get across, Hector — isn't it weird how labels can be so automatic and unconscious? =)
Thanks so much for sharing your input and for "being on my side," Hector! Hehe! =) Abrazos!
Fazal | Make Money
good stuff samantha, its not a shame to look stupid, we all do often 🙂
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Samantha Bangayan
Fazal, thank you so much for reaching out and for your duber kind, supportive words. =) I needed to be reminded that it's okay to be human! =P
I promise to head over to your site and spread some love tomorrow, Fazal! =) Loved your "About" page already!
Tosin
Oh Sam, labels for me are sometimes good and bad.
For instance, I am seen as a guru when it comes to online marketing. That's a huge label. Others however think I must live a very flamboyant lifestyle and that online marketing is easy and stressfree.
Those are the kinds of labels you have to deal with, Samantha!
~Tosin
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Samantha Bangayan
Ooh! Those are good ones, Tosin! The whole work-at-home factor can be interpreted in very different ways! =) Thanks so much for sharing your insights!!
Dev
Sam,
Interesting post and it's good to see you're talking about labels. Thanks for sharing your awesome insights.
Samantha Bangayan
For sure, Dev! It's definitely an issue that needs to be brought up and discussed! Thanks so much for your positive feedback, friend! =)
Deeone
Wow Samantha, what a powerful post this was! I really think I have so many labels that I am constantly trying to rid myself of. Coincidently, one of them being not to be so hard on myself and to give myself a little leeway, from time to time. Of course there are many more that I can list, but I'm sure your comment log has a length that one is able to share; and I'd far exceed it if I listed them all. 🙂 But thanks for reminding me to stay mindful of dropping each of them in the sea of forgetfulness as soon as possible. Signed my own worse enemy. 😀
.
Samantha Bangayan
Deeone, I knew that you'd be able to relate to this one! =) Being hard on myself and giving myself more leeway are important ones for me too!! It's like when I learn something from your blog posts and think: "Darnit! Why do I do that too?" as opposed to: "Well, I'm human and I can work on changing this not-so-awesome aspect of me that's hindering my growth!" =P
Great to meet you, Deeone's worst enemy. Don't be too hard on him, eh? =)
Deeone
There's always room for growth in us all. Acknowledge it, grow, and move on! That's what I've been telling myself here lately. 🙂
Oh, and he says the pleasure is all his, and that he'll definitely try to take it a tad bit easier. 😉
Lou Barba
Hi Samantha,
When I was in grammar school, I used to get in trouble for making plays on words like you have described. Yours was done innocently enough, kind of like something Lucille Ball or Gracie Allen would say. Abbott and Costello had some regular routines fooling around with words that meant two different things. I don't think you were being selfish, English can be difficult and it's easy to misinterpret sometimes. Have a great day!
Lou
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Samantha Bangayan
Aw thanks, Lou! Thanks for understanding! Now that you bring up Lucille Ball and Gracie Allan, I don't feel so bad anymore. It sure became entertainment and a good laugh as I told the story afterward! =P
Samantha Bangayan
You bring up a really good point, Jane! I've been searching for that one or two or three labels that really describe the essence of me because they would be perfect for Twitter. Haha! =)
It's also true that many people can be offended by any labels at all! That's why it's important to be sensitive to each other's thoughts, feelings and differences. Thanks so much for your thoughts, Jane! =) I love to pick your brain!
Samantha Bangayan
Wow! Excellent point, Diana! Finding out the source of labels can make a huge difference — they can especially help us understand if they truly come from us or if the labels we give ourselves were strongly influenced by others.
"Sticky labels" is an interesting concept. I hope that I can recognize labels that are negatively sticky, so that I can work on destickifying them! =) "One step at a time" for sure — this is one of the most important things I've learned from you, coach. Thank you! =)
Hilda
I find that labels are just labels and does not define anything. People give labels all the time and a lot of times labels can stick to you for life, but it doesn't mean that you have to live by them. For example: Obama who is African American is probably given a stereotypical label of what is given to an African American. However, he supersedes his label and became president, and he is the only black president. You don't see Obama rapping in the hoods, you see him in the White House discussing reforms, programs, taxes, and other important matters that is uncommon of his race.
I guess in a nutshell label is some little high school game to make fun of individuals of different race, gender, location, etc.
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Samantha Bangayan
What a great example, Hilda! It's such an interesting idea to have one label "supersede" another. I was totally imagining Obama "rapping in the hoods" and it made me laugh. Just goes to show that labels don't have to mean what we think they mean!
I so appreciate our growing friendship, Hilda! =) Heading over to your blog right now! =)
Writing 4 Effect
Sometimes labels are applied in anger; other times in simply looking for a way to simplify a complex subject. I think they can be of great benefit when trying to explain something complicated. Businesses use them all the time to simplify complex processes. These labels help to streamline business, provide clearer understanding and direction, and create a more cohesive working team of employees. On the contrary, when labels are used in an inflammatory way, they create discord and dissension. Then, there is that gray area where labels are perceived as helpful by one group, but offensive by another. Those are ones that are difficult to "label."
Samantha Bangayan
These are stellar examples, Sherry! Our brain naturally uses labels to organize life for us the way businesses use them to simplify concepts.
The scary part is when labels are thrown around without really thinking about the consequences or their effects, such as when we use them in anger or to offend another person.
Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Sherry! =)
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@The3DRenderer
Hi, Samantha.
Labels are so funny. As I was reading your post, I was giggling and chuckling to myself because I have a label story myself. But, I just could not share it here though. If you have the time, we can chat at Skype about it. My Skype ID is kimdavies.vizsource. 🙂
But, we shouldn't really concern ourselves with labels, right? Because they are just that, labels and we could be so much more. We don't have to be just one part of a puzzle but the entirety of it. There is no limit to our being if we won't succumb to being limited. 🙂
Thanks for the wonderful read, Sam. 🙂
Talk to you soon,
Kim 🙂
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Samantha Bangayan
Haha! Ooh! I would love to hear it! We should definitely try to Skype although I often have a horrible connection here in the Andes. =S
I love your lightheartedness about this, Kim! It's true that we shouldn't concern ourselves with labels. What a great analogy about being the *entire* puzzle!! =) It makes me feel like my potential is unlimited! =)
Thanks for your beautiful comment, friend! =) Talk soon indeed because I'm heading over to your blog right now! =)
Hamish
Hello Samantha,
Nice story. I am a little intrigued – is your local bakery in Peru? I know that French bread is famous worldwide, but I hadn’t thought that Chinese bread would be on offer in Peru. In fact, having visited China many times, I can’t really remember any particularly memorable breads – of course, the Holiday Inn probably serves croissants whether your in Hangzhou or Paris I suppose.
I have wandered off the topic of your post a little. Sorry for that. On the subject of labels, as a Scot I am used to getting “Kilt” shouted at me wherever I go. I lived in Brazil for a couple of years. As soon as anyone found out that I was Scottish they would smile, say kilt and then whisky – even the ones that couldn’t speak English.
Samantha Bangayan
Hamish, it’s great to meet you! =) Thanks so much for taking the time to comment!
Yeah, I live in Peru right now in the Central Andes. It kind of makes sense about Chinese bread being offered here because the Chinese first immigrated to South America at the Port of Callao (beside Lima) in the 1800s. In fact, a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine is pretty famous here! So I imagine whatever kind of bread the Chinese made, they just decided to call it “Chinese bread.” =)
Wow! I can hardly imagine people yelling “kilt” or “whisky” at you in Brazil! How crazy! =) All I get is “China”! =) At least they’re more creative there. Hehe!