The Framework of Self: Exploring Identity, Personality, Character, Image, and Ego.
Author: Gillian Maddigan
December 2024
I’ve been mulling over the differences between identity and personality lately. As often happens when I muse, I found myself tumbling down the rabbit hole—grabbing at rising balloons of possibility, only to watch them pop, replaced by new perspectives.
Eventually, my thoughts settled on five interconnected ideas: identity, personality, image, character and ego. These concepts—rooted in psychosomatic understanding—have been shaped by thousands of hours of working with clients, teaching students, and exploring through reading, learning, listening, and research.
Freud, Erikson, and the Evolution of Self
Though I’ve always appreciated the foundations of Freud’s work, I’ve struggled with its rigidity and mentalised approach. Freud's belief that personality is fixed in childhood feels outdated in light of our evolving understanding of emotional fluidity. Erik Erikson brought us psychosocial stages, but even his work has grown misaligned with the realities of modern life as our lifespans and societal norms have changed and shifted.
As we adapt and evolve, I believe in the transformative power of revolution, repurposing, and recycling experiences. Life is about survival, growth, and adapting—whether you’re a human or another being on this blue-green orb.
But humans have something unique: emotional memory and the ability to connect deeply and relate with others, ourselves, and the world. These connections shape our journey through our identity, personality, image, character and ego.
Identity: The Skeleton of the Self
Identity begins at conception, woven into our DNA and shaped during those 40ish weeks in the womb. Through chemical exchanges, hormones, and environmental conditions, maternal imprinting, the foundation of who we are—our "bones"—is laid down. This psychosomatic development continues after birth as we grow, supported by caregivers and those around us who help mould the soft, malleable structure of our early identity.
During childhood, our identity evolves as we absorb the world around us. Experiences, relationships, and the responses of others strengthen the "bones" of our sense of self. When upbringing is too rigid or lacks adaptability, this structure can become inflexible, with rigid thinking potentially leading to rebellion or deep conformity later in life.
Personality: The Flesh and Muscles
If identity is the skeleton, personality is the muscle and flesh built upon it. Early in life, personality is largely reactive—an emotional expression in the moment. As we enter adolescence, personality expands and strengthens through repeated experiences, testing boundaries, and forming relationships.
This stage is about exploration: learning how to use the "tools" of personality expression to connect socially and emotionally. Like muscles responding to training, personality adapts to its environment, shaping how we navigate relationships and challenges.
By young adulthood, personality becomes more defined, yet it remains dynamic—capable of growth and change. It’s a way to explore our place in the world, building on the foundation of identity while responding to internal and external shifts.
Character: The Expression of Self - Based on Experiences, Values and Beliefs - The blood that connects, heats and cools our expression
Our character is a composite of our experiences, identity development, personality expression, personal values—which may ebb and flow—and deeply rooted beliefs that serve as the foundation of who we are.
The expression of character acts as a dynamic reflection of our identity, much like the lifeblood that flows from the marrow of our being, connecting the internal structure of our values and beliefs to the outer layer of our actions and presence in the world.
It is shaped by the ongoing journey of personal growth, the distinct qualities that define our personality, and the guiding principles that influence our decisions and interactions. While values may shift over time, they often resonate with fundamental beliefs that form the bedrock of our individuality.
Together, these aspects weave a rich tapestry of experiences and convictions, illustrating how we navigate life and articulate our essence.
Character is the dynamic and evolving essence of who we are, shaped by our experiences, identity, values, beliefs, and personal growth, acting as the lifeblood that connects our inner foundation to our outward expression in the world.
Image: The Skin We Shed
Image is like the skin—a mutable outer expression of our inner selves. During adolescence and young adulthood, image becomes a playground for experimentation. From changes in clothing and hairstyles to emotional posturing and social behaviours, image offers a safe way to try on new versions of ourselves.
However, image can also act as a barrier. It can protect a vulnerable self or become a mask behind which growth is hidden. Some individuals may remain stuck in this phase, finding comfort in the façade while delaying deeper self-discovery.
Like a snake shedding its skin, stepping out of an outdated image often involves discomfort, external pressure, vulnerability and time. For some, this shedding is torturous; for others, it’s a liberating act of self-expression.
Ego: The Spark and Network
Ego is the nervous system connecting identity, personality, and image. It acts as a conduit for energy and communication, driving us to balance past, present, and future selves. A healthy ego can fuel creativity, adapt identity structures, and invigorate personality expression.
However, an unchecked ego can lead to extremes. It may inflate personality expression or cause the image to become exaggerated. But the ego itself isn’t inherently problematic—it’s a force to understand and harness and is capable of transformation and connection.
When ego works in harmony with identity, personality, and image, it sparks growth and clarity. It can challenge outdated structures and amplify our shine, helping us show up authentically in the world.
The Journey of Self-Expression
Understanding the interplay between identity, personality, character, image, and ego requires introspection and exploration.
- Identity is who we are—our core foundation.
- Personality is who we are in the present—our expression in the world.
- Character is the dynamic and evolving essence shaped by experience.
- Image is how we project ourselves to others—our experimentation and adaptation.
- Ego fuels the connections between these layers—bridging the past, present, and future.
To truly thrive, we must access our past experiences, strengthen our personality through practice and repetition, and use image as a tool for growth rather than a crutch. Ego, meanwhile, serves as the dynamic energy that propels us forward.
Reflect and Evolve
So, what does this all mean for you? Take time to reflect:
- How do you connect with your identity, personality, image, and ego?
- What triggers you or resonates deeply as you explore these concepts?
- How can you shed outdated aspects of yourself to make space for growth?
The journey of self-discovery is ongoing. Like pruning a plant, we must let go of what no longer serves us to nurture new growth. By engaging with these layers of self-expression, we can evolve—not only for our own benefit but also for the collective good of those around us.
Suggested Reading
If you’re intrigued by these ideas, consider diving deeper with these two fascinating reads:
- "Eve" by Cat Bohannon
- "The Incredible Unlikeliness of Being" by Alice Roberts
Both offer profound insights into the evolution of our bodies and selves.
Take this time to nurture your identity, expand your personality, allow your character to evolve, refresh your image, and ignite your ego. Shed the old, grow into the new, and show up fully to shine.
If you want to take it further, explore our online personal development PEAT training. It’s a transformative way to connect with your psychosomatic self and embrace your infinite
