Defined Quote by Audre Lorde
“It is axiomatic that if we do not define ourselves for ourselves, we will be defined by others-for their use and to our detriment.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Sister Outsider, Audre Lorde, 1984
Self-definition is essential; without it, others impose identities that can harm us, so we must actively shape our own narratives.
In simple terms: Define yourself to avoid being defined by others.
Key Takeaway
Take control of your identity.
Themes
identity
self-determination
empowerment
politics
psychology
Mood
reflective
assertive
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- Personal branding
- activism
- therapy
- education
Key Concepts
Agency
self-definition
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of yourself do you need to define?
- How can you resist imposed identities?
A Different Perspective
Self-definition can be constrained by societal pressures.
![“The self is defined psychologically as the psychic totality of the individual. Anything that a [person] postulates as being a greater totality than [oneself] can become a symbol of the self. For this reason the symbol of the self is not always as total as the definition would require.” quote by Carl Jung](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/251/carl-jung-274_defined_the-self-is-defined-psychologically-as-t_7148.jpg)
