Who are you when you strip away your titles, achievements, and everything you think defines you?
In this solo episode, Jay explores one of life’s most profound questions: Who am I? Drawing from years of meditation, spiritual study, and personal reflection, he challenges the ways we define ourselves through job titles, relationships, achievements, and other people’s opinions, revealing why these attachments can undermine our happiness and fulfillment.
Jay introduces two perspectives on identity: the relative self, shaped by our experiences and guiding values, and the absolute self, which exists beyond labels and concepts. Through practical exercises, thought-provoking analogies, and the practice of self-inquiry, this episode invites you to look beyond who you think you are and discover a deeper sense of awareness, connection, and peace.
Notable Quotes
“If you want to identify me, ask me not where I live or what I like to eat or how I comb my hair, but ask me what I am living for in detail.” — Thomas Merton
“Our identities are wrapped into titles or achievement or even worse, what we think other people think of us.” — Jay Abbasi
“It’s really unhealthy when you invest your identity in any of those types of things.” — Jay Abbasi
“This question, who am I? It’s not really meant to get an answer. It’s meant to be curious about the questioner.” — Jay Abbasi
Resources and Links
Jay Abbasi
Website: https://jayabbasi.me/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayabbasi/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayabbasi_/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejayabbasi/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jayabbasipodcast
Join Us Next Time
On Monday’s episode, you’ll meet Brenda, a senior program director at a large architecture firm who feels overwhelmed as her team struggles with accountability, leaving more and more responsibility on her shoulders. Jay is joined by BJ Kraemer, president and CEO of MCFA, to explore how leaders can create clarity, strengthen ownership, and build trust so their teams can work together toward shared goals without relying on one person for every answer.
