"أفعالنا تحددنا بقدر ما نحدد أفعالنا"

Our actions shape who we are just as much as we shape our actions. It’s like a feedback loop—what we do in our daily lives influences our character, and our character, in turn, influences what we do. It's this dynamic interplay where our choices and behaviors reflect and build up our identity over time. Think of it as a constant dance between being and doing.

This idea has roots in philosophy and psychology. Historically, it echoes existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, who argued that we create our essence through actions. There's no “predetermined” self. It resonates too with the old adage, “You are what you do,” implying a strong connection between behavior and identity.

Let's take a practical example. Imagine a firefighter. Every day, they act bravely, facing dangerous situations to save lives. Their deeds—running into burning buildings, rescuing people—define them as heroes. But it's not just these dramatic moments. It's also the daily training, the commitment to staying fit, the teamwork. All these actions build up their identity. Over time, they become the embodiment of courage and selflessness. Their deeds shape who they are, just as their identity as a brave individual influences their willingness to undertake these dangerous tasks.

So how do you apply this wisdom to your own life? Start small. Think about the habits you cultivate daily. If you want to be seen as a compassionate person, engage in acts of kindness regularly. Volunteer, listen actively to friends in need, and offer help without expecting anything in return. These deeds will gradually shape your identity. Likewise, if you aspire to be disciplined, stick to a routine, set goals, and achieve them—over time, you'll see yourself as a disciplined person. It’s this repetitive cycle of action and identity reinforcement.

Now, picture this: you've always admired writers. You decide you want to be one. Starting is daunting, right? But here’s where our quote comes into play. Begin by writing a little each day. It could be a journal entry, a short story, or even a blog post. You’re not just producing words; you’re shaping your identity. Each writing session makes you a writer. Over time, the act of writing daily—your deed—cements your identity as a writer. And as you see yourself more as a writer, you’re more compelled to write, creating a powerful, self-sustaining cycle.

It’s like how athletes train. They don’t just become fit overnight. Daily runs, regular gym sessions, mindful eating—these deeds build their identity as athletes. As they start seeing themselves as athletes, they’re motivated to maintain those habits. Imagine an aspiring marathon runner. They begin with short runs. Those runs define them, and soon, they identify as a runner, pushing them to run even more.

Remember, it’s not about huge, grand gestures. It’s the small, consistent actions that really count. The daily deeds and choices you make slowly but surely shape who you are. So next time you wonder who you are or who you want to be, look at what you’re doing. Your actions are painting the picture of your identity. And if you’re not happy with the picture, change the strokes—change the deeds, and watch your identity evolve.