Internal and external perception are two different ways we can see ourselves, two different ways we can build our identity and assess our value. While external perception might be easier to define or describe, internal perception is our enduring values and principles which aren’t affected by factors such as the passing of time, society’s trends or other factors beyond our control. A genuine sense of self is rooted in our values and beliefs, qualities that exist independently of external validation. These are not given or taken by others; we must realize them within ourselves and take responsibility for upholding and expressing them in our environment. Learn more about the differences between internal and external perception.
The Illusion of External Identity
In urban environments, society places immense value on how we are perceived from the outside. This external self-image is shaped by societal norms, cultural expectations, and the opinions of others. It’s the version of ourselves we present to the world, sometimes consciously, sometimes unconsciously. It often becomes the measuring stick for our worth in social and professional circles.
- Physical appearance: The first impression others have of us is often based on visible traits such as height, style and unique features. These are both how others see us and how we see ourselves.
- Professional roles: What we do for a living shapes how others assess our abilities and contributions. Whether we’re a CEO, entrepreneur, writer, or accountant, these roles define our place in society.
- Social positions: The roles we play within our family, community, or social circles, parent, sibling, spouse or volunteer, reflect how we relate to others on a personal level.
- Achievements: Milestones like graduating with honours, running a marathon, publishing a book, or overcoming a personal challenge are outward markers of success.
However, external self-perception is fragile and ever-changing. Job loss, aging, or shifts in social status can shatter this identity, leading to a crisis of self-worth if it’s our only foundation. Even when we achieve outward success, it often feels hollow, a mask that hides our true self, disconnected from what really matters to us.
The Reality of an Internal Foundation
In contrast, a rural or nature-based environment strips away external markers. Survival depends on our internal qualities: our values, standards, and principles. Here, who we are has nothing to do with outward appearance or others’ opinions.
- Personal values: These are the core beliefs that guide our behaviour such as honesty, compassion, integrity, loyalty and adventure. They shape our character and serve as our moral compass.
- Beliefs and principles: Our convictions about the world and ourselves, shaped by experience and culture, form the bedrock of our actions. Principles like integrity, fairness, and accountability guide our choices.
- Moral standards: These are our ethical guidelines and include standards such as truthfulness, kindness, respect, and responsibility, that help us determine right and wrong.
- Character traits: Qualities like patience, resilience, empathy, and determination define how we think, feel, and act. Some are innate; others are cultivated through conscious effort.
This internal framework creates a stable, resilient identity. It isn’t swayed by others’ perceptions, the passing of time or temporary roles.
The Interplay Between Internal and External Perception
City life, disconnected from nature, often encourages conformity and external validation. What separates these two ways of being is a connection to nature. When we begin to develop our internal foundation, often through reconnecting with nature, we experience internal conflict. Our true self, aligned with our values and principles, struggles to emerge but rarely remains consistent amid external pressures.
Many can articulate their values and standards but find it difficult to live by them, leading to ongoing internal conflict. Questions about purpose and fulfillment such as “Is there more to life than a job title or social role?” begin to surface.
The only true training for developing foundational traits comes from life-and-death experiences in nature. Living according to the laws of nature demands unwavering commitment to our values, standards, and principles, our very survival depends on it.
With the rise of rural living, the dominance of city life, and the influence of social media, these internal conflicts are only intensifying. There’s no going back to a simpler time. For those awakened to these realities, a remote wilderness environment becomes the best place to naturally develop internal traits and base our identity on them. Nature reveals what makes us unique and clarifies how we want to contribute to the world. From this foundation, we discover our purpose and build a life that stands firm, no matter which way the wind blows.
Understanding Internal and External Perception
Want to learn more about internal and external perception and how to apply it in your own life? Take a look at the content in our Online Training programs where you will see how we are always experiencing a Hero’s Journey, or sign up for Immersion Training:
