The Motives Behind Identity: Why It Matters to Be Human

Jan 13
3 min read

Identity is often discussed as something abstract or philosophical.But psychologically, identity plays a very practical role: it helps human beings satisfy fundamental human motives.

Research shows that a healthy sense of identity supports core psychological needs. When these needs are met, people tend to feel grounded, capable, connected, and purposeful. When they are frustrated, identity strain often shows up quietly, as disconnection, over-adaptation, loss of motivation, or a persistent sense that something isn’t quite right.

Below are six central identity motives, grounded in research, and how they show up in everyday life. These motives are fulfilled through different identity layers: our values, the roles we inhabit, and the groups we belong to.

1. Coherence

A clear sense of your identity helps you feel like the same person across roles and life changes, so transitions feel meaningful rather than disorienting.

Example: A senior executive changes careers or life circumstances and feels unsettled. Coherence is restored when they link the change to enduring values, seeing the move not as “starting over,” but as another expression of curiosity, growth, or contribution that has always been part of who they are.

2. Self-Efficacy

A clear sense of your identity helps you feel capable and in control, able to make decisions and influence outcomes in your own life.

Example: A team leader doesn’t just follow instructions during a demanding project. They design their own work plan, take initiative, and navigate challenges independently. Successfully managing this complex project restores confidence in their ability to act and shape outcomes, but also strengthens their individual sense of a 'leader identity'.

3. Self-Worth

A clear sense of your identity helps you feel valued and recognized for who you are and what you contribute.

Example: A manager speaks up about an issue that reflects their core values, such as fairness or integrity, drawing on their responsibility as a leader. When others acknowledge the importance of that perspective, they feel recognized not just for their performance, but for who they are. This reinforces a sense of self-worth rooted in authenticity.

4. Distinctiveness

A clear sense of your identity helps you maintain your uniqueness and express your personal values authentically.

Example: A team member adapts to fit in at work, but realizes they’re holding back parts of their identity shaped by roles and memberships outside of work, such as their distinct humor or personal style. Reclaiming distinctiveness means integrating those parts, speaking up, or showing up more fully, even if it sets them apart.

5. Belonging

A clear sense of your identity helps you feel genuinely connected and accepted without losing yourself.

Example: An employee joins a professional network or affinity group at work focused on wellbeing & work-life-balance. In this space, they can openly share ideas, experiences, and personal priorities. By contributing authentically, they feel genuinely connected to others, creating a sense of community where they belong.

6. Purpose

A clear sense of your identity helps you see how your actions contribute to something bigger, giving everyday tasks significance.

Example: Someone in a large organization feels routine in their work. Meaning emerges when they connect their role to a higher personal values or goals they care about, like mentoring new colleagues, advancing environmental initiatives, or improving social impact. Even small tasks feel significant when linked to a larger purpose.

Why This Matters

Gaining a clear sense of identity is not a luxury or a branding exercise.

It shapes how you meet fundamental human motives.

When your identity is coherent, you feel consistent across roles and life changes. When it supports self-efficacy and self-esteem, you feel capable and valued. When it balances distinctiveness and belonging, you can be yourself while connecting with others. And when it’s tied to purpose, your actions & life feel meaningful.

Meeting these core motives through a healthy sense of identity strengthens overall well-being: you feel grounded, energized, and more resilient.