QotD: Getting to Know You/Me

How well do you think you know yourself? How well do others think they know you? Which is more important?
Submitted by SearchingForThatOnePerson.

I know myself really well. I'm an introspective person. But I'm constantly learning more about myself -- every new experience, adventure, forces me to challenge old assumptions, makes me realize what matters most to me.

I tend to think about these things often. I think partly it's because I really grappled with my identity growing up, being part Asian and part white, and never quite fitting into either culture exactly. I won't say it was a struggle, because overall I had a pretty good childhood -- but it was something that I sort of had to explore and figure out for myself.

Certain experiences tend to make me introspective -- when I moved cross country (and back), which was more of a culture shock than I thought it would be. When I went to college, when I've gained and lost friends. Every time I've traveled. Often when I read an insightful book or article. Sometimes when I'm unsatisfied with my job and reconsidering what I want to be when I grow up.

It's been a cool journey so far. Full of surprises no matter how much I think I've figured things out.