I first heard these three questions in my Psychology of the African American Experience class last year at TSU. They originate from some fundamental principles of African Psychology laid out by psychiatrist, philosopher and revolutionary, Frantz Fanon. They serve as an accountability loop not only for the Africana field and beliefs but for any individual that is interested in self and the world around them.

After I read them they kept popping up in my head and I haven’t stopped thinking about them since. When I eat processed junk foods or forget to bring bags to the grocery store I often think, am I who I say I am? Even more than that, am I all I ought to be? They have been profound questions for me because they keep me honest with myself and accountable for my future. I’ve realized that’s it’s important to intentionally ask myself these questions not just wait for them to pop up in my mind. That way when I follow through I can celebrate and congratulate myself for the moments that I am who I say I am and succeed at being all I ought to be.

While I don’t love the idea of New Years Resolutions I can’t think of a better time to take stock, ask questions, set goals and challenge yourself to live to your fullest potential. It’s easy to remember, comes once and year and there are usually other people looking for support and encouragement. I recommend referring to them as goals, focuses or whatever feels right for you. Personally, I have to just sit down and do something. I often do my google thing and read all the best ways to set goals, hold myself accountable, and write them out but then I get overwhelmed from all the information and procrastinate some more. If that’s how you work best, welcome! Otherwise, I recommend answering these questions ASAP! Be sure to include some areas of growth and what you think you ought to be in your “Who am I?” list. Remember, this is who you are at your core, your true self, so while you may not always follow through and do your absolute best, that’s the whole point of asking the questions.

There have been so many years where I haven’t even bothered to set resolutions or goals because it felt pointless and I figured I naturally improved myself at least some every year so why bother setting specific goals just because it’s a different year? The better question is, why not now? Maybe you set goals a few month ago or got a planner for your birthday but I’m willing to bet that you wouldn’t mind saving more money, feeling amazing about your health and body, or spending more time doing something you love. Make the consciouss choice to take action today and spend 10 minutes (at least) to make plans for your future. For productivity and self preservation, I recommend setting a timer and stopping when it’s done. Feel free to do a few increments with breaks if you want to be more detailed. When I don’t do this with a big task I risk becoming overwhelmed, trying to plan my whole life out and falling into a google hole.

If you want to know more about my answers to these questions, specific goals, and my "Am I All I Ought to Be? Accountability 2017" group reach out here, by email or find me on Facebook.