How to Recover After Accidental Identity Theft

Some of us lose our identity slowly without even realizing it.

To complicate things, not every thief has ill intentions. Sometimes the perps unwittingly steal our identities from us while trying to help.

Whether the goal was malicious or not though, when it happens, we’re left wondering how we fit into the world and based on that, where to go from here.

In my case, the question of where to go next has resulted in a very long public silence while I move in one direction for awhile and then another completing nothing. The years worth of ‘helpful’ advice I’ve absorbed along with my own demanding nature left me unsure of where to begin again. It’s been a long time since I was the artist.

But using the following steps, I’ve got myself back on track and with a focus I haven’t had for one of my own project in ages.

I thought I’d pass them along in case they might help you. Keep in mind, you don’t have to be an artist to use them.

1. Act, don’t react. Never make important decisions while desperate. I’m no therapist, and we all have our own stories, but whatever you have to get past, get past it before deciding.

2. Build your support team. This should only include people who are willing to listen to what you are about and who will support your vision for what you’re going to be about. Which takes us directly into our third recovery tactic.

3. Limit further disclosure of your next steps. It is very likely that there will be family members or close friends who are not part of your support team. Depending on your circumstances, they may still be a part of your life and that’s your choice. They don’t need to be privy to your game plan though. In some cases, you may reveal some of what you’re up to outside of your inner circle, but even then, confine it to people who in some way have earned your trust.

4. Start small. Sometimes you just need a win. Define what, in your mind is a reasonably sure triumph. Note that your idea of a victory is personal and may not be fully understood by even your supporters. That’s okay. There will be time after your first success, to follow it up with more ambitious efforts. But, first, get that win.

5. Keep your head up. This is a process, and depending on what you’re attempting to achieve, it could be a long one. While on your journey, it is natural that horrible scenarios of failure will creep into your psyche, especially if you meet with setbacks. When you need to, lean on your support team and most importantly, keep fighting.