| Under The Cosmic Pressure To Identify Yourself |
- Amber Chapplain
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read

You're not imagining it, we're under a lot of cosmic pressure right now. Since 2011, Neptune has been drifting, dreaming, and gently moving through the imaginative realms of Pisces. This period spanned 14 years of mysticism and surrender, characterized by fluidity and sensitivity. It marked a collective era of enhanced spirituality, exploration of illusion and escapism, boundarylessness, fantasy, and the quest for meaning. So as Neptune rebirths itself anew in the fires of Aries it begins a new 165-year astrological cycle and brings with it a radical shift. We are in the last two days of Neptune in the 29th degree of Pisces, and it feels like it!
The transition from Pisces, the last sign of the zodiac, to Aries, the first, symbolizes the essence of life itself. Pisces represents the stage where we return to the unity of existence, letting go of any notion of individuality. In contrast, Aries marks the emergence of our unique selves into the world. It is our initial encounter as distinct beings, vibrant in the physical realm.
As we enter Aries on January 26th, we experience our first moment as an individual spark of the whole – remaining profoundly connected to the Sacred as a living energy within us. Aries embodies desire and inspiration, courage and creativity. It is vibrant, passionate, and untamed – meant to live fully, boldly, and truthfully. And let's be honest, being called to live in our most authentic selves can feel terrifying. Self identity is something we often avoid looking at because it can be confronting and uncomfortable.
Self-identity shapes how we see ourselves and how we connect with the world around us. When that identity is questioned, it can feel like the ground beneath us is shifting. This uncertainty often sparks anxiety because it pushes us into unfamiliar territory. Imagine someone who has always defined themselves by their profession or role suddenly wondering if that label truly fits. The result can be a deep sense of loss and confusion.
Why Questioning Self-Identity Feels Uncomfortable
This discomfort comes from several sources that challenge our sense of stability:
Fear of change
Changing how we view ourselves means altering habits, relationships, and sometimes even life goals. This can feel overwhelming because it demands adaptation and letting go of familiar patterns.
Social pressure
Society tends to expect clear categories and labels. Admitting uncertainty or exploring new identities can feel like stepping outside accepted norms, which may lead to judgment or isolation.
Emotional vulnerability
Facing parts of ourselves that we have ignored or denied can be painful. It requires honesty and courage to confront these hidden aspects, which can stir up difficult emotions.
It's important to understand that as we are embarking on a completely new way of living, we might falter. We may make mistakes or encounter internal illusions. We are relearning how to walk, this time guided by our inner self. We are discovering how our internal compass directs us—when it signals yes and when it advises us to pause. However, it is by persistently taking action that we will learn to navigate this new world. By diving in, making errors, adjusting, receiving feedback, and trying, we will master this new way of living. Don't try to be perfect! Aries doesn't care about perfection, it simply wants action.
Real-Life Example: When Roles No Longer Fit
Consider a person who has identified as a teacher for many years. Their profession has defined their daily routine, social circle, and sense of purpose. If they begin to question whether teaching truly reflects who they are or what they want, they may feel adrift. This questioning might lead to anxiety because it threatens the stability built around that identity.
This experience is common. Many people find themselves at crossroads where their old roles no longer feel authentic. The key is to allow space for exploration without rushing to find immediate answers. Making the shift from my previous career (Toyota Sales Consultant) to Professional Astrologer was like a stepping away from something that had provided me with financial security, and to be honest, something people found impressive about me, particularly as a woman in a male dominated business. I went from leaning very much into my masculine energy every day, to connecting with my feminine side. And it was strange and icky. But then it was wonderful.
How to Navigate the Pressure of Changing Self-Identity
Here are some practical steps to ease the anxiety that comes with questioning who you are:
Acknowledge your feelings
Accept that feeling uncertain or anxious is normal. These emotions signal that you are growing and evolving.
Give yourself time
Identity shifts rarely happen overnight. Allow yourself the space to explore without pressure to resolve everything quickly.
Seek supportive connections
Talk with friends, mentors, or counselors who can listen without judgment. Sharing your thoughts can lighten the emotional load.
Reflect on your values and passions
Focus on what truly matters to you, beyond external labels. This can guide you toward a more authentic sense of self.
Be patient with change
Recognize that change is a process. Some days will feel clearer than others, and that is part of the journey.
Aligning with this energy involves mending our connection with desire and recognizing it as sacred. It's about living life to the fullest—chasing your passions and creating the most beautiful, inspiring, and energizing masterpiece through your own existence. You are deserving of this, I promise.
( If you would like astrological guidance on how this shift is impacting you, I suggest booking a Current Conditions with me.)



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