Definitions of self

Who decides who we are as individuals? Is it society that puts labels on us, or do we categorize ourselves that way? Why must everything fit in a nice package, inside a box? I've recently come to the realization that my definition of self is constantly changing. Perhaps not changing but evolving. The more I learn about myself, the harder it is to fit myself in a box, and the less desirable that becomes. I think that as individuals we should strive to grow emotionally, and how we define ourselves during these spurts is crucial. If definitions aren't revisited, or reevaluated, we are not learning, and therefore cannot grow. Often, we decide on a label for ourselves - because it is comfortable or accepted. Some of us find alternative classifications that may be uncomfortable and not as widely accepted (by society at large). I think for us these realizations take much more time. However, once we settle on an identity, I think we are much less likely to revisit the process. It's difficult, and unpleasant, and we're not going back there. And then there's me. When my entire world is upside down and backwards, it makes the most sense. I've come to one of those defining moments in my life, and I realize that it's possible that what I want right now and who I've been characterizing myself as for the past 10 years might actually be compatible. Which is a potentially crazy thought. Panic-inducing, even. And I'm strangely comfortable with that....