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The first stage in Erikson's stages of development would be considered a crucially important stage. Infants (0-18 months) learn to feel safe with a caregiver, "...babies need to develop a balance between trust, which lets them form intimate relationships, and mistrust, which enabled them to protect themselves" (pg. 150). If this stage is not realized the child could grow up to to have too much or too little trust in people. When I was an infant I tended to trust the people I was around. This may be due to me being the oldest and had younger parents so I was left with family members and friends often for childcare.

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In the 2nd stage of development, the child's main focus is adapting to independence and a form of self-reliance. This leads to feeling more confident, if this is not actualized in years 2-3 they could grow up to feel more shameful and doubtful. "As children are better able to make their wishes understood, they become more powerful and independent," (pg. 156). During this stage in my life I was still an only child. I had plenty of time to be independent and figure out things I enjoyed doing. I always made sure to see if my parents were still there with me, but I had no problems running off into a park to play alone.

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In the 3rd stage, the child is starting to develop basic leadership skills and asserting themselves in social settings. This stage falls between ages 3-5 years old. "At the same time, they are learning that some of the things they want to do meet social approval, whereas others do not," (pg. 210). If successful the child will grow to feel capable and if not they will feel more guilt. During this stage of my life I gained siblings. Having two little sisters helped me understand these leadership skills, I normally came up with games for us to play, or a movie to watch.

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Stage 4 is an action based stage involved with working and trying things that they would do well in. This stage related back to ones identity, failure to encourage this could result in high levels of doubt in their abilities. If they do well in improving these skills will allows a boost in confidence. This could also go too far, "...If children become too industrious, they may neglect social relationships and turn into workaholics," (pg 275). In this stage of my life I started to get involved in sports. I started with soccer and didn't love it. Until I started playing softball. I had played with a team that become my people for the next 13 years. It gave me a sense of identity and was something I could pour my whole heart into.

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In this stage in our teenage years we begin to question their identity and their future. We can receive affirmation of our ideals, values, and sense of self or we can get forms of rejection. Missing out on this stage could lead to not realizing who they are and end up with more insecurity. Encouraging this stage can lead to stronger feelings of independence and control. "Identity forms as young people resolve three major issues: that choice of occupation, the adoption of values to live by, and the development of a satisfy sexual identity," (pg 336). During this time of my life I have a few memories that tie into my identity today. I was baptized in my Christian Church at age 15, my religion have a sense of peace and image of who I plan to be. I also had to start being picky with who I choose as friends what had similar ideals to my own. I found myself greatly through religion, family, music and important friends from that age.

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As a young adult this stage is focused on creating strong intimate relationships and sharing themselves with other after finding their identity. Not actualizing this stage causes a person to feel alone and lost in their relationships. As I am in the midst of this stage in my life, I find myself going through waves of isolation and figuring out which relationships are worth strengthening. I have gained and lost many friendships but have always put my friends first whenever they may need my support.

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Stage 7 is quite a long stage that is dedicated to making a positive impact and contributing to the world with things such as: raising children, creating relationships, and having a career that is meaningful to you. If we succeed in creating a good productive life we will feel as if we are contributing to society. It not we most likely will feel uninvolved and a lower self-value. As this stage of my life has not happened yet, I have had to reflect what I want it to look like. I plan on getting a career in education, working with students face to face, this is something that I know will give me joy and make me feel as though I am doing something amazing for the world. I also do plan to get married one day and have a family of my own. To raise children with similar morals of my own so one day they can do the same.

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The final stage is when we look back on our lives and question if we are proud of the achievements that were made. This stage does not have to mean it is the end of their lives as it can take place from years 65 to death. Being unable to complete this stage will result them depression and unhappiness of our lives and feelings of regret. When I get older I hope to look back and be proud of what I have done, that I have actualized every stage of my development. If I continue to work hard and made good choices I should be able to live the life of my dreams.