Big News: I’m writing a book!

You’re Doing It: Stages of Becoming by Britta Larsen | Launching March 2026

How do we become who we are?

What forces—family, identity, love, loss, work, and trauma—shape our development and sense of self?

You’re Doing It: Stages of Becoming is part memoir, part psychoeducation—an exploration of my own life through the lens of Erik Erikson’s theory of human development. Each chapter is grounded in one of the eight psychosocial stages we all move through, from birth to late adulthood. Alongside personal stories, I include mental health tools, resources, and reflections to help readers better understand themselves, their patterns, and their potential for healing and growth.

This book was inspired by my grad school journey in mental health counseling at Northwestern (Class of ’25), and my favorite course: Human Growth & Development. It’s also shaped by two decades of work as an HR leader, my multicultural upbringing as one of ten siblings, and my personal challenges with belonging, intimacy, purpose, and resilience.

📚 Chapters include:
1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Birth–18 months) | Are people and the world safe?
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 months–3 years) | Can I do this on my own?
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (3–5 years) | Am I allowed to lead, ask, and dream?
4. Industry vs. Inferiority (5–12 years) | Am I capable and competent?
5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (12–18 years) | Who am I and where do I belong?
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (18–40 years) | Can I be seen, loved, and still be me?
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (40–65 years) | Am I contributing meaningfully?
8. Ego Integrity vs. Despair (65+ years) | Can I look back with peace?

As Mental Health Awareness Month begins—with this year’s theme, “Turning Awareness Into Action”—I’m proud to share a project that has helped me better understand my own mental health and the developmental journey we all walk.

💬 If you’re curious about the book or passionate about the intersection of mental health, family, work, storytelling, and identity, I’d love to connect.