An individual or collective identity is a lot more complex than simply saying 'I'm Scottish, as a slave in chains I'm still Scottish'. That was Braveheart-esque though
In political terms the Scottish identity has been on the left of the UK political compass. Like most political alignments it has been fundamentally driven by economic pragmatism. Historically Scotland, like the North of England, had a lot of heavy industry and working class concerns. But there's a dose of anti-Westminster and anti-English sentiment in there too I feel. The general perception of England is that its right wing and morally questionable.
This idea of Scottish exceptionalism through a perceived sense of political moral superiority has probably never been stronger. The Brexit vote has allowed a lot of finger pointing at the 'racist' English and collective Scottish backslapping at their perceived sense of political progressivism in contrast. I feel this has helped the fervour of Scottish nationalism. I believe these are all parts of a collective national identity, or at least the collective identity of Scottish nationalists in the vein of the SNP.
If you are talking about economic pragmatism whilst sating the desire for 'sovereignty'. Then I think Scotland would be best off perusing a devo-max option, that would enable Scotland to have a high degree of political autonomy whilst maintaining the benefits of being in the Union. I don't think the SNP would be interested in that anymore because it would be a lot harder for them to defer to the nationalism argument when they fail to advance the Scottish economy and improve public services. Its hard to see what's in it for the rest of the UK too.
Personally, I think when the time is right another independence referendum should take place. If Scotland wants to leave as a collective then you're happy. If its a no vote again, the lid should be put on the question for another 20-30 years.