When I Let Go of Who I Am, I Become What I Might Be

There is a deep truth embedded in the above phrase. Often attributed to the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, this idea invites us to shed the rigid identity we cling to, in order to step into the infinite potential that lies ahead. In a world that encourages certainty and fixed roles, this concept challenges us to loosen our grip on self-definition and embrace transformation.

From an early age, we create a narrative of who we are — our strengths, weaknesses, beliefs, and roles. We say things like, “I’m not creative,” or “I’ve always been shy,” or “I’m just not the kind of person who takes risks.” But these identities, while comforting, can quietly become cages. They shield us from the discomfort of change but also limit our capacity for growth.

Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, once wrote, “We cannot change anything until we accept it. Condemnation does not liberate, it oppresses.” In other words, the act of letting go isn’t about rejecting who we are but its about accepting that our current self is just one chapter in an evolving story.

The beauty of surrendering who we think we are, is that it creates space for who we could become. Like a snake shedding its skin, or a seed breaking open to become a tree, personal growth often requires a kind of death — the death of old patterns, limiting beliefs, and outdated self-concepts.

Think of Nelson Mandela, who went from being labelled a political prisoner to becoming a global symbol of reconciliation and leadership. He famously said, “There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.” Mandela’s life illustrates the power of embracing transformation and transcending labels.

The process of letting go often involves discomfort, vulnerability, and uncertainty. Yet, it is in this uncertainty that creativity, courage, and authenticity thrive. Author Brené Brown talks extensively about this in her work on vulnerability. She notes, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.” When we stop clinging to who we were yesterday, we give ourselves permission to innovate internally and externally.

So how do we begin to let go? It starts with awareness. Notice when you catch yourself repeating old stories about who you are. Then, challenge them gently. Ask, “What if this isn’t the whole story? Who might I be if I let this belief go?”

Ultimately, the journey from who I am to what I might be is one of self-liberation. It is a courageous act of stepping into the unknown and trusting that we are capable of becoming more than we ever imagined.

In the words of poet E.E Cummings, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are"

Author: Jennifer