"生活不是关于找到自我而是关于创造自我"

Life is more about what you choose to make of it than discovering some pre-defined version of who you are. This idea shifts the focus from passively seeking out some hidden truth about ourselves to actively shaping our own paths, values, and identities. Instead of waiting for "who you are" to reveal itself, think about building "who you want to be" through your choices and actions.

This quote has its roots in the idea that we have the power to shape our destiny. George Bernard Shaw, an Irish playwright, and critic is often credited with this sentiment. He lived during a time of great change—the late 19th and early 20th centuries—when concepts of self and society were being questioned and redefined. The industrial revolution had stirred up massive social shifts, and people were beginning to realize that their futures didn't have to be dictated by their pasts or their birthrights.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Imagine a young woman named Sarah. She grows up in a small town with limited opportunities. If she believed that her life was all about finding herself, she might resign to the idea that her small-town upbringing defines her entire existence. But Sarah chooses to create herself instead. She moves to the city, puts herself through college, and pursues her passion for technology. She becomes a software engineer, not because it was her pre-destined path, but because she actively decided to build that life for herself.

So, how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? Start by setting clear, intentional goals. Who do you want to be in five, ten, or twenty years? What skills do you need to develop to become that person? Think about your passions and interests—not as fixed parts of your identity but as starting points for growth. Take courses, read books, meet people who inspire you. Don’t wait for the "real you" to emerge; build it brick by brick.

Imagine you're at a crossroads, considering a major change—maybe a new job or moving to a different city. It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of overthinking, wondering if this change aligns with who you "truly are." But let’s flip that script. What if you saw this decision as a chance to create a new chapter of yourself? If you’ve always dreamed of living by the ocean, don’t wait for the right moment to feel like an "ocean person." Move, adapt, and let the experience shape you.

When I was in college, I had a friend, James, who was an art major. He was incredibly talented but always said, "I’m just waiting to find my unique style." He spent years dabbling, searching for this mythical "true expression." Another friend, Tom, was also into art, but he had a different approach. Tom decided to create his style through disciplined practice and experimentation. He didn’t wait for inspiration to strike. Instead, he painted every day, tried new techniques, and slowly but surely, his unique style emerged—not because he found it hidden somewhere but because he built it.

In the end, life’s canvas is vast and blank. You're the artist. Don't spend too much time searching for the perfect brush or hidden masterpiece within. Pick up your tools, and start painting. Create the vibrant, dynamic picture of who you want to be, one deliberate stroke at a time.