"أنا لا أريد أن أتغير كثيراً لدرجة أن الناس لا يستطيعون التعرف عليّ"

This quote speaks to the idea of staying true to oneself. At its core, it’s about preserving your identity despite the inevitable changes that life brings. It’s a reminder that while personal growth and evolution are important, maintaining the essence of who you are is crucial. It’s the fear of becoming unrecognizable to those who know and love us that drives this sentiment.

Historically, this could be relevant in times of significant change—perhaps during the technological boom when societal norms shifted rapidly, or in the midst of personal upheaval like moving to a new city or starting a new job. We all face moments when we need to adapt, but the challenge is to do so without losing ourselves entirely.

Now, let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture a musician, say someone like Adele. She’s a Grammy-winning artist, known for her powerful voice and emotional ballads. Over the years, she’s experienced tremendous success, personal heartbreak, and even remarkable physical transformation. Despite the fame and changes, she’s managed to retain that core emotional authenticity in her music. Fans still feel connected to her because the essence of her—her voice, her vulnerability, her storytelling—remains unchanged.

So, how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? Start by identifying what makes you, you. What are the core values, beliefs, and traits that define you? Write them down. This could be your sense of humor, your kindness, or your determination. When you face changes—be it a new job, relationship, or even a personal loss—refer back to these core elements. They’re your anchor. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure that you’re not drifting too far from these traits.

Imagine you’ve just landed a high-powered job in a new city. It's exciting but also daunting. You might feel the pressure to fit in, to adapt quickly. But it’s important to stay grounded. Maybe you’ve always been the friend who’s there in a pinch, the one who listens when others need to talk. Even amidst your new responsibilities, make time for friends and keep those connections strong. If you love painting or playing guitar, don’t give that up. These activities keep you rooted in who you are.

Let me tell you about my friend Sarah. She moved from a small town to New York City to chase her dream job in fashion. The city, with its pace and pressure, was a world away from the life she knew. At first, she tried to blend in, adopting the fast-paced lifestyle, even changing how she dressed and talked. But over time, she realized she was losing herself. The spark that made her unique was dimming. So, she took a step back. She found a small group of friends who valued her for who she was, not who she was trying to be. She started baking again, something she loved doing back home, and even brought her homemade treats to the office. It was a simple act, but it reconnected her with her roots. Her colleagues began to see the real Sarah, and she felt more at ease.

Remember, change is inevitable, but losing yourself in the process isn’t. Be like that constant melody in a song, underlying yet vital. Change the tune when needed, but keep the melody intact.