"自分を失うまで自分が誰なのか分からない"

Losing yourself can be one of the most challenging experiences, but it's also one of the most enlightening. When everything that defines you is stripped away, you're left with the raw, unfiltered essence of who you truly are. This core idea—that you may not fully understand your true self until you’ve faced significant loss or change—is both profound and universally relatable.

Historically, this concept has been echoed by many philosophers and thinkers. Take the story of Siddhartha Gautama, the prince who became the Buddha. He was sheltered from the suffering of the world by his father, living in opulence and luxury. It wasn't until he left his palace and encountered sickness, old age, and death that he began his spiritual journey. Losing his identity as a prince allowed him to discover his true self and ultimately attain enlightenment.

In modern times, think of someone who loses their job. Imagine you've been working at the same company for a decade. You’ve poured your heart and soul into climbing the corporate ladder, and your job has become a huge part of your identity. Then, out of the blue, you get laid off. It feels like the rug has been pulled out from under you. You might initially feel lost, questioning your self-worth and purpose. But as you navigate this new terrain, you start exploring your passions and interests that you never had time for before. Maybe you always loved baking, and you decide to start a small bakery. Through this process, you discover a part of yourself that had been overshadowed by your corporate persona.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Here’s some advice: don’t shy away from change or loss. Instead, embrace these moments as opportunities for growth. When you’re faced with a significant life change, take a step back and reflect on what truly matters to you. What are your passions, your values, and your dreams? Use this time to reconnect with your core self.

Let me share a story that illustrates this concept. Picture a woman named Sarah. Sarah was in a long-term relationship that she thought was headed toward marriage. But, unexpectedly, her partner ended things. Heartbroken and feeling like she lost a part of herself, Sarah decided to take a solo trip to Europe. She visited art museums, hiked in the Alps, and even took a cooking class in Italy. Through these experiences, Sarah found a new sense of independence and rediscovered her love for painting and cooking—passions she’d neglected during her relationship. When she returned home, she was a changed person. She started painting again, eventually hosting her own art show, and she began cooking for friends and family, sharing her newfound culinary skills. Losing her relationship allowed Sarah to reconnect with herself and uncover new layers of her identity.

In essence, when you lose who you are, it opens the door to discovering your true self. It’s not easy, and it can be incredibly painful, but it’s also a journey that can lead to profound personal growth and self-awareness. So, the next time you face a significant change, remember that it’s an opportunity to find out who you really are.