In life, it is sometimes necessary to shed our former selves in order to grow.
Life often compels us to undergo such transformations—sometimes once, and at other times, multiple times.
While this may seem like a simplification, it’s crucial to recognize that we are constantly evolving.
I am a different person now than I was when I wrote the title of this blog post.
However, my focus isn’t on this particular kind of change but rather on what personal evolution truly means.
What I intend to convey is that we cannot afford to remain stagnant throughout our lives.
We must avoid rigidity
Life demands that we adapt swiftly to new circumstances.
This represents an evolution of the mind, so to speak.
At certain points—perhaps once or twice in a lifetime—it’s beneficial to dismantle our former selves and emerge as a stronger character.
Think of it as a kind of soul defragmentation
If you don’t undergo this kind of transformative change willingly and consciously, life-changing events might force it upon you.
Consider an extreme example: if something tragic were to happen to a loved one (such as a coma or death), you face a fundamental choice.
You can either adapt to the new circumstances imposed by life—embracing new responsibilities and challenges—or you can succumb to being overwhelmed.
One path involves a painful, difficult transformation, while the other is marked by avoidance.
Essentially, it’s realism versus escapism
Each person’s paradigm-shifting moments are unique.
The longer we live, the more likely we are to face character-altering events.
The only constant in life is change, and it thrives on transformation
Firstly, we should be mentally prepared for change.
Life-changing eventualities will arise because everything is in flux.
We should never take anything or anyone for granted
Our social lives will change, and people around us will pass away.
There are no real constants, safeguards, or safety nets in life.
Bridges over troubled waters are illusions that, over time, will disappear.
Perhaps not within our lifetimes, but eventually, they too will dissolve.
Secondly, if situations evolve differently than expected, adaptability is crucial.
As U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower famously said, “Plans are of little value, but planning is indispensable.”
At various points in life, it becomes necessary to reinvent ourselves and emerge as stronger, wiser individuals.
When you achieve this, you will look back on your former, weaker self with a sense of detachment and recognize just how different you have become.
So, how does one defragment the mind?
I don’t have a definitive answer because everyone’s journey is different.
For me, the process is gradual and slow.
I primarily use various journals for different purposes to support my personal growth over the years.
A journal acts as an extension of your mind, allowing you to release and organize your thoughts
By reviewing my older journals, I gain insight into how my thinking has evolved and shifted.
Additionally, I use lists and mind maps to navigate difficult decisions.
However, don’t just take my word for it—experiment and discover what works best for you.
Always approach advice from others, including mine, with a critical and discerning perspective.