The Power of Choice in Consciously Creating Our New Identity and Transforming Our Lives
- Brainz Magazine
- Mar 31
- 5 min read
Sanjana Thanik is a transformative hypnotherapist, a reiki healer, and an expert in RTT and QHHT. As the founder of Mindskapes, she empowers individuals to reconnect with their authentic selves, guiding them to rediscover the parts of their being that have been forgotten or lost.
True transformation begins with a conscious choice, the decision to shed outdated identities and step into who we are meant to become. It’s not about adding something new but about peeling away the layers of conditioning that no longer serve us. As we confront the discomfort of change, we open ourselves to the freedom that comes from living in alignment with our authentic selves. This journey of becoming is an act of courage, curiosity, and unwavering commitment to growth.
Shedding the old identity, becoming the new
There comes a time in life when the person we once were no longer feels like home. Like a snake shedding its skin, we, too, must let go of our old identity to make space for growth. But transformation is rarely comfortable. It demands that we strip away familiar patterns, beliefs, and roles that once defined us. The process can feel unsettling, even painful, as we stand in the space between who we were and who we are becoming.
Yet within this shedding lies the essence of renewal. The old self must dissolve for the new one to emerge. Who we were was necessary for our journey, but who we are becoming is a conscious choice. Are you willing to let go of the past version of yourself to step into the person you are meant to be?
Transformation is not about adding something new to ourselves; it begins with letting go of who we no longer are. We often hold onto old identities out of habit, comfort, or fear, even when they no longer serve us. But growth requires release.
There comes a moment when we realize that the version of ourselves we’ve known is too small for the life we now wish to live. The beliefs, roles, and narratives that once defined us begin to feel restrictive, like an old garment that no longer fits. This is the moment of choice: cling to the familiar or step into the unknown and create a new self.
Shedding the old is not about forgetting the past. It’s about honoring it while embracing the possibilities of who we can become. Who will you choose to be?
To exist in the world, we need connection, and our first connection is shaped by how the world perceives us. As children, in our quest for approval from parents, caregivers, and the social and cultural fabric around us, we create identities that ensure acceptance and belonging. Over time, we begin to mistake these survival-driven versions of ourselves for our true selves.
Even as adults, we continue seeking external validation, rarely pausing to peel away these inherited identities and uncover our authentic essence. We live by these conditioned versions of ourselves, seldom questioning them. The greatest obstacle to self-discovery is the fear of non-acceptance, of stepping outside the familiar roles that have defined us for so long.
We become so comfortable in these identities that the mere thought of shedding one feels like the end of who we are. Yet life is designed with profound intelligence, constantly evolving and reshaping us. What seems fixed and permanent is, in truth, ever-changing, woven with new patterns, colors, and textures. Sometimes bright, sometimes muted, sometimes chaotic, sometimes clear, this intricate design is always leading us toward greater empowerment, coherence, and harmony.
True transformation lies not in holding onto who we think we are but in embracing the ever-unfolding evolution of who we are meant to become.
So, the question arises: Who are we meant to become? And where does this journey of becoming truly begin?
It begins with curiosity, the deep, unshakable desire to know who you really are beyond the layers of conditioning. Paradoxically, this journey is not about becoming someone; it is about becoming nobody, nothing, nowhere. It is a journey of unlearning, of dismantling the identities you have constructed and turning inward.
As you step into your inner world, the realm of emotions, fears, and suppressed truths, you begin peeling away the layers that have shaped you. Layers built from fear, shame, guilt, anger, frustration, societal pressures, jealousy, inferiority, and self-denial. This process is not easy. It demands courage, patience, and a willingness to let go of what no longer serves you.
Yet with each layer shed, there is a profound sense of energetic unburdening, a clearing of what is false to reveal what is real. This is the path to authenticity, where you are no longer bound by expectations but aligned with the essence of who you truly are.
Where and how to begin the journey of becoming
Cultivate curiosity: Question everything you believe about yourself. Ask: Who am I beyond my roles, labels, and conditioning? The journey begins with a willingness to explore beyond the familiar.
Embrace stillness: Create space for introspection through meditation, mindfulness, or solitude. Silence allows you to observe your thoughts, emotions, and patterns without external influence.
Observe your triggers: Pay attention to what makes you feel uncomfortable, defensive, or reactive. These emotional triggers are doorways to understanding the hidden layers of conditioning and unresolved emotions.
Detach from external validation: Begin to notice how much of your identity is shaped by others’ expectations. Shift from seeking approval to seeking alignment with your inner truth.
Unlearn and let go: Recognize that much of what you’ve been taught about yourself is based on societal conditioning. Consciously unlearn limiting beliefs, fears, and inherited patterns that do not serve your highest self.
Step into your inner world: Engage in deep self-inquiry through journaling, shadow work, or therapy. Explore your fears, emotions, and suppressed aspects of self with honesty and compassion.
Embody new awareness: As you strip away old identities, consciously choose thoughts, habits, and actions that align with your authentic self. Becoming is not just about knowing; it’s about living in alignment with who you truly are.
Trust the unfolding: This is not a destination but a continuous process. Surrender to the unfolding of your evolution, knowing that each layer you shed brings you closer to your essence.
The most rewarding journey you’ll ever take
The only investment that guarantees infinite returns is the one you make in yourself: the inward sojourn of self-discovery. While the world urges you to chase external success, validation, and achievement, the most profound transformation happens when you turn inward. This journey is not about becoming someone new but about remembering who you truly are beneath the layers of conditioning, fear, and expectation.
It takes courage to step away from the identities you’ve worn for so long. It requires you to release attachments to roles, beliefs, and societal labels that once defined you. Yet, as you peel away these layers, you will find something far greater than approval or acceptance: you will find liberation. A freedom that allows you to live in alignment with your truest essence, unburdened by the need to fit into anyone’s mold but your own.
Love yourself enough to embark on this sacred journey of unraveling your authentic self. Yes, it will challenge you. Yes, it will demand that you let go of comfort and certainty. But in return, it will offer you something priceless: the ability to live fully, freely, and unapologetically as YOU.
No destination in this world is more beautiful than the destination YOU, whole, integrated, and at peace with your truest self. The journey begins the moment you choose to take it. Are you ready?
Read more from Sanjana Thanik
Sanjana Thanik, Hypnotherapist, Reiki, RTT & QHHT Practitioner
Sanjana Thanik is a certified hypnotherapist, Reiki healer, and practitioner of Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique (QHHT). With her expertise, she guides individuals through deep healing and self-exploration. As the founder of Mindskapes, Sanjana is passionate about helping people reconnect with their authentic selves, unlocking emotional and spiritual well-being.
