"私たちは過去に起こったことではなく、なりたい自分です"

The essence of this quote is pretty straightforward: our past doesn’t define us, our aspirations do. It's about not letting the things that have happened to us dictate who we become. Instead, it emphasizes the power of our dreams, goals, and desires in shaping our identity and future.

Think about it. We all have stuff in our past—some good, some not so much. But it's not the events that mold us completely. It's how we respond, the choices we make, and the dreams we chase that really define who we are. This quote offers a liberating perspective: no matter what’s behind us, we have the power to carve out a new path.

Carl Jung, a Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who founded analytical psychology, is often attributed with this perspective. He delved into the ways our past experiences, especially those buried in our unconscious, influence us. But here, he’s empowering us to look forward, to see our potential and our future selves as the true markers of our identity.

Let’s take a real-life example. Oprah Winfrey—one of the most influential women in the world—had a rough start. She faced significant hardships, including poverty and abuse. But rather than letting these experiences define her, she focused on her dreams and aspirations. Oprah imagined a different life, one where she could be a voice for others, a beacon of hope and positivity. And look at her now. She’s not defined by her past but by what she chose to become—a media mogul, philanthropist, and an inspiration to millions.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by recognizing that your past is just that—the past. It’s part of your story, sure, but it’s not the whole book. Think about what you truly want to become. What are your dreams? What kind of person do you wish to be? Focus on that vision. Set goals that align with who you want to become and take concrete steps towards those goals every day. It’s about small, consistent actions that move you closer to your desired self.

Picture a young artist who’s faced rejection. Every gallery she’s approached has turned her down. She could easily let this define her—feel like a failure, give up on her dream. But instead, she remembers this quote. She keeps painting, keeps improving, and starts displaying her work online. Slowly, she builds a following. People start noticing her unique style, and eventually, an art curator reaches out. Her past rejections didn't define her—her relentless pursuit of her dreams did.

In essence, it's about hope and perseverance. No matter the hand you’ve been dealt, you have the power to shape your destiny. Your aspirations, the person you strive to be, that’s what truly defines you. So, next time you’re feeling bogged down by your past, remember: it’s not what happened to you, it’s what you wish to become. Focus on that vision, and let it guide you forward.