I don't plan to restrict myself to rapping in the future, and I

"I don't plan to restrict myself to rapping in the future, and I didn't want to come off as too aggressive, which is why I thought about changing my name." These words, spoken by RM of the globally acclaimed group BTS, reflect a profound understanding of the complexities of identity, self-expression, and evolution. RM, who initially adopted his stage name as a rapper, acknowledges that he does not want to be confined to a singular label, understanding that as an artist, he is continually growing and expanding beyond his past work. His decision to rethink his identity and even his name speaks to a larger truth: that change and growth are essential to the creative journey, and that an artist must always remain open to reinventing themselves.

In the ancient world, this theme of identity and transformation was central to the stories of great philosophers, poets, and rulers. Socrates, for instance, spoke not just of knowledge, but of the continuous process of becoming—an evolution of self that could never be fully defined by any single moment or action. His teachings emphasized the importance of personal growth and the willingness to be open to new ideas and ways of thinking. In the same way, RM understands that to remain relevant and true to himself, he must embrace fluidity in his identity, not clinging to a single role or persona. His journey is one of expansion, as he recognizes that true creativity is never stagnant—it is ever-changing, ever-growing.

The concept of not restricting oneself to a single identity also resonates with the story of Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius spanned across disciplines. Da Vinci was not content to be just an artist or a scientist; he sought to master many fields, from engineering to anatomy to architecture. His renown did not come from being labeled as only a painter or sculptor; it came from his commitment to exploration and the pursuit of knowledge across boundaries. Like RM, who does not want to limit himself to the confines of rap alone, da Vinci sought to expand the reach of his talents, constantly reinventing himself as he moved from one area of study to another. The key to his success was his refusal to let any one identity define him, his refusal to be placed in a box.

RM’s reflection on how he wanted to avoid being perceived as "too aggressive" further speaks to a profound understanding of balance in self-expression. In the world of entertainment, especially in the realm of hip-hop and rap, aggression and intensity are often seen as essential components of an artist's identity. However, RM’s thoughtful consideration of how he wants to be perceived shows that he is not simply interested in portraying an image that fits into a mold. Just as the philosophers of old sought to temper their wisdom with humility, RM wishes to strike a balance between powerful self-expression and a more gentle, nuanced approach to his public image. The ability to recognize the need for balance—to be strong but not overly aggressive—is a trait that speaks to the maturity and growth of the individual.

The lesson RM offers is one of personal evolution and the courage to redefine oneself as circumstances change. Much like the ancient heroes who underwent transformations in their quests—whether it was Hercules facing trials that shaped his character or Odysseus journeying through hardships to discover his true self—RM’s own journey is one of internal evolution. He recognizes that the world of entertainment, much like any society, often defines individuals by rigid labels. Yet he seeks to transcend those labels and forge a path that is uniquely his own, free from the limitations of past identities or expectations. The decision to rethink his name reflects a deeper understanding of the power of identity—how it can either constrain or liberate us. By recognizing the need for change in his artistic persona, RM is also embracing the freedom that comes with redefining who he is.

The ancient heroes did not find their true strength in staying the same, but in their willingness to adapt, grow, and embrace their changing roles. Consider King Arthur, who, in many legends, represents the ideal ruler—one who grows through his experiences, learning from his mistakes and embracing the counsel of his knights. Arthur’s legend is not defined by a single moment of victory, but by his evolution from a young, inexperienced king to a wise ruler who understands the importance of unity and vision. In the same way, RM’s decision to not restrict himself to one aspect of his identity is a declaration of his evolution as an artist and as a person—recognizing that growth is not only inevitable but necessary for lasting impact.

In our own lives, RM’s insight reminds us that we, too, must not be afraid of evolving and reinventing ourselves when the moment calls for it. We often fall prey to the expectations placed upon us by others, whether they are societal norms, professional roles, or past identities. But just as RM chooses to expand his artistic boundaries, we should embrace the freedom to explore new facets of our own lives. Whether through career changes, personal growth, or new ventures, we must remain open to the possibility of change and evolution.

Let us take the lesson from RM to heart: that identity is not something static or fixed. It is a living, breathing part of our journey, one that requires continuous reflection and adaptation. Embrace the unknown, step outside of the boxes others have placed you in, and always remain true to the evolving version of yourself. Like the great thinkers and heroes of the past, we too can find our greatness not in remaining the same, but in embracing the continuous journey of growth and transformation.