Before neuroscience gave us the neuroplasticity of the brain, we constrained ourselves to the folklore that we could have a permanent persona.
Neuroplasticity is the reality that there are in fact no permanent structures in the brain. Our becoming has only the limits of physical ability. We can learn to genuinely express a wide range of amazing qualities and characteristics. Being "true to ourself" means being true to the freedom we have to develop rich chemistries of strengths and talents. Our "essence" is not any one part of us, no matter how we deify and glamorize it. Our essence is our ability to grow personal richness and agility.