“How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone.”
- August 19, 1883 – January 10, 1971
- Born in France
- Designer, businesswoman
- Founded the Chanel brand and advocated modern and simple fashion, especially popularizing the “Chanel suit” and “little black dress,” and contributing to the liberation of women.
Quote
“How many cares one loses when one decides not to be something but to be someone.”
Explanation
In this profound quote, Coco Chanel reflects on the importance of embracing one’s true identity rather than trying to conform to external expectations or labels. She contrasts the pursuit of being “something”—an idea, a role, or a societal construct—with the decision to simply be “someone”—a fully realized and authentic person. By letting go of the pressure to live up to others’ perceptions of success or identity, one is freed from the burden of comparison and the stress of striving to fit into predefined molds. Chanel suggests that true peace and freedom come from knowing who you are and being unapologetically yourself, rather than constantly trying to live up to someone else’s standards.
Chanel’s own life exemplified this philosophy. She was a woman who challenged societal norms and rejected the roles that society expected her to play. From her humble beginnings to her rise as a fashion icon, she never sought to be something simply because it was expected of her; rather, she carved out her own path, creating a legacy rooted in her authentic self. By doing so, she avoided the traps of status and materialism that many in her circles pursued, focusing instead on her passion for design, creativity, and self-expression. Chanel’s decision to be “someone” rather than “something” allowed her to live with a sense of purpose and freedom that many of her contemporaries did not.
In today’s world, where social pressures, comparisons, and the pursuit of external validation are so pervasive—especially in the age of social media—Chanel’s words are a reminder to focus on what it means to be true to yourself. In a culture obsessed with titles, appearances, and achievements, the choice to define yourself on your own terms is a powerful act of liberation. By deciding to be someone—a person with depth, authenticity, and personal values—rather than constantly striving to be “something” in the eyes of others, one can live with more peace, clarity, and purpose. This quote encourages us to prioritize self-acceptance and inner fulfillment over the pressure to conform to external expectations.
