In "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," Haruki Murakami reflects on how certain rigid processes can lead individuals to alter their own identities. He suggests that when people are bound to a repetitive process, they may have little choice but to either adapt themselves to conform or risk distorting their own personalities. This transformation is often a result of the relentless nature of the tasks they are engaged in, which can overshadow their individual traits.

Murakami's insights delve into the relationship between discipline, routine, and personal growth. He implies that while strict processes can be stifling, they also provide a framework within which individuals can redefine themselves. By embracing the challenges of these processes, one might find opportunities for self-discovery and insight, turning the experience into a defining aspect of their character.