Good-bye or Hello Self?

Thanks! When we "die to ourselves", what does that mean? Does it mean we say "good-bye" to who we are or does it mean we actually uncover the person that we were created to be by peeling off the layers of untruth in our lives? Are we still unique individuals with real passions, desires, and ambitions? What are you willing to let go of in your life that is a stumbling block in your spiritual walk?