A young child who becomes filthy dirty can look like a different kid.  But that child can be restored to original, beautiful condition by being cleansed of the soil covering him or her.

Your soul, your essence, is pristine and beautiful.  But like dirt on a child, it can get covered by transgressions which make you look different from who you really are.  This situation can be remedied in a similar way as for the child.  By doing good deeds sincerely and without looking for a reward, you will cleanse your soul of the spiritual dirt which is covering it.  Not only will you restore your essence, you will progress spiritually.