Do you let your kids be themselves?

This is a parenting question, and I’m more interested in the possible discussions that might ensue. I try to let them be themselves, but often struggle with how “I’d like them” to be. I often think “I’d do it this way” or “You shouldn’t do that” rather than leave be and observe. They are teens now, and I love and respect them, and am truly happy with how they’ve turned out. But it still happens now and then, you know what I mean?