Self-Improvement is an exercise in wanting to change the present for a better future you.

Some advice on improving one’s well-being may involve staying present, appreciating the present and offering gratitude for what you already have.

So does the act of self-improvement then contradict that theory of being grateful for what you have now?

To elaborate on that, we must understand the origin of that piece of advice to stay present and appreciate one’s blessings.

It is advice given to people who are usually stuck in the past filled with emotions such as regret, remorse and guilt. OR fixated on the future which is uncertain and unpredictable and those bring about emotions such as anxiety, nervousness, fear and dread.

The best medicine to treat this whirlpool of negative emotions that originate from the past and the future is to encourage one to stay in the present. To observe and sense the now and experience it for what it is.

Let us question the need for self-improvement then.

What does it help us with?

Helps us become aware of our deficiencies

It stems from humility, to know that one isn’t proficient and adept at everything as we all have different abilities and nurturing environments.

With that humility, comes the need to grow in that knowledge or skillset.

Helps us become aware of what we gravitate to naturally

That need to learn and improve can be fuelled intrinsically (by one’s own interest, preference and leanings) or externally (by a job’s needs and by how you want to be perceived by the world at large).

That fuel origin determines how sustainable your learning journey is.

For example, if you believe that learning Artificial Intelligence is necessary to ensure your employability but you personally have no interest nor aptitude to learn it. If so, then your journey to improve your knowledge in this domain might be challenging and you would likely give up mid-way.

Helps us satisfy our Self-Actualization Needs

According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, humans strive to achieve one’s full potential, in order to become the best version of oneself.

Helps us feel Autonomy

By self-selecting to further your knowledge, wisdom and skills in a domain, you are exercising your right to design your life, your way.

Helps us feel good about ourselves

Choosing to be more than competent in a domain, even as simple of having the discipline to do your own housework on a consistent basis is very powerful. Your behaviour sends a signal to your being. It says something about yourself. It says that you are a responsible and consistent person which can be great for your self-esteem.

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