In this contemporary hyperconnected landscape, the pursuit of personal development is commodified as the quintessential avenue to attaining success and self-actualisation. From productivity tools to wellness retreats, the underlying message is undeniably clear: that constant self-improvement is not only attainable but also imperative. Amid the surge of self-help guidance and motivational mantras, a crucial question emerges: what are the ethical ramifications of this ubiquitous culture of self-improvement? In recent years, the self-improvement industry has burgeoned, providing an almost limitless assortment of strategies and resources designed to optimise every facet of our lives. However, this relentless emphasis on perpetual improvement raises profound questions regarding the nature of personal growth and its influence on our self-identity and societal values. To grasp the ethical dimensions of our obsession with self-improvement, drawing perspectives from various philosophies- in an attempt to ponder whether our pursuit of perpetual self-betterment is truly fulfilling appears fundamental.
Through my journey of self-improvement, I realised how profoundly embedded these practices are within our culture. Oftentimes, I find myself caught in the whirlwind of productivity apps, fitness trackers and wellness blogs. Social media contributes significantly by continuously highlighting the accomplishments of others and perpetuating the notion that self-improvement is an unending pursuit. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to constantly enhance one’s life, wondering if this pursuit of optimisation is genuinely making one happier or simply intensifying stress. Kant (Immanuel Kant) believed that true personal growth should honour individual dignity and rationality, by respecting our autonomy; one needs to question if the commodification of personal growth respects his inherent worth or if it merely reduces him to a consumer of self-help products. Perhaps taking a step further by drawing Foucault’s (Michel Foucault) idea of power and self-rule; where modern societies exert control through norms and practices- the self-improvement culture can be seen as a form of self-surveillance, where societal expectations become internalised and shape one’s behaviours. This continual self-regulation often resembles adherence to a prescribed set of external standards rather than the attainment of authentic personal growth.
This commercialisation often raises ethical concerns about exploiting personal vulnerabilities, further leading to creating a culture of discrimination and exclusion, marginalising those who either cannot or do not wish to participate. Most days this relentless quest for attaining the ultimate and improved version of self, comes at a cost; not only overshadowing the simple joys of life and genuine, meaningful relationships but also simultaneously reshapes and influences one’s sense of identity. Whereby the focus on external validation can be perceived as a discouraging matter. Coinciding with Mill’s (John Stuart Mill) utilitarian perspective, the belief that actions should foster overall happiness encourages contemplation about whether one’s efforts toward personal growth are in harmony with collective societal well-being or, conversely, whether they inadvertently amplify feelings of inadequacy and competition.
In a society where the ideals of self-improvement are unceasingly championed, it is essential to recognise that true fulfilment does not arise from incessant self-optimisation. Instead, it lies in adopting a balanced approach that honours both our individual aspirations and our shared humanity. By re-evaluating our methods of self-betterment, we can pursue a path that is not only more meaningful but also equitable, promoting both personal growth and the well-being of society as a whole. Embracing this holistic perspective enables us to cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and connection, ultimately leading to a richer and more harmonious existence.
Supongrepla Jamir
[Residing in Delhi]
