Perennial Wisdom Ep. 258: Stop Fixing Yourself. Try This Instead. | Perennial Wisdom
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Jan 1, 2026 Explore the tension between self-improvement and self-acceptance. Learn how the quest to fix ourselves can lead to deeper self-rejection. Carl Rogers' ideas suggest that true change stems from embracing our current selves, moving away from self-correction. Instead of managing inner conflicts, try a simple three-sentence check-in: notice, want, and take one small step. Discover how honesty promotes genuine growth and reinforces the idea that while we accept our truth, we still have the power to choose our responses.
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Self-Improvement Often Hides Self-Rejection
- Much self-improvement masks self-rejection by treating the self as a problem to fix.
- J.W. Bertolotti explains that self-attack creates defensiveness and prevents real change.
Begin Change With Honest Acceptance
- Accept what is true about yourself without flinching to begin real change.
- J.W. Bertolotti recommends honest admission of feelings like anxiety, loneliness, or resentment.
Three-Sentence Check-In
- Use a quick three-sentence check-in: notice, name your want, then pick one small kind step.
- J.W. Bertolotti suggests actions like texting a friend, walking, or writing one paragraph.
