The unspoken belief behind self-improvement is "I'll be worthy when..."

For me, the ultimate aim of self-improvement is to be able to direct as much energy as we can outwards – to other people and worthy projects.

Paradoxically, self-improvement tends to reinforce self-deficiency even as it attempt to address it. This is how incessant self-improvement and self-optimization can be a source of suffering. The alternative is self-unfoldment.

If you subconsciously feel you don't deserve to be rich, you'll sabotage your pursuit.But if you feel you truly deserve it, you'll do whatever it takes.  So adjust your self-image first.