The urge to "provide value" is killing creativity

I completely agree, it comes down to finding a delicate balance. Self-improvement is good when it makes sense for you. 

Absolutely on point. “It’s exhausting being marketed to by your own potential.” What a line. I also think he’s right in that presence and gratitude are key tools.

I agree with you about finding the delicate balance. I would expand on that to say, I totally believe we can find healthy forms of self-improvement when it comes from a place of curiosity and excitement, versus inadequacy.

If you want to improve an area of your life because you genuinely enjoy that process, and it’s coming from a place of passion and joy, well, that’s glorious.

In line with Annie’s example, I want to become a better writer and that’s something I find deep fulfillment in. I love where I am now as a writer, and I am even more excited to see where I will be in 5-10 years from my daily practice.

If, however, a writer was beating themselves up, comparing themselves to other writers, dragging themselves to workshops, and seeking improvement from a place of scarcity or lack or “I’m not good enough” - then obviously, that is harmful.

So I appreciate your input as, “Self-improvement is good when it makes sense for you…” and… when you already believe in your inherent worth.

I also do agree with Annie, that the vast majority of our society is perpetuating a deficit-based ideology of self-improvement. It takes discernment to detangle what we genuinely would love to pursue improvement in from that place of love, versus what we are being sold to pursue from that (fictional) place of lack.