People seek self-help for a reason, to help themselves.
But like all good things, self improvement has it’s disadvantages. Some people
take it too far. Instead of improving their lives, they become delusional.
1. Tony the Tiger… err Robbins
Before I got into personal development, I always thought of
people like Tony the Tiger.. I mean Tony Robbins and Richard Simmons as the
epitome of self improvement. I guess like many people, I confused self
improvement with motivational speakers.
Don’t get me wrong, I like Tony Robbins, I think he’s a
great guy and I’m sure he’s helped a lot of people out. But it’s just not my
style.
The whole chest pounding, firewalking thing always threw me
off. I understand the idea is to get pumped up, but can’t you do that without
burning your feet to a crisp? Also, is that really sustainable? If I have to
walk on hot coals everyday just to find motivation, something is probably wrong
with my life.
These are also the people that remain positive under any
circumstances.
Volcano eruption? The heat will help you sweat and detoxify.
Hurricane? Now I don’t have to wash my car.
Earthquake caused a gaping hole in the middle of your house?
We could make a swimming pool!
Denial Anyone?
2. Productivity is the opiate of the masses.
There are certain things you must do. This includes things
you need to do to not die and stay out of prison.
Some people just have a problem with these things and turn
to productivity gurus for help. But it can often be taken overboard. When you
can’t enjoy yourself without doing something productive, you have a problem.
3. Self Improvement is your drug of choice
There’s nothing wrong with ferociously pursuing personal development and new contexts.
