Scientists sometimes deceive themselves into thinking that philosophical ideas are only, at best, decorations or parasitic commentaries on the hard objective triumphs of science, and that they themselves are immune to the confusions that philosophers devote their lives to dissolving. But there is no such thing as philosophy free science; there is only science whose philosophical baggage is taken on without examination.

Self-improvement is a process, not an outcome. It changes constantly, particularly at different points in your life. Wherever you are today is all right. Don't beat yourself up. Accept yourself and learn and grow from where you are. There's nothing wrong with aspiring to be in a constant state of total awareness, but you cannot even approach that goal until you've taken the time to look in the mirror and see what you need to see. Your true objective should be to inspire personal growth and positive change, moving you closer to what you want. If your aspiration is learning and growth and positive change, then you'll be just fine.

To accomplish this simple task, all you need to do is to expend some effort. You’ve got to do the heavy-lifting up front before you can figure out exactly where you want to go. Only you can be trusted with such a critical assignment. You are the only one who truly has a vested interest in your own life. Only you can handle the important decisions needed to define and create the life and lifestyle you desire to live.