Embracing the Power of ‘Enoughness’

Anyone on social media today has probably run into self-improvement content. It’s nearly unavoidable and much of the content is delivered by influencers who don’t possess the credentials or training to be dispensing valid advice. In today’s self-improvement landscape, psychologists have identified a troubling trend — an “epidemic of self-hatred.” This pervasive self-criticism burdens individuals and drives them into a cycle of constant self-improvement. The societal obsession with always trying to improve leads to a never-ending pursuit of the perfect self, often leaving people feeling inadequate and unsatisfied.

The relentless pursuit of self-improvement takes various forms, from elaborate skincare routines to cutting out toxic relationships. The more we try to improve ourselves, the harder it is to feel satisfied. Socioeconomic, racial, and health disparities further worsen this sense of inadequacy, perpetuating a cycle of unhappiness.

Our ability to imagine a better life drives us to improve. This desire has led humanity from primitive existence to modern civilization, but it also fuels never-ending consumption and comparison. These feelings can be especially strong for college students.

A concept known as hedonic adaptation shows that we can adapt to both positive and negative experiences, creating a cycle of desire. Comparison…