It's not common to see in the West the cultivation of the self. We typically have tests, metrics, and educational institutions where one will likely find themselves in society in the future given the results of the above. In Asian countries, especially China, there's a tendency to teach no religion or spiritual practices and adopt a system of beliefs that will enable one to cultivate themselves throughout life. I find the Western pursuit of money somewhat not quite my fit. I have different goals in life than a house family and sports car in my garage, along with a life in some corporate culture. Those things just don't interest me, or I might be saying "sour grapes", who knows?

I would like to ask some readers about their ideas about self-cultivation. Be it through philosophy or some guided practice? If you do already engage in self-cultivation, then what's your choice on what to focus on? I know from Plato that nous and noetics is developed through the intellectual life. In Western society that very much in a teleological manner means an academic life. Yet, I don't have the personality and memory to really stand out at college. I have some issues and impediments that prevent me from becoming an academic is what I mean. I'm certain I'm not the only one that feels this way, and would like to ask what would anyone else recommend?

Thanks