Why Spiritual Growth Isn’t Self-Improvement

In this episode, Tatiana gently challenges a common misunderstanding: the belief that spiritual growth works the same way as self-improvement.

Drawing on psychological insight, lived experience, and a grounded spiritual lens, this conversation explores why treating spirituality as something to optimise or perfect often creates suffering, rather than relieve it.

You’ll hear why genuine spiritual growth isn’t about fixing yourself, transcending your humanity, or becoming a better version of who you are, but about remembering what’s already true beneath the striving.

This episode is especially resonant if:

  • You feel disappointed in yourself despite years of inner work

  • Spiritual practices have started to feel effortful or draining

  • You’re a therapist or helping professional navigating the line between growth and self-judgment

  • You sense that spirituality should feel more relational and humane than it sometimes does

Tatiana offers a calm, reflective framework for understanding suffering without pathologising it, and for approaching the end of the year not as an evaluation, but as an invitation to remain in relationship with yourself exactly where you are.

This episode speaks to both spiritual seekers and clinically minded listeners, bridging science and spirituality in a way that is ethical, grounded, and deeply human.

In this episode, you’ll explore:

  • Why self-improvement frameworks sneak into spirituality

  • How effort-based spirituality can quietly increase suffering

  • The difference between fixing yourself and remembering yourself

  • A grounded, real-life example of spiritual remembering in action

  • A gentler way to reflect on the year without self-judgment

Deepen your learning:

Contact Tatiana:

You can now send me your comments or questions, to hello@integratedwisdom.com.au or you can also find me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wisdomwithtatiana/

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Intro and Outro music: Inspiring Morning by Playsound

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be treated as psychological treatment or to replace the need for psychological treatment.

Hi, I’m Tatiana!

I’m the founder of Integrated Wisdom—a space where science and spirit meet in service of healing, growth, and transcending suffering.

I’m a registered psychologist, spiritual educator, and integrative guide dedicated to weaving together the best of psychology, science, and soul. My work is guided by a core belief that true transformation comes when we embrace the full spectrum of human experience—intellect, emotion, body, and soul.

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For any questions or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you on your journey.

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