Working on yourself, is like being your own coach. The best coaches combine firm discipline with a love of their work and a respect for the person they are coaching. They also understand that improvement comes incrementally, that there will be backslides. In addition, there is the view that the process needs to be respected as much as the result. Too much pressure, can lead to frustration, and impede progress. Ideally it’s a delicate balance of concerted effort, encouragement and care.