I guess I'm not sure myself what I mean. But let's say we believe ourselves to be intrinsically selfish or lazy or greedy or self-indulgent or ....

So, let's say we learn by self-control and willpower to change some behaviors associated with our character flaws, does that mean we no longer have those flaws or that they're held at bay simply by continually flexing those control 'muscles'? And when/if we relax, those defects will become the default again?

Luce mentions accepting our flaws and embracing our humanness. Is that the basic goal of therapy? Or maybe therapy is 2-pronged - building 'muscles' (behavior modification) along with acceptance?

Or as Chris mentions, these 'defects' may just be bad habits that can be changed into healthier habits?

In that case - we're faced with a ton of lifelong work. Or maybe, acceptance is the best route - I am who I am who I am. (Maybe I'm feeling defeated at the moment)