"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill

"If you always give, you will always have." - Chinese proverb

"The wise man does not lay up his own treasures. The more he gives to others, the more he has for his own." - Lao Tzu

These quotes say it all. The best way to feel motivated, energized, and feel a greater sense of purpose in life is to give to and help others. A simple gift of generosity has the power to greatly impact another's life. True joy and happiness comes from giving, not from having social status, success, money, a nice home, etc.

So if you're looking to "improve" yourself, please consider giving to others. For example, by volunteering at a homeless shelter or an animal shelter. Or even asking the cashier how his/her day is going by being genuinely interested. This will also shift your focus away from your problems and insecurities (because they'll seem trivial as a result), so you'll be less self-conscious and anxious. Moreover, people will be more friendly and willing to talk to you

Thinking of life as a competition leads to a victim mentality and viewing the world as a cruel, mean place. But by focusing on giving, your view of the world should transform to seeing it as full of love and beauty.