Few ideals have influenced human civilization more profoundly than self-cultivation. From the ancient wisdom traditions of China and India to the philosophical schools of the West, cultures across time and space have cultivated sophisticated and enduring visions of human refinement and transcendence. This chapter compares these three influential traditions, examining their distinct perspectives and shared insights into the nature and purpose of self-cultivation. Situating these ideas within their respective cultural contexts discloses the profound impact of self-cultivation on each civilization’s intellectual and moral development.