There is no improvement without a standard; there is no good standard without the ability to think abstractly

Without a standard, we cannot assess an improvement as there is no basis for assessment.  The best standard for improvement is an ideal condition as it creates the greatest challenge without assuming limitations due to current constraints.

Ideal conditions are never something you have done before.

Therefore, establishing an ideal requires an ability to think abstractly.

If you cannot think beyond "what am I doing now", you are not intellectually capable of effective improvement.