(the thing) itself — used to refer to the thing or matter itself, often emphasizing its nature or existence rather than surrounding circumstances.
その問題を解決すること自体が目的ではない。
Solving that problem itself is not the goal.
彼の主張そのものは正しいが、方法に問題がある。
His claim itself is correct, but there is a problem with the method.
失敗すること自体を恐れてはいけない。
One should not be afraid of failing itself.