Being selfish can be very good for you. Though selfishness may be seen as a bad word to some, it actually reflects the idea of pursuing your own happiness and prioritising self care.
Many drain themselves trying to please others and gain their acceptance, but you can’t really gain the acceptance of others when you have not accepted yourself. I find joy in considering myself first before seeking the approval and contentment of others. This does not make me an awful person, it just makes me more complete and prepared to face the world, giving it the best of what I can give.
Here are some reasons why being selfish will make you a happier person. Open the door to happiness by considering a few reasons why you should be a little bit more selfish in your life.
1. It reinforces that you are your greatest protector
No one can look out for you the same way you look out for yourself. We all have a life to lead and it is our responsibility to make it great or not. We have to defend what we have, and if this means being selfish sometimes, then it is for the best. When selfishness means being more concerned about your own wellbeing, that’s not a bad thing.
2. It means you won’t blame others when things go wrong
A lot of things can go wrong in life. But if you have taken charge of the situation from the beginning, you won’t feel hurt by being wronged by someone else. Rather, you will accept responsibility and take it with a grain of salt.
3. It makes you focus on quality rather than quantity
Being selfish reduces and streamlines your options. Your availability and choices will be fewer when you choose to think of yourself first. This offers more room for qualitative decisions and a rounder perspective on life. Getting the best out of your relationships and work life could be dependent on this factor.
4. It will train your perceptive powers
Being selfish builds your instinct and gut-like abilities. You are able to listen to your inner powers and take action on what works best for you. It is easier to make your choices based on what works rather than on what doesn’t work. Being selfish means that you want to engage only in things that will keep you happy and satisfied.
5. It makes you healthier
Trying to please others can lead to frustration, disappointment, and unnecessary stress. It is impossible to make everyone happy. When you place other peoples’ wish ahead of yours, it puts a block on your ability to live the life that you desire. You are limited and distracted from fulfilling those commitments that will make a difference to you. By being selfish, you can take better care of yourself.
6. It will improve your self-worth
When you are looking out for no one but yourself, you appreciate and value yourself more. Whether it is your opinion or character, you tend to be influenced more by your own voice. With this, you can see yourself from an advantageous light.
7. It helps you to deal with the world around you
You can only help the world around you and be of service to it when you are happy and content with your own self. If you are constantly distracted and upset by those around you, you will not be able to be of service to anyone. Giving what you don’t have is always a horrible idea. Focus on your own personal growth and define what you want for yourself, then you will be of service to those who need it.
Featured photo credit: Pretty young fashion serious hipster woman posing outdoor in cold spring windy weather outdoor on the beach near the sea via shutterstock.com
