Selfish people are everywhere. In fact, we’re all selfish in one way or another. Some people are selfish all the time. Others may only be selfish in specific areas of their lives, and some become selfish when they’re worn down. At times, we all need to prioritize ourselves—especially when we’re not okay—and that kind of selfishness can be necessary.
What’s harmful, though, is when selfishness becomes someone’s everyday default. These are people who always want everything for themselves, show little consideration for others, and act as if they’re entitled to more. There’s a fine line between ambition and taking from others. The latter often leads to isolation and stress. When you’re only looking out for yourself, trust disappears, and you’re left depending on no one but you. It’s a lonely, constant chase—because in your mind, you can’t afford to lose.
If everyone acted this way, the world would feel apocalyptic. A place where everyone is out for themselves, with no camaraderie, no joy, no love, and no generosity. It would be every person against the next. Hate and envy would drive people’s actions, and life would feel cold and disconnected.
But selfishness can be extinguished with generosity, kindness, and love. And the world certainly needs more generosity. You can’t have selfishness without generosity, and vice versa. Opposites exist in balance—and neither can or should exist alone.
Some degree of selfishness is necessary to protect what you’ve earned and to care for yourself. At the same time, we must also help others. That’s where the balance lies.
So, what is the perfect balance? There’s no simple answer. It depends on who you are and where you are in life. To add to the complexity, the ratio of selfishness to generosity shifts throughout your lifetime. For example, when you’re a young adult, you might focus on building your wealth or career. Later in life, once you feel secure, you may feel more inclined to give back.
Wherever you are on that journey, it’s up to you to decide how to strike that balance.
Like everything in life, the scale of selfishness and generosity tips a little each day. We just need to make sure it doesn’t lean toward selfishness for too long.
Take care.