A Selfish Founder is a Good Funder
A Selfish Founder is a Good Funder
Dispelling the Taboo: Exploring the Benefits and Misconceptions of Prioritizing Self-Interest" - Common questions people ask.
I'm Manuel Saez, I write to help founders master emotional intelligence to make decisions with clarity 🌻 EQ coach, 2X-founder & award-winning designer ➜ I love fixing old motorcycles 🛵 🏍
Reading time: 4 min.
Contents:
What does it mean to "Be selfish for yourself?
How can being selfish help improve relationships?
What are some practical examples of being selfish in a positive way?
How do I know if I am being too selfish?
What is the Link Between Selfishness and Self-Esteem?
What does it mean to "Be selfish for yourself"?
Being selfish for yourself means prioritizing your well-being without feeling guilty. It's important to understand that taking care of yourself first allows you to better take care of others. This includes taking time to do things that make you feel good, such as getting enough sleep, regularly exercising, eating healthy, and spending time with loved ones.
Being selfish for yourself also means prioritizing your mental health. This could include taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill you've always been interested in, seeking help from a therapist or counselor, or practicing mindfulness meditation. It's important to understand that taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Lastly, being selfish for yourself means recognizing that self-improvement is not a selfish act. It's essential to strive for personal growth and development, whether it's through reading books, attending workshops, or taking classes. By investing in yourself, you're setting yourself up for success in all areas of your life.
How can being selfish help improve relationships?
Being selfish can help improve relationships by creating more balance. Taking care of yourself and prioritizing your needs can help create a more giving and enduring relationship in which both parties feel respected and appreciated. This can lead to a stronger, healthier relationship in the long run.
In addition, being selfish can help prevent resentment in a relationship. When one person constantly prioritizes the other's needs over their own, they may feel overlooked or unimportant. This can lead to feelings of resentment and strain the relationship. However, by taking time for yourself and engaging in activities that make you happy, you can prevent these negative feelings from developing and instead foster a more positive and supportive relationship.
Furthermore, being selfish can be a form of self-care essential to maintaining good mental health. Engaging in activities that make you happy and prioritizing your needs can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. When you are happier and healthier, you are better equipped to handle the challenges of any relationship, making it more likely to thrive in the long run.
What are some practical examples of being selfish in a positive way?
Being selfish positively means prioritizing your needs and desires while considering how they affect others. This includes taking actions that may benefit those around you.
For instance, taking a sick day when needed lets you rest and recover and keeps illness from spreading to others at work.
Saying "no" when asked for help by a family member or co-worker can help avoid burnout and maintain healthy boundaries, leading to better relationships.
Setting boundaries with friends and loved ones can help avoid feeling overwhelmed or taken advantage of and encourage more respectful relationships.
Getting enough sleep is essential for good health and well-being and can benefit those around you. When well-rested, you are more alert and able to perform at your best, which can positively affect your work, relationships, and overall mood.
Asking for help when needed can be challenging, but it is a necessary form of self-care that can ultimately benefit you and those around you.
Finally, taking time to do things that bring you joy is a vital part of being selfish in a positive way. Whether reading a book, walking, or spending time with friends, doing what makes you happy can help you feel more fulfilled and energized, ultimately positively affecting your relationships and overall well-being.
How do I know if I am being too selfish?
Taking care of yourself is important, but being too selfish can harm your relationships with others. Here are some signs that you may be putting yourself first too often:
You consistently prioritize your own needs over the needs of others without considering their feelings or perspectives.
You have difficulty empathizing with others and their experiences and struggle to see things from their point of view.
You feel entitled to certain things or behaviors, even if they negatively impact others.
You frequently cancel plans or commitments with others to prioritize your interests or needs.
Remember, it's okay to prioritize your well-being and set boundaries, but it's also essential to consider the impact on those around you. Taking the time to be mindful and considerate of others can lead to stronger relationships and a more fulfilling life.
What is the Link Between Selfishness and Self-Esteem?
When you prioritize yourself and your needs, you are acknowledging your worth and value as a person. This can increase your self-esteem and confidence as you recognize that your needs and desires are important and valid.
When you practice healthy selfishness, you also tell others you value yourself and your time. This can lead to more respect and admiration from others, which can further boost your self-esteem. On the other hand, neglecting your needs and constantly prioritizing others can lead to feelings of low self-worth and even resentment.
It's important to note that healthy selfishness does not mean disregarding the needs of others or being insensitive to their feelings. It simply means that you prioritize your needs and desires alongside those of others. Finding a balance between self-care and caring for others can improve your self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being.
Sending you good vibes 🌻
Manuel Saez