8 scenarios in life when you should actually be a little bit selfish

Mia Zhang by Mia Zhang | January 20, 2025, 10:37 pm

When someone gives you their last piece of cake, you feel grateful. When someone lets you take the only cab in the rain, you feel lucky.

That’s the basic concept of selflessness.

But life isn’t always that black and white. In reality, there are times when being a tad selfish is not just okay, but necessary.

It’s a bit of a tightrope to walk, but I’ve found that there are eight specific scenarios where that pinch of selfishness might just be the right move.

So sit tight because things are about to get interesting.

1) Making major life decisions

Life is as unpredictable as it gets.

It throws curveballs at you, sometimes without any warning, and when they hit you, you’re left to deal with the aftermath. It’s your life, after all, and you’re the one who has to live it.

But here’s the thing. When it comes to making major life decisions, others often chime in with their opinions and advice.

And while their intentions might be good, it’s crucial to remember that you’re the one who has to live with the consequences of these decisions.

In such scenarios, being a little selfish isn’t just acceptable, it’s necessary.

You need to prioritize your needs and wants, weigh your options carefully, and make a decision that aligns with your long-term goals and happiness.

Sure, it might ruffle some feathers, but at the end of the day, this is your life we’re talking about. You’re the one who has to live it, not them.

2) Setting personal boundaries

It’s funny how life works, really.

One moment you’re bending over backwards trying to accommodate everyone around you, and the next, you’re completely drained and bewildered, wondering how you let it get this far.

Take it from me. I’ve been in that spot.

I remember a time when I was juggling work, family responsibilities, and a social life that was more about others than myself.

I found myself saying ‘yes’ to every request that came my way, until one day, I simply couldn’t.

I was physically exhausted and mentally drained. And that’s when it hit me – I needed to draw the line. I had to set personal boundaries.

So, I started saying ‘no’. It wasn’t easy at first, and some people didn’t take it well. But over time, they came to respect my space and time. And guess what? I felt happier, healthier, and more in control of my life.

That’s scenario number two when being selfish is not just okay but essential. You need to protect your mental and physical health by setting and enforcing personal boundaries.

Trust me, your future self will thank you for it.

3) Pursuing your passion

When you’re deeply passionate about something, you’re likely to put in more effort, be more engaged, and ultimately excel at it.

But pursuing your passion often requires a certain level of selfishness.

You might need to prioritize your interests over others’, dedicate considerable time and resources, and perhaps even make some tough decisions that others might not agree with.

Nevertheless, remember that this is about your happiness and fulfillment. So go ahead, be a little selfish and chase what sets your soul on fire. The rewards are well worth the effort.

4) Taking care of your health

Health is wealth, as they say.

But with a hectic lifestyle, it’s easy to put our health on the back burner. We skip meals, miss out on sleep, and postpone that doctor’s appointment, all in the name of accommodating others’ needs or fulfilling responsibilities.

But here’s a reality check: without good health, everything else is moot.

When it comes to your health, being a little selfish is not just okay, but crucial. You need to make time for regular exercise, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular check-ups.

Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. To be there for others, you first need to take care of yourself.

5) Investing in personal growth

When it comes to personal growth, I’ve come to realize that it’s an investment that always pays off.

You see, I used to be the kind of person who would put everyone else’s needs before my own. I thought it was selfish to spend time and resources on my own development when there were others who needed help.

But then I realized something: by investing in myself, I was not only improving my own life but also becoming better equipped to help others.

Whether it’s taking a course, reading a book, or attending a seminar, the knowledge and skills I gain help me become a better version of myself.

6) Walking away from toxic relationships

It might sound strange, but sometimes, the best way to care for others is by walking away.

We’ve all been there – stuck in a relationship that drains more than it nurtures, whether it’s a friendship, romantic relationship, or even a professional bond.

You try to fix things, hoping that your efforts will make a difference. But over time, you realize that the toxicity is too deep-seated, and staying only harms both parties involved.

In such instances, being selfish and choosing to walk away is actually an act of kindness. It allows both you and the other person to heal, grow, and possibly even rebuild a healthier relationship in the future.

7) Prioritizing mental well-being

Let’s face it, we live in a bustling, fast-paced world where stress and anxiety often come as part and parcel of daily life.

But this doesn’t mean we should neglect our mental well-being. In fact, it’s essential to prioritize it.

Sometimes, being a little selfish in protecting your peace of mind is necessary.

It could mean choosing to spend a quiet evening at home instead of attending a social event, or deciding to take a mental health day off work when things get overwhelming.

Remember, it’s okay to step back, breathe, and do what’s best for your mental health. After all, you can’t pour from an empty vessel.

Prioritizing your mental well-being not only benefits you but also enables you to be there for the people who matter most in your life.

8) Cultivating self-love

At the core of it all, being a little selfish is really about cultivating self-love.

Self-love is about recognizing your worth and giving yourself the same kindness and respect that you give others. It’s about acknowledging that your needs and feelings are just as important as anyone else’s.

Without self-love, it’s easy to lose yourself in the process of catering to others’ needs and desires. So, remember to give yourself the love and care you so freely give to others. It’s not selfish; it’s essential.

Cultivating self-love might take time and practice, but it’s a journey well worth embarking on. Because at the end of the day, you’re stuck with yourself for life. So, you might as well make it a love affair.

Reflecting on the power of self

If you’ve made it this far, hopefully, you’ve come to realize that being a little selfish at times isn’t a negative trait. In fact, it’s a necessary part of maintaining your well-being and personal growth.

Being selfish doesn’t mean disregarding others or their needs. It’s about understanding your own value and the importance of prioritizing yourself when needed.

When you begin to embrace this, you’re not just becoming more self-focused. You’re becoming more self-aware and self-loving.

You’re recognizing that in order to give your best to the world, you first need to give your best to yourself.

Consider this as an invitation to reflect on how you can incorporate these scenarios into your own life. Remember, it’s not just okay to be a little selfish – sometimes, it’s essential.