You’re Not Selfish

According to Merriam-Webster the definition of selfish is, arising from concern with one's own welfare or advantage in disregard of others.

But most of you interpret it inside out. Out of fear of being selfish you're operating from a definition of arising from concern with others' welfare, desires, whims and vague ideas in complete disregard for one's self.

Interpreting it this way only serves to harm your welfare and put you at a disadvantage.

As a woman you've been conditioned by the patriarchy to believe your value as a person and in the world is directly tied to what and how much you do for others. So doing things for yourself comes with the fear of diminishing your worth.

Which leads many women to perpetually put themselves last.

When you want to do something for yourself, filter it through the definition above and ask:

Are you really disregarding others by doing it?

What will the impact on them actually be?

What are you afraid will happen?

How likely is that outcome?

If a friend was considering the same thing would you tell her to do it?

You cannot live a life that feels good to you and you look forward to living if you are always putting yourself last. It's impossible.

It isn't selfish to treat yourself with the same care and courtesy you show to others.

Do something for yourself and celebrate doing it. Start today.