Summary
The discussion centers on the concept of selfishness, distinguishing between good and bad forms. Good selfishness is characterized by the courage and self-awareness to prioritize one's own needs, which ultimately enhances one's ability to serve others more effectively. This perspective challenges the common belief that selfishness is inherently negative, arguing instead that a lack of self-care can lead to resentment and ineffectiveness in relationships.
The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing personal needs, such as taking time for oneself, which can be crucial for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. By openly communicating these needs, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of excessive selflessness, which may lead to burnout and frustration. The idea is that by being "kind egoists," people can better serve those around them by first ensuring their own capacity to contribute positively.
Show Notes
We are used to thinking very badly of selfishness. But knowing how – at points – to put ourselves first can be the precondition for our later generosity and true helpfulness to others. Being selfish has a role to play in later selflessness. Uploaded 05-04-17Enjoying our Youtube videos? Get full access to all our audio content, videos, and thousands of thought-provoking articles, conversation cards and more with The School of Life Subscription: https://t.ly/59t5iBe more mindful, present and inspired. Get the best of The School of Life delivered straight to your inbox: https://t.ly/ILarWFURTHER READING“We’re highly attuned to the notion that being selfish is one of the worst character traits we might possess, a way of behaving associated with greed, entitlement and cruelty. And yet some of the reason we fail to have the lives we should springs from an excess of the very opposite trait: from an overweaning modesty, an over-hasty deference to the wishes of others, a dangerous and counter-productive lack of selfishness...”You can read more on this and other subjects here: https://goo.gl/Hm3EFcMORE SCHOOL OF LIFEWatch more films on SELF in our playlist: http://bit.ly/TSOLself SOCIAL MEDIAFeel free to follow us at the links below:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theschooloflifelondon/ X: https://twitter.com/TheSchoolOfLife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theschooloflifelondon/ CREDITSProduced in collaboration with:Tom Kemphttps://vimeo.com/user26596912 #TheSchoolOfLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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