People claim that in order to be selfless you should always put others before yourself, that’s just how it works. But this also leads to being stepped on and taking advantage of when are constantly thinking of others first and yourself second. It’s sad, but people take advantage of those who are willing to fulfill everyone’s little requests at the drop of a hat. This is true in friendships and in professional relationships.
Friendships are reciprocal relationships, give and take, and you have to realize when you are giving far more than you are receiving. I’ve seen friends in relationships where one person seems to be held on to by a string, then tries to distance herself, only to be pulled back in again in this endless cycle: neglect, distancing, pulled back in. Realize that you deserve more, put yourself first. Don’t drop everything just to go running back when they need you. Would they do the same for you? Realize talk is cheap and that trust is gained through action.
In the workplace, it is imperative that you are assertive. Yes, you have bosses who tell you what to do and you can’t exactly disregard authority, but you can stand up for what you deserve. Coworkers may try and beat you out for a promotion and you are going to have to stand up for yourself, don’t just bow out because you don’t want to cause waves. Trust me, I’m guilty of that and it will lead to you missing out on some great opportunities.
This article is short and sweet and I’m just making sure that you take away one thing: put yourself first. People come in and out of your life, but you always have yourself, take care of yourself, love yourself, and realize that you can be selfless and a little selfish at the same time.