Are We More Selfish Than Ever?
Today, we are constantly encouraged to focus on ourselves. Society tells us to "look out for number one" and follow mantras like "live your truth" and "own your story." While self-improvement and personal success have their benefits, the focus on individualism has gone too far. It has led to self-centeredness, selfishness, and pride. The definition of being selfish is: … lacking consideration for others; concerned mainly with one's own profit or pleasure.This way of thinking goes against what Paul teaches in his letter to the Galatians:
“Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified.”
Galatians 5:24 (MSG)
Selfishness in Business
A certain level of self-interest can drive innovation and growth in business. However, unchecked selfishness leads to ethical failures, broken relationships, and long-term harm. A truly successful business must benefit others, not just a select few. Consider your business as a tool for fulfilling the purpose God has given you. Living for something bigger than yourself brings deep fulfillment.
“The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.” Proverbs 11:24 (MSG)
Selfishness vs. Self-Care
It's important to distinguish between selfishness and self-care. Taking care of yourself—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—allows you to thrive in your work and relationships. Prioritizing rest, healthy eating, and physical well-being is not selfish. Likewise, maintaining strong relationships with family and loved ones is essential. When these areas of life are in good shape, you can be your best self. In this sense, neglecting self-care can actually be selfish.
How to Overcome Selfishness
Our culture falsely promises fulfillment through selfish living, but it often leads to emptiness. If you find yourself stuck in a cycle of self-focus, here are three ways to break free:
- Practice Sacrifice – This isn't a word we hear often, but it’s essential. Sacrifice means putting others before ourselves. When we do this, we combat selfishness and develop a heart of service.
- Pray – Selfishness is rooted in pride. Prayer shifts our focus from ourselves to God, reminding us that we can’t do everything on our own.
- Adopt a New Mindset – Reflect on these scriptures, pray over them, and think about how to apply them in your life:
“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed?” Luke 9:23-25 (NLT)
“When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves. Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others. In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:3-5 (NCV)
By shifting our focus from ourselves to others, we find true fulfillment and purpose. Generosity, humility, and selflessness lead to a richer, more meaningful life.