Selfishness within reasonable limits is not only not bad, but even necessary. However, when a person begins to think only about himself, ignores the needs and desires of other people, and most importantly, does not even try to make concessions and find a compromise, then the time has come for careful work on himself.
Fighting selfishness: the initial stages
When a person realizes a problem, he is already taking several big steps towards solving it. It is important to understand exactly how selfishness hinders you and those around you. It is advisable not only to identify the main points, but also to write them down so as not to get confused and not to forget anything. Selfishness can lead to a deterioration in relationships with loved ones, the loss of loved ones, problems at school and at work. Think about what bad happened because of this flaw of yours, and take notes accordingly.
Remember to consider other people's opinions. This is one of your first exercises: think not only about yourself, but also about how your selfishness affects the behavior and feelings of others.
Begin to follow how you are conducting the conversation. If you are used to talking only about yourself, make it a habit to ask the other person about their affairs when it is appropriate, and also listen to their stories carefully, without interrupting or making a bored face. It may be difficult for you to keep track of yourself and celebrate successes, but others will surely notice them. You can ask loved ones to help you. This is one of the best behavior correction options.
How to stop being selfish
When you have worked a little on your problem and noticed progress, move on to the next stage. Try taking care of plants or pets. If you find it difficult to imagine that you will have to spend time caring for a cat or dog, get some fish, or at least start growing cacti. Cultivate responsibility in yourself, think that some living being depends on you, and you must take care of him.
Don't overdo it. Sometimes people are so worried about being considered selfish that they stop thinking about themselves and spend all their resources caring for others. Doing so and rushing to the other extreme is not worth it.
Try to start helping others a little at a time. You can visit an animal shelter and buy food for dogs and cats, buy things for orphans, showing care and attention. When choosing gifts for the holidays, think not about your desires and preferences, but about what a person close to you would like to receive as a surprise. When planning a vacation together, think about how the person who travels with you would like to spend it. In a word, get into the habit of taking into account other people's plans, intentions, desires, preferences, and do not forget to make concessions and seek compromises when necessary.
