How to balance Selfishness and Selflessness
In all the world's greatest systems, there is no difference between selflessness and selfishness because there is no self.
Let us take the most basic of such a system - family. Parents do not regret making incredible personal sacrifices for their children. On the contrary, they are happy to do it almost to the point that even thoughts of selfishness are immoral.
But it is not like they are not getting anything in return for their selflessness. Instead, they get a heavenly pleasure that they can never achieve through the selfish pursuit of earthly objects.
But these systems are not limited to our blood relations. Think about all the activists and people working in the non-profit sector. It takes incredible sacrifice to give up on their dreams in a society that measures success with bank balance.
Is it a thing for those who don't care about money or fame? Probably not! Because that is not true about the sports team. No one can play at the highest level without playing for each other instead of themselves. Coaches, players, trainers, and even the support staff know there will be no glory for them if they decide on 'what I want' without considering 'what my team needs.'
Numerous examples from the history of awe-inspiring teams in the Army, Politics, Corporate, Science, Engineering, and even Religion, achieved almost mythical feats.
What is common in all these examples - they are all driven by a purpose greater than their triumph. And they all trust each other to do the same.
Once we achieve that level, we don't stop being selfish. Selflessness becomes the shortest path to selfishness.
Because we know that just by helping others, we will not just make us rich or famous but become part of human history.
We don't need to sacrifice our desires to become selfless. Instead, we have to elevate our purpose and trust.
Difficulties are inevitable. But we should never abandon our dream of being part of something greater than ourselves.
What is your impossible dream? Have a great weekend!