If you're anything like me, you probably know what it feels like to always put the people you love first. It’s easy to get caught up in the needs of others, especially those we love most. We hate to see people hurt or struggling, so we go out of our way to lend a helping hand whenever we see fit. I’ve always found happiness in helping others; however, there comes a point when you realize that maybe you need to try putting yourself first for a change. After all, putting your own needs on the back burner only works for so long before everything goes up in flames.

If you are one of these people, maybe we need to pause and rethink what it means to be “selfish.” Here’s a crazy thought: maybe we could all stand to be a little more selfish? After all, isn’t it good to concerned about us once in awhile? We should be chasing our dreams and focusing on what brings us happiness. It’s important to remember that you can still love others and help others while loving yourself first. Being selfish and putting yourself first doesn’t mean you care any less about other people.

1. Remember why you are in college

The point of college is to learn. You came to get a degree and to grow in every way possible, so let yourself! Sometimes this will mean allowing yourself to grow past certain people; let yourself. Embrace your education and learn as much as you can in the short amount of time you are given, it’ll go by faster than you think.

2. Remember you are young

Remember that your 20’s truly are your selfish years! You are so young—take advantage of this time and the opportunities presented to you. Do not limit yourself or underestimate yourself. Join that club you’ve been thinking about, try out for the sport you love, go to that concert on a Wednesday night. You don’t owe anything to anyone but yourself right now, take advantage of it!

3. Remember to take your time

We all know how stressful college can be. Balancing schoolwork, friends, family, relationships, extracurricular activities, hobbies, and sports, can seem simply impossible sometimes. Just remember to slow down every once in awhile and breathe. Take a break from the stress to unwind. Sometimes taking a step back to look at the picture can make a big difference. It’s too easy to forget that there is a world outside of textbooks and classrooms.

4. Remember yourself

Relationships will come and go, whether it be romantic or platonic. Just don’t forget that your longest relationship will always be with yourself. At the end of the day, you owe it to yourself to do the things that bring you the most happiness. Not to mention, investing in yourself now will only bring you a brighter future with more happiness and chances to follow your dreams. College is filled with opportunities for traveling, adventure, learning, and athletics, don't allow yourself to be the person who holds you back. You yourself, as much as anyone else in the world, deserve your love and affection.