Oxford Dictionary:

self·ish

[ˈselfiSH]

ADJECTIVE

(of a person, action, or motive) lacking consideration for others; concerned chiefly with one's own personal profit or pleasure

synonyms: egocentric · egotistic · egotistical · egomaniacal

Us as human beings are selfish. Whether for personal or professional reasons, we are completely self-centered. We want what we want, when we want it. We work to better our lives and the lives of our immediate families. We do what we think is socially acceptable, by giving to those who give to us first, and becoming enraged at those that don't help us.

Whether fueled by success, money or social acceptance, this is our way of life. We are selfish beings. Many people like to thank their selfish way of life for their success and money. One thing that people forget, is that you don't have to hurt people to become successful.

Many actions fueled by selfish thoughts are vengeful and menacing. We try to "get back" at people who have wronged us, or lie, cheat, and steal to get what we want. We let our anger get the best of us and participate in juvenile activities, which only makes us feel worse in the end. It creates a tension, a pain, and a void within ourselves.

In addition to hurting others, being self-centered hurts ourselves. We hurt people and push them away and then wonder why they aren’t there for us when we need something.

But the truth is: We all can better our own lives by helping others.

Even though you might not think there is a way to stop this behavior... There is. The first way to overcome selfish thoughts, behavior, and actions is to accept our selfish characteristics and start thinking differently.

While it is true that not everyone will think identical to us, we can respect that everyone has different beliefs for various reasons.

We need to stop being so quick to pick a fight, start being mindful to how we act, and express empathy to others.

Give, and don't expect anything in return. Whether that be gifts or acts of kindness.

Everyone struggles with battles, and being kind to people could be a second of sunshine in their otherwise gloomy day.

If you are reading this article, you are blessed. (You have a computer or cell phone with internet access).

If you have a roof over your head and a bed to sleep on, you are blessed.

If you have food to eat when you're hungry, you are blessed.

If you have people you can call family, you are blessed.

There are many people who don't even have these things, the basic necessities needed to live!The world would be a better place if there were less angry and hateful people in it.