In the beginning of this semester, I was given an assignment where I had to write about some of the personality traits I have. Instead of picking my own, I asked someone else. "Unselfish" was the answer, before they even looked at any of the examples of traits listed on my laptop screen. In the moment, I smiled. Now, I am left with a bad taste in my mouth.

I am usually very unselfish, and sometimes doing so much for other people becomes extremely draining. I try my best to accomplish tasks for myself, while helping others around me. Most of the time it doesn't work out that way at all. I constantly find myself running on someone else's schedule, putting myself second, and taking the time to do things for others that I don't even do for myself. Until now.

I have finally reached a point in my life where every decision I make is for myself. If I want to do something, I do it. If I set a goal, I don't let anyone else get in the way of it. If I am interested in something, I pursue it. Being selfish doesn't have to be negative, which is what I used to think. So now, I'm encouraging it. Be selfish!

I can think back to when I was in high school and my dad would tell me, "No one is gonna take care of you like you're gonna take care of you." I never let that sink in until recently. By doing things that make me my happiest and bring me the most success, I feel better overall. College is the best time to be selfish, because you should be focused on yourself and your own future. Life is far too short to waste time and energy on people who don't appreciate you.

So coming from someone who was once treated like a doormat, be a little selfish. Stand up for yourself. Do whatever you want to do. Don't let your kindness be taken for weakness. And, most importantly, don't hold yourself back from what makes you your happiest.