Individualism. I love this word. I think I am more of an individualist than a communal person with strong family ties. I like to be independent, to make my own choices, to lead my own life, to care only about my desires and dreams without needing to care about what others want from me.
But is being individualistic selfish?
Some might think so. After all, according to Wikipedia, individualism places the emphasis on the moral worth of the individual. It promotes the exercise of one's goals and desires, valuing independence and self-reliance and advocate that interests of the individual should achieve precedence over the state or a social group.
And selfishness? It means ignoring the cares and concerns of others, regardless of consequences and their impact, just to achieve and accomplish one's own deepest dreams. Forget sympathy and empathy. Forget tolerance. It doesn't exist in their vocabulary. A selfish person puts his own interest first above the others. He does not care about how others might feel. He will push everything and anybody aside to get what he wants, and he will ensure that if he can't get it, nobody else will get it either.
Is being individualistic then equal to being selfish? I think not.
In an individualistic society, it is the concept of 'to each his own'.
In the world of the selfish, it is 'each for his own'.
In communal living, it is more of 'to live for others'.
Life is such. Take it or leave it. Today, as you hit the trigger, remember to live in moderation. You can't be absolutely individualistic, selfish or giving all the time either. Strive and seek to achieve the right mixture of balance and you will be much more healthier and happier.
In somethings it is important pick your side of the fight. But for trivial things, it is better to sit on the fence and choose the middle line. At the end of the day, it will probably be healthier for you too. Not to take things so seriously, but take them at face value.
Is being individualistic then equal to being selfish? I think not.
In an individualistic society, it is the concept of 'to each his own'.
In the world of the selfish, it is 'each for his own'.
In communal living, it is more of 'to live for others'.
Life is such. Take it or leave it. Today, as you hit the trigger, remember to live in moderation. You can't be absolutely individualistic, selfish or giving all the time either. Strive and seek to achieve the right mixture of balance and you will be much more healthier and happier.
In somethings it is important pick your side of the fight. But for trivial things, it is better to sit on the fence and choose the middle line. At the end of the day, it will probably be healthier for you too. Not to take things so seriously, but take them at face value.
