In my previous article, I looked at some of the advantages and disadvantages of being a selfish person. In this article I will be taking a look at the other side of the coin, the advantages and disadvantages of being a selfless person.
The Advantages Of Being A Selfless Person
The majority of the advantages you gain from being selfless are inner benefits. It feels really good when you can help people out who are in a bad situation. Sometimes the smallest action or caring word can make a big difference in someone's life.
Another thing to consider is that by being selfless and helping others, you are building up good karma. For those that do not like the term karma, you can look at it as simple cause and effect. If you do a lot of good, you can expect it will be returned to you. That goes the same for evil, doing a lot of evil things will catch up to you sooner or later. You reap what you sow.
Perhaps one of the nicest advantages you can enjoy from being selfless is the chance to meet and associate with other selfless people. You generally will not find selfish people volunteering their time and helping people. It is much easier to have mutually beneficial and satisfying friendships, partnerships, and relationships with people that care about you and not just themselves.
The Disadvantages Of Being A Selfless Person
Unfortunately, being altruistic is not all puppies and rainbows. You will have to deal with selfish people that take advantage of your kindness. In some cases, helping a person one time will cause that person to expect you to do anything they want, whenever they want. When you inevitably have to tell them no, they become very angry.
Even people that are not selfish may try to monopoly your time and energy, sometimes unwittingly. They just might really enjoy your company and the good feelings you give them, so they want to be around you as much as possible. Usually a gentle, yet firm reminder that there are other people and obligations in your life that will take care of this issue.
Another possible disadvantage can come from being so selfless that you ONLY think of others and neglect your own needs. You must remember to take care of yourself so that you can continue to help others.
The Bottom Line
In my mind, the advantages of being a selfless person considerly outweigh the disadvantages. As long as you remember to stand up for yourself and take care of yourself, becoming a more selfless person will help to make the world a better place.