In a world that often champions selflessness and altruism, the concept of egoism tends to receive a negative connotation. However, what if we were to look at egoism through a different lens? What if being selfish isn’t inherently bad but can instead represent the purest truth of one’s self? This article will explore the idea of positive egoism, where actions are driven by personal desires rather than the expectations or validations of others. By embracing the notion of “I do this because I want to,” we can discover a path towards authentic living that celebrates individual agency and self-love.
Understanding Egoism
Egoism is often misunderstood and is sometimes associated with selfishness, greed, or narcissism. However, it can also be seen as a philosophical stance that emphasises the importance of self-interest and personal desires. The philosopher Max Stirner, in his seminal work The Ego and Its Own, posits that the self is the ultimate authority and that understanding oneself leads to genuine interaction with the world. Stirner argues that the self should not be subservient to societal expectations or external validations.
The Foundation of Positive Egoism
At its core, positive egoism is about recognising your own needs, desires, and motivations without guilt or shame. It is an honest acknowledgment that personal happiness and fulfilment are paramount. According to Stirner, by asserting one’s individuality and pursuing personal interests, one can engage with the world more meaningfully. The essence of positive egoism lies in the recognition that one’s desires stem from an inner call rather than external pressures.
In a society that often prioritises collective welfare over individual desires, it is essential to reclaim the narrative that prioritises the self. Positive egoism allows individuals to act out of their desires and passions, rather than merely fulfilling societal roles or expectations.
The Liberation of the Self
By fostering a sense of positive egoism, we liberate ourselves from the shackles of external judgement and societal norms. As the author Mark Manson articulates in The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck*, embracing one’s personal values and preferences is crucial to a fulfilling life. Manson emphasizes that caring less about what others think provides the freedom to pursue what genuinely matters to us.
When we internalise this philosophy, we can act without fear of judgement or disapproval. This liberation is paramount, as it allows us to engage in acts of kindness and generosity because we sincerely want to, not because we seek validation.
Why It’s Acceptable to Be Egoistic
In the pursuit of personal happiness and fulfillment, the concept of egoism often faces scrutiny, with many equating it to selfishness or a lack of empathy. However, it is essential to reframe our understanding of egoism to recognise its potential benefits. Embracing a healthy form of egoism allows individuals to prioritise their needs and desires, ultimately fostering authenticity and promoting well-being. By acknowledging that taking care of oneself and pursuing personal interests does not inherently diminish our capacity for compassion towards others, we open the door to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Positive egoism encourages us to embrace our individuality and to understand that, by fostering our own happiness, we can contribute more meaningfully to the lives of those around us.
1. Authenticity Through Self-Interest
Being authentic requires us to embrace our desires and ambitions. When we act solely based on what we believe others expect of us, we dilute our true selves, leading to feelings of resentment and discontent. Positive egoism empowers us to pursue our interests, aspirations, and passions without compromising our identities.
By allowing ourselves to be driven by our preferences, we cultivate authenticity. For example, someone who loves painting will create art not to impress others but because it brings them joy and fulfilment. This authenticity can radiate positivity, inspiring others to pursue their passions too.
2. The Power of Personal Fulfilment
Positive egoism is rooted in the understanding that personal fulfilment is essential for mental health and well-being. When we prioritise our happiness, we not only improve our lives, but we also become better equipped to contribute positively to society.
An example can be found in professional settings. When individuals pursue careers that align with their passions and interests, they are more likely to be productive and engaged. Conversely, individuals who prioritise societal expectations over their desires may experience burnout, dissatisfaction, and resentment.
3. Rejecting the Need for Approval
In a world governed by social media and public opinion, the desire for approval can become overwhelming. However, positive egoism invites us to reject the need for external validation. It encourages a mindset where we pursue our interests and desires wholeheartedly, regardless of others’ opinions.
This is not to say that we should dismiss the feelings of others entirely; rather, it is about ensuring our self-worth does not hinge on external feedback. We are encouraged to pursue our passions unabashedly. This rejection of external approval is liberating and can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
4. Self-Care and Boundary Setting
Positive egoism promotes the importance of self-care and healthy boundaries. When we prioritize our needs and well-being, we cultivate a healthier relationship with ourselves and others. This involves recognising when to say no to activities, responsibilities, or relationships that drain our energy or conflict with our values.
According to Manson, everyone has a limited amount of care and energy. Therefore, it is crucial to reserve this energy for what truly matters to us. By setting boundaries and saying no when necessary, we protect our well-being, allowing us to engage fully in the aspects of life that bring us joy.
Navigating the Balance Between Self and Others
While positive egoism focuses on self-interest, it is essential to strike a balance between our desires and the needs of others. Acknowledging that our actions can impact those around us does not negate our personal desires. Instead, it creates an opportunity for more meaningful interactions.
1. Acts of Kindness without Expectations
Positive egoism can inspire acts of kindness without the need for validation. Engaging in altruistic behaviours can stem from a place of joy and belief in one’s values rather than from seeking approval or recognition. For instance, volunteering for a cause we deeply care about can be motivated by a desire to contribute positively to society. However, such actions should be taken from a place of genuine interest rather than societal pressure.
2. Navigating Relationships with Integrity
In relationships, positive egoism allows individuals to express their needs and desires openly. This transparency can enhance the depth of connections, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Understanding that we are all the masters of our lives can empower us to engage in relationships where both parties prioritise their desires and needs.
In his book The Ego and Its Own, Stirner asserts that interpersonal relationships should be based on mutual benefit, where each individual’s desires are acknowledged and respected. Such a perspective encourages healthier dynamics, where both people are free to express themselves authentically.
3. Feedback and Growth
While positive egoism prioritises personal desires, it is crucial to remain open to feedback. Engaging with others actively can yield insights that enhance our understanding of ourselves and our motivations. This does not mean changing our desires based on others’ opinions but rather using feedback as a tool for growth.
Active engagement with others allows us to refine our values and beliefs. As we learn from one another, we can deepen our understanding of our desires and pursue them more effectively.
Embracing Positive Egoism
In a world that often values selflessness over selfishness, it’s vital to recognise that positive egoism has a significant role to play in our lives. By asserting the importance of our desires and motivations, we can cultivate a sense of authenticity, fulfilment, and personal empowerment. As Stirner highlights, becoming the master of our own lives necessitates recognising the importance of self-interest.
Embracing positive egoism allows us to engage with the world on our terms, unburdened by the need for validation. Instead of succumbing to the pressures of societal expectations, we can act, give, and love because we genuinely want to—beyond the dictates of who others think we should be.
While self-interest is often seen as a negative trait, when channeled positively, it can lead to enriching lives, growing connections, and contributing to the world in meaningful ways. Ultimately, we are the architects of our destinies, and by embracing the notion that “I do this because I like it,” we step into our power, allowing our true selves to emerge and thrive.
This is me, unapologetically, and I love the world—not for anyone else but because I do. I am the master of my fate, and every action I take is rooted in who I truly am. In this journey of positive egoism, it is time to celebrate the self and embrace the idea that what I want truly matters. Embrace your desires, set your boundaries, and engage with the world authentically—because at the end of the day, everything is about you, and that is not just okay; it is absolutely necessary.
